Coastal restaurants, breezy beach clubs & cute neighbourhood cafes - here’s where to eat in Bali’s east, beside the beautiful Sanur seaside...
Ahh Sanur – the quaint seaside neighbourhood on Bali’s south-eastern coastline. It’s a place where salty sea air cascades through pretty side streets, and where excited holidaymakers flock to the buzzing harbour en route to Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan and Nusa Penida. It’s where you can dip your toes in crystal-clear ocean and bright white sands, before having them primped and polished at one of Sanur’s best spas.
But Sanur is so much more than ‘just’ a stunning beach town with vacay vibes aplenty. It’s also where you’ll find cool urban cafes, happening beach clubs and some of the best restaurants in Bali at Sanur’s fanciest five-star hotels.
Yep, Sanur has officially outgrown its reputation as a sleepy seaside village. So we grazed our way through this charming Balinese neighbourhood to bring you the very best restaurants in Sanur. From breakfast and lunch to dreamy beachside dinners, you’ll want to bring an appetite… and don’t forget your bikini!
Best cafes & restaurants in Sanur: Breakfast & brunch
1. Soul on the Beach
Located on the bright whites sands of Sanur’s Sindhu Beach, Soul on the Beach is the family-friendly little sister to Shotgun Social and Soul in a Bowl. It’s perfect for kids that need to run and play in close proximity to the restaurant’s casual and relaxed dining area. And just like its urban cafe counterparts, the menu here is creative and wholesome, constantly evolving and complemented by a variety of daily specials. We love this spot for its menu of small plates, perfect to swap and share with friends or family.
Soul on the Beach, Jl Pantai Sindhu, Sanur, p. +62 813 3975 1932; Open daily 7am – 11pm.
2. Genius Cafe
When it comes to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu in town, this cafe and social club really is pure genius. For health-conscious eaters, Genius Cafe is where you’ll find a menu with great vegan, gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free or nut-free options like colourful smoothie bowls, smashed avo or a big portion of scrambled eggs with sauteed greens and pesto. Dining with kids? You’ll want to check out the Little Genius menu with all its wholesome ingredients, like organic fried eggs, local fish, veggie sticks with house-made hummus and plenty of pizzas and pastas. Be sure to check out the cafe’s calendar for cool Little Genius events, like pet day or a baby turtle release from time to time. All of this with a chilled out beach vibe.
Genius Cafe, Mertasari Beach, Sanur. p. +62 877 0047 7788, e. [email protected]; Open daily 7am – 10pm.
3. Lilla Pantai
Located right by the beach is Lilla Pantai, an all-time fave of Sanur’s residents and frequent visitors. The breakfast menu is not to be missed, with all the classics like eggs benny and sandwiches, or quirkier options like quinoa and kale patties with poached eggs and salsa. We love the Morning Porridge made of oatmeal, toasted almonds, seeds and fruits. You’ll also want to stop by for a leisurely lunch of pasta and grilled meats, or a selection of local faves like ayam or bebek betutu, or the vegetarian-friendly tempe rendang.
Lilla Pantai, Jl Duyung, Sanur Beach, p. +62 877 6777 4040; Open daily 7am – 10pm.
4. Byrd House
Nestled right on Sanur’s stunning Segara Beach, Byrd House is a breezy pool club with vibrant Mediterranean vibes that the whole fam will love. You’re greeted with a unique bamboo architecture, sleek lines and minimalist interiors, designed to boost your comfort. The outdoor area is all about lounging by the pool and fun playground (with its own kiddie splash pool and treehouse) where the kids can have their own adventure. Having your breakfast or brunch here? You’ll be pleased to know that the patisserie is stocked full of quality coffees and various artisan pastries, all made in-house. As for lunch and dinner, try the scrummy menu of Italian comfort dishes which are artfully executed using the very best of locally-sourced ingredients. Flock to the bar, where you’ll find a selection of creative concoctions, courtesy of the expert mixologist (hello sunset cocktails!). And psst… Keep an eye on their social media, as the Byrd House will spread its wings to include a number of wellness hubs!
Byrd House, Jl Segara Ayu, Sanur, p. +62 361 288 407 / +62 812 3866 7935, e. [email protected]; Open daily from 6.30am.
5. Daily Baguette
French-style croissants and baguettes? Check! Daily Baguette is a one-stop-shop for your brekkie needs. Stop by for some of the ‘hood’s faves like the salmon croissant and loaded brioche. Or try one of the more unique creations, like the Sumatera Savoury Crepe – a thin crepe with beef rendang and mushrooms for a French-meets-Indonesian brekkie. Take a seat in the outdoor area and sip on a cappuccino or iced matcha as you watch the morning bikers go by…
Daily Baguette, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 188, Sanur, p. +62 812 4685 0003; Open daily 6.30am – 8.30pm.
