Ray Adriansyah and Eelke Plasmeijer’s jointly helmed Bali restaurant Locavore picked up not one, but two gongs at this year’s Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants Awards – for Best Restaurant in Indonesia and Sustainable Restaurant Award – and there’s no disputing as to why.
Since opening Locavore in Ubud in 2013, and laidback younger sib Nusantara by Locavore four years later, the culinary champs have earned a stellar rep for their zesty interpretations of trad Indonesian fare, using only locally sourced ingredients and line-caught seafood. Away from the kitchen, Ray and Eelke let us into their little black book of casual Bali eateries and restaurants.
Sunday Market at Cafe Batu Jimbar, Sanur
This is a nice place to start the day with family or friends on a Sunday morning. They offer a variety of Indonesian food items and it’s inexpensive, with a great ambience. Look out for the title snacks such as Lumpia, Otak Otak, Siumai and other sweet delights.
No.75A, Jl. Danau Tamblingan, Sanur, cafebatujimbar.com/sanur/
Pica South American Kitchen, Ubud
Pica is a cosy restaurant with a warm ambience serving contemporary South American cuisine, and a go-to on Sundays when we have the day off. You must try their Pisco Sour, classic ceviche, empañadas, pulpo al olivo, the beef ancho, tres leches dessert – oh and watch out for their the blackboard specials too!
Jl. Dewisita, Ubud, @picaubud
Rumah Makan Sederhana, Jimbaran
Ray’s parents are from Sumatra, and he grew up with Padang food (known for spicy, succulent rendang); for him Sederhana is the place to go for Padang food in Bali either for bungkus (takeaway) or to dine in. You can choose a selection of small plates with lots of curries and a variety of sambals. Favourites include the gizzard and chicken liver, beef trotter curry and salted dried fish with small eggplant.
No.1, Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai, Jimbaran
Xia House, Canggu
Recently opened, Xia House is still a great secret in Canggu. It’s very easy-going and comfortable, but super tasty food all around. The brick chicken and chicken parfait are favourites among other dishes. A must-try if you’re in the area!
Jl. Tanah Barak, Canggu, @xiahousebali
Looking for a second helping? Dive right in.
