Relaxation & Indonesian Flavours | Bali
The best restaurants and things to do on the dreamy Indonesian island Bali
By Jorane Cuppen | Bearleader in Gastronomy | Founder Guts to Glory
Stefan Scholten | Bearleader in Design | Studio Stefan Scholten & Studio Works
Bali sunset | Indonesia | Photo by Jorane Cuppen
Welcome to the enchanting island of Bali, where vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and pristine beaches converge, drawing visitors to its sacred temples and the warm hospitality of its people.
Step into a world of paradise where spirituality permeates everyday life, where ancient customs coexist harmoniously with modern development. Be amazed by its cascading rice terraces, feel the mighty waves of Bali's world-renowned surf breaks, or unwind on pristine stretches of white sand.
Whatever you choose to do, be sure to accept the tantalizing gastronomic adventures the island offers. From succulent satay skewers at bustling street food stalls to refined culinary creations at acclaimed restaurants, the island's vibrant food scene caters to every palate. Let Jorane Cuppen, Bearleader in Food and professional gastronomist, guide you through the island and discover the best restaurants, bars, and hotels on Bali. And discover the favourite places to stay of renowned designer Stefan Scholten.
Where to eat & drink
SYRCO BASÈ | BY SYRCO BAKKER
Two Michelin-starred Chef Syrco Bakker embraces his culinary roots in the fertile soil of Bali, Indonesia, with the opening of Syrco BASÈ. Previously leading Pure C restaurant in The Netherlands and awarded two Michelin stars, he has worked alongside some of the best in the culinary world. Chef Syrco now brings his expertise and experience to Ubud, where his signature creations and culinary collaborations showcase the region’s finest producers and products, all while embracing his Indonesian heritage.
THE WARUNG | ALILA RESORT
The Warung is a culinary masterpiece, nestled within the exquisite Alila Resort in Bali. From the first bite, it becomes evident that this is no ordinary dining experience. The food served here is undoubtedly the best and most authentic Jorane had on her trip. Despite its high-end status, The Warung manages to maintain an inviting and relaxed atmosphere that honours the Balinese tradition, making every guest feel right at home. The flavours bursting from each dish are nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing a delightful blend of spices and ingredients that transport you to a world of culinary delight. The Warung is a true testament to the artistry of Balinese cuisine and a must-visit for any discerning food lover seeking an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
LOCAVORE NXT
This Ubud restaurant stays true to its name by embracing the concept of hyper-local produce. Everything, from the ingredients used in the dishes to the furniture and glassware, is sourced from Indonesia, showcasing a deep commitment to supporting local artisans and farmers. The culinary duo behind Locavore, Chefs Eelke Plasmeijer, and Ray Adriansyah, serve a thoughtfully curated menu, creating a dining experience that is both innovative and rooted in Indonesia's rich culinary heritage.
SKOOL KITCHEN
Located in the vibrant area of Canggu, Skool is a culinary gem that offers a modern twist on traditional fire cooking techniques. Situated above The Lawn, the restaurant provides a breathtaking view of the waves, evoking a sense of nostalgia for me and those who have spent countless hours surfing at this beloved spot. Skool's innovative kitchen harnesses the power of fire, infusing every dish with a unique smoky flavour and a touch of culinary artistry. Whether it's succulent grilled meats or perfectly charred vegetables, each plate showcases Chef Vallian Gunawan’s skillful mastery and the harmonious marriage of flavours.
SANTANERA
Nestled in the vibrant neighbourhood of Canggu, Santanera stands tall as a culinary haven that not only delights the taste buds but also captivates the senses with its remarkable interior design. Rising three stories high, this restaurant is a testament to the harmonious conversation between Latin American flavours, European influences, and local organic, farm-to-plate ingredients. Jorane highly recommends securing a seat near the open kitchen, where you can witness the chefs in action
IZAKAYA BY OKU
Located at the Kempinski Hotel in Bali (they have the best breakfast buffet, coming from someone who is not usually a buffet lover), Izakaya by OKU is a culinary delight that showcases the best of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant offers a dynamic and convivial atmosphere and steals the heart with its professionalism and attention to detail. Be sure to grab a spot at the counter, where you can witness the skilled chefs in action.
The sake collection is also impressive, offering a range of flavours to complement the meal perfectly. The same goes for the cocktails, prepared on a cart and brought directly to the table as an extra touch of personalized service.
