We just can’t get enough of Japanese food. From sushi and sashimi, to hearty ramen, izakayas and high-end omakase, here’s the lowdown on the best Japanese restaurants in Bali.
As much as we love Bali’s local food and spicy Indonesian specialities, we’ve got a serious soft spot for Japanese cuisine. From steamy ramen to sticky gyoza and of course colourful sushi rolls loaded with fresh ingredients and buttery sashimi, there really is nothing like great Japanese food. Luckily for us, Bali is packed full of awesome Japanese restaurants, with everything from beachside izakayas, to cosy sushi bars and fine-dining teppanyaki. So, we’ve done the hard work for you and found the very best Japanese restaurants in Bali for when those umami urges hit.
The best Japanese restaurants in Bali: Editor’s Picks
1. Honzen – Jimbaran
Surrounded by zen gardens reminiscent of a serene Japanese home, Honzen is easily one of Bali’s very best Japanese restaurants. Set within the sweeping grounds of AYANA Bali and under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Takumi Kimura, Honzen honours the art of traditional Japanese cuisine. Sit at the sushi counter for meticulously crafted sushi and sashimi prepared right in front of you, or make it a fiery dinner in one of the teppanyaki rooms. There’s also private dining rooms for a more intimate ambiance. As for us, we love the seven- to 12-course Sushi Luncheon Omakase, and the Sushi Kimura Omakase that’s personally crafted by Chef Kimura himself. And if you want to experience a Japanese yakiniku restaurant instead? Head next door to Sumizen, the spectacular sister restaurant of Honzen.
Honzen at AYANA Bali, Jl Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran, p. +62 821 4680 3156 / +62 811 9899 369
2. Kojin Teppanyaki Kaiseki – Ubud
Come for the sizzling aromas, stay for the authentic Japanese dining experience. Kojin Teppanyaki Kaiseki brings the fiery theatrics of the Teppan to the heart of Ubud’s rice terraces. Take a front seat and watch as the chefs flip, sizzle and rat-a-tat-tat on the Teppan, transforming high quality meats and seafood into delicious, flame-torched bites. Go for the meat selection and you’ll get to try the signature beef tongue skewer with crunchy granola and a creamy cashew nut butter. Or try the seafood set and feast on the Maguro Abura Soba with perfectly seared tuna. Add garlic rice on the side, and swap and share fresh sushi and sashimi. We also love the special Kaiseki Set, with eight carefully crafted dishes that nod to the exceptional skills, technique and artistic elegance of Japanese food. Think truffle mushroom sashimi, delicate Hokkaido scallops and Wagyu Yakiniku.
Kojin Teppanyaki Kaiseki, Jl Raya Desa Kenderan No. 88x, Ubud, p. +62 812 3733 9353, [email protected]
3. SHUN Omakase Counter – Berawa
For one of the most refined omakase experiences in Bali, head to SHUN Omakase Counter in Berawa. Forget choosing from a menu — at this intimate restaurant with just eight seats, you leave it all in the hands of Chef Oliver and his team, who carefully craft a regularly changing menu of 14 to 19 spectacular courses. Expect a parade of fine seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry, where the ancient art of Edomae sushi is given a modern twist. Fresh sashimi, Miyasaki Wagyu beef and buttery-smooth uni. Japanese delicacies rein supreme at this exclusive chef’s counter. Pair it all with SHUN’s Japanese-inspired cocktails – the Yuzu Gimlet and Shimamoto Sour were our standouts.
SHUN Omakase Counter, Tamora Gallery Stage 2 No. 2, Jl Pantai Berawa No. 99, Berawa, Canggu, p. +62 823 2254 4642, e. [email protected]; Open Tue – Sun from 6pm.
