Check out our exclusive insider’s guide for the best things to do in Seminyak.
When it comes to sensational shopping, delicious dining and drinking, and picture-perfect pampering, there’s no better place in Bali than sophisticated Seminyak. The lively resort area is a hedonist’s playground, with remarkable restaurants, buzzing bars and chic boutiques on every corner. But with so many to choose from, how do you know which ones to put at the top of your list?
Our Bali experts have revealed their exclusive intel on the best things to do in Seminyak, perfect for your next Bali escape
Planning a trip to Bali? Discover our range of exclusive escapes and experiences.
EAT & DRINK
Succulent dishes cooked over fire at Sangsaka Restaurant
Venture down a nondescript road in the middle of Seminyak to find Sangsaka, a casual Indonesian restaurant that’s setting tastebuds aflame with its modern approach to cooking over fire. Executive Chef and owner Kieran Morland plays with the flavours of wood and charcoal to create a range of sensational small and large plates inspired by the Indonesian archipelago – think BBQ squid with cauliflower or soy-glazed beef cheek. Themed nights add an extra touch of fun to Sangsaka’s vibe – pop by on Tuesday for steak, Thursday for lobster or Saturday for a bottomless seafood feast.
Exquisite cuts of meat at Si Jin Steakhouse
Premium aged steaks and curated cocktails go hand in hand at Si Jin, a sexy and sophisticated steakhouse on JL Lebak Sari. Chef and owner Joel Si Jin handpicks exquisite cuts of meat from around the world, spanning from conventional to rare, all to be cooked in front of guests on smokeless grills. The dining experience is as bespoke as it is beautiful: choose your preferred chopsticks, then venture through a salt library to pick your own flavoured butter to baste your steak in. Cocktails are equally considered: bartenders mix up their takes on aged negronis, piña coladas and hi-balls, as well as introducing a few new favourites.
A taste of Italy at Mauri Restaurant
Any Sunday at Mauri is one well spent. The chic Italian eatery on Jl. Petitenget brings a slice of Puglia to Seminyak, taking inspiration from centuries-old culinary traditions to offer a contemporary Mediterranean dining experience that celebrates local produce from Balinese farmers. Those in the know flock to Mauri for Sunday brunch, a multi-course affair featuring fresh pastries, eggs, antipasti and pasta. The nightly dinner service is equally innovative, with two tasting menus and an à la carte offering. Expect dishes like parmigiana d’astice (lobster, fried eggplant, tomato, stracciatella cheese, basil) and smoked black Angus beef tenderloin with foie gras, pumpkin, carrot and a honey and ginger jus.
A menu of fusion twists at Kilo Kitchen Bali
A grass-topped roof, polished concrete floors and walls, floor-to-ceiling windows and tropical greenery come together at Kilo Kitchen Bali, a minimalist haven dedicated to the unconventional. The modern menu takes the traditional flavours of Japan, Italy, South America, Thailand and Korea and adds fusion twists, with dishes like salmon tuturuga, seafood ceviche, soft-shell crab and squid ink rice. It’s not just dinner that’s worth the visit: Sunday brunch and weekly lunch specials mean there’s always something new to try.
Vegan deliciousness at KYND Community
A pastel-pink haven of vegan goodness, KYND Community is out to prove that eating a delicious meal can be done with ‘kyndness’ to the animal world. Founded by Aussies Lauren and Corryn, the plant-based restaurant and bar dishes out delicacies over breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner from its pink-accented spot on Jl. Raya Petitenget. Stop by first thing for Paradise Pancakes (vanilla infused and loaded with coconut ice cream and maple syrup) or a choc peanut smoothie bowl, or grab a table at lunch to devour a Balinese Big Mac or ayurvedic kitchari (a lentil dish believed to have anti-inflammatory properties). Come evening, there’s a shift from coffees to cocktails, with the likes of pomegranate margaritas and Aperol Spritz on offer.
Cool off at Gaya Gelato
When it comes to the humble art of gelato, there’s no looking past Gaya Gelato on Jl. Petitenget. Each seasonal flavour is lovingly crafted by hand and celebrates both local ingredients and the finest Italian produce. Stack up a cup or cone with the likes of tamarillo and sirsak (soursop) sorbets, or go traditional with pistachio, bacio (hazelnut and chocolate) or coffee gelato. If you’re feeling very adventurous, there’s always durian!