6. Bread Basket
Artisanal sourdough, freshly-baked bagels and pretzels, crisp croissants and delish danish… all of this and more can be found at Bread Basket. More than just a bakery, it’s where you’ll find an all-day breakfast menu, classic brews and unique concoctions like the creamy egg espresso to start the day fully caffeinated. Don’t leave without bringing home a traditional mince or chicken pie, baked just like granny used to make them! Pssst – with multiple locations on the island (Uluwatu, Kerobokan and Canggu), breakfast at Bread Basket is an institution of its own…
Bread Basket, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 51, Sanur, p. +62 361 282 339; Open daily 7am – 8pm.
Best cafes & restaurants in Sanur: Lunch & dinner
7. Fisherman’s Club
An upscale take on Jimbaran’s iconic toes-in-the-sand seafood barbecues, Fisherman’s Club is where you can soak up vast sea views, finger-licking food, and live entertainment – right on Sanur’s beachfront. It’s a premium dining destination at Andaz Bali, with fresh-from-the-net ocean delicacies on display over the weekend for you to pick your own and have it cooked your way. Think buttery soft grilled squid (we’ll take a side of kimchi fried rice, please!), enormous seafood platters to share, and seaside favourites like The Fisherman’s Burger, crab and avocado salad, and of course, fish and chips. Not into seafood? There’s also red meat, chicken, and veggie options, too – all given a Japanese, Korean or Latin touch. Out top tip? Come early and enjoy the laid-back beach club ambiance – cocktails aren’t mandatory, but highly recommended.
Fisherman’s Club at Andaz Bali, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 89A, Sanur, p. +62 361 320 1234 / +62 815 1403 8587, e. [email protected]; Open daily 11.30am – 10pm.
8. Shotgun Social
A breezy brewhouse and beer garden that pairs top-notch imported craft and draft beer with local brews, Shotgun Social in Sanur is where you’ll also find great wines and a solid food menu to boot. Prop up the bar and sample your way through the selection of 16 craft beers on tap, or settle in for a long and leisurely lunch within the spectacular domed interiors. As for the menu? Think gastropub classics like big burgers, Caesar salads, NYC-inspired pizzas and our fave: the rustic Australian tenderloin with chimichurri sauce. The kicker? The restaurant and garden is dog- and family-friendly… yup, Fido’s invited, too!
Shotgun Social, Jl Pantai Sindhu No. 11, Sanur, p. +62 813 3975 1933; Open daily 11am – 11pm.
9. Jalapeño
A hopping Tex-Mex restaurant with serious style and flavour, Jalapeño is a spicy little number when it comes to eating out in Sanur. It’s most famous for its tasty tacos (and yes, “buy 2 get 1 free” Taco Tuesday is a thing here) which are made from homemade tortillas, loaded with fresh salsa (made in-house daily) and scrummy fillings like Baja Fish, Jackfruit Carnitas and slow-braised brisket. It goes without saying that the margaritas are top notch, too.
Jalapeño, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 102, Sanur, p. +62 813 3996 1875; Open daily 12pm – 10pm.
10. Pescado Bali
Seafood, paella, tapas and Sangria… Pescado Bali is where you can feast on Spain’s best bits, right in the heart of Sanur. The menu brings a “sharing is caring” vibe, with generous portions of specialty paella, share platters and jugs of sangria – wrapped up in upscale interiors. Keep your eyes on the Pescado Bali calendar too, because throughout the week, you’ll find special deals and social events too.
Pescado Bali, Jl Duyung No. 3, Sanur, p. +62 812 3946 7861; Open daily 11am – 10pm.
11. Pizzaria
Sitting right on Sanur’s beachfront within the luscious grounds of Hyatt Regency Bali, Pizzaria is the only seaside Italian restaurant in Sanur, located right beside the coastal promenade. The restaurant’s totally al fresco bar and dining area soaks up ocean views all around, making for a stunning lunch and dinner spot that’s open to everyone, not just resort guests. You’ll want to try Pizzaria’s ocean-fresh and locally-sourced tuna carpaccio, which comes delicately topped with a sprinkling of capers, parsley, dill and rucola. Or the thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas (they’re made from traditional sourdough) before finishing off with the chocolatey Italian pudding with whipped cream, seasalt and olive oil. Our top tip? Swing by on a Sunday for Pizzaria’s family-friendly Sunday brunch – you won’t be disappointed!
Pizzaria at Hyatt Regency Bali, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 89, Sanur, p. +62 815 8532 0969; Open daily 11am – 11pm.