4. MORI – Ubud
Balance, simplicity and seasonality is what shapes MORI – an exclusive 10-seater counter that honours teppanyaki cuisine, nature and sustainable practices. Tucked away amidst Ubud’s lush landscapes, the seasonal tasting menus here are as unforgettable as the views. The menus showcase an enduring respect for ingredients, using local produce sourced from MORI’s immediate surroundings. They even pickle and ferment in-house, and only a handful of ingredients are imported from Japan to ensure utmost quality and authenticity. The Land & Sea menu is our top-pick for a refined surf-and-turf experience. Or the Shifudo menu if you’re all about seafood. Whichever you choose, this transformative dining experience showcases the finest bounty, topped off with an innovative bar program and omotenashi-style hospitality.
MORI, Jl Bisma No. 68, Ubud, p. +62 361 479 2888 / +62 823 3388 8218, e. [email protected]
5. Shichirin – Ubud & Canggu
For an authentic Japanese Konro grill slinging charred meats and veg, head to Shichirin – a casual take on a Japanese barbecue, where your food is grilled table-side. Showcasing traditional Japanese cooking techniques (like teppanyaki and gyukatsu) this 16-seat restaurant is all about high quality, fresh ingredients, carefully prepared with true Japanese flavour. Start with the hibachi enoki maki drizzled in teriyaki and yakiniku, followed by the signature Black Cod in saikyoyaki miso with torched lemon. Our fave? The Gyu katsu, featuring melt-in-your-mouth breaded santuri Wagyu that you cook on your own hot plate. It goes without saying, you can’t go wrong with any of the desserts or Japanese-inspired cocktails, which use ingredients like wasabi, yuzu, shiso and sake.
Shichirin, Jl Bisma No.888x, Ubud & Jl Pemelisan Agung No. 88, Canggu; Open daily.
The best Japanese restaurants in Bali: IZAKAYAS
What is an izakaya? Similar to a bistro bar, izakayas are small and cosy bars often found in Japan’s urban neighbourhoods. As for the food? Casual bites and staple street food reign supreme in an izakaya. Think crispy tempura and takoyaki, all in small share-style plates (think Japanese tapas). Look for three things in an izakaya: good food, bustling vibes, and most importantly, great company!
6. Yuki – Canggu & Uluwatu
Tuna truffle maki roll, Wagyu beef yakitori and even vegan teriyaki pumpkin. Yuki is a modern Japanese izakaya with some of Bali’s biggest hospitality names behind it. And it shows. In Canggu, Yuki’s boundary-pushing menu is served up right beside the seaside; a fusion of fine ingredients and contemporary twists. As for the Uluwatu address? Expect a two-storey masterpiece, where impeccable cocktails, cold beers and hot sake are served up alongside Japanese aesthetics and some of the best Japanese bites around.
Yuki, Jl Pura Dalem, Batu Bolong Beach, Canggu (p. +62 811 3960 8556) & Pecatu, Uluwatu (p. +62 811 3960 8557); Open daily from 11am.
7. One Eyed Jack – Berawa
A playful take on a Japanese izakaya and sake bar, One Eyed Jack is one of our favourite restaurants in all of Bali. While it’s all about casual shared plates in a cool and vibey setting, make no mistake – One Eyed Jack means business. The menu is the work of a Noma-trained chef, serving up a mix of traditional and modern fusion fare. We locw spicy tuna bites on crispy rice with rich droplets of eel sauce. Pair it with shochu or sake and soak up the stylish minimalist ambiance. We can’t get enough…
One Eyed Jack, Jl Pantai Berawa No. 89C, Canggu, p. +62 819 9929 1888, e. [email protected]; Open daily from 3pm.
8. Izakaya by OKU – Nusa Dua
When Izakaya by OKU first opened its doors in Nusa Dua at The Apurva Kempinski, it felt like the entire island was lining up to try its fine dining signatures. And boy, it did not disappoint. An outpost of the award-winning OKU Japanese Restaurant in Jakarta, Izakaya by OKU brings all of the flagship’s finest creations to the island, this time served up in a dynamic and casual atmosphere that reinvents a typical izakaya. With its bistro-chic setting and fab open-kitchen taking centre stage, feast on Aburi Wagyu Sushi, Teriyaki Chicken and truffled Gyūdon. Or, for a super spesh experience, go for the Chef’s six-course “OKU” degustation menu.
