Canggu, often compared to Byron Bay for its trendy vibe and surf culture, is one of Bali’s most exciting food destinations. As you explore this area, you’ll find a mix of bustling streets, serene rice paddies, and vibrant jungle landscapes. Here’s a guide to the best restaurants in Canggu, where you can enjoy everything from high-end dining to local street food, and a perfect place to stay to savor all these culinary delights.
Top Canggu Restaurants
Skool Kitchen
Located above the stylish beach club The Lawn, Skool Kitchen is a fire-powered restaurant reminiscent of Sydney’s Ester and Singapore’s Burnt Ends. The chefs work their magic in an open kitchen, preparing dishes like Wagyu rib eye, octopus with salsa verde, and Argentinian red prawns with smoked paprika butter. With some of the best sunset views in Canggu, Skool also boasts an impressive wine list, making it a must-visit.
Ulekan
Ulekan, named after the traditional Indonesian pestle, offers a sophisticated take on local cuisine. Although technically in Berawa, it’s worth the short trip for dishes like fragrant beef cheek rendang and barramundi cooked in banana leaves. The restaurant’s atmosphere, enhanced by its open-air design, makes it a delightful place to enjoy authentic Indonesian flavors.
Santanera
Opened in 2021, Santanera is a three-story plant-filled greenhouse that is one of Bali’s most visually stunning dining spots. The menu, crafted by two Colombian-born chefs, features creative dishes like mahi mahi tarama with cassava bread and roasted lamb shoulder with tomatillo escabeche. The rooftop is particularly popular around sunset, offering a perfect setting for a memorable meal.
Mason
Byron Bay chef Ben Cross brings his expertise to Mason, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Canggu. The antipasto selection, including mortadella, pastrami, and pickled veggies, is a highlight. Main courses, often cooked over woodfire, range from steaks to spanakopita. For those who love woodfire cooking, Mason is an excellent choice.
Kilo
Kilo is a vibrant restaurant near Masmara Resort Canggu, offering a unique blend of Latin and Asian flavors with a contemporary twist. The menu features signature dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a fresh and exciting dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for light bites, hearty meals, or innovative cocktails, Kilo’s eclectic offerings cater to every palate, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to enjoy great food in a relaxed and stylish setting.
Billy Ho
Scottish celebrity chef Will Meyrick’s Billy Ho offers a unique blend of Chinese and Japanese flavors. The fusion dishes, such as n’duja with dry-aged tuna and karaage chicken “lollipops” with dried-shrimp sambal, are inventive and delicious. Pair your meal with a Beeswax Negroni or Peanut Butter Old Fashioned for a truly special dining experience.
Yuki
Yuki provides a beachfront setting for enjoying Japanese cuisine with a local twist. The menu includes charcoal-grilled delights like yakitori chicken and king prawns. The open-air design, featuring rattan and local stone floors, creates a laid-back yet elegant dining environment.
Black Sand Brewery
Black Sand Brewery is a standout for craft beer lovers. Founded by Italian surfer Mattia Morri, this brewery offers a range of beers from mid-strength lager to trendy hazy IPAs. The casual menu includes fried-chicken sandwiches and salumi platters, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal.
Essential Warung and Street Foods
Babi Guling
In Bali, babi guling (spit-roasted suckling pig) is a must-try dish. Specialist warungs like Babi Guling Swari and Warung Tania Babi Guling in Canggu offer delicious versions of this local favorite.
Bakso
Bakso, dense beef meatballs served in hot broth, is a ubiquitous street food. Look for carts with the word “bakso” and customize your bowl with kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) or spicy sambal.
Sate Lilit
Sate lilit is a unique twist on traditional satay, featuring minced meat mixed with grated coconut and spices. These flavorful skewers are perfect for a quick and tasty snack.
Tipat Cantok
Tipat cantok is a salad-like dish with steamed vegetables and compressed rice cakes, topped with a satay-style peanut sauce. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Lawar
Lawar is a traditional stir-fry that includes green beans, grated coconut, and minced meat or jackfruit. Look for lawar putih (white) if you prefer a version without blood.
Nasi Jinggo
Nasi jinggo is a convenient street food that consists of rice and side dishes wrapped in a banana leaf. It’s perfect for eating on the go and typically includes tempeh, dried anchovies, and sambal.
Martabak
Martabak can be savory or sweet. The savory version includes minced meat and chives, while the sweet version is filled with peanut butter, chocolate, or banana. It’s a popular treat across Southeast Asia.
Where to Stay in Canggu: Masmara Resort Canggu
For an exceptional stay in Canggu, Masmara Resort Canggu is the perfect choice. This luxurious resort offers spacious rooms, top-notch amenities, and a prime location near the best Canggu restaurants. Enjoy easy access to both trendy dining spots and local warungs, making your culinary journey in Bali truly memorable.
Conclusion
Canggu is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse range of dining experiences from high-end restaurants to street food delights. For the best food in Canggu, explore these top spots and stay at Masmara Resort Canggu to ensure you’re never far from the action. Enjoy the vibrant food scene, stunning scenery, and relaxed atmosphere that make Canggu a must-visit destination in Bali.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best restaurants in Canggu?
The best restaurants in Canggu include Skool Kitchen, Ulekan, Santanera, Mason, The Slow, Billy Ho, Yuki, and Black Sand Brewery.
Where can I find the best food in Canggu?
For the best food in Canggu, visit popular spots like Skool Kitchen, Mason, and Yuki, as well as local warungs for traditional dishes like babi guling and sate lilit.
Why is Masmara Resort Canggu the ideal place to stay for food lovers?
Masmara Resort Canggu offers luxurious accommodations and a prime location near the best restaurants and food spots in Canggu, making it perfect for food lovers.
What traditional Balinese foods should I try in Canggu?
Traditional Balinese foods to try in Canggu include babi guling, bakso, sate lilit, tipat cantok, lawar, nasi jinggo, and martabak.
How can I book a stay at Masmara Resort Canggu?
You can book your stay at Masmara Resort Canggu through their official website, which provides detailed information about accommodations, amenities, and available packages.
