My own “Eat, Pray Love” trip with my Mother, Sister & Niece
Welcome to the enchanting island of Bali, where breathtaking landscapes merge seamlessly with a gastronomic paradise.
Recently, the women in my family embarked on an unforgettable first time five-night adventure to Seminyak, accompanied by my beloved mum, sister, and the apple of our eyes, my niece, I year old ,baby Rose. Our mission? To seek out the most heavenly dining experiences that would not only tantalise our taste buds but also provide a warm and welcoming environment for Rose. Everywhere we ventured, the locals embraced her with open arms, treating her like a little superstar.
Join us as we delve into the heart of Seminyak, uncovering the hidden gems that boast incredible flavors while offering a delightful atmosphere for the entire family.
The moment we arrived in Bali, we were immediately struck by its vibrant energy and the warm smiles of the locals. With baby Rose in tow, we set off on our culinary escapade, eager to sample the finest cuisine Seminyak had to offer. One thing that stood out throughout our journey was the genuine love and affection the staff showered upon Rose. From the moment we stepped foot into each establishment, it was as if Rose had become an instant celebrity, capturing hearts with her infectious laughter and adorable antics. This warmth and child-friendly ambiance added an extra layer of joy to our dining experiences.
Seminyak, known for its trendy beach clubs, stylish boutiques, and bustling streets, also boasts an impressive array of culinary delights. From fine-dining establishments to casual eateries, we sought out the places that would not only cater to our varied tastes of each of the adults but also offer a family-friendly environment where Rose could play and explore while we savored delectable dishes.
Our journey led us to four exceptional venues, each with its own unique charm and culinary prowess. Here are the favourite spots we ate at!
Barbacoa Bali is a must-visit destination for meat lovers looking for an extraordinary dining experience. Upon entering the restaurant, the enticing aroma of smoky flavors will immediately embrace you, setting the stage for a remarkable culinary journey. The interior of Barbacoa Bali perfectly balances rustic charm with elegant sophistication, featuring exposed brick walls, wooden accents, and soft lighting that creates an intimate and inviting ambiance.
One of the standout dishes at Barbacoa Bali is the 8-hour wood-fired Pork Asado, roasted to perfection for 220g and served with roasted grapes and chimichurri. The pork is incredibly tender and succulent, with a caramelized crust that adds a delightful crunch and imparts a tantalizing sweetness to every bite. For those looking for lamb, the Lamb Shoulder 'Barbacoa' is a must-try, slow-cooked for 12 hours and served with red chimichurri, avocado, mint salsa, and tortilla. Their wood-fired and charcoal dishes are also not to be missed, including the Papuan King Prawns wood-fired in kombu butter and served with salmoriglio dressing.
Barbacoa Bali's menu is designed to be shared, with a selection of snacks and ceviche/raw dishes that can be enjoyed before moving onto the main courses. For a taste of their tacos, try the Pollo Taco with BBQ Yucatan chicken thigh, black garlic aioli, salsa pebre, and queso fresco or the Carnitas Taco with pulled pork, BBQ onions, jalapeno salsa, and chipotle mayo. For a unique twist on classic beef tartare, try the Beef Tartare on Toast with pepitas koji, guajillo, parmesan, and 'Farine' sourdough.
Price Point: Barbacoa Bali offers a moderate to high-end dining experience. While it may lean towards the pricier side, the quality of ingredients, impeccable presentation, and the sheer satisfaction derived from each bite make it well worth it for those seeking an exceptional dining experience in Bali Seminyak.
Located in a tranquil corner of Seminyak, Chandi Restaurant offers an enchanting blend of Indonesian and international flavours that will transport your taste buds to new realms of delight. As we entered the restaurant, we were immediately captivated by its graceful ambience. Soft lighting, delicate Indonesian artwork, and a fusion of modern and traditional design elements create a serene and inviting atmosphere.
Chandi Restaurant is renowned for its culinary artistry, and their Rice Dishes are a true testament to their commitment to excellence. The Green Vegetarian Nasi Goreng is a delicious combination of asparagus, edamame, shitake, and daikon, with leek, lemon, basil, shallots, garlic, and sautéed organic white rice, topped with flash-fried tofu and optional "Egg à Cheval." The Chicken Nasi Goreng features seared chicken breast, chicken satay, steamed broccoli, cauliflower, carrot, and optional "Egg à Cheval." The Pineapple Pork Belly Nasi Goreng boasts pineapple-glazed crisp pork belly, Chinese sausage, chives, garlic, caramelised pineapple, and "Egg à Cheval." For a truly indulgent dish, try the Chandi Nasi Goreng, which includes scallops and queen prawn, black and red fried rice. The Squid Nasi Goreng, with leeks, red chilli pepper, and tarragon, is also a popular choice, with optional "Egg à Cheval."
The attentive and friendly staff at Chandi Restaurant add a personal touch to your dining experience, ensuring that every moment is truly memorable. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner for two or a family-friendly gathering, Chandi Restaurant provides a welcoming ambience that caters to all.