Izakaya by OKU at The Apurva Kempinski, Jl Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Sawangan, Nusa Dua, p. +62 361 209 2288, e. [email protected]; Open daily 12pm – 10.30pm.
9. Nagisa Japanese Restaurant – Nusa Dua
If a laidback and authentic Izakaya is your kinda thing, then Nagisa Japanese Restaurant at Hotel Nikko Bali Benoa Beach will be right up your alley. In true izakaya style, the menu is uncomplicated, reasonably priced, and designed for nibbling and grazing, using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. And to add to the authenticity, the restaurant observes “omotenashi” – the Japanese principle of sincere and wholehearted service. The highlights? Try the teppanyaki and the sushi rolls, all best enjoyed with the carefully curated selection of sake, shochu, Japanese whisky and beer.
Nagisa Japanese Restaurant at Hotel Nikko Bali, Jl Pratama No. 68X, Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua, p. +62 821 4612 2818; Open daily 12pm – 10pm.
10. ShiShi Izakaya Lounge – Seminyak
You may know it as one of Bali’s most sought-after nightclubs, but did you know that ShiShi also serves up a scrummy feast in its Izakaya lounge on the ground floor? Yep, our pre-gaming has never looked so good, with Japanese flavours, Izakaya-style nibbles and delectable sushi and sashimi served up in a glittering space. Think crispy squid karaage, spicy tuna tartare and nori tacos. And when you’re all fueled up, put those dancing shoes to work and head upstairs where the DJ and dance floors await…
ShiShi, Jl Petitenget No. 208x, Seminyak, p. +62 819 1888 8059; Open daily from 6pm.
The best Japanese restaurants in Bali: SUSHI & SASHIMI
What is sushi and sashimi? Arguably the most popular Japanese staples, sushi and sashimi have earned cult-status around the world, and are considered an art form in Japanese culture. Sushi is typically raw fish or vegetables rolled with vinegary rice, nori and plenty of fillings, whereas sashimi is a delicacy of raw sliced seafood. The traditional (and difficult to master) techniques are designed to honour the freshest produce and key ingredients. Expect beautiful presentation, colourful produce and some nifty handiwork too.
11. TYGR Sushi – Canggu & Ubud
Next-level nori rolls and super-cool sushi plates are top-of-the-bill at this hand-roll bar. Everything is made fresh (there’s no questionable sushi train here) with made-to-order, rolled-right-in-front-of-your-eyes hand rolls with still-warm nasi, shatteringly crisp nori, and oh-so fresh fillings. All of this is housed inside industrial-Japanese interiors, and it goes without saying, a Sake or ice-cold Sapporo tops it all off.
TYGR Sushi, Canggu: Jl Pantai Berawa No. 999X, Berawa (p. +62 813 3916 3894) & Jl Pantai Batu Bolong No. 55, Canggu (p. +62 881 196 5635) ⏐ Ubud: Jl Penestenan, p. +62 811 389 406 ⏐ Open daily.
12. TAKE Japanese Restaurant Bali – Kuta
Bali’s first and most authentic Japanese restaurant, TAKE is committed to shining a light on the freshness of the produce they serve. Expect only the very best ingredients as chef Kiyomi Okamoto frequents the market and hand picks ocean delicacies and fine meats himself. With over 500 items on the menu, from sashimi and sushi to live seafood, there really is something for every palate here. Psst – TAKE is Japanese for bamboo, and so it’s used in the cooking philosophy as well as in the restaurant’s island-style furniture and decor. Love!
TAKE Japanese Restaurant Bali, Jl Patih Jelantik Legian, Kuta, p. +62 896 0267 3570; Open daily 12pm – 10pm.