12. Patio Coffee and Comfort Food
This beach-chic spot is a real foodie gem in Sanur. Lesser known to the tourist crowds, the highlight at Patio Coffee and Comfort Food is the traditional Indonesian staples like soto, nasi goreng and ayam betutu, at a super affordable price. The menu also features hearty pizzas, pastas and burgers, and for the digital nomads out there, the selection of coffee and croissants in the indoor seating area make for a great work space too…
Patio Coffee and Comfort Food, Jl Cemara No. 19, Sanur, p. +62 813 9022 5705; Open daily 8am – 10pm.
13. Naga Eight Restaurant
At the heart of Sanur stands a majestic, castle-like building with coral walls, wooden floors and towering columns. We’re talking about Naga Eight; a Cantonese fine dining restaurant with open-air seating. The word “naga” is the Indonesian word for “dragon”, since the land where the restaurant stands is said to have been guarded by a dragon. As for the number eight? That’s a lucky number in Chinese culture. The result is a fine blend of Balinese and Chinese cultures, centred by authentic Cantonese cuisine that makes use of locally sourced produce.
Naga Eight, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 89, Sanur, p. +62 812 3788 8089, e. [email protected]; Open daily 11am – 10pm.
14. Massimo
A list of Sanur’s best restaurants simply wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Massimo. This is Sanur’s OG Italian restaurant, where queues of hungry foodies would often be found lining the streets, waiting for a highly sought-after table or for a scoop of the famous gelato. In fact, you’ve probably spotted the gelato counter on Instagram feeds around the world. The flavours on offer seem truly endless, crowned with whole fresh fruits in a rainbow of colour and creamy deliciousness! After all, what better way to complete a feast of authentic Italian pizzas, pasta and homemade burrata?
Massimo Italian Restaurant, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 228, Sanur, p. +62 361 288 942 / +62 811 399 9727; Open daily 9am – 11pm.
15. Taqisa
¡Viva México! With recipes handed down from generation to generation, Taqisa is dedicated to dishing up the best homemade Mexican food using the freshest ingredients. Everything is made by hand in the Taqisa kitchen, and all dishes are brought to Bali from Mexican family recipes. Choose your faves from the a la carte menu, or build your own tacos, burritos or bowls. And while you sip on top-shelf margaritas, the kids can tuck into the delish little amigos menu…
Taqisa, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 170, Sanur, p. +62 813 3790 9178, e. [email protected]; Open daily 10am – 9pm.
16. The Glass House
It’s hard to miss The Glass House, with its white plantation shutters, high glass walls and ceilings, and lovely tranquil vibes. Choose to sit in the outside ‘glass house’ or inside in air-conditioned comfort. Coffee and homemade cakes change on the daily and throughout the day, the kitchen slings great Aussie breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Only the freshest ingredients are used, delivered daily from the markets of Bedugul. Think wholesome halloumi wraps filled with mountain greens, or the Caprese salad with heirloom tomatoes that are almost too good to eat (almost). After all that goodness? You definitely deserve the famous tropical fruit pavlova…
The Glass House, Jl Danau Tamblingan No. 25, Sanur. p. +62 819 1612 7035; Open daily 7am – 10pm.
17. The Fire Station
An oldie but a goodie – The Fire Station is where you’ll want to go for some real pub grub or a cold beer (or both!). Serving gastropub-style food all day, with an extensive drinks menu (think craft beers, great wines and classic cocktails), it’s another go-to for Sanur’s expat crowds. Graze on pub favourites like fish and chips, slow-cooked pork ribs and Bangers ‘n Mash. An all-time fave? The Sunday Roast Chicken with stuffing and all the trimmings…
The Fire Station, Jl Danau Poso No. 108, Sanur, p. +62 812 3908 7274; Open daily 12pm – 11.30pm.
18. Naughty Nuri’s Sanur
Whether you’re a long-time Bali local or just visiting for a holiday, every self-proclaimed foodie knows Naughty Nuri’s. People from all over the world queue up at this meat lovers’ heaven in Seminyak for a taste of their signature ribs, and now, a second location has opened up on the main Sanur highway. And the best bit? This Sanur hub is enormous enough to fit families, large groups of friends, and of course, anyone looking for that all-important Instagram shot. As for the menu, you’ll find all of your favourite Naughty Nuri’s signatures here, complete with the famous “Shake Shake” dance with every order of a margarita or martini! If you dare to sip on four of these oversized cocktails in one trip, you’ll get your name carved on the Nuri’s wall of fame…
Naughty Nuri’s Sanur, Jl Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 77, Sanur, p. +62 813 8806 1587; Open daily 11am – 10pm.
