WELLNESS ON THE ISLAND OF THE GODS
THE ISLAND’S MOST INNOVATIVE DINING BALI’S BEST POOL & BEACH CLUBS
Time to reconnect with nature, with your loved ones, and most importantly with yourself.
#AreYouReadyToWander
Bali is a destination that has a little something for everyone. Whether they’re looking to tap into the island’s ancient culture, its rich and vibrant dining scene, or kick back at one of its world-class resorts or beach clubs, regular visitors to the island will testify that there’s something about Bali that makes it truly unique. You can feel it in the air, you can sense it in every genuine smile you’ll receive (and the Balinese are quick to smile) and tap into it with the island’s rich history and religion, which plays a fundamental role in the life of many Balinese.
Even among the 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia’s spectacular archipelago (which you can read more about on pg 48 of this issue) Bali is like no other. Wedged between the islands of Java to the west and Lombok to the east, Bali has enjoyed tourism since the 1980s when travellers discovered its tropical climate, heady Hindu spirituality, and epic surf breaks. Today it’s a destination coveted around the world and here in
Asia, it’s a favourite playground for lovers, families and adventure seekers, and for good reason.
Across Bali, there are verdant rice terraces, towering, brooding volcanos, time-weathered temples, and pristine beaches to discover. In the space of a single day you can climb into the mountains to sample boutique production coffee in Kintamani or climb towering Mount Batur, and return to the beaches of Jimbaran, Nusa Dua and Canggu for incredible sunsets and a carnival-esque vibe. You can dive on coral gardens and wrecks in Amed, visit ancient water temples in Ubud, walk black sand beaches in Karangasem and groove the night away at world-class beachclubs in Seminyak.
Of course, there are also resorts from which to explore the island, ranging from tiny, intimate hideaways in tune with Mother Nature, to indulgent, world-class hotels that combine contemporary wellness with spectacular dining and breathtaking locations. We think author Toba Beta said it best: ‘Don’t talk about heaven if you’ve never been to Bali.’
Soak up those heady Bali vibes at the island’s best beach and pool clubs, where you can feast, swim and dance. Oversized sunnies essential…By
Helen DalleySeminyak’s popular pool club, Mrs Sippy has hosted some of the world’s biggest DJs, including Armand Van Helden and Duke Dumont, at its sprawling outdoor space, which features the island’s largest saltwater lagoon-style swimming pool with three diving boards (1m, 3m and, if you’re feeling adventurous, 5m). By day, you can feast at the openair kitchen, which applies traditional wood fire cooking techniques on everything from fresh Bajastyle snapper tacos to pork ribs with coleslaw. Pair your bites with the signature Sippy Colada (rum, pineapple and coconut puree) as you chill to epic tunes. To secure your space, don’t forget to book your daybed in advance. mrssippybali.com
Sundays at the Ungasan Clifftop Resort in Uluwatu offers complimentary kayaks, paddleboards and snorkels and you can explore the lagoon and scattered rock pools before stopping in for a frozen margarita or a sparkling sangria at the Ocean View Bar. Beach bonfires are lit daily at sunset and you can toast some marshmallows and sink into a beanbag as you chill out to live music and DJs from 4pm. Book one of their 34 sunbeds on the elevated sundeck and you’ll get access to a private VIP bar, while if you opt for one of its four beach bungalows, you’ll get a private cabana with VIP sunbeds on your own section of beach. What could be better if you’re travelling in a group or as a family then claiming your own stake on gorgeous Uluwatu? sundaysbeachclub.com
A short walk from Potato Head, Ku De Ta is another classic Seminyak beach club, with a pool situated just steps away from the surf. Its famous sunset sessions, soundtracked by the club’s resident DJs, take place daily from 4.30pm and make for an iconic sundown experience, as does dinner at Palm Deck, where menu highlights include Tasmanian salmon sashimi, miso butterscotch quail, and fire-roasted octopus. Every second and fourth Friday of the month there is live music from local and international musicians from 6pm onwards. The kids can join in the fun on Family Sunday, with workshops, face painting and arts and crafts from 10am until 2pm. Rock up early and you’ll not only secure a great spot but can also test-drive the breakfast menu, which includes a take on the McMuffin and smashed avocado with poached eggs and feta on sourdough. kudeta.com
One of Bali’s best-known beach clubs, Potato Head offers a beachfront location in Seminyak with infinity pool and DJs keep guests dancing ‘til 2am. At the amphitheatre, musicians channel the island’s energy throughout the day, and when the weekends roll around, revellers swing by for experimental music sessions, sustainability workshops, ice baths and morning meditation. The beach club menu features healthy options like veggie poke bowls alongside spicy hot dogs and pepperoni pizza, while brunch standouts include the Desa Benedict (poached eggs, capsicum hollandaise, corned beef and cheese toast). Want to stay longer? Then check into a Potato Head Suite (the Rooftop Suite has its own outdoor jacuzzi) or at the adjacent Desa Potato Head, an OMA-designed creative village championing regenerative tourism and where you can catch awesome sunsets from the newly opened Sunset Park, a rooftop bar that’s making a name for itself with its riff on the classic Aperol Spritz. seminyak.potatohead.co
