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Where to Eat in Canggu (and other places)

Kaiz Galang
Where to Eat in Canggu (and other places)

We stayed in Bali for one month, but that doesn’t mean we ate out daily. Most of the time, Rowjie cooked our meals at the Mawaly Nine, and we’d only go out on certain days. There are days when we’d just order via Grab or Gojek. So, if we’re home most days, where to eat in Canggu, if you ask me?

Our Airbnb is thankfully near the restaurants in Canggu. They could be “walking distance” from our villa, but, you know, we have three young kids with us, so “walking distance” doesn’t really apply to us. These restaurants are popular but aren’t crowded, and you can peacefully enjoy your meal while appreciating its view or ambiance.

Amolas Cafe

Our Airbnb had a guide to the where and what of Canggu, and Amolas Café is one of the suggested restaurants. I don’t regret trying this, and we even dined here twice! I failed to ask why, but they have Adobo on their menu. I loved their cordon blue and smoothie bowl.

During our first visit, several customers occupied tables with laptops, so I think it’s also popular with people working remotely who need stable Wi-Fi and quiet space. The café’s airy ambiance is relaxing and great for Instagram photos.

Old Man’s

Another recommended dining spot is Old Man’s, an iconic spot in Canggu beloved by locals and tourists. Located right in front of Batu Bolong Beach, famous for surfing, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer and a hearty meal after a day of surfing. Their menu features comfort food favorites like burgers and fish & chips, and the lively atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for socializing.

We went here for an early dinner when there were few guests. This place seems to transform at night, but we haven’t had the chance to experience it or see it. We left after sunset. And oh, Bag Raiders performed here a week after our visit. Our family couldn’t stop humming to their song Shooting Stars during our first days in Bali. We missed seeing them perform!

JOON Canggu

Remember when I said “walking distance”? This is one of those restaurants. JOON Canggu offers a unique dining experience with its Asian fusion menu, which combines traditional flavors and contemporary presentation. The restaurant’s chic design and pool area make it a popular dining location for families with young kids.

Speaking of pool, this is the third restaurant we’ve been to that has a pool. I asked my friend Ade, who is based in Java but a frequent visitor of Bali, why some restaurants have pools and if it’s a trend in Bali. He said it’s a trend not just in Bali but throughout Indonesia. While some allow their guests to use the pool, most restaurants only use it for photoshoots and private events.

STED (Something To Eat/Drink)

Thank God for STED! It’s open 24/7 and just a few steps from our rented villa. We didn’t bring our coffee-making equipment, assuming that our villa has a coffeemaker, so STED answered our caffeine needs. They also have food on their menu and allow customers to dine in for light meals.

It’s so popular that pick-up orders via Grab and Gojek are nonstop. According to online reviews, STED serves some of the best coffee in Canggu, but I find it average. I’m still thankful that it’s so near our villa and open any time of the day (or night).

Passo by Nook (Mengwi)

Another restaurant with a pool is Passo by Nook, which is located in Munggu in the Mengwi district. It is a hidden gem near Tanah Lot with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The restaurant’s charming pool area is often the backdrop for events and photoshoots and looks really good in pictures.

What did I like the most about Passo by Nook? The sunset. Amazing! Nothing can beat that view while you eat. What I didn’t like? For obvious reasons that we weren’t prepared for, the mosquitos. We also struggled to book a vehicle to take us home despite it being near our villa. After more than an hour of waiting, we ended up booking two cars.

Ganesha Café (Jimbaran)

Ganesha Café is one of the top spots in Jimbaran for seafood lovers. Located right on the beach, it offers a stunning setting where you can enjoy fresh, grilled seafood while taking in the sunset over Jimbaran Bay. The restaurant’s beachfront location is ideal for photoshoots and sunset viewing. Just don’t go too early as it tends to get too hot because of the sunlight.

Samsam Merekak (Kuta)

Since Ilog learned of babi guling, lechon in the Philippines, we’ve been repeatedly told to try Samsam Merekak. The restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Indonesian street food and is super popular with the locals. The restaurant was packed with flight attendants, families, students, and more during our visit. The menu is limited to roasted pork and beef. And a tip: if you’re not into spicy food, always tell the restaurant ahead and cook your food without spices. Indonesian food is known to be spicy.

Ilog loved it here and even asked that we go back.

Frozen Yogi Bali (Kuta)

Frozen Yogi Bali is a delightful spot for a cool, refreshing treat on a hot day. Offering a range of frozen yogurt flavors with an array of colorful toppings, this place is a hit for kids and adults like our family! The bright, cheerful setting makes it a fun place to relax and enjoy a sweet treat. We’ve tried Frozen Yogi Bali twice during our previous visits, and since Ilog and Isla love frozen yogurt, there was no way we’d miss it this time.

Hindi na kami masyado nakapag-picture because we were in a hurry to get home. Traffic in this area is notoriously bad.

Bamboo Corner (Kuta)

Bamboo Corner is a favorite for Kuta residents and visitors who want authentic Indonesian and Balinese cuisine. The restaurant’s warm, rustic ambiance is perfect for a leisurely meal after a day exploring and shopping in Kuta. We’ve also dined here on our previous visits and know that their food is good and affordable.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxed café atmosphere, a vibrant beachfront restaurant, or a hidden gem with a cozy vibe, you’re sure to find a dining experience that suits your taste and style regardless of whether you’re in Canggu, Mengwi, Jimbaran, Kuta or any place in Bali!

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