No visit to Bali would be complete without taking in the views of an incredible sunset, while feasting on exquisitely-prepared food. These two restaurants on the island’s west coast offer unrivaled views of the horizon and regularly feature in “World’s Best Rooftops” lists.
Rock Bar, Uluwatu
The rocky coastline of Uluwatu is known for its amazing surf breaks and epic views, and it’s easy to see why this a fitting location for the aptly-named Rock Bar. This fine-dining restaurant and sunset mecca sprawls along the cliffside at the edge of the incredible luxury Ayana Resort, and offers practically every one of their eight-hundred diners per night an unobstructed panoramic view of the colored sky, set to chilled beats provided by rotating international DJs.
DJ Dean Dixon
Come early (before 4pm) to secure a table for sunset – this no-reservations hotspot fills quickly. If you’re lucky enough to be a VIP (rumor has it that Villa guests of Ayana enjoy this privilege), you’ll be whisked down in an open-air cliffside funicular and escorted through cavernous tunnels in the rock to your premium table on the DJ platform – a see-and-be-seen oasis that juts out over the ocean, while friendly, elegant and sophisticated waitstaff serve inventive cocktails and asian-fusion bar bites. A full dinner menu with a focus on incredible seafood is available after sundown. An experience like no other, this definitely tops the must-do list when in Bali.
MoonLite, Seminyak
At the southern end of popular tourist spot Seminyak, atop the luxury Anantara hotel, MoonLite Kitchen & Bar offers a peaceful respite from the crowds, in a modern and simple yet elegant setting. The main room of the restaurant features an open kitchen and aquariums showcasing their focus on the freshest seafood, spilling out seamlessly through to the open-air deck with views over Double Six beach and beyond to the setting sun.
The eclectic yet locally-inspired menu has something for every palate, from grilled and BBQ meat items, to unique fish dishes, and an impressive wine collection on display, which has landed them several Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence. The refined restaurant also regularly features local musicians to set the tone for an evening of relaxing views and sumptuous cuisine.
Article & Photographs by Darren Darnborough