Save this list of unmissable restaurants in Bali according to Brenden Peace, a former professional chef turned General Manager of The Luxe Nomad Bali.
Whenever Bali goes viral on social media, the spotlight tends to fall on its scenic beaches (hello Uluwatu cliffs), rich cultural heritage, and its status as a venerable wellness destination. And while all of that is undeniably part of the island’s charm, one thing that deserves just as much attention: the food.
Bali has a way of pulling people in, and for Brenden Peace, it never lets go. Now General Manager of The Luxe Nomad in Bali, he first arrived as a chef driven by a desire to explore Asia’s culinary scene. “I actually had my sights set on Thailand,” he recalls, “but somehow landed in Bali instead. And 16 years later, I’m still here.”
Along his journey from chef to General Manager, Brenden has gathered a wealth of stories, while developing his own curated (and closely guarded) list of go-to dining venues across the island. Here, he shares 7 spots worth saving stomach space for.
Warung Kolega
When I first came to Bali, I was a frequent visitor to this warung. They serve a mix of dishes from across Indonesia, and I find that it’s a good introduction to the flavour profile you’ll experience as you travel through the islands.
Masa Masa
This was a recent introduction which I actually found from the WanderLuxe blog on dining in and around Sanur, which is fast becoming my favourite source of recommendations! Peranakan food is a blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian spices and cooking methods. Indonesia’s culinary offerings are really interesting, and it seems like I’m still picking up new things to try or learn about.”
In a hosting mood? Barbecue Time: 6 Bali Villas Made For The Best BBQ Parties
Sambal Shrimp Restaurant & Bar
“This is one I’ve heard great things about, and they also host Balinese dance performances on weekdays. Our marketing manager has raved about their Seafood Pepes (seafood mix steamed in banana leaves), she’s usually quite picky so I’m looking forward to trying it out!”
The Cave
A stunning restaurant that combines an amazing setting and fine dining is The Cave in Uluwatu, which is located in an actual cave. I may be a little biased as this was one of my projects when I was the General Manager of The Edge (the resort that the restaurant is situated in), but honestly it really is a unique experience.
I recommend booking the multicourse tasting menu for a memorable night out. It has a mix of global and Balinese influences that are crafted around texture and storytelling. Each course comes with its own serving of curated wine and cocktail pairings.
MASONRY. Restaurant Canggu
A safe bet for a good night out if you’re a foodie. There are no misses on the menu, and the space lends itself to conversation and connection. I’ve known the founder-chef Ben Cross for a while now, and I know how passionate he is about food. It’s great seeing what he’s built with MASONRY.
The Luxe Nomad has actually partnered with MASONRY. in Japan, bringing their incredible offerings to Niseko. It’s exciting to see that same energy and quality translate across destinations, giving guests a familiar yet elevated dining experience beyond Bali.
In case you missed it: MASONRY. Japan Opening Soon: Chef Ben Cross Brings His Acclaimed Bali Dining Concept to Niseko
Shelter Restaurant
My go-to when I need to recommend a place. I know the food and drinks will be good from start to finish and whoever I send their way will come back to me pleased. Their menu is built around wood-fired cooking, so their wood roasted seafood is one everyone needs to try. Honestly there’s no weak link on the menu. The drinks hold their own, too!
KŌRO Bali
The dining experience at KŌRO Bali in Tabanan starts as soon as you step foot in the place. The moment the team greets you, you’re already starting on a gastronomic journey that’s never over complicated, but just very very well thought of. Ask about their sustainability initiatives — the restaurant is doing some really interesting things!
The restaurant is part of a bigger story, as one arm of Nyanyi Bali Group which houses the restaurant and prestigious culinary educational institutions. And the last I heard they’re also starting something with Valrhona, which I can’t wait to see unfold.
Hungry for more?
Where To Eat In Sanur: Iconic Tables, Family-Friendly Restaurants, and Beachfront Dining Spots To Know
Earth Day: 6 Eco-Conscious Dining Experiences in Bali, Koh Samui, and Niseko
Hands-On Activities in Ubud: The Best Craft Workshops, Cooking Classes and Cultural Experiences To Try