Price Point: Chandi Restaurant offers a moderate price range, making it an accessible destination for those seeking a high-quality dining experience that celebrates the best of Indonesian cuisine.
For an authentic Balinese culinary adventure, Batik is a destination that should not be missed. This stylish and contemporary restaurant beautifully melds traditional elements with a modern twist, creating an ambience that is both elegant and comfortable. The moment we entered Batik, we were greeted by warm smiles from the attentive staff, instantly making us feel like honored guests.
Batik's menu is a celebration of Balinese cuisine, highlighting the rich flavours and vibrant spices that are synonymous with the island. Among their standout dishes, the Bebek Betutu takes centre stage. This Balinese specialty features slow-cooked duck that has been marinated in a fragrant blend of herbs and spices. The result is tender, juicy meat that is infused with a depth of flavour that can only be achieved through careful preparation and time-honoured cooking techniques. Served with steamed rice and plecing kangkung (water spinach) on the side, this dish provides a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that exemplify the essence of Balinese cuisine.
At Batik, the attention to detail extends beyond the culinary offerings. The restaurant's stylish decor and warm lighting create an inviting and relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. The combination of impeccable service, delectable cuisine, and an ambiance that effortlessly blends tradition with contemporary elegance sets Batik apart as a culinary gem in Bali Seminyak.
Price Point: Batik offers a moderate price range, making it an accessible option for those looking to savour authentic Balinese cuisine in a refined setting.
BOSS MAN BURGERS
When it comes to satisfying your burger cravings in Bali Seminyak, Boss Man Burgers is the go-to spot. This vibrant eatery puts a modern spin on the classic American burger joint, offering a tantalizing array of unique creations that are sure to delight your taste buds.
One of their standout burgers is the Chook Knight. This fusion-style masterpiece combines crispy fried chicken with smoky flavors and a spicy Asian-style slaw. The succulent chicken, perfectly seasoned and expertly fried, is paired with a vibrant slaw that adds a refreshing and zesty kick. With each bite, you'll experience a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
If you're a vegetarian or simply craving a plant-based option, The Gandhi is the burger for you. This Indian-style vegetarian delight is a true culinary gem. Packed with flavorful ingredients, such as spiced chickpea patty, aromatic spices, and a tangy sauce, The Gandhi offers a satisfying and wholesome burger experience. It's a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship that Boss Man Burgers brings to their menu.
Boss Man Burgers is known for pushing the boundaries of burger creations, and these two offerings are just a taste of what they have to offer. Whether you're a fan of the Chook Knight's fusion flavors or intrigued by The Gandhi's vegetarian delights, prepare yourself for a burger adventure that will leave you craving more. Visit Boss Man Burgers today and discover a whole new level of burger satisfaction.
Price Point: Boss Man Burgers provides an affordable dining option without compromising on quality or flavor. The accessible price range makes it a popular choice for families and burger enthusiasts alike.
One of the bucket list hotel’s I have always wanted to visit, is the new Kempinski hotel in Nusa Dua, so we definitely had to go check it out on this trip! With baby Rose in tow, unfortunately the Iconic underwater restaurant was out of the question, so we had to settle for the more Kid friendly Reef beach club, which was right down on the water’s edge.
The Reef Beach Club is located at the Apura Kempinski Bali, and it's the perfect place to enjoy a casual and delicious meal with a view of the ocean. The beach club has a wide variety of menu items to choose from, including seafood, steak, pasta, and pizzas. The service is excellent, and the staff are always happy to accommodate your needs. The beach club is also family-friendly, which is why we were there! There is also a kids' club where your children can play and have fun.
Reef Beach Club is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal with a view in a causal setting with beachy vibes. The service is excellent, the staff are friendly, and the food is delicious. The beach club is also family-friendly, so it's a great place to take your kids while you can enjoy your meal and relax.
Best Menu Items
Grilled Octopus with Lemongrass and Chili
Black Cod with Yuzu Butter
Wagyu Beef Carpaccio
Spaghetti Carbonara
Margherita Pizza
Price Point: Reef Beach Club is a bit on the expensive side, but it's worth it for the experience. The average meal will cost around $50 per person.
Our dining escapades in Bali Seminyak, at Barbacoa Bali, Chandi Restaurant, Batik, and Boss Man Burgers and the Kempinski Reef Club were amazing and so varied. They showed the wide range of cuisine and different vibes in the booming Bali food scene.
These establishments showcased the extensive range of tastes and preferences that the Bali food scene embraces and they keep getting better each year. It’s so good to see the local venues and eateries coming back to life after a long and harsh lockdown on the Island.
Each venue left us yearning for more, tantalizing our senses with unique flavors and relaxing us in their unique vibe.
So, whether you're a passionate food enthusiast in search of an extraordinary gastronomic experience or simply looking for a laid-back spot to relish top-notch fare, Bali is the ultimate destination for you. So grab your bags and embark on a journey to indulge in the delectable flavors of Bali – you won't be disappointed!
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