Boutique caffeine hit at Revolver Espresso
There’s no better place for coffee in Seminyak than Revolver Espresso. The iconic boutique coffee house has been looking after the caffeine needs of locals and visitors since 2012, building a reputation for carefully curated coffee and a brilliant breakfast along the way. Never content to sit still, they’ve recently launched a brand-new all-day menu with dishes like pastrami hash, ricotta hotcakes, triple-cheese toasties, honey butter fried chicken and, of course, good old avo on toast. Coffees are just as varied – go traditional with a flat white or shake it up with a Killer Chiller iced coffee or Revolver coffee shake.
Tapas and cocktails at Sarong
Sarong has long been an icon of Seminyak’s dining scene, but they’ve shaken things up for the New Year, entering 2022 with a brand-new tapas-style menu and cocktail offering. The vibrant flavours and exceptional ingredients Sarong is known for now appear in dishes like watermelon duck prawn ma hor, snapper sashimi, chicken banjara kebab and flame-torched Wagyu beef. Signature cocktails are the perfect accompaniment – refresh the palate with a pineapple apple martini, chilli lime margarita or coconut mojito.
Chilled sunset vibes at Mano Beach House
Soak up one of Bali’s best sunsets at Mano Beach House, a laidback beach restaurant and bar that leaves the bustle of Seminyak behind. With direct views of the falling sun over the ocean, a relaxed vibe and a menu dedicated to ‘slow food’, it’s a secluded haven perfect for reconnecting with nature and one another. Everything on the menu is made from scratch, with high-quality ingredients sourced from sustainable artisans and farmers. Snack on prawn and bacon dumplings and fish tacos while sipping a Honey Paloma (tequila and grapefruit with spiced honey), or dive into a grilled octopus salad, paired with a traditional jamu turmeric drink or kombucha.
Discover a hidden gem at Manina Speakeasy
Follow the smell of bakso (Indonesian meatballs) on Jl. Kayu Cendana to find one of Bali’s newest weekend wonders. Ask the meatball vendor for the password and push through the red door to find Manina, a hidden speakeasy serving up craft cocktails and snacks from sister restaurant, Bikini. Master mixologist Arey Baker is in charge of drinks, shaking and stirring up concoctions like the 1919 (salted butter fat-washed gin, vanilla sous vide Aperol, tonic water and finger lime) and Bloodless Martini (vodka, clarified tomato, basil oil and chilli oil). Pair them with chicken liver cigars and grilled baby corn for the perfect pre or post-dinner visit.
SHOP & DO
Find unique gifts at Equatorial Design by Warwick Purser
Distinguished Indonesian designer Warwick Purser brings his unique batik-inspired designs to Jl. Seminyak with Equatorial, his independent boutique. Stuff your suitcase with beautiful scarves, shawls, sarongs and kaftans, or the easy-fit pants and printed shirts for men, all featuring unique batik designs from remote communities across Java.
Shop for chic resort wear at BIASA
Bridging the gap between luxury and simplicity, BIASA is one of Seminyak’s best boutiques, offering seasonal resort wear for women, men and kids. Each piece is handmade from 100% natural fabrics developed in India, with contrast stitching, hand-cut and hand-sewn appliqué and handcrafted block print designs. Visit the flagship on Jl. Raya Seminyak to find BIASA’s range of kaftans, dresses, shirts, trousers and kidswear.
Browse and eat at John Hardy Concept Space
Immerse yourself in the essence of the John Hardy brand at his eponymous boutique and gallery on Jl. Raya Petitenget. Traditional Balinese architecture sets the tone, with a hand-carved wall, local artefacts and an iconic bale kulkul (pavilion). Visit to discover his handcrafted jewellery, before taking a break with Balinese food and drinks at The Kitchen, The Long Table or The Jamu Bar.
Pick up designer homewares at KIM SOO
Discover beauty in the everyday at KIM SOO, a designer homewares boutique and cafe on Jl. Kayu Aya. Curated by an Australian-born mother-and-daughter duo, the boutique’s selection reflects the skill of local artisans, with everything from silk and linen bedding to cushion covers, sarongs and artworks available. Once you’ve found your new favourite piece, stop under the picturesque frangipani tree for a coffee and traditional Aussie lamington.
Get pampered at Bodyworks
Experience true Balinese bliss at Bodyworks, a Moroccan-inspired spa on Jl. Lebak Sari. Offering heavenly massages, manicures and pedicures, facials and waxing treatments, the serene space is your one-stop shop for afternoons of relaxation. Book in for a 50-minute Balinese full-body massage or exfoliation treatment, before putting your best foot forward with a Bodyworks pedi.
Hero image courtesy of KYND Community
