On the hunt for the best new restaurants in Bali? Bookmark this page, because here we bring you the hottest new openings of 2023.
From epic breakfasts and never-ending brunches to cool cafes and ultra-fine dining degustations – you could say we’re a little obsessed with food here at Honeycombers. And when it comes to the best new restaurants in Bali? We’re all over it. From Seminyak and Canggu to Ubud, Uluwatu and beyond, each month we bring you the best new restaurants, cafes and bars in Bali, keeping you in the loop with all the hottest places to eat across the island.
We don’t often blow our own trumpets. But if we’re talking food, we can always tell you the best place for a local Balinese feast, a drool-inducing burger, and even where to eat vegan across the island. And as for all the brand new, hot-off-the-press restaurants you absolutely need to try? Well, this is everything you need: our Hot New Tables 2023 roundup.
And psst- if you’re still hungry for more, check out all of the best meals we ate in Bali in 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, and 2018 too… Happy munching, Honeys!
ALL THE BEST NEW RESTAURANTS IN BALI
Hot New Tables: 2023
The Flying Squirrel – Seminyak
Glide in to The Flying Squirrel for awesome Japanese eats in Seminyak. After taking over Singapore’s culinary scene, this new Bali address brings a modern Japanese menu to the streets of Petitenget, inspired by the very best local produce. Make your way to the sushi bar for a taste of the ocean’s freshest bounty – from salmon and hamachi, to unagi, ebi and tako. Or to really try it all, load up on the TFS Bali Signature maki with six different fillings, the Sashimi Moriawase with seven kinds of sashimi to share, or the TFS Premium Chirashi – a rice bowl topped with salmon, tuna, white fish, tako, tiger prawns, unagi, tamago and ikura. Of course, a chilled Saketini tops it all off…
Cantina Classe – Canggu
A rustic Pasta e Pizzeria in the heart of Canggu, Cantina Classe brings a taste of Italy to Bali, topped off with interiors reminiscent of a brick pizza oven. The kitchen dishes up handmade Italian faves the way nonna used to make them, with modern twists to finish them off. Think eggplant parmigiana, black ink spaghetti and truffle mushroom pizza. And whatever you do, don’t leave without trying the mascarpone tiramisu. You’ll also want to try the quirky signature cocktails, like the Liquid Pizza, with vodka, tomato juice, lime juice, basil syrup, salt and pepper, expertly mixed tableside. Buon appetito!
Paed Thai – Canggu
Answering all of our pad Thai prayers, Paed Thai in Canggu is slinging authentic Thai cuisine alongside creative Thai-inspired cocktails . Paying homage to the country’s culinary scene, the talented chefs perfectly balance sweet, salty, spicy and sour in each dish. Think fresh oysters drenched in a Thai lemon dressing, the peanut-y Pad Thai Goong and a whole steamed fish to share. And we say, finish it off with the Paed Thai Tom Yum – nope, not the soup, but rather the bar’s signature cocktail that blends vodka, red chilli, galangal tea, lime juice and lemongrass…
Kulkul Beach House – Nusa Dua
Designed to bring people together over great food and laidback beachfront vibes, Kulkul Beach House is Bali’s newest oceanfront venue with dazzling views galore. This chic destination on Nusa Dua’s pristine white-sand beach follows a zero-waste dining concept, paired with sustainably sourced ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. From smoked salmon macaroons. to vegetarian flatbreads, plus traditional local favourites too, there’s plenty to graze on here, from morning ‘til sunset and beyond. Naturally then, the cocktail menu is equally spectacular, with seaside creations like the Negritzer (a classic Negroni with sparkling wine), the Sambal Mary (a spicy take on the Bloody Mary), and the pretty-as-a-pic Swan-tini. All of this, best enjoyed in a stylish cabana beside the adults-only pool…
Tickled Pink – Canggu
From Melbourne to the rice fields of Canggu, Tickled Pink is bringing its Western fusion cuisine to its first international location in Bali. Priding itself on good food, great drinks and nostalgic Melbourne vibes, it’s a must-visit foodie destination to experience Australia’s most famous culinary culture. For breakfast, head to the outdoor lounge overlooking Canggu’s emerald green rice paddies for a flat white and a Florentine Truffled Benedict with homemade Turkish bread. Then, grab a seat on the poolside cabana, and graze all day on loaded bowls and healthy salads. Come nightfall, the indoor restaurant is a cosy spot to wine and dine in a relaxed atmosphere. Start with the paella arancini, before moving on to the sticky lamb ribs. Finish off with an Aussie classic – the lemon meringue pavlova – and a Tommy’s Pop Margarita. It’s official: we’re tickled pink!
