5 of Bali’s hottest restaurants that offer world-class food in vibrant settings

Bali’s world-class food scene sets it apart from other Southeast Asian beach destinations. The main thoroughfares in Seminyak and Ubud teem with vibrant and sophisticated restaurants that offer Balinese, pan-Asian and European fusion cuisines, delivered in tasteful spaces that marry modern sensibility with South Pacific charm.

Also, the Indonesian rupiah has weakened against the Hong Kong dollar by nearly 40 per cent since 2011, giving bigger bang for the buck. That, combined with a constant influx of culinary talent from across the globe, has made Bali a sun-drenched epicurean heaven worth returning to over again.

 We tried five of the most-talked-about eateries on the island, from new kids on the block to old favourites that have stood the test of time.  

1. Mauri

Mauri, which opened eight months ago, is the hotspot now. It is a see-and-be-seen hang-out for discerning foodies. The new entrant is named after its 36-year-old executive chef Maurzio Bombini, whose previous stints include Il Ristorante at the Bulgari Resort and Mandapa at the Ritz-Carlton. From the six-course “discovery” menu to the majestic, Insta-worthy Mediterranean interiors, every aspect of Mauri reflects Bombini’s ambition to “bring Puglia to Bali”.

The signature Parmigiano ravioli is the primo piatto not to be missed. A trio of handcrafted dumplings, each stuffed with a generous helping of 24-month-old Parmigiano, soaked in a delicate onion consommé that perfectly balances the intense flavours of the Italian cheese. For the second course, we recommend the red mullet served atop a silky smooth white bean purée. Cooked over coffee-infused wood in a custom-made charcoal furnace, the fish makes a lasting impression with its beautiful smoky aroma and melt-in-your-mouth textile.

 2. Som Chai