NIGHT ROOSTER
Bar Night Rooster, brought to you by the same owners as Locavore, is a cocktail bar that offers an extraordinary drink experience. But don’t forget the excellent bites in this mystique and nighttime venue. It is a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
NUSANTARA
A spin-off from the esteemed Locavore, this culinary haven celebrates the diverse flavours of Indonesia's vast archipelago. The interior exudes a stylish ambiance with its light wood and rattan partitions, while the brigade of Indonesian-born chefs expertly crafts each dish. The sharing concept adds an interactive element to the dining experience, encouraging a sense of community and exploration. They have a selection of wines that complement the food well, but it’s the cocktails and refreshing iced teas that steal the show.
WARUNG BABI PANDE EGI
A must-visit for those seeking a taste of Bali's renowned dish, babi guling. This traditional suckling pig dish is infused with a delightful blend of spices such as turmeric, coriander seeds, lemongrass, black pepper, and garlic, creating a burst of flavour. Sit down in the bright and spacious restaurant with panoramic views of lush padi fields.
Don't miss out on the crispy and irresistible pork crackling, a highlight of the dish. The prices are affordable, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal. If you're curious, you can even visit the nearby location where the pigs are prepared, adding an extra layer of authenticity to your culinary adventure. While Ibu Oka's might be the most famous spot, as Anthony Bourdain mentioned years ago, Warung Babi Guling Pande Egi is a fantastic alternative that delivers on both taste and ambiance.
maps | favourite of Jorane Cuppen, Gastronomist
LOCAL WARUNGS
Don’t eat fancy every day when you’re in Bali, but try the local warung too! The street food culture is an essential part of the island's culinary landscape. The traditional small-scale eateries serve as gathering places for both locals and tourists, creating a sense of community and camaraderie, and are known for their affordable prices. For as little as 2 euro you can have all the satay and rice you can eat! The emphasis is on a perfected simplicity, with many warungs focusing on fresh ingredients sourced locally and only one dish.
favourite of Jorane Cuppen, Gastronomist
What to do
LA BRISA BALI
A vibrant beach club with a cool crowd, pools & beach access. They offer global eats, shisha, coffee & fantastic cocktails.
COOKING CLASS
Want to learn even more about Balinese (cooking) culture? Take a class and learn about the techniques and ingredients of its many legendary dishes.
favourite of Jorane Cuppen, Gastronomist
SURFING
When it comes to surfing, this tropical island is a dream destination. There is a lot to do for both beginners and advanced surfers, from the famous breaks of Uluwatu and Padang Padang to the laid-back vibes of Canggu and Seminyak. Jorane highly recommends heading to 2getherindo in Canggu. They provide top-notch surfing lessons led by skilled instructors - such as Edi and Epol who helped Jorane. Their expertise and passion for the sport make them the perfect guides for beginners and pros alike.
favourite of Jorane Cuppen, Gastronomist
Where to stay
TUGU BALI
As the first hotel in Canggu, it holds a special place in the region's history. From the moment you step onto the property, you are enveloped in an atmosphere that pays homage to the rich heritage and folklore of Indonesia. The property exudes an enchanting atmosphere, beautifully showcasing the owner's passion for Indonesian culture through meticulous attention to detail. They have outstanding cooking classes and serve fantastic food, while the rooftop yoga courses provide serenity in an inspiring setting.
RAFFLES
With its prime beachfront location and stunning sunset views, this luxury resort stands out as a haven for well-traveled connoisseurs. Spanning over 23 hectares of lush greenery it boasts 32 spacious private pool villas. Their dedicated Wellbeing Butlers ensure guests feel pampered, and the resort's emphasis on cultural discovery is evident in their carefully designed Balinese cultural journeys.
THE APURVA KEMPINSKI
Perched on the majestic cliff of Nusa Dua, this five-star hotel offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and tropical gardens. Their breakfast buffet is outstanding, and it hosts the excellent Japanese restaurant Izakaya by OKU.
UNGASAN CLIFFTOP RESORT
Perched on the edge of the world, The Ungasan Clifftop Resort in Bali offers an unparalleled experience of serenity and luxury. From the moment you step foot on the property, the outstanding service is evident, with the general manager personally showing you around! Each villa is a private sanctuary, boasting oversized bedrooms. For a truly unforgettable experience, book the entire villa and host an unforgettable house party.
