Seafood is the traditional food on Good Friday. Now, whether or not you are observing the Easter traditions, you probably know that fish, and seafood in general, are a healthy source of protein and are packed with heart healthy omega-3 fats. And the waters surrounding Bali are a rich source of fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed everywhere from family-run warungs (roadside cafes), to world-class fine dining establishments. Here is a list of places to enjoy the freshest seafood with a beautiful sunset view to match. Hope you’re hungry!
Menaga Cafe – Jimbaran
It’s pretty obvious that any seasoned traveller to Bali will tell you that Jimbaran is the place to go to for a good seafood fix. Famous for its long stretch of endless eateries serving up freshly grilled local seafood, while facing the ocean, feet in the sand and watching the setting sun. Not only is it family, group and couple friendly, the majority of the eateries are incredibly affordable. But which restaurant should you pick? Menega Café is widely regarded as one of the best seafood restaurants in Jimbaran. It offers a diverse selection from jumbo prawns, lobster, squid, clams, as well as fish such as red snapper and barracuda. Diners begin by choosing raw seafood from tanks or ice trays, which is then grilled on traditional coconut husks. The trick to avoid the long wait is to show up before 5:15pm and you shouldn’t have too much trouble getting a prime table.
Address: Jl Four Seasons Muaya Beach, Jimbaran, Bali
Contact: +62 361 705888
Benoa Fish Market – Benoa
From the ocean straight to your plate! Their restaurant specialises in western and asian style dishes such as swordfish in white wine sauce, pan seared snapper, fried and grill seafood platter, mahi-mahi wrapped in banana leaf, seafood pasta and much more. The outdoor dining deck has a great view of Bali Wake Park which is great entertainment whilst eating, or the ideal place to relax after you’ve had some fun at the Wake park yourself.
Address: Jl Pelabuhan Benoa no. 8 Pemogan, Denpasar, Bali
Contact: +62 361 8468881
Related: Villa Finder’s Favourite restaurants in Bali
Sardine – Seminyak
Sardine is part of the A-list of Bali’s fine-dining scene. It’s a must-have on your list when you stay in Seminyak villas. This elegant restaurant offers a romantic setting with rice fields, that are illuminated in the evening, as the backdrop. The menu focuses on fresh seafood and homegrown organic vegetables from its own farm. Typical dishes include miso-grilled triggerfish with sake-mirin crab butter; and pan seared diver scallops with mushroom ravioli.
Address: Jl Petitenget No. 21, Kerobokan, Bali
Contact: +62 361 738202
Urchin Grill & Raw Bar – Seminyak
This hip restaurant sources its seafood from top local suppliers so the menu changes daily depending on the catch of the day. This is your go-to place when you crave fresh, unique, and sophisticated seafood. The menu features raw items like sushi and sashimi, as well as expertly-prepared dishes like roasted scallops with chicken jus and crispy skinned red snapper with almonds and sherry vinegar.
Address: Jl. Kayu Aya No. 22, Seminyak, Bali
Contact: +62 361 736319
Gipsy Fish – Seminyak
If you live for grilled seafood, you’ve come to the right place! Take your pick. Snapper, Squid, Sea Bream, Tuna, Prawns, Scallops, Mixed Seafood, Seafood Chowder, and yes even vegetarian options are all here on the grill daily, fresh from the markets. And the prices are unbeatable.
Address: Jl. Raya Seminyak No.17, Seminyak, Bali
Contact: +62 856 3718 047
Echo Beach House – Canggu
Another great place to have seafood while sitting on the edge of the beach, watching the surfers ride their waves as the sun goes down. Unlike Jimbaran, here they don’t spice up the seafood, they just use butter and garlic and you can’t go wrong with that combo, ever. Just walk-up to the bar and choose between lobsters, prawns, whole snapper, calamari and it will be cooked on the spot.
Address: Jl Pura Batu Mejan, Echo Beach, Canggu, Bali
Contact:+62 85100 474604