13. Indigo – Berawa
Always hot on the lips of Bali’s resident foodies, Indigo is Canggu’s upscale Japanese restaurant that sits boldly on the main Berawa strip with a stunning Japanese structure as its frontage. Step inside and it’s a breathtaking horizon of modern indigo-coloured furniture, minimalist wooden furnishings, and Japanese shoji-style doors. As for the food, expect fresh ingredients and a slight European influence. The sushi and maki tastes just as good as they look, with each plate more beautiful than the last and bursting with colour, flavour and texture. Our top tip: pair your sushi and sashimi with the sublime Yakimono dishes cooked over the charcoal grill…
Indigo, Jl Pantai Berawa No. 7A, Canggu, p. +62 819 9888 8018; Open Mon – Sat.
14. Enso – Canggu
Fuelling our sushi obsession, Enso sits in the heart of Canggu, dishing up authentic and delicious Japanese food done just as it should. Think takoyaki, tataki, soba and sushi, served in a stunning Japanese-style space with quintessential clean lines, uncluttered aesthetics and a backdrop of light wood. Our menu faves? Try the Rainbow Roll and the Unagi Tartar, the Sake Toro Sashimi, and the Tuna Garlic Tataki that looks *almost* too good to eat. And psst – there’s plenty of vegan dishes for plant-based diners too!
Enso, Jl Tanah Barak No. 19, Canggu, p. +62 812 3909 1550; Open daily 1pm – 10pm.
15. The Black Box Provisions – Canggu
Honestly, we don’t even know where to begin with this one. The branding, the packaging (plastic-free, FYI), the epic menu and the ridiculously good sushi that ranges from all-vegan to raw and cooked too – it’s all indescribably delicious. Yup, The Black Box Provisions almost has us speechless, and not just because of the absurd amount of sushi we’ve been shoving into our mouths. What started as a mere pop-up concept has taken off so quickly and fiercely, that it is now an official resident in Canggu. Believe us when we say you’ll want to try everything on the menu here, including the vegan sushi…
The Black Box Provisions, Jl Karang Suwung No. 1, Canggu, p. +62 813 3889 5675; Open daily 4pm – 11pm.
16. Shaka Riki – Uluwatu
This laid-back and breezy Japanese restaurant brings awesome sushi and authentic Japanese bites to Uluwatu. With its smooth and welcoming service (think complimentary miso soup and cold towels on arrival) paired with an enormous menu of top-notch sushi rolls (maki, hand rolls and vegan rolls too), plus combo plates and Japanese staples, Shaka Riki is regularly buzzing with big crowds and post-surf, family vibes.
Shaka Riki, Jl Labuan Sait No. 34, Pecatu, Uluwatu, p. +62 877 4335 9142; Open daily 3.30pm – 10pm.
17. Ryoshi – Seminyak, Ubud and Kuta
One of the first Japanese restaurants in Bali, Ryoshi rolls and whips up all of your fave Japanese dishes, including sushi platters, tataki and Japanese-style carpaccio. The maki rolls are stuffed with a selection of scrummy fillings – try the Spider Maki with soft shell crab tempura fried to a crisp – and we also love the sweet yet savoury inari sushi; sushi rice wrapped in fried tofu. For extra freshness on Bali’s balmy days, pair your sushi and sashimi with a side of cold soba noodles. Drop by the Seminyak hub for one of the best live jazz performances on the island…
Ryoshi, multiple locations island-wide.
18. Kunti Sushi Bar – Kerobokan
Taking Japanese culinary art to another level, you’ll find sushi and sashimi galore at Kunti’s sushi bars. At Kunti 3 Sushi Bar you’ll find sushi in a bowl (AKA sushi don), classic sushi rolls, and plenty of sushi and sashimi platters to share. Feel like going all out? Try the whole set of Sashimi on the Boat, with expertly prepared sashimi and salmon roe sushi. Order a selection of sake cocktails to get the full experience. Kanpai!