With four pools, nine bars, two swim-up bars and five restaurants, Canggu-based Finns Beach Club certainly isn’t short on facilities, and you can book everything from a single day bed for one to a deluxe platform for 20 in advance; arrive before 3pm to save up to 50 per cent. If you’re just planning to rock up, then hit the lower surf deck seats, manta bar tables or sunset lounge bar, all of which offer free seating. There are two other areas: the adult-only Finns Beach Party located next to the DJ and dance area, and Finns VIP Beach Club, which is popular with celebs and has adult and family areas. This year, Finns will open a new section of the Beach Club with a nightclub, beer garden, wine cellar and speakeasy bar. finnsbeachclub.com
Set on the towering cliffs of Uluwatu, shady daybeds are set around the pool and thatched bungalows at beachclub Ulu Cliffhouse. The cocktail menu includes some deliciously zestysounding choices like Kaffir Lime Caipirinhas and Smoked Pineapple Margaritas, while dishes include clam risoni with braised artichoke and barbecue pork ribs. Some of the biggest names on the DJ circuit have played here, including Carl Cox and Fatboy Slim, and Ulu Fridays and Sunday Sessions at Ulu Cliffhouse run from 6pm ‘til late, as do its hip-hop nights. Pull up a stool at the Ocean Deck Bar or sink into sofas framed by fairy lights as you check out the breaks that roll across the club’s vertical rock face. If one day isn’t enough, there are seven accommodation suites named after Uluwatu’s legendary surf breaks, including Impossibles, The Peak, and Dreamlands. ulucliffhouse.com
Home to Bali’s first tiki bar, signature cocktails at adults-only beachfront hideaway Azul include the Rabbit Hole (gin, amaretto, almond syrup and carrot juice) and Bali Blossom (vodka, cinnamon run, passion fruit puree, pineapple, black tea syrup and lemon juice), all of which are served in custommade glassware. Over in the open-air restaurant, which begins on the lower deck and expands to the second-floor sunset pods, there’s not only a dining area but also an infinity pool with spectacular views across Legian Beach. On the menu, there’s blue swimmer crab and lobster ravioli to begin, while mains including coriander boneless lamb leg from the tandoori oven. Featuring afrohouse music, Sunset Rhythm takes place every Saturday, while on Tuesdays there’s an all you can eat seafood barbecue soundtracked by silky-smooth Bossa Nova beats. azulbali.com
Nestled between the jungle and Uluwatu’s limestone cliffs, Savaya is a little enclave of luxury 100m above the Indian Ocean. An all-day party destination that plays host to an infinity pool surrounded by day beds, at Savaya revellers dance the afternoon away before toasting the sunset and drinking in the clifftop views. Some of the biggest names on the DJ circuit have stopped by to play at this beach club: it has hosted globally renowned acts including US music producer and DJ Marshmello, South African house music DJ and producer Black Coffee, and Nigeria’s DJ Neptune while Jason Derulo recently had the masses grooving into the early hours. You can reserve VIP tables for all events, but they do come with a minimum spend. savaya.com
This beach club and Spanish restaurant in Uluwatu is famous for its seafood dishes — try the hot seafood platter on stones or the fish tacos with barramundi and tuna, and don’t forget to save some room for the churros. The Sunset Theater space offers unobstructed views at the edge of the ocean, and you can access seats, cocktail tables or small dining tables with a minimum spend of IDR1 million (US$65) per person. Order up an El Kabron Mojito or Lychee Martini and raise a glass to some of the island’s best sunset vistas. Over at the Hedonism Lounge, an infinity pool awaits: book a double day bed, sunset deck sofa or go crazy and book a sofa on the dance floor and you’ll be well-placed to shake your thing when the right tune comes on. elkabron.com
Home to the longest beach bar in Asia, the longest pool slide in Southeast Asia and the biggest street market in Bali, Atlas Beachclub in Canggu is not just a beach club but a onestep entertainment centre with much more than sand and surf to keep you occupied. Here you’ll find everything from four-person lagoon daybeds to VVIP and VIP sofas that seat up to 12 available for hire, while public spaces the Pool Bar and Helen’s Pavilion are dubbed family-friendly. Events like Halloween and New Year’s Eve are celebrated festival style over three days, and the club also hosts workshops like tote bag printing and perfume making. The beach club menu includes seafood aglio olio and nasi bakar beef cheek along with the usual round-up of burgers, tacos and chicken wings while the Kaffir Lime Sling cocktail (white rum, orange and lime juice, orgeat syrup, kaffir lime leaves) is a sure way to beat the Bali heat. You can also book a spa treatment (shiatsu, Lomi-Lomi, foot massage) or get your hair braided during your visit. atlasbeachfest.com
Considering a property purchase in Bali?
