If you get time to slip out from your luxury villa, here’s a list of our four all-time favourite gourmet experiences around the sun drenched beaches of Bali.
Sip
Kuta’s main tourist drag may not be considered by many as the place to find fine dining, however for those who have discovered Christian Vannequé’s Parisian brasserie and wine bar ‘Sip’ would beg to differ. Straight up, the wine list is to die for, boasting a collection of New World and quality Bordelais wines. In the kitchen things heat up as steak frites sauté and hearty Toulouse cassoulet simmer. The restaurant strives to deliver high quality for great value, offering a three-course menu for $25.
Location: 16a Jalan Raya Seminyak, Kuta (opposite Bintang supermarket). Ph. +62 361 730 810.
Sardine
Looking for that wow factor, then you need to head to Sardine, a new and sophisticated addition to Bali’s fine-dining scene. The décor is stunning and does a fine job in creating an authentic ambience. The bamboo structure overlooks earthy rice paddies and a lush organic vegetable garden. The menu is made up of predominately fish, local seafood and organic greens that are sourced from its own organic garden. You can take a seat in one of the comfortable lounges and watch on as the farmers handpick the fresh produce that will be served up on your plate.
Location: Jalan Petitenget, Kerobokan, Ph. +62 361 738 202
Babi Guling Ibu Oka
Babi Guling, or suckling pig, is one of the most authentic kind of foods you can have when travelling to Bali. Babi Guling Ibu Oka is a small stall in Ubud and it is a long time standing institution in Bali, ask any Balinese and they will tell you that it’s the only place to get the best suckling pig on the entire island of Bali. If you are not a fan of pork then don’t bother dropping in, for all they cook is pork.
Location: Jalan Raya Teges Peliatan, Ubud. Ph. +62 361 976435
Métis
Balmy island breezes blow across the green rice paddies of Métis, one of beachside Bali’s sophisticated new addresses. The style and glamour of this restaurant is flawless, low-slung white leather armchairs , warm evening candlelight and an open air terrace create a setting that is just the beginning of this seduction into the depths of the five senses. The cuisine is French-Mediterrean inspired and a must try on the menu is the roast mushrooms stuffed with snails, followed up with a serve of grilled poppy-seed-crusted yellow fin tuna served on a kindling pile of green beans, pitted Kalamata’s and baby potatoes, seasoned with balsamic vinegar and pesto.
Location: 6 Jalan Petitenget, Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta, Ph. +62 361 737 888.