Kunti Sushi Bar, Jl Raya Semer No. 100, Kerobokan, p. +62 816 582 849; Open daily 11am – 11.30pm.
19. Sushimi – Canggu, Seminyak and Uluwatu
Sushimi has taken Japan’s famed sushi train and turned it into a cool and quirky restaurant concept. Sushi, sushi and more sushi – the chefs whip up classic as well as signature rolls from the freshest ingredients and delivery it via the rotating carousel. Choose from the a la carte menu, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try Sushimi’s own creations like sushi burritos and sushi donuts. Or, let your creativity go wild and customise your own rolls, complete with vegan and vegetarian options too.
Sushimi, multiple locations island-wide.
20. Sushi Koen – Seminyak
For an award-winning Omakase dining experience, head to Sushi Koen in Seminyak. Sitting in the heart of Petitenget, this Japanese restaurant prides itself on perfectly crafting each and every bite by using premium grade ingredients, both local and imported from the Toyosu Market in Japan. And while the Omakase experience is our fave, you’ll also find plenty of a la carte dishes too, from sashimi, ramen and tempura, to the chef’s signature Premium Donburi rice bowls. Try the fresh Otoro sashimi, the Wagyu aburi uni nigiri, and Sushi Koen’s special Kaiseki set. All of this, served up in a sleek and stylish atmosphere with specialty Japanese cocktails. Kanpai!
Sushi Koen, Jl Petitenget N0. 106, Seminyak, p. +62 896 4467 7280; Open daily.
The best Japanese restaurants in Bali: TEPPANYAKI
What is Teppanyaki? Everyone loves a barbecue, but the Japanese have it down to an art – a performance art at that. Teppanyaki is the art of cooking meat, fish and vegetables on a hot plate, with a clatter of steel and a colossal whoosh of fire. Without a doubt, authentic Teppanyaki is one of the most theatrical dining experiences around. Prepared to be bedazzled by the chefs’ sleight of hand, acrobatic teppan tricks, and (literally) explosive charisma that takes place right in front of your very eyes.
21. Rayjin Teppanyaki – Seminyak & Ubud
From the same people who brought us Kajin and Dahana (AKA two of Bali’s best Japanese restaurants) Rayjin Teppanyaki is well versed in the art of impeccable Japanese dining. Leading the pack when it comes to an affordable and delicious night out, Rayjin Teppanyaki is one of our fave Bali restaurants. Why do we love it so much? Where do we start… There’s the modern-chic vibes and lively atmosphere, the “Omotenashi” Japanese hospitality and the consistently creative cuisine. Expect high-ticket ingredients like Meltique beef and ocean-fresh scallops sizzling on the Teppan at arm’s length away, and watch them set ablaze in a burst of flames before being cleverly whipped, flipped and tossed with garlic fried rice until tender and juicy.
Rayjin Teppanyaki, Jl Petitenget No. 98x, Seminyak (p. +62 813 3918 1295) & Jl Hanoman No. 10Y, Ubud (p. +62 811 366 007); Open daily from 12pm.
22. Nampu – Nusa Dua
With its rustic Izakaya vibes overlooking the gardens of Grand Hyatt Bali in Nusa Dua, at Nampu you can choose to dine beside the interactive sushi bar, sit front-row at the teppanyaki grill for a fiery eight-course show, or if you’re dining in a group, there are private Tatami dining rooms too. Whichever you choose, you’ll feast on authentic dishes that stay true to Japanese culinary traditions. All dishes are a work of art, meticulously prepared and served by the talented chefs. Our fave was the Sashimi Moriawase platter, and the velvety soya milk pudding served with lychee compote and black sesame ice cream. Pair your Japanese degustation with a high-quality sake, exclusively imported all the way from Mount Hakkai. And the best bit? Despite the high quality dishes and five-star setting, a dinner at Nampu is surprisingly affordable. We’ll raise a sake to that!