Mirah Investment & Development delivers luxury real estate across Indonesia.
Long a popular choice for property investment, Bali real estate is enjoying something of a renaissance postpandemic as investors and potential homeowners look for alternative ways to live their lives and alternative places in which to do it.
“The Bali property market is experiencing very high demand with buyers from around the globe,” says President Director Adrian Savage. “Strong returns are a key factor, and property in Bali is still extremely good value compared to other parts of Southeast Asia where prices could be more than 10 times higher.”
He adds that there is also a trend towards people wanting to stay longer in Bali. “The pandemic has shown people they can work anywhere in the world and enjoy a better lifestyle with a lower cost of living.”
Mirah delivers exceptional real estate and commercial developments across Bali and Indonesia, offering beachfront, cliff-front, residential and investment turn-key properties in prime locations. The company has enjoyed a very successful past couple of years, with three resorts and eight restaurants set to launch by the end of 2023. In addition, the company offers end-to-end legal, taxation, and visa services for all clients, including structuring foreign asset ownership, making the process seamless and painless.
Mirah is very different from other developers, says Savage. “We manage the property and offer owners the choice to earn passive income or live there. While most developers just sell the property, we are there with buyers throughout the time they own the property. In addition to post-sales support, this means protecting the development’s brand, which maximises resale value of their asset.”
With people unable to travel freely, the pandemic presented a difficult time for the property market. Mirah adapted to the challenges of travel bans and border closures by leveraging on
Serviced apartments at Kiara Ocean Place – Batu Belig, Balidigital marketing to bring Bali’s unique charm and investment prospects to a global client base. By investing heavily in digital marketing and media production, Mirah delivered engaging, well-produced content directly into people’s living rooms and onto their smartphones so they could assess their investment prospects.
During the pandemic, Mirah sold more than 150 luxury villas and apartments off-plan to investors from 29 countries, despite a complete cessation of international travel at this time. With the help of embedded 3D renders based on the existing working plans, buyers could visualise not only what the final development project would look and feel like, but also envision Bali’s laidback island lifestyle, a major drawcard to the island. The real estate firm also conducted detailed presentations online and made live video calls from construction sites so prospective buyers could gauge the particulars of a project.
A keystone of building a trusting relationship with clients is Mirah’s 100% refundable booking fees, giving prospective buyers the chance to reserve a unit for 14 days, and review all necessary legal paperwork, certifications, and financial forecasts in that time. If would-be buyers decide they don’t want to continue with the purchase, then Mirah refunds the nominal booking fee.
Out of the five developments launched during the pandemic, many have sold out, or nearly sold out, from off-plan sales. Luxury residential complex Ombak Dua, located in Bali’s exclusive district of Cemagi, sold out in six short months, for example. Scheduled to open early 2023, lifestyle residence Secana Beachtown, which features 32 apartments and 58 private pool villas, almost sold out after 18 months. Another up-and-coming property that’s enjoyed great success is boutique resort Kuara on neighbouring Lombok, which is currently 80 percent sold. More recently, luxury residential complex
Nila Residence, which offers 19 private pool villas in Bali’s trendy Berawa, was 75 per cent sold after only a few months, despite little marketing. A recently launched luxury apartment complex, Kiara Ocean place, located just off Batu Belig beach, shared as an early access project to existing clients, has only 12 units left out of 62 apartments in just two months.
Time and again, Bali has proven to be a resilient destination, with quick bounce-back from any global or local events and international and domestic tourism numbers consistently increasing. As restrictions on international travel have relaxed in recent months, the island has experienced a robust recovery, with areas of Bali such as Berawa and Canggu returning and even exceeding pre-pandemic occupancy levels.
If you want to invest in a slice of paradise, Mirah Investment & Development offers high-yielding investment properties, residential properties, and turnkey commercial properties, including resorts, beach clubs and restaurants. Bali’s low cost of entry in comparison to European and many Asian luxury destinations is a strong pull factor for investors, as is its high earning potential through asset value appreciation and the passive revenue from rentals.
