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 Mason in Bali. The popular Mediterranean restaurant in Canggu is famed and loved for its airy dining space, leafy courtyard and a stellar, seductively simple menu—think charcuterie and cheese made in-house by hand, wood-fired premium meats and seafood, and a killer wine selection. They even opened a second restaurant in Uluwatu in September 2022.
Mason is impressive, yet never pretentious, and the same can be said about the man behind it—co-owner and chef Benjamin Cross. 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. He's called the Island of the Gods home ever since.
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.