Nampu at Grand Hyatt Bali, Kawasan Wisata Nusa Dua BTDC, p. +62 361 77 1234, e. [email protected]; Open daily.
23. Hamabe – Nusa Dua
Not only famous for its theatrical Teppanyaki tables (yes, there’s more than one!) Hamabe at The Westin Resort is designed to depict a Japanese village street. On one side of the dining room sits a long sushi and sashimi counter, whilst on the other, a Shabu Shabu area and Robatayaki station sizzles and smokes as delicacies are seared on the grill. Then, as the main event, the calls and clatters of the Teppan are ever-present, alongside the oohs and aahs from satisfied diners. And did we mention, there’s an extensive selection of sake too?
Hamabe at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua BTDC Lot N-3, Benoa, p. +62 361 771 906, e. [email protected]; Open daily 5.30pm – 10pm.
24. SONO Teppanyaki – Uluwatu
Juggling, drumming, flipping and fireballs – SONO Teppanyaki at Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort ticks all the boxes when it comes to a fiery Teppan feast. Glamorously set on the top floor of this clifftop resort with just 14 hot seats and two steel griddles, the chefs take to the stage. A rat-a-tat-tat of spatulas and chitter-chatter of knives marks the start of the explosive show, with a constant beat of pepper shakers and intermittent hollas from the kitchen cast. Eggs are spun and juggled, vegetables are chopped and diced at lightning speed and – poof! – oil is set ablaze in a ring of fire. Top-shelf produce is whipped onto the Teppan. Whole bamboo lobsters turn a vibrant red. Plump scallops glow golden as they sear in lashings of butter. Hot-off-the-grill, try the juicy black Angus beef, the enormous tiger prawns and the buttery Hibachi Lobster…
SONO Teppanyaki at Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort, Jl Pemutih, Labuan Sait, Uluwatu, p. +62 811 399 5048, e. [email protected]; Open daily 6pm – 11pm.
25. Shima Teppanyaki & Shabu Shabu – Seminyak
Not only focused on the theatrics of Teppanyaki (though there’s plenty of that too) Shima is all about the ingredients – top notch produce that’s handled with precision. Letting pure, natural flavours speak for themselves, only a grind of salt or swift sprinkle of pepper is needed to refine the enormous fillets of high-grade Wagyu or juicy Australian lamb cutlets. Let the internationally trained chefs take the reins of the doneness, or get involved and have your plate of choice cooked exactly how you like it.
Shima Teppanyaki & Shabu Shabu, Jl Petitenget No. 5E, p. +62 859 5858 7396, e. [email protected]; Open daily 12.30pm – 10.30pm.
26. Edogin – Nusa Dua
The crème de la crème of Japanese fine dining, Edogin at The Mulia is perhaps the most refined Teppanyaki experience on the entire island. For starters, this ultra-luxe restaurant is set within the palatial grounds of what’s been ranked the world’s best beachfront resort multiple years running, so naturally, first-rate cuisine and expert service comes as standard. On top of that, expect lavish gourmet delicacies and the most flamboyant theatrics, and swing by on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday night to experience an uber-indulgent Teppanyaki buffet.
Edogin at The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas, Jl Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Kawasan Sawangan, Nusa Dua, p. +62 361 301 7777, e. [email protected]; Open daily 6pm – 11pm.
27. Tenkai Japanese Nikkei Restaurant – Legian
A firm favourite for Bali’s Teppan fans, the chefs at Tenkai Japanese Restaurant whip up a performance as engrossing as the feast they lay in front of you. There are flips, tricks and explosive stunts, and that’s before we even mention the food. The tuna medallion alone is worth making the trip into town, as is the Bamboo lobster that’s as big as it is juicy. Wrap it all up with stunning interiors and an uber romantic setting and you’ll see exactly why Tenkai has hit this list.
Tenkai at Padma Resort Legian, Jl Padma No. 1, Legian, Kuta, p. +62 811 3821 9512, e. [email protected]; Open daily.