The future, much like its sandy shores, looks bright in Bali.
Berawa Beach in Canggu, Bali Two-bedroom private pool villas at Cocana Resorts – Gili Trawangan, LombokFrom water purification ceremonies to traditional herbal massages, Bali is renowned for its plethora of wellness experiences. With so many great spas across the island, it’s hard to narrow it down, but here are some of our favourites.
By Helen Dalley
Popular with celebs – actress Keira Knightley has stayed here – the 31-room Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali on the northeastern coast offers bespoke wellness programmes that focus on healing, rejuvenation, wellness and spirituality. An upcoming retreat to be held this June, September and December is Return to Yourself, a four-day, three-night yoga and wellness journey that gives solo female travellers or small groups the chance to explore speciality yoga classes, guided meditation, and unique spa treatments. The other retreat you can book for April, July, October and December is the five-day, four-night Spa Village School of Life, which supports the path to renewal with a schedule of healthy life practices; guests are taught how to practice these skills long-term and redesign their daily lives. Guests not on a retreat can book in for spa treatments including Napak Pertiwi (a clay body wrap to cleanse and nourish), Lapis-Lapis (a spicy herbal wrap to reduce water retention) and Massage Under the Stars, a herbal oil treatment performed at the ocean’s edge. spavillageresort.com
At the Ubud-based Fivelements, signature retreat Panca Mahabhuta offers rituals for purification, rebalancing and regeneration, a diet of plant-based cuisine, and sacred arts including yoga, somatic therapy and vibrational healing music to work on inner strength and alignment. Meanwhile, signature cleansing programme Tri Kaya Parisudha works on purifying the physical body, sekala , and the nonphysical mind and soul, niskala , with retreats from seven to 14 nights. Wellness day experiences include The Secret of Balinese Wellness, where you’ll discover the healing powers of traditional herbal remedies like turmeric facials and Balinese massages, while Beauty Spa Rituals include the Balinese Boreh, with local herbs such as cinnamon and coffee combined with powdered rice applied to the body to remove dead skin cells and boost circulation. The resort additionally offers culinary retreats that explain the benefits of a vegetarian diet, with workshops covering juicing, sprouting, fermenting and low temperature baking. fiveelementsbali.com
At Raffles Bali, in upscale Jimbaran, each guest is assigned a wellbeing butler to address their wellness needs, and they may factor in some yoga and meditation or perhaps some reiki and sound healing during your stay. At the spa, you’ll find couples treatment suites, an outdoor infinity pool with access to the hotel’s private beach, plus a meditation terrace, fitness centre, and nail and reflexology lounge pavilion. For a bespoke experience, book a wellness journey at the resort’s remote hillside treatment suite, The Sanctuary, such as the two-hour Royal Javanese Lulur Experience, a body massage designed for royals on their wedding day that incorporates massage, exfoliation and a flower bath. Other spa treatments include the Royal Gold Age Defying Facial for younger-looking skin and the Ancient Hot Stone Massage to soothe aching muscles. The resort additionally offers sunrise and full moon yoga at the beach and Tibetan singing bowl meditation at a nearby cave. raffles.com
Situated in a calm bay along three miles of sand, Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay’s Healing Village Spa houses the Illume Room, Bali’s first “surround sound” spa suite, which is sealed from outdoor sources of light to maximise the power of its colour therapy treatments. Featuring a heated quartz-sand bed made of crushed crystals, alchemy crystal singing bowls enhance the experience. Treatments include the Celestial Light Ritual, which draws on the vibrations of gemstones and the transformative effects of light, colour and sound, and the Celestial Light Facial, which utilises sound and light vibration, exfoliation, and a crystal wand massage to uplift the face. Tucked away at the back of the spa, the Longevity Garden offers a treatment of the same name where you can enjoy a Balinese-style steam hammam — alone or with a partner — with a coconut soap scrub, volcanic mud body mask, a shower and an ice tub immersion to release endorphins, tighten pores and reduce muscular recovery time. fourseasons.com
If you’re craving the chance to properly get away from it all, then consider booking into COMO Shambhala Estate, a residential retreat offering holistic wellness that’s enjoyed from multi-suite residences or stand-alone villas. Situated just north of Ubud, the location is a spiritual enclave of jungle, river and sunrich clearings. Specialists in yoga and Pilates work alongside guides for mountain biking, hiking, climbing, white-water rafting and outdoor circuit training to come up with the best plans for you. In the gardens, you’ll find an ancient spring steps from the Ayung River, where a priest splashes participants with holy water to cleanse the mind and soul.