Tetsushin – Sanur
Hungry for authentic Japanese cuisine made with fresh ingredients, premium meat and seafood? You’ll want to book a seat at Tetsushin, a cosy Japanese restaurant and bar in the heart of Sanur. By day, taste the kitchen’s homemade recipes, like the cucumber and seaweed salad, or the okonomiyaki, AKA a Japanese savoury pancake, packed with cabbage, meat and seafood, topped with bonito flakes, Japanese mayo and pickled ginger. Dinner is then all about open flames and the chef’s sleight of hand! Yep, gather around the fiery Teppan and enjoy the show, kicking back with a chilled sake in hand while you watch as your premium steaks are cooked to perfection.
Ourshome – Uluwatu
The latest creation from the Ours Group (the peeps who gave us OurSpa and Ours restaurant), Ourshome is a place in The Bukit to call home. This healthy cafe is designed for the local and expat communities; a place for mixing and mingling over a menu that nourishes your body, mind and soul. The dishes are made using the freshest ingredients sourced from local farmers, and curated by the in-house nutritionist (whom you can consult with!). But that’s not all. By signing up to this exclusive membership club, you’ll also get to enjoy all the perks, including discounts to Ours Group’s other establishments!
Bar Vera – Canggu
Freshly opened as part of Pererenan’s boutique Further Hotel, Bar Vera pays tribute to the neighbourhood bars and bistros of Europe, where stylish patrons unwind over good food, drinks and great company. And with its modern city vibes and Parisian-inspired interiors, it’s the perfect place to swap, share and sample each produce-driven dish, carefully curated using classic techniques, modern twists and local flavours. Think charcoal-roasted chicken, steak tartare with sambal and lychee soufflé with coconut gelato. It goes without saying that the drinks list at bar Vera is worth a trip alone, where European wines and cocktails are slung from the low-lit bar. And did we mention, Bar Vera is the latest creation from the unstoppable Mason Group? Need we say more…
KYND – Canggu
From Seminyak to Canggu with love (and a whole lotta vegan deliciousness), the island’s favourite plant-based cafe KYND has finally opened a second location in Canggu. Yep, that means you can find all of your favourite KYND signatures, now in the ‘Gu. Graze on the Insta-famous Paradise Pancakes served with coconut ice cream for brunch, or the buffalo cauliflower wings and the salad bowls for lunch. Come back and make it a peace-zza night with some of the most unique pizza toppings we’ve ever seen, like temperoni, smoked vegan ham and Tandoori cheeken, to name a few. All of this, served up in KYND’s signature tropical-pink interiors…
Brasserie République – Sanur
An authentic Parisian-style cafe in Bali’s laid-back eastern neighbourhood, Brasserie République is a perfect pitstop for a casual yet sophisticated (a la 1920s) dining experience. Located on Sanur’s busy food strip, the brasserie is where you can spend your morning with a delicious cup of coffee and a gooey chocolate lava cake with a scoop of ice cream on the side. Or, swing by for lunch and dinner to feast on decadent French favourites. Try France’s culinary pride and glory, Coq au Vin (bone-in chicken braised to perfection in rich red wine sauce), or the Steak au Poivre served with green pepper sauce and french fries. And whatever you do, don’t leave without sipping on the bar’s selection of premium wine… Bon appétit!
The Bakers Bistro – Seminyak
Modern bistro meets artisan bakery at The Bakers Bistro – the latest foodie destination helmed by renowned Chef Nic Philips. Dishing up bistro classics from brekkie through to brunch and lunch, you can’t go wrong with the bistro’s all-day smashed avocado or freshly baked croissants, perfectly paired with a house-blend coffee, or even an Espresso Martini (brunch cocktails, anyone?). Better yet, go for the big Benny Brunch Deal – a combo featuring The Bakers Bistro’s special eggs benny on house focaccia with ham and hollandaise, plus a side of coffee, seasonal fruits, Greek yoghurt and granola. You’ll then want to come back for lunch to graze on the homemade pastas, Australian Angus beef burger or steak and fries. And psst – there’s plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options too!