28. KO Japanese – Jimbaran
At the InterContinental Bali Resort’s award-winning Japanese restaurant, the focus here is on contemporary yet authentic cuisine served up in an unconventional atmosphere – unconventional, because unlike most Japanese restaurants, this one features a subtle infusion of Balinese architecture. In true Japanese style however, two Teppanyaki counters sit at the restaurant’s heart, helmed by an Executive Chef who’s been trained under the guidance of famed Japanese masters and has worked at several world-renowned Nobu restaurants. Try his “KO Special” set dinner menu and feast your way through multiple courses of prawns, mussels, beef, Barramundi and more.
KO Japanese at InterContinental Bali Resort, Jl Uluwatu No. 45, Jimbaran, p. +62 361 701 888 87555; Open Tue – Sun 6.30pm – 10.30pm.
The best Japanese restaurants in Bali: RAMEN
What is ramen? Originally from China, ramen has earned a reputation as one of Japan’s national dishes, all thanks to its popularity and refined recipes. This warm and comforting soup is made up of wheat-based noodles in a meat or veggie broth, loaded with local flavours and vegetables. You’ll find plenty of ramen variations out there – from classic shoyu to a miso base, topped off with karaage, pork, tofu, or veg. Top tip: Slurp away to your heart’s content, as in Japanese tradition, the slurping sound is considered a sign that you’re enjoying your food.
29. Mad Ronin – Seminyak & Canggu
It feels like only yesterday that we first slurped on the epic tonkotsu ramen at Mad Ronin in Seminyak. And now, after multiple years and countless bowls of steamy Japanese deliciousness, the Mad Ronin masterminds have a second outlet in Canggu too: on the buzzing Batu Bolong strip. At both addresses, you’ll find all of our favourite Mad Ronin ramen signatures, plus vegan and veggie ramen, and donburi. To find these cool ramen hotspots? Look for the artsy murals out front…
Mad Ronin, Jl Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu, & Jl Petitenget No. 7, Petitenget; Open daily from 11am.
30. Menya Kenji – Berawa & Seminyak
Menya Kenji knows that the secret to a great ramen is the broth, so unsurprisingly, the broth here is on another level. The team of chefs from Fukuoka whip up a signature chicken and pork broth, in four different ramen variations: the Kenji Signature Ramen featuring their signature blend, the Curry Ramen that fuses a traditional Japanese curry, the spicy Dan Dan Men, and the Kara Kara Men with a hint of seafood. Each bowl is then topped off with a gooey soft boiled egg and all the yummy toppings. Our top tip: this ramen restaurant also doubles up as an Izakaya-inspired bar, serving cocktails using Balinese arak, plus bar snacks like chicken karaage and gyozas. Kanpai!
Menya Kenji, Jl Pantai Berawa No. 13B, Canggu (p. +62 811 9525 857) & Jl Petitenget No. 106A, Seminyak (p. +62 811 8121 5050); Open daily from 11am.
The best Japanese restaurants in Bali: FUSION JAPANESE
What is Japanese fusion? Quirky creations and bold yet complimentary flavours… Japanese fusion is when an International cuisines merge with the flavours and techniques of Japanese food – anything from Asian-Japanese to to Latin American-Japanese combos. Here’s where you can try Japanese fusion cuisines in Bali.
31. The Sayan House – Ubud
This foodie gem is just ten minutes from downtown Ubud with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle that borders the dramatic Sayan valley. Expect casual fine dining here with a fantastic fusion of Latin-Japanese cuisine. We’re talking Nippon Ensalada and tempeh tempura tacos. YUM. And FYI, the breezy bar teetering on the edge of the gorge is exceptional for a stunning sunset…
The Sayan House, Jl Raya Sayan No. 70, Sayan, Ubud, p. +62 361 4792 592, e. [email protected]; Open daily 12pm – 10pm.