Como also organises a water purification ceremony at the Tirta Empul, a 10th-century temple that plays a key role in Balinese mythology and religious history, where you’ll go through a series of cleansing processes in several of the 30 water sources. Each water source has its own meaning and purpose, ranging from protection against nightmares to clearing one’s chakras. Want to go all-in? Then consider booking an Integrated Wellness Programme, with an eating plan, therapy schedule and wellness activities drawn up according to individual needs. Como has two other properties in Bali: Como Uma Canggu and Como Uma Ubud, where similarly immersive wellness experiences await. comohotels.com
Taking a holistic approach to mental and physical health, the Sukhavati Ayurvedic Retreat & Spa uses yoga and meditation to address stress and anxiety and a vegetarian diet to assist with weight loss, with diet plans designed to stimulate your metabolism once you’ve understood your body shape. The retreat offers several rituals, including The Detox Wellness Program that incorporates Ayurvedic treatments such as massages and scrubs alongside daily meditation sessions. Meanwhile, the specialised healing programmes include Ayurvedic treatments for osteoarthritis, insomnia and sleeping difficulties and chronic pain and pain disorders. We like the sound of the Luxury Ayurveda Program, which includes cultural experiences and workshops on Ayurveda, yoga and Vedic science. Guests are also offered the chance to visit the renowned spiritual healer Ida Pandita Mpu Dharmaya, who can perform water purification ceremonies, energy reading, energy transferring, and balancing and opening of the chakras. The retreat is home to eight traditional Bali villas with thatched roofs, four of which have their own private pool. sukhavatibali.com
Revivo Wellness resorts offers six signature retreats designed to shake up your routines and rituals and create sustainable, healthy habits around wellness, nutrition and exercise, including De-Stress and Relax and Longevity and Anti-Ageing. Its Emotional Balance and Mind Training will teach you to harness the power of the mind so you can increase motivation, transform attitudes and experience a more positive outlook on life with reiki, chakra balancing, personalised yoga sessions and Pranayama breathing sessions. It’s not all hard work, as retreats include facials and aromatherapy massages and tasty meals centred around foods high in iron, B-vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids — think whole grains, soy and avocado with a side-order of liver-supporting foods including onion, garlic and turmeric.
Treatments at the Remissio spa revolve around its signature spa circuits, which are half or full days, with the half-day featuring a Moveō (movement) class, a steam and infrared sauna session, massage, a foot cleansing ritual with express pedicure, and a healthy lunch. The spa also offers IV infusion therapy and a herbal pouch massage utilising warmed botanical plants and herbs to get rid of aches and pains. revivoresorts.com
A self-styled sanctuary for the mindful traveller where guests experience wellness beyond their treatments throughout the surroundings, The Asa Maia in Uluwatu is a short walk away from acclaimed Thomas Beach, where you can begin your wellness journey by taking an invigorating dip in the sea. Wellness options include Soma breathwork workshops (popular with pro surfer Kelly Slater) that introduce the benefits of slower, deeper breathing, while contrast therapy conducted in the cold/hot plunge pools rehabilitates mind and body. There are also private pilates and fitness training sessions in addition to yoga (Hatha, Yin and Vinyasa classes available) and an infrared sauna.
There are ten guest suites, known as gladaks — traditional wooden Javanese homes that feature contemporary touches like copper or Belgian Bluestone bathtubs and Bose sound systems, while resort amenities include a yoga and meditation shala, library, an infinity pool, and koi pond for some quiet contemplation. At the resort spa, treatments include the Gua Sha Body Detox Treatment to boost circulation and the Mandi Rempah, an aromatic Indonesian bath of healing herbs and flowers, including rose petals and frangipani. theasamaia.com
This adult-only resort is located 64 kilometres north of Ubud in a quiet enclave next to the Ayung River and waterfall. It’s all about connecting guests to nature and its surrounds, with a “no walls, no doors” concept adopted throughout the property. The wellbeing journeys reflect this, with a three-day, two-night retreat helmed by botanical artist Lucinda Law that encourages guests to reconnect with nature. The open air Toja Spa celebrates the wellbeing traditions of nearby Buahan village, with signature treatment Buahan Bliss incorporating a dry body brush, massage and detox body wrap using local herbs and spices. All spa products are handmade using natural ingredients sourced locally or grown on the resort’s farm. Wellness experiences include moon yoga and aerial silk yoga, and if you really want to find yourself, book the Enlightenment Journey and receive blessings and astrological readings from a priest from the local Hindu temple. Active types, meanwhile, can hike up Mount Batur and explore its 20km of jungle trials by bike. escape.banyantree.com
Claiming a gorgeous stretch of the East Balinese coastline overlooking the Lombok Strait, Amankila resides on a lush hillside beneath Mount Agung, with buildings connected by frangipani-lined walkways through the treetops. The resort’s specialty treatment is Cinta — Love, a full-body exfoliation followed by a warm bath scented with rose and flower essences to open the chakras, and an aromatherapy body massage, while the Amankila Cream Bath applies coconut cream to hair to boost elasticity and growth and includes a scalp and foot massage. Yoga classes include hatha, pranayama and vinyasa flow, and if you’re feeling light-hearted or just need cheering up, then consider the Laughing Yoga classes, which are held in the resort’s yoga bale next to the beach. Spa treatments can be conducted in the massage pavilion, beach bale or a secluded open-air spot with tropical canopy in addition to rooms. aman.com
More than just beaches and temples, Bali has developed a world-class dining scene that ranges from cool neighbourhood spots championing natural wine to innovative fine-dining enclaves that give you an excuse to swap the sandals for stilettos.