19. Izzy Izakaya Street
This one’s not just a restaurant, but an entire street’s worth of epic Japanese cuisine. Izzy Izakaya Street is Indonesia’s first and only Izakaya street, where you can bounce from different dining destinations throughout the evening for a taste of absolutely everything. The idea is inspired by Kyoto’s vibrant nightlife scene, and hosts not one, not two, but six food concepts to munch through. Start at the deep fried bar for delish bites, before meandering to the indoor Ikigai sushi restaurant. Follow it up with ramen, yakitori and teppanyaki, before wrapping it up the dessert shop. Thirsty? There’s even a pub on the street slinging cocktails with Japanese twists, as well as nightly live music to keep the Kyoto vibes alive…
Izzy Izakaya Street, Jl Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 274, Sanur, p. +62 812 3985 7570; Open Tue – Sun 12pm – 10pm.
20. Pier Eight
Sitting right on the beach in Sanur, Pier Eight is a family-friendly restaurant by day, and a chic beach bar by night. The menu features a variety of cuisines, from pastas and pizzas, to classic Indonesian dishes like satay and soto. With a long (and we mean long!) list of cocktails and house wines, you’ll want to spend a lazy, leisurely evening propping up Pier Eight’s bar. Drop by any day for an early breakfast, since this restaurant is one of the very best spots to watch the sunrise. You’ll want to bring the whole fam, as the kids can roam freely (with supervision) on the sand at the kiddie play area right on the beach…
Pier Eight at InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort, Jl Kusuma Sari No. 8, Sanur, p. +62 811 3800 1775; Open daily.
21. The Hub Bali
Set on the main street of Jl Bypass Ngurah Rai, The Hub is an indoor restaurant that dishes up international cuisines, fusion food and traditional Indonesian favourites too… the options here really are endless. Perfect for families, groups and friends, you’ll find a spacious dining area, high ceilings and long tables, decorated with modern, industrial furnishings. The all-time fave here is the vongole spaghetti cooked in white wine, but if you need extra fuel for your Bali adventure, opt for the premium steaks, roasted pork belly with crunchy crackling, or the Indonesian fried chicken with sambal matah and kangkung on the side.
The Hub Bali, Jl Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 66, Sanur, p. +62 821 4762 9142; Open daily 10am – 11pm.
22. Arena Pub & Restaurant
At Arena Pub & Restaurant, you’ll find expats and locals, couples, families with kids and groups of friends hanging out around the pool table and feasting on home-style staples. Dine at the bar or on one of the table at this rustic pub, surrounded by wooden furnishings and classic pub food – think steaks, roasts, fish and chips, and more. For a casual night out with the fam, try the beef fillet slathered in blue cheese or creamy mushroom sauce, and pair it with a cold Bintang. Finish it off with a warm apple strudel with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side…
Arena Pub & Restaurant, Jl Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 116, Sanur, p. +62 361 287 255 / +62 877 0171 2159; Open daily from 12pm.
Best cafes & restaurants in Sanur: Currently closed
23. Soul in a Bowl
Is Soul in a Bowl the coolest urban restaurant in Sanur? We think so. It sits in the heart of Sanur’s ‘eat street’, with laid-back cafe vibes by day, and a vibrant tapas and bar menu by night. We can’t resist a morning coffee, juice and smoothie alongside its hearty breakfast menu. And don’t be surprised if you catch us grazing through to lunchtime too, tucking into sandwiches, burgers and freshly made cakes served all day. As evening swings around, head upstairs to the candlelit cocktail lounge and sample through the fab wine list.
24. Artotel Beach Club
As one of the hottest beach clubs on the island, it’s not surprising that Artotel Beach Club is a great place to eat in Sanur, too. You’ll get to dine within its nifty, internationally-acclaimed interiors (the work of the superstar architects behind Nihiwatu in Sumba, no less!), beside a hundred year-old Banyan Tree and absolute beachfront views. Lounge poolside with a cocktail in hand from one of four fabulous bars, and graze the day away on ABC’s seaside staples, like a crunchy salad, fresh pappardelle pasta, or the crispy pork belly bowl. Don’t leave without a dip in the ocean, too!
25. The Sandwich Bar
Great sandwiches are the name of the game at The Sandwich Bar. From classic toasties (can’t go wrong with a pastrami sandwich) and loaded bagels, to Vietnamese-style Banh Mi, sweet sandwiches, fancy burgers with brioche buns and funky hotdogs in pretzels – you name it, The Sandwich Bar has it. Try the Next Level Dirty burger, loaded with Wagyu beef, crispy bacon, pickles, caramelised onions, a secret sauce and ooey-gooey melted cheese. Whichever sandwich you choose, pair it up with a cup of Expat. Roasters coffee and you have yourself the perfect brekkie pitstop.
The Sandwich Bar, Jl Danau Tamblingan No.188, Sanur, p. +62 813 3793 4380; Open daily 7am – 10pm.
Looking for more awesome restaurants in Sanur? Try some of the many local warungs, like Babi Guling Amerta Sari for Balinese-style pork, or Warung D’Meja for Jimbaran-style grilled seafood.
