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The best way to travel like a local, is to ask a local. In this series of travel guides, we ask creatives and insiders from our global community to show us their city, their way
You've probably heard of restaurants Mason and Bar Vera in Bali. Mason, the popular Mediterranean restaurant is loved for its airy dining space, leafy courtyard and a simple yet stellar menu—think charcuterie and cheese made in-house, wood-fired premium meats and seafood, and a killer wine selection.
And then there's the seductive Bar Vera, “a new generation Parisian bistro in Pererenan” where red earth-hued walls and oversized plants nail the “tropical brutalism” aesthetic. Behind these restaurants is Benjamin Cross. Like his restaurants, Cross is impressive, yet never pretentious.
Originally from Eltham, a small town outside of Byron Bay in New South Wales, Cross cut his teeth in Sydney where he worked with the likes of Neil Perry at Rockpool Dining Group, before travelling the world and finally settling down in Bali in 2008. We asked Cross to share some of his favourite restaurants, bars and places to hang out in Bali, which include authentic Indonesian eateries, cosy wine bars, the ultimate day trip and more...
Warung Babi Guling Pande Egi
This would have to be one of the best Balinese roast pig places in Bali. Babi Guling is always best eaten around midday, as they are whole roasted pigs. Located in gianyar, you can make a day of it by visiting the Bali safari park or Kanto Lampo Waterfall.
Baro Bakery
A small artisanal bakery in the village of Pererenan, the owner and baker Emmerson creates unique sweet and savoury breads and pastries that are supper tasty. Great spot for breakfast and coffee.
Mosto
Indonesia’s first natural wine bar situated in Berawa, Mosto has a very cool neighbourhood vibe with good tunes & food. The menu is made up of snacks and small plates, designed for sharing with influences from the chef's Italian heritage.
Enjoy locally-produced beers
Bali has been very lucky to have some great locally brewed beers come out in the last 2 years. The favourites are Island Brewing and Kura Kura. These beers are now available in most restaurants, minimarts, and Island Brewing is a party of the Black Sand Brewery in Canggu, which is a great spot for a few pints and some great food.
Dinner at Fed by Made
Made is a young Balinese chef that has lived between Bali and Melbourne. He incorporates his experiences to create a super tasty set menu. This place never disappoints. It's low key, good vibes and is one of the best value restaurants in Bali.
A day trip to the “The Pontoon at Largo” in Lembongan
Hire a boat for the day and take a bunch of friends and family over to Largo in Lembongan. Here they have two venues: a beach shack and café on white sand beach, and a pontoon (right next to two surf breaks) with bean bag lounges, diving board and a bar.
You can spend the morning fishing and trawling from the boat, and then motor over to the pontoon for some lunch or sunset before heading back to Bali.
Munduk Cabins
Munduk is located in the centre of Bali and is sounded by waterfalls, lakes and a volcano. For me, the best spot there is Munduk Cabins, it's very unique and thoughtfully designed to blend into its surrounding environment.
Ulekan Restaurant
Attached to Munduk Cabins is another must….Ulekan, run by the same people behind Ulekan in Canggu. They serve a refined mix of Indonesian favourites using the best ingredients in a beautiful setting that combines views of the jungle, mountains and distant coastline. It has the feel of a home cooked Indonesian meal. My go-to is the nasi campur for lunch, a mix of Indonesian classics on one plate.
Coco Marett is a writer and editor who grew up between Hong Kong and Melbourne. She currently heads the travel section for Tatler Asia, and manages the Tatler Travel account on Instagram. She is known for her features on unique, under-the-radar properties and destinations. She's also known for her in-depth interviews that paint a refreshingly candid portrait of influential figures across various industries —from artists to political figures, CEOs to celebrity chefs. Follow her on Instagram @cocomarett