Nick Walton looks at some of the island’s hottest tables for the year ahead.
One of the coolest new openings in Canggu, Santanera is the brainchild of chefs-restauranteurs Andres Becerra and German Rincon, two culinary connoisseurs from Colombia who deliver a thoroughly modern take on Latin American cuisine laced with European sophistication and set against stylish interiors. Be sure to catch the sunset from the recently opened rooftop terrace before skipping down the wrought iron staircase and slipping into a deep-set booth to sample contemporary tapas-style sharing dishes packed with organic, farm-to-plate produce, including Hamachi cerviche with plantain crackers, gooseberries and Leche De Tigre; jicama cooked over coals and served with white chocolate and jalapeno mole; and a beef tenderloin modelled after the traditional Colombian dish Lomo al trapo, that’s rolled in rock salt and wrapped in a piece of cloth soaked in beer. santanerabali.com
One of the hottest tables in trendy Berawa, Uni, the creation of Australian chef Steven Skelly, serves an elegant, Japanese-driven menu packed with local ingredients and the modern twists that have won the chef critical acclaim. Here, the emphasis is on fresh, locallycaught seafood – think prawn and snapper gyoza; and crispy skin coral trout with miso eggplant and spinach – paired with the likes of grilled Wagyu beef cooked over a Hibachi grill and served with braised turnip and a red wine sauce. Also look out for new cocktails by Mexicola Group’s Denny Bakiev and Uni’s resident mixologist Jordy Outra that celebrate Japan’s booming bar culture, specialty spirits, and unique ingredients. unibali.com
As iconic an eatery as you’ll find on the island of Bali, Mason in Canggu is a dynamic eatery that constantly thrills visitors and locals alike. The beautiful restaurant, tucked away at the heart of vibrant Canggu, is dedicated to great ingredients, from the best meat (which is often cured inhouse) and cheese to local, seasonal vegetables, and a noseto-tail culinary approach. The creation of Brett Hospitality (they of Fishbone Local fame), the 100-seat restaurant boasts a popular alfresco courtyard and a lively open kitchen concept. Dishes not to miss include the halloumi with honey and mint; the burrata caponata with basil oil; the Wagyu beef pastrami; and mains like the wood roasted lamb shoulder with cumin rub, house yogurt and salsa verde. Don’t forget to sample the sensational cocktails of Brett Hospitality group bar director Zac de Git in The Back Room, Mason’s own speakeasy. masonbali.com
A contemporary and elegant Japanese addition to Canggu’s vibrant dining scene, Ensō welcomes guests with bright new interiors and an eclectic and comprehensive menu packed with authentic flavours. Diners can expect a remarkably beautiful and minimalist space dressed in cedar and cream, with an elegant stand-alone cocktail bar serving modern takes on Japanese classics, a separate sushi counter for those who like to be in the thick of the action with the itamae sushi chefs, traditional seating on the second floor, and a series of coveted booths downstairs. There’s something for everyone on the menu, which ranges from fresh sushi and sashimi through to makimono rolls, agemono tempura and even vegan options (this is Canggu after all). Ingredients are sourced from across Bali with a few tempting options flown in from Australia, New Zealand and Japan. @ensobali
For a laid-back start to the day, you can’t go past the recently opened Doheny, on Echo Beach’s Jalan Pantai Batu Mejan, This Californian-inspired eatery (it’s named for a street in LA), which features both indoor and outdoor seating with views over the rice terraces, is a chic neighbourhood favourite serving western all-day brunch and dinner. Here, guests can feel the distinct LA vibe with a combination of Balinese touches, thanks to a tropical design that includes green walls and homey décor. A top spot for leisurely breakfasts, Doheny offers locally hand-picked coffee beans and a range of classic, signature iced coffees – the Iced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is what we all need in the morning – while the all-day brunch selection includes a classic big breakfast, light rice bowls, sandwiches, sweets, and quite possibly the best French Toast on the entire island. The restaurant is also open for dinner, when the likes of Chinese chicken salad with Ohyong fried chicken, cabbage, mandarin, and Chinese dressing; or crispy free-range pork chops with raspberry red wine jus, and a rocket and radish salad steal the show. @dohenycanggu