Cha Ching Clan – Canggu
Slated as the first restaurant in Indonesia to serve Dōngběi cuisine from Northeast China, Cha Ching Clan is an eclectic bistro that pays homage to the region of China where Russia, Korea and Mongolia meet. Helmed by Dōngběi natives, Chefs Shifu Dabo and Shifu Yan, the kitchen perfectly blends unique herbs and spices with the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Start your oriental journey with the veggie-friendly spicy soy salad with shiitake mushrooms, soybeans and beancurd sticks. Follow with the Emperor Seafood Platter – a shared bounty featuring the catch-of-the-day – and the stir fried Northern Jade Okra with shimeji mushrooms and tofu. End with the Sweet Prosperity – a delectable combo of sweet potato and yam, served in a bird’s nest made from spun sugar. And don’t leave without trying some of the most creative cocktails we’ve seen: nothing like getting kicked by Bruce Lee with a cocktail inspired by the legendary martial artist himself, or the sweet and tangy One In a Melon, served in (yep, you guessed it) a watermelon!
Takumi – Seminyak
Takumi, AKA master of a craft, is an exclusive, reservation-only restaurant in Seminyak unlike anything you can find on the island. Specialising in the art of Kaiseki, Chef Daijiro Horikoshi curates an exquisitely presented nine-course menu using ingredients that celebrate each season. The regularly changing menu includes high quality ingredients all the way from Japan, paired perfectly with Bali’s freshest produce. Expect the best of the best, from fresh sashimi and nigiri, to organic vegetables, Wagyu beef and foie gras. All of this, best enjoyed with the sake selection and wine pairing to get the complete Takumi dining experience.
Ikan – Nusa Dua
Sitting right on the beachfront of The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, Ikan is a casual eatery by day and a sophisticated bar and restaurant by night. Within its open-air space, thatched roof and Balinese-inspired designs, you can graze the day away on fresh seafood paired with the best locally sourced ingredients and Indonesian flavours. Try the light and delicious seaweed salad with seared tuna and Indonesian-style dressing, kuah pindang, and wash it down with a cold craft beer. Our top tip: grab a seat by the beach and sip on a sunset aperitif, before making your way to the main dining area for a tapas-style dinner. Start with the crab spring rolls served with a tangy star fruit salad, and follow with the slow-cooked ayam betutu and Jimbaran-style grilled fish with vegetables and sambal. Top off the evening with signature cocktails, like the Gunung Agung inspired by Bali’s tallest volcano, and the Italian Job with house-made limoncello.
Meru Ubud – Ubud
Feast on a sustainable menu of farm-to-table specialities at Meru, where Ubud’s lush greenery extends for as far as the eye can see. The dishes are carefully prepared using organically grown ingredients sourced from Meru’s own farm. And the result? Beautifully presented sumptuous food that’s almost too good to eat. Start the day right with the veggie-packed zucchini pancakes, then swing by for a lunch date and try the sushi rolls sprinkled with colourful edible flowers. Top tip: come back for a lively and laid-back sundowner with a sunset cocktail in hand, best paired with the kitchen’s pretty little tapas. Share a bountiful platter of fresh seafood or falafel and veggies, then end your dinner on a sweet note with the Vanilla Panna Cotta, served with caramelised ginger and rose syrup.
WhiteStone Restaurant & Bar – Umalas
From breakfast to brunch and dinner too, WhiteStone Restaurant & Bar is a cosy all-day dining space in Umalas that specialises in signature dishes from Asia to the Mediterranean and beyond. For late risers, the casual Melbourne-style brunch runs until 3pm, with a selection of brunch favourites like waffles, avocado toast and eggs Benedict. Then, as the day moves into dinner, expect flavours from Indonesia and across Asia, before finishing off with the almost-too-pretty-to-eat desserts, like the Matcha Panna Cotta served with macerated strawberries, poached pear, carrot gel, hazelnut, and matcha ice cream. Wash it all down with a Negroni that’s been given a Rosella twist, or the signature Smoky Topaz with whisky, orange, lemon juice, coffee liqueur and a crème brulée syrup.
Scusa – Jimbaran
Bringing the flavours, aromas, and laid-back ambiance of the Mediterranean to Jimbaran, Scusa is the latest dining destination to open within the newest hotel on the sprawling AYANA Estate, AYANA Segara. Using fresh local ingredients to honour the quintessential dishes of the Med, Scusa transports you to a Mediterranean island with every bite. Think stuffed calamari with sauce vierge and confit tomato, or mackerel in carpione with garden vegetables and citrus mayo. The chef’s favourite? The pappardelle with lamb ragout, topped with pecorino fondue and sage. And the menu isn’t Scusa’s only impressive trait. The maze-like restaurant (with its arched doorways and terracotta pots) is reminiscent of the winding alleyways of Italy, Spain and Greece, centred by an outdoor piazza, lounge and Italian-style fountain for those all-important alfresco vibes. All of this is then topped off with a wine list featuring the best red and white Mediterranean varietals, and exclusive wines from boutique vineyards throughout Italy and Spain.
