Must-try new dining, drinking and wellness experiences in Bali

The collective longing for travelling with loved ones is slowly being fulfilled as people take advantage of the world’s reopening. “Meet me in Bali” is no longer just a catchphrase – it is a possibility. With an ever-expanding list of international flights, reunion trips with extended families after years apart will be a sweet occasion.

With this guide, explore memorable ways to reconnect with the loved ones and making up for lost time together on the Island of the Gods. Chosen for their new and exciting offerings, these destinations excel at what they brought to the table, served on their bar and curated for your wellbeing. From Ubud to Canggu, find meals, tipples and activities that renew one’s zest for life and bring families closer together.

BRUNCHES & LUNCHES

Andaz Bali, Sanur’s newest beachfront resort is not only known for its charming, laid-back vibe but also for its gourmet offerings. Located by the beach, Fisherman’s Club is quickly garnering following for its seafood-inspired menu and vibrant fusion dishes. It recently launched a Sunday Table Brunch, complete with complimentary pool access for the public. Served a la carte on the table, share dishes such as Lombok Oyster, Prawns with Chorizo and Parsley, Spicy Mud Crab, Fish Curry, and sweet treats (starting Rp490,000/person, every Sunday from 12pm – 5pm, +62 815 1403 8587).

For a modern Indonesian dining experience, search no further than John Hardy Boutique & Gallery at Seminyak. The Long Table offers an appointment-only modern take on traditional regional cuisine. The menu is constantly evolving and changes every two months, highlighting lesser-known dishes from different regions in Indonesia. Currently, guests can taste Bebek Tangkap, Balinese Lawar Biu Batu and Nasi Timbungan, fragrant rice cooked in bamboo. Dishes are served on a long wooden table and made to share. Make time for a visit to the jewellery boutique afterward (Rp350,000/person with a minimum booking for two people, open daily from 11am to 7pm, +62 811 3800 3300)

SUNSET TIPPLES

Batubelig Beach, the laid-back stretch between Petitenget and Canggu, just got more exciting with the opening of Mari Beach Club. Paying homage to Balinese heritage and craftsmanship, it celebrates the island’s bohemianism through tasty bites, creative libations, groovy tunes, and sunsets. Using bamboo and local materials, the organic vernacular architecture showcases the beauty of its beachfront location. Open-air spaces and turqouise-coloured pool invites one to play, have fun and soak up the sun. Try their creative twists on the classics: Lemo Diablo, Espresso D’mari and Paradise Spritz as well as casual bites such as Grilled Octopus and Grilled Polpette with Smoked Yoghurt (Open daily from 12pm to 10pm, +62 361 2173 45000).

True to its name which means sky in Sanskrit, Ambar at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve offers a unique Ubud hanging bar experience. Perched high on a cliff, the location allows guests to enjoy fiery sunset. Sit on one of the plush armchairs at the terrace or sit at the bar to witness Ambar’s mixologist in action. Come early for the high tea and stay for the sundowner. Local ingredients and premium spirits are highlighted at Ambar to create an array of Balinese-inspired craft cocktails such as Mangosteen Crushie and Ambar Spritz (Open daily from 2pm to 10pm, +62 813 3910 1992)

Canggu’s iconic establishment The Lawn just reopened after a total renovation. Founded by pro-surfer Tai Buddha, The Lawn aims to build a bridge between Bali and the international stage, in terms of surf, art, music and community. Kick back amongst coconut trees and thatched grass roofs that surround the extended pool. Relax all day on the day beds or hit the bar and lounge area to imbibe. Order refreshing tipples such as Pear Negroni and Aperol Slush which are best enjoyed with the Grazing Board made of cold cuts, cheese and house pickles. Keep a look out for Indonesia’s renowned bands and musical artists on The Lawn Sundays Music Series. Pop in to Times Beach Warung next door for an elevated beach warung libation right on the beach (open daily, from 12pm to 10pm, +62 811 3800 4951).

HOLISTIC WELLNESS

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan’s approach to wellness is a wholesome experience. Its riverside villas, serene Ayung River Valley location, energy healing treatments at The Sacred River Spa, reinvigorating physical activities, and Sattvic soul food at Ayung Terrace are all available to elevate one’s well-being. After the challenging years, letting go of the negatives to create a secure foundation for emotions and actions becomes important. The 120-minute Muladhara (Root Chakra) treatment focusses on the lower back and aims to bring inner peace. The recently launched Sattvic menu is rooted in Ayurveda and features Indonesian flavours in dishes such as Cakalang Sambal Bongkot, Asinan Ubud and Ketoprak, enforcing the ethos of food as medicine.

AWAY Spa at W Bali – Seminyak just reopened daily for 24/7. If you are jet-lagged or in need of a relaxing massage before bedtime, book the Away Night Ritual for a good night’s sleep. The 90-minute treatment involves a medium pressure massage to relieve muscle tension, improve blood circulation and encourage total body relaxation, as well as a face massage. Come early to enjoy the spa’s facilities: steam room, cold jet set vitality pool and decompression lounge. Reservations are required 24 hours in advance.