A popular neighbourhood hotspot in Berawa, Mosto is Bali’s home to natural wines. In fact, inspired by the low-intervention wine bars of places like Sydney and Paris and spearheaded by sommelier Nicolas Lento, it was Indonesia’s first natural wine bar, and its selection of biodynamic and organic vinos is nothing short of impressive. The first venue for partners Isabella Rowell, Lorenzo Depeteris, Nicolas Lento, Federico Sirito, Denny Bakiev and Vanessa Di Maria – all permanent fixtures in Bali’s pioneering Mexicola Group (Da Maria, Luigi's, Uni, Motel Mexicola) - the restaurant caters to 70 guests although the intimate tables out front are the best for a spot of people watching in one of the island’s most vibrant and electric neighbourhoods. In addition to its 70+ label strong wine offering, Mosto does classic cocktails to perfection – the Aperol Spritz are just the ticket – while the bistro-centric menu includes the likes of tagliolini with sambal arrabbiata and coriander; Sakoshi Bay oysters with mignonette; and the island’s best chicken liver parfait, served with sumac onions and ancient grain sourdough. mostobali.com
One of Ubud’s most popular kitchens, Hujan Locale by chef Will Meyrick, has captivated diners for a few years now. It recently reopened with a renewed focus on Indonesian cuisine although there are hints of other food cultures throughout the menu. With a focus on the experience of sharing a meal, the menu is packed with family-sized dishes and smaller bite-sized servings. On the grazing menu you’ll find grouper and garlic chive dumplings with smoked dashi and ginger shallot broth; crispy rabbit and pork fat Batagor dumplings with charred kimchi cabbage, tofu and cashew nut; sate babi merah with plecing kangkung and sambal bongkot; Acehnese charred grilled octopus with young sour starfruit, curry leaf, pandan, green chilli and charred cabbage; and hand chopped duck salad with snake bean, roasted coconut, palm heart, sambal kelur and semanggi. Don’t miss out on the innovative cocktail list, which includes the Chilli & Lime Margarita with pineapple; and the Pala Old Fashioned , a blend of bourbon whiskey, lemon, sugar syrup, bitters and house made pala jam. hujanlocale.com
Sanur’s reputation as a quiet resort town in the east of Bali might be a thing of the past with the arrival of a vibrant new resident. Byrd House is a multi-faceted lifestyle destination merging a pool club with restaurants perched on the sands of Sanur’s acclaimed Segara Beach. With unforgettable architecture by Yoka Sara and sleek lines and minimalist interiors that includes plenty of bamboo, Byrd House boasts a duo of dining venues; the main eatery serves up Mediterraneaninspired flavours laced with locally sourced produce, while the second focuses on dishes inspired by Indonesia and Japan. Leave time for a sunset cocktail at the bar, where the menu includes an impressive number of martinis and after dinner retire to the lounge, an adult-only speakeasy where fine wines and curated cocktails are partnered with light bites for a sophisticated soirée after-hours. byrdhousebali.com
If you enjoy a little tipple at the end of a long day you’re in luck with the arrival of Batique Whiskey & Cigar at Alila Villas Uluwatu. A cosy den of discreet sophistication, Batique houses one of the most extensive collections of single malt whiskies on the island, including some real rarities that will tantalise the senses of ardent whisky lovers. These liquid treasures are complemented by some variety of fine cigars, allowing guests to indulge in the exquisite tradition of this timeless pairing. Opt for the specially curated “Whisky Journey” tasting experience, guided by Batique’s resident whisky sommelier, which includes a sampling of selections spanning different ages and regions. In addition, a range of original whisky-based cocktails are available for a lighter libation while a selection of classic cocktails, spirits and wines round out the bar’s offerings. alilahotels.com
The newest creation of celebrity chef Will Meyrick Honey & Smoke in Ubud combines casual street-side dining with an infinitely elegant speakeasy. With an open kitchen concept and Wes Andersoninspired styling reminiscent of a traditional train carriage, Honey & Smoke is all about chargrilling and taps into the Mama San-founding chef’s modern Australian culinary style – think grilled scallops with chilli butter, dried mint yoghurt, and sumac; and wood-fired aged snapper with pennyworth, kacang lima, charred kale, and miso beurre blanc. Grab a perfectly made martini or signature libation (the Norihana Smoke , with kaffir lime rum, pineapple, orgaet syrup, yuzu and wasabi is a winner) upstairs in the sexy lounge before taking your space in the vibrant dining room below, where the people watching is almost as good as the food. honeyandsmoke.co