Uma Garden – Umalas
Nestled amongst Umalas’ rice paddies and surrounded by greenery is Uma Garden – a fire-based restaurant with the humble philosophy of bringing people together around real food and good vibes. Just minutes from both Canggu and Seminyak, Uma Garden is a sanctuary away from the bustle, and with its stylishly rustic ambiance and prime address on one of Umalas’ most trendy streets, it’s fast become the go-to neighbourhood hangout for both expats and seasoned foodies alike. Start the evening with a pre-dinner aperitivo at the stylish indoor lounge as you watch the open kitchen come to life. Then, make your way to the heart of the restaurant where communal tables set the scene for mixing and mingling over honest recipes and wood-fired flavours. Try the 24-hour slow-cooked pork belly, or the Wagyu beef and juicy prawns ember-grilled to perfection.
Powder Room – Ubud
From the same trailblazing kitchen team as Room4Dessert, Powder Room in Ubud is the latest venture from award-winning Chef Will Goldfarb – this time a creative take on a candy store. In true R4D style, this dessert haven is stocked full of handmade artisanal treats with signature twists that pay homage to Bali’s fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Think superfood versions of classic chocolate bars (hellooo healthy Snickers!), rosella-kombucha garden gummies, and our fave, the Botanical Bombolonis – complete with a crunchy sugar crust and gooey vanilla cream that oozes with every bite. Added flavours are courtesy of herbaceous ingredients like galangal and jamu, Indonesia’s traditional drink.
CORK Bistro & Wine Bar – Sanur
Adding to Sanur’s international food scene, CORK Bistro & Wine Bar is a European bistro where the menu is given a gastronomic twist. The bistro’s casual-meets-fine dining concept caters to all foodies, perfect for a night out or special occasion. Drop by in the morning and start the day with an elevated breakfast, like French toast with crispy bacon and a perfectly brewed cappuccino. For lunch or dinner, start with the tuna tartare or beetroot salad, before grazing on the rich duck confit or the classic tenderloin with foie gras. Then, finish it all off with a spekkoek affogato and a glass or two of the fine wines on offer. And psst -CORK doubles up as a wine shop, so you can also take home a bottle of your fave!
Maize – Canggu
Drink and dine in Latin American style at Maize – Canggu’s hottest new restaurant that’s dishing up contemporary cuisine inspired and rooted in Latin flavours and traditions. From the crispy fried tortillas to the suckling pig, everything on the menu celebrates local and seasonal produce, alongside imported ingredients from Latin America and Asia where necessary. Take a seat on the alfresco outdoor patio and start with the Hokkaido scallop tostadas topped with uni mayo, cured egg yolk and pomelo. Move on to the wood-roasted cabbage with salted grapes and roasted almonds to share, or even create your own tacos. Not sure what to eat? Give the chefs the reins with the Chef’s Choice Menu, and whatever you do, you’ll want to save space for Maize’s desserts…
Pho Mo – Berawa
Fear of missing out on Vietnamese noodle soup, AKA pho? Lucky folks in Canggu won’t have to, because Pho Mo Berawa is dishing up these iconic bowls of deliciousness, topped with fresh veggies and high quality ingredients. The star of the pho at Pho Mo is the broth – packed full of spices that take you straight to Vietnam. Bonus: it’s rich in collagen for extra nourishment. You’ll find the classics, like Pho Bo (noodle soup with thinly sliced rib-eye), and Pho Ga (braised chicken) that are perfect for rainy days or to enjoy in the cool air-conditioned interiors. We say, slurp on the rib-eye and 48-hour slow-cooked brisket combo pho… Comfort food at its best!
Lola’s Cantina Mexicana – Uluwatu
From Canggu to Uluwatu with love, Lola’s Cantina Mexicana brings all your favourite Cali-Mexican fare and killer cocktails to the Bukit. It’s always a fiesta here, with late nights of music and dancing, and of course, a spice-packed menu. Start off with the jalapeño poppers and tuna ceviche, or the Birria tacos and empanadas to share. Then, round up your hungriest mates and order one of everything off the menu – we’re talking burritos, bowls, taquitos, nachos and fajitas too. Finish off with Lola’s selection of dulces – we love the salted caramel dessert cocktail, spiked with Captain Morgan spiced rum…
Sala Bistro – Sanur
Sala Bistro, a neighbourhood fave since 2017, is back with a fresh new look and brand new venue right on Sanur’s buzzing eat street. Step through the doors and you’ll find two floors’ worth of cosy nooks, sofas and wooden furnishings that make you feel right at home. This Aussie brunch spot serves up an international menu full of healthy and wholesome dishes made from the freshest ingredients – best enjoyed with a perfectly brewed coffee courtesy of one of the island’s best, Seniman Coffee. Stop by for a sundowner on the rooftop with a glass of wine in hand, before tasting the dinner menu that’s packed with special creations like the bistro’s modern take on bangers and mash, or the veggie-friendly eggplant parmigiana.
