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We all love a good local dish from the endless list of Bali’s street eats. The region is undoubtedly one of the most culturally diverse in cuisine, serving up everything from hearty acai bowls to five-star pan-Asian cuisine. There’s plenty of time to munch on the cheap and cheerful dishes, but sometimes, a little indulgence can be justified. Here are some of the best places to eat in Bali, which may or may not break the bank, but will be worth it regardless.
Prepare to be stunned when entering Merah Putih, a large atrium-style dining space, decked with cathedral-like arches and impressive windows. The restaurant celebrates the best of authentic Indonesian cuisine, culture, craftsmanship, and people, with its enticing menu. With an indoor ecosystem concept, the venue is fitted with palm trees and solar-filtered glass to let light in, and keep heat out. You’ll immediately feel the clean air upon entering. The intimate restaurant features private dining pods as well, if you’re seeking something even more secluded. Order a range of dishes to try and share between a group—you’ll definitely want to try more than one.
Merah Putih, Jl. Petitenget No.100X, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia | (+62) 361 8465950
Sarong redefines cuisine culture, by using sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients in a fine dining setting. The Balinese-themed restaurant features open-air pavilions, dark wooden interiors, and cosy alfresco areas, to align with its Indonesian roots. Helmed by award-winning Australian chef Will Meyrick, the restaurant is praised for its intriguing adaptations of Southeast Asian cuisine. Gourmands come to try a selection of the best fine dining dishes, but the cocktails are a winning feat, too.
Sarong, Jl. Petitenget No.19x, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia | (+62) 812 3634 3386
Located within the prestigious St. Regis, Kayuputi Restaurant pays tribute to its elegant surroundings. The expansive restaurant overlooks the stunning Nusa Dua and features an open kitchen and a chic cocktail bar at the entrance. Chef Agung Gede holds the reigns at this sophisticated eatery, which serves a creative menu influenced by the chef’s French and Japanese cuisine experience. The Sunday brunch is a must for newcomers.
Kayuputi Restaurant, Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua, Blok Lot S6, Benoa, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80363, Indonesia | (+62) 361 3006786
In central Ubud, Hujan Locale tucks itself away within a hidden road, where a hidden gem awaits. Serving scrumptious Indonesian food, the restaurant is also helmed by mastermind Chef Will Meyrick (of Sarong and Mama San), with a menu which takes inspiration from across the nation. The cocktails are as noteworthy as the food, and the venue is frequented by locals and visitors alike. Stop by on your next pre-Friday night meal and drinks.
Hujan Locale, Jl. Sri Wedari No.5, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia | (+62) 813 3972 0306
Perched on a shoreline in Seminyak, Mejekawi has it all—the views and an incredible tasting menu. Designed as a glass-fronted space, the restaurant welcomes in sunset hues every evening, whilst diners gaze at its magnificence. The menu changes all the time, so we can’t specifically recommend what to get—but one thing which is consistent is the fresh, warm bread to start. Dishes range from yellowfish tuna, to dry-aged duck—check the seasonal menu for the most updated list. If you’re an enthusiastic foodie, Mejekawi will have you coming back for more.
Mejekawi, Jalan Kayu Aya No. 9, Seminyak, Kuta Utara, Seminyak, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia | (+62) 361 736969
Housing only seven tables at a time, Pica South American Kitchen is located in Ubud’s busy Jalan Dewi Sita strip, yet boasts an intimate setting. Run by chef Cristian Encina, Pica’s menu focuses on, as you can probably guess, South American specialities, which include lemon-marinated mahi-mahi and baby scallops. Don’t dine without a glass of the fine wine, all chosen by the restaurant’s Chilean owner, which complement perfectly with the food.
Pica South American Kitchen, Jl. Dewisita, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia | (+62) 361 971660
Bring your date to Mozaic, a romantic, candlelit dinner spot, set within a lush garden courtyard. The beautifully intimate space is a luxury dining oasis, and has been named as one of the Top 100 restaurants in the world. Helmed by an American-born French chef, the eatery features a daily-changing artistic menu, based on the finest gastronomic delights and ingredients. Its French-Asian cuisine brings innovative fare to the Balinese culinary scene, reigning in guests from near and far to try the award-winning dishes.
Mozaic, Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia | (+62) 811 3943 288
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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