Newly opened at the luxurious Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud, Ambar has to be one of the spiritual capital’s best cocktail enclaves. Ambar, which means sky in Sanskrit, is an indulgent haven for cocktail and gastronomy enthusiasts seeking an elevated experience in the heart of Mother Nature. The new space includes an outdoor wooden deck with spectacular views of lush forest, especially during glorious sunsets. A celebration of the rich flavours of Bali paired with the traditional beverage and culinary techniques of Japan, Belantara, Ambar’s cocktail list, is imaginative and innovative, with drinks laced with handpicked ingredients of the surrounding forest. Look out for the elegant Yuzu Negroni , or selections from The Fruits of the Forest, a series of classic cocktails - such as the Lemon Grass Gin & Tonic – that give tried-and-tested combinations a modern nudge. The bar is also the perfect precursor for dinner at Kubu, the resort’s acclaimed signature restaurant, where six to eight-course tasting menus showcase native farming traditions – be sure to book ahead for one of the coveted bamboo dining pods. ritzcarlton.com
Located at Canna Bali, the island’s newest lifestyle destination, Cliff at Canna introduces to Nusa Dua an utterly romantic and elegant dining experience helmed by founder chef Chandra Yudasswara. The new eatery combines an impressive wine selection with a seasonal culinary approach that sees the menu change every four months. Laced with both Asian and Western flavours and gastronomic techniques, set menus showcasing the highest-quality ingredients and plenty of artistic flair – think gulai snapper curry with turmeric lemon grass coconut gravy; Batagor, tofu, prawns, and fish cakes with peanut sauce, limo, and sweet soya; and Japanese Picanha Wagyu A5 with parmigiano reggiano mashed potato and a rocket salad. Also look out for a revolving roster of visiting chefs who will impart their own creative visions on the luxurious space, which overlooks Canna’s private beach. cannabali.id
Kong is a contemporary bistro that hosts an eclectic Europeaninspired menu packed with innovation and inspired by the chef’s extensive travels. Signatures from the ever-changing menu include homemade ravioli stuffed with butter-poached bamboo lobster; and Swedish brown butter waffles with homemade smoked salmon. Dishes are crafted from the freshest of ingredients, with local suppliers and sustainability in mind, and are served against elegant interiors; the venue is nestled within a colonial-style building on Jalan Pantai Berawa, with wooden shutters and inner archways scattered throughout in an architectural nod to 1920s Singapore. Wood surfaces are fringed by navy washed walls and polished white floors, and accented by velvet and wood furniture, ensuring a dining experience that’s as enticing as it is invigorating. kongbali.com
Combine your morning beach walk with a great locally-roasted coffee from Quickie – look for their cute little coffee carts at Petitenget and Batu Belig beaches.
Head to the La Brisa Weekend Markets in Canggu for great artisanal products ranging from local honey and freshly-shucked oysters to authentic hot sauces.
Intimate Seminyak speakeasy Raja’s makes some of the best martinis on the island.
40 Thieves, another Seminyak speakeasy, this one hidden above Mad Ronin ramen, rocks until the wee hours with visiting live acts.
One of the best bakeries on the island, this Berawa hotspot is famous for its coffee and its unique creations including the Amandine and the Almond Strawberry Tart. @7islands_bali
Another newcomer to Ubud, Ramu is inspired by the collective consciousness of the earth’s soil and ocean as one of Mother Nature’s legacies and is influenced by Tri Hita Karana – the three causes of wellbeing — a Balinese traditional philosophy for life. At Ramu, this translates as a casual farm-to-plate dining experience helmed by executive chef Joshira Yugopradana and punctuated with local ingredients from across the island. Ramu collaborates with a number of local farmers within Bali to ensure that ingredients used – ranging from Balinese sea salt to sustainable spearfished seafood — are locally-sourced, fresh and of the finest quality. Guests can expect wholesome and tasty Asian and European fusion sharing plates that rotate with the seasons. Menu highlights include chicken nanban with garlic sambal and sudachi lime; smoked seasonal linecaught fish croquettes with picked Caesar dressing; buffalo carpaccio with oven dried tomatoes, “rendang” gremolata, and Java volcanic salt; Lombok octopus ceviche with radish, burnt corn, pomelo, and toasted nori; and unforgettable local truffle cream cheese focaccia with clove honey and fresh cracked Balinese pepper.
@ramukitchenubud
