Bali's culinary landscape offers a rich tapestry of flavors, making it an excellent destination for group dining. From authentic Indonesian dishes to a wide array of international cuisines, there is something to satisfy every palate. The dining scene is particularly strong in areas like Penestanan, Sayan, and Ubud Center, where a mix of casual eateries and upscale restaurants cater to various preferences. For groups, especially those with four or more people, securing a table often requires a bit of planning. While many casual spots can accommodate walk-ins, popular restaurants, particularly those with a higher price level, benefit greatly from advance reservations. This ensures your group can enjoy a seamless dining experience without long waits.
How we picked these
The dining recommendations on this page are a direct result of Anywayr (formerly Travelry)'s aggregated research from eight real trips to Bali. We prioritize venues and neighborhoods that have been consistently mentioned and highly rated by past travelers. Each venue's "mention count" serves as a key signal, indicating its popularity and reliability among Anywayr users. This approach ensures that our suggestions are based on concrete, first-party experiences rather than generic travel advice.
Eat smart as a group
Navigating Bali's dining scene with a group, especially one of six or more, requires some strategic thinking. For dinner, it is always advisable to make reservations at least a day or two in advance, particularly for restaurants in popular areas like Penestanan or Sayan. This is especially true if your group is interested in venues with a price level of 3 or 4. For more casual lunches or breakfasts, many places are flexible, but a quick call ahead can still save time. Consider dining slightly earlier or later than peak hours to increase your chances of getting a large table without a reservation.
When it comes to settling the bill, assume that most local establishments may not be set up for individual payments or complex bill splitting. It is often smoother for one person to pay and then for the group to settle up using a payment app or by collecting cash. Some higher-end international restaurants might offer more flexibility, but it is best to confirm this beforehand. Planning your meals around specific neighborhoods, such as focusing on Penestanan for a day or Sayan for an evening, can also minimize travel time and maximize your dining enjoyment.
Consider the pace of your meals throughout your trip. A leisurely breakfast at a cafe like BGS Ubud or Den~O Coffee can be a great start to the day. Lunches can be more casual, perhaps at a spot like Foodology Ubud or Waroeng Bernadette. For dinner, you might opt for a more refined experience at The Sayan House Restaurant or Mozaic. Balancing these experiences ensures variety and prevents meal fatigue over a median 10-day trip.
Our picks
Below, you will find Anywayr's top dining venue recommendations for groups in Bali. Each card provides details on cuisine, neighborhood, and price level, along with specific reasons why it is a good fit for group dining.
Booking tips for large tables
For groups of six or more, calling ahead is almost always the best approach, even for places that do not explicitly state a reservation policy. This allows the restaurant to prepare a suitable table and ensures your group can be seated together. Be prepared for some establishments, particularly those with a higher price level, to request a deposit to secure large bookings, especially during peak seasons or for special events. While tipping culture in Bali is more discretionary than in some Western countries, a service charge is often included in the bill. If it is not, or if the service was exceptional, a gratuity of 5-10% is appreciated, particularly for larger groups that require more attention.