New to Bali? Want to check out its iconic foodie hotspots? These classic but eternally on-trend Bali institutions make for a deliciously decadent wine-and-dine experience.
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Ku De Ta
Ku De Ta is the original and still, arguably, Bali’s best beach club, with the best music and atmosphere. Arrive early afternoon to grab one of the in-demand lounges or nab a cushion on the lawn, and settle in for some serious people watching.
Ku De Ta also serves up a variety of dining options from informal grazing to relaxed fine-dining – Mejekawi is the exceptional ‘tasting kitchen and laboratory’ which occupies a wing on the second floor, with five and 12-course tasting menus and wine pairing options served up with sophistication.
Potato Head Beach Club
The gargantuan Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak is undeniably one of Bali’s coolest venues, with two restaurants, a swanky beachfront bar and an infinity pool with views of the sparkling Indian Ocean. If you’re lucky enough to score yourself one of the prized lounges, you’re guaranteed a memorable end to the day and a stay well into the evening.
Located within Potato Head Beach Club is the restaurant Kaum, with a remarkable menu that takes you on a culinary expedition through the indigenous cooking methods, exotic ingredients, and authentic flavours of Indonesia’s tribal communities.
The Rock Bar
That ‘endless summer’ vibe makes for a very happy hour indeed in Bali, and the island’s cocktail culture is the stuff of legends.
From beachside clubs to rooftop bars, there’s no shortage of fabulous places to chill out and enjoy a few drinks, accompanied by an incredible sunset. The most stunning of all is, without a doubt, the famous Rock Bar at AYANA Resort and Spa in Jimbaran. Perched on a limestone cliff with the crashing waves competing with the ambient beats from world-class DJs or live band, the sunset here, with a martini in hand, is nothing short of Heaven on Earth. But be sure to get in early afternoon to avoid the cues at the inclinator (guests of AYANA get to skip the queue!).
Merah Putih
With its soaring ceiling and modern exotic decor, Merah Putih boasts an ambience that is as spectacular as the creative Indonesian dishes on offer. The menu has two distinct personalities – the traditional’ section is all about simple, unpretentious regional classics, while the baru (or modern menu) takes it up a notch with its culinary creations.
Plates are designed to be served in the middle of the table, encouraging diners to sample a little of everything, in the same the way that Indonesian families would usually eat. Plus, there’s that incredible interior – very Instagram-worthy!
La Lucciola
La Lucciola – or La Looch as it’s affectionately known – is a pioneer in Bali fine dining and still one of the best restaurant experiences on the island. With a menu of modern Mediterranean-style fare and the open-air, thatched-roof pavilion that harnesses the cooling breeze from the ocean beyond… well, it all begs you to linger a little longer.
It’s the perfect place for a peaceful breakfast, lazy lunch, cocktail hour or candlelit dinner with views out over one of the prettiest stretches of Seminyak beach. It’s so old-school Bali, the only way to get to the restaurant is across the old timber walk bridge from the parking lot of the famous Petitenget Temple next door. There’s not even a website – you simply turn up and hope for a table (luckily there’s the grassed lawn and beach for chilling out while you wait), oremail at least a day ahead of your visit to reserve a spot.
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