Roots – Pererenan
A cosy plant-focussed cafe in the heart of Pererenan, Roots is where you can feast on vegan and veggie creations from brekkie ‘til lunch. Influenced by local flavours and seasonal ingredients, the menu is nutrient rich and wholesome, featuring sandwiches, wraps, salads and sweets, plus daytime cocktails too. Start with the Plant Power Big Breakfast (with BBQ-glazed tofu!), or, if sweet treats are your thang, try the Island Rice Pudding with organic sticky black rice, coconut, mango and mint oil. You’ll want to drop by at lunch to try the customised bowls selection – either build your own or try one of the chef’s signatures. Our fave is the Roots Bowl, brimming with roasted beetroot and carrots, marinated feta, edamame wasabi hummus and a roasted shallot balsamic dressing, sprinkled with dukkah seeds for extra flavour.
ULU Eat – Uluwatu
For artisan eats and cocktails, head to ULU in Uluwatu. This sleek space has got you covered for a pre-surf feast, a fancy night out and everything in between. Just footsteps away from Uluwatu’s famous waves, head here for fresh and wholesome food paired with great cocktails. We say, swing by early to feast on the Piggy Pancakes for breakfast (signature triple-stack fluffy pancakes with crispy bacon and a drizzle of brown butter and maple syrup) and a cappuccino. The daily rotating salad bar is then perfect for lunch, while dinner time calls for beer-battered fish and chips and a Tokusen Wagyu striploin. Got room for dessert? Try the Bedugul strawberry sorbet with meringue, mascarpone and basil, and pair it with a Passionfruit Bellini.
Jalapeño – Canggu
Born in Sanur, now in Canggu, Jalapeño is a Tex-Mex trailblazer that’s no stranger to Bali’s food scene. Now with a second home in Canggu, you’ll find all of your favourite Jalapeño signatures here, from the tacos, bowls and burritos, to the classic al pastor or carne asada. And veggies, you’re not forgotten – try the jackfruit carnitas, or the mushroom barbacoa. The tequila-based signature cocktails are not to be missed either – we love the Jamurita for a taste of Indonesia and Mexico all in one glass, or the Los Jalapeño, with roasted jalapeño-infused tequila. End your foodie fiesta with perfectly fried churros and dips. And yep, Senoritas & Tequilas night is a thing…
Bacari – Ubud
So much more than ‘just’ a sublime spot to drink wine, Bacari is the first wine bar in Ubud where 19 excellent wines are served by the glass using the state-of the art Coravin Wine preservation system. Here you can sip your way through fantastic wines from around the world, ranging in varietals, blends and vintages from the Old and New World. And to complement your French Chardonnay or Argentinian Malbec, a carefully curated ‘Small Plates’ menu has been designed to pair with each glass. Think olive tapenade on brioche, cured cold cuts, and of course, a selection of aged cheeses too.
Tanah Liat – Nusa Dua
A cooking lab by day, a vegetarian and pescetarian restaurant by night – Tanah Liat is the latest addition to Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort’s list of experiential dining offerings. Serving up creations inspired by art and crafts, you’ll find a menu packed full of seasonal seafood and plant-based dishes. Sit back and relax at the brick-walled indoor area where you’ll find pottery and art made by talented local artists, or head outdoors for a breezy dinner in the garden, where the chefs pick the freshest ingredients for your feast. Fancy yourself an artist? Keep your eyes peeled for the daytime pottery class at the restaurant’s atelier…
Honey & Smoke – Ubud
A speakeasy-meets-grillery, Honey & Smoke is the latest creation by the culinary legend, Chef Will Meyrick. This unique dining concept celebrates smoky flavours through cooking with charcoal and wood fire. But this new Ubud restaurant isn’t a steakhouse – here you’ll find creative dishes from all corners of the culinary hemisphere, from grilled scallops topped with chilli butter, dried mint yoghurt and sumac, to wood-fired aged snapper and eight-hour slow roasted lamb neck. You’ll want to browse through the smoky cocktail list too (try the mystical Kadiaraimu Smoke), and get comfy amidst the al-fresco 1920s-style interiors and travel-inspired decor.
Looking for more of the best new restaurants in Bali? Check out our Hot New Tables roundups for 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019 and 2018 too!
