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Header image courtesy of The Night Rooster
Bali—the sleepy Indonesian paradise. It is home to secluded beaches, five-star resorts, and magnificent, healthy cuisine. But there’s more: With the ever-growing import of tourists and an expat boom, the region is now also a hot spot for bars and a chilled party scene. Thanks to its proximity to nature, drinking venues boast some of the most pristine views, including sunset cocktails, and beach beers. Whether you’re feeling rooftop zen or sandy fun-in-the-sun, here are the best bars in Bali to try out.
Perched off the back of Jalan Monkey Forest, Folk Pool & Gardens has a cult following on social media for good reason. The poolside “nip and dip” spot is open from 12 pm to 8 pm, meaning it’s best to go before sunset. Bask in the sun by the poolside on one of the comfortable bean bags, with a cocktail in hand, for a tropical oasis which can only be found in Bali. Its twilight poolside cinema is located in the heart of town, where you can join the popcorn club for an open-air cinema experience, hosted every second and fourth Saturday of the month—the screenings are free, so be sure to nab a spot before it fills up.
Folk Pool & Gardens, Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia | (+62) 361 9080888
Attracting locals and tourists, Jungle Fish Bali is a cool hangout spot for a “no-beach beach club.” Situated within Chapung Sebali Resort & Spa’s landmark restaurant and bar, the venue fuses eccentric Scandi style with traditional Balinese aesthetics. People flock here for the drinks, and the winning 115-feet-long infinity pool, which showcases stunning views of the Osh River Valley. The drinks list is extensive, with options ranging from classic margaritas to tequila-turmeric homemade concoctions. Cool off and sip at your cocktail from the comfy cabanas or loungers by the pool.
Jungle Fish Bali, Jl. Raya Sebali, Keliki, Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia | (+62) 361 8989102
Located within the Locavore restaurant, barman Raka Ambarawan curates the most imaginative cocktails in an ambient space at The Night Rooster. The wooden-interior, 40-seater venue welcomes locals and tourists to sip on the unique drinks, which includes premium ingredients—including homemade bitters and spirits. Serving a rotational drinks menu, the eatery utilises seasonal and locally-sourced herbs, fruits, and spices. Spend your whole evening here, and see which flavour matches your palette best—although, the beautiful presentation of each cocktail might sway your judgement.
The Night Rooster, Jl. Goutama Sel., Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia | (+62) 819 9917 1882
Rated as one of the top restaurants in Bali, The Sayan House serves Japanese-Latin fusion cuisine, overlooking breathtaking views. The dreamy restaurant and bar is nestled on the Ayung River, meaning you’ll be surrounded by lush jungle and nature sounds. Head out on the wooden terrace, pre-dinner, to watch the soothing sunset, whilst sipping on a homemade Sangria—sounds good?
The Sayan House, Jl. Raya Sayan No.70, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia | (+62) 361 4792592
Designed by highly-acclaimed architect, Andra Matin, Potato Head Beach Club features two infinity pools, a beach bar, and three additional restaurants. Open morning till night, the venue resembles an open-air coliseum, with a green-grass amphitheatre with impressive interiors, and views. Young and older crowds come here to appreciate the music, as it’s frequented by famous DJ’s and local musicians.
Potato Head Beach Club, Jl. Petitenget No.51B, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia | (+62) 361 4737979
One of Bali’s favourite speakeasies, Sling Bar, is located on the fourth floor of Plantation Grill. The Art Deco-themed bar is decked in leather booths, and antique furnishings, taking you back to the early 1900s. It’s got a sleek and sultry ambience and attracts the likes of equally-suave travellers and expats in the area. The “rock ‘n roll” cocktails are a must—with drinks named after legends like the Jimi Hendrix G&T. Open till late.
Sling Bar, 4/F, No. 66 Double Six Beach, Seminyak, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Another speakeasy on our list, 40 Thieves is a trendy ramen joint located above Mad Ronin. Owned by Shah Dillon, the bar is a New York-style venue, with industrial walls, plush brown couches, and vintage photographs. There are only eight drinks to choose from on the menu—it’s getting straight to the point. Pair your cocktail with bar bites for a full night out.
40 Thieves, Jalan Petitenget No.7, Kerobokan Kelod, North Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia | (+62) 878 6226 7657
Faye Bradley is a freelance writer based in Hong Kong, covering topics in travel, wellness, F&B, and the arts. As the editor and business development executive for Cha Siu Papers Times and Compare Retreats, Faye has experience in writing predominantly about luxury travel and well-being. With a keen eye for finding hidden gems, exploring new destinations, and tasting best-of-the-best cuisines, she continues to pursue her love for writing about travel and visiting remote lands. You can find her by the pool with a good book and a mojito in hand.
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