32. Ji Terrace by the Sea – Canggu
Asian-fusion bites, boho-chic vibes and the crème de la crème of killer ocean views – Ji Terrace By The Sea really has it all when it comes to wining, dining and sunset swooning in Canggu. This breezy and beautiful rooftop spot is crammed full of cultural flourishes, colourful design touches, and of course, some of the best Japanese fusion food on the island. Try the signature Dragon of Ji sushi roll (a chopstick treat of crispy ebi tempura, slick avocado slices and a creamy, slightly spicy sauce) and the beautifully seared Tuna Tataki. You’ll also want to sip on the smokin’ Coco Sexo (inspired by the volcanoes of Indonesia) and – our favourite – the Gin & Tea with Javanese tea and herb-infused gin.
Ji Terrace by the Sea, Jl Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu Beach, p. +62 811 388 9599, e. [email protected]; Open daily 12pm – 11pm.
33. Kyoka Japanese Kitchen – Ubud
Colourful cocktails, crispy katsu and supersized sushi rolls – Kyoka Japanese Kitchen had us at konnichiwa! This homely Kyoto-style restaurant is where it’s at for modern-fusion Japanese staples, plus specialty sake and Japanese whiskey too. Think sticky chicken yakitori, crunchy tempura, and ocean-fresh sashimi, or the signature Nabeyaki Udon and cold Hiyasi Somen noodles with crispy veggies. We love the fresh-made gyoza and the Tonkotsu Ramen, best paired with Kyoka’s siganture cocktail Natsu Groni. Kanpai!
Kyoka Japanese Kitchen, Jl Dewi Sita, Ubud, p. +62 361 971 056, e. [email protected]; Open daily 11am – 11pm.
34. Seasalt – Seminyak
Seasalt is Seminyak’s ocean- and Japanese-inspired restaurant that we’ve fallen head over flip flops for. It’s located right on the beachfront at Alila Seminyak, with endless ocean views and an ever-present sea breeze as company. Beachy, chic and also home to one of our fave Sunday brunches in Bali, this fabulously fresh seaside restaurant is a must-try, with sublime Japanese-infused dishes. It goes without saying that sundowners here are unparalleled, with exceptional designer cocktails that follow a strict zero-waste concept. Cheers to that!
Seasalt at Alila Seminyak, Jl Taman Ganesha No. 9, Petitenget, Seminyak, p. +62 361 3021 889 / +62 811 3867 544, e. [email protected]; Open daily.
35. Tabu – Uluwatu
Mexico meets Japan at Tabu – one of the most elegant dining destinations in Uluwatu. Brought to us by the unstoppable Ours Group (the peeps behind Ours restaurant and Our Spa) none of the Ours flair or flavour has been lost at this foodie hotspot. Think Seaweed Tuna Tostada, Crispy Salmon Taquitos and all sorts of fusion sushi and sashimi. And of course, the cocktails are not to be missed either. And it goes without saying, you’ll need to make a reservation here, as this place is booked out most nights.
Tabu, Jl Labuansait No. 10, Pecatu, Uluwatu, p. +62 813 5800 9090; Open daily.
36. SugarSand – Seminyak
Beachy, boozy and best enjoyed with friends, SugarSand is Seminyak’s all-day sunshine destination that’s brought Japanese-fusion dining to the easy-breezy seaside. Serving up Izakaya-inspired, avante-garde cuisine, you could easily spend many sunshine-soaked days here, lapping up the live music, the next-level cocktails, and of course, the sublime food. Taking centre stage at SugarSand is locally-sourced produce from both land and sea, plus plenty of other Japanese-inspired delicacies for good measure. Try the Kiwami Wagyu Maki, the Gindara Miso and anything from the charcoal grill.
SugarSand, Jl Camplung Tanduk No. 10, Seminyak, p. +62 813 5369 5640; Open daily 7am – 11pm.
Love these Japanese restaurants in Bali? Check out our fave Chinese restaurants too!