This Christmas, indulge in a memorable culinary experience in Bali, the enchanting “Island of the Gods.” Known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, Bali gives you the perfect setting for festive celebrations. There’s something for everyone, from traditional holiday lunches to vibrant brunches and cosy dinners.
In this post, you’ll learn about the best Christmas dining experiences, featuring festive menus, free-flow options, and kid-friendly fun. Let’s countdown to the most wonderful time of the year.
Traditional Food in Bali
Balinese cuisine is a unique blend of various cultural influences that have shaped its flavours. Unlike other Indonesian islands like Java and Lombok, Bali’s food is entirely its own. Nasi goreng is considered Indonesia’s national dish. However, Bali has its own famous dishes like satay, Balinese duck or chicken curry, gado gado (mixed vegetables), and pepes (seasoned meat, tofu, or tempeh wrapped in banana leaves and grilled).
This culinary diversity has been shaped by Chinese stir-frying techniques, soy sauce, Dutch introductions like pineapples and peanuts, and Arab influences, especially in dishes like satay. The key ingredients for Balinese cuisine are fertile land, abundant sunshine, rain, and rice. While regional specialities differ across the island, they generally share a spicy and flavorful profile.
Celebrate the holiday season at Bali Dynasty Resort with festive events and delightful dining experiences. From December 1 to 22, unwind at Gracie Kelly’s Irish Pub for Year-End Office Parties. Enjoy a Christmas Eve feast at H2O Restaurant and indulge in traditional Christmas favorites with festive lunches and dinners at H2O and Sen5es on Christmas Day.
For something unique, Gracie Kelly’s offers a Christmas Set Menu of Irish classics from December 23 to 30, while Oasis presents "Christmas Under The Stars" with sunset views and festive treats. Golden Lotus adds Cantonese and Szechuan flavors to the season with its Christmas Set Menu throughout December. Celebrate in style with Bali Dynasty Resort!
Bali Dynasty Resort, Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, (0361) 752403, info@bdr.pphotels.com, https://bdr.pphotels.com/
Six Senses lies on Bali's southern cliffs near the sacred Pura Uluwatu temple, this Uluwatu resort will offer a promising setting for a festive Christmas feast. You will enjoy ocean views from your suites and villas while indulging in culinary delights inspired by Indonesian, Chinese, and Indian flavours. During the holiday season, you can experience the unique theme "Harmony with Heritage: A Sustainability and Cultural New Year," featuring special events like a four-hand dinner by Chefs Ignacio and Javier and an exquisite Omakase experience.
Six Senses Uluwatu, Jalan Goa Lempeh, Uluwatu, Bali, +62 361 209 0300, reservations-uluwatu@sixsenses.com, www.sixsenses.com
At COMO Uma Canggu, savour a complimentary Aperol Spritz while enjoying Echo Beach's sunset views on December 26th and 29th. For cocktail enthusiasts, join their Festive Cocktail Making Class on December 23rd. Learn to craft crisp martinis and fruity holiday punches from expert bartenders. Limited to ten participants, this mixology workshop offers a taste of holiday cheer for IDR 390,000 per person. Not only will you be served with delicious cuisine, but COMO Uma Canggu will also care for your little ones.
COMO Uma Canggu, Echo Beach, Jl. Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, +62 361 620 2218, res.uma.canggu@comohotels.com, www.comohotels.com
Experience an unforgettable festive dining experience at Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana. Indulge in delicious Balinese cuisine and Western and Asian specialities at The Tempayan, with panoramic views of lush rice fields and jungle. Executive Chef Dean Nor, with 17 years of culinary expertise, crafts exquisite dishes that highlight local flavours. During the holiday season, the resort offers unique experiences, such as romantic dinners in the rice paddies and cultural workshops, inviting guests to immerse themselves in Bali's vibrant traditions while enjoying a delightful culinary journey. Celebrate the season in this enchanting setting!
Tanah Gajah, Jalan Goa Gajah, Tengkulak Kaja Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, +62 361 975 685, info@tanahgajahubud.com, www.tanahgajahubud.com
Jungle bells await at Capella Ubud for those wanting to celebrate this festive season. Celebrate the holiday season with a luxurious four-night stay at Capella Ubud, Bali, and enjoy exclusive perks while supporting the zero plastic waste initiative. The "Festive With A Cause" package includes breakfast, airport transfers, festive amenities, resort credit, a holiday photo shoot, and access to "The Officers Tent" for drinks and canapés. You'll also experience wellness and cultural activities, plus daily laundry service. Book between now and December 31, 2024, for stays from December 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025.
Capella Ubud, Bali, Jl. Raya Dalem, Banjar Triwangsa, Desa Keliki, Kecamatan Tegallalang, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, +62 361 2091 888, info.ubud@capellahotels.com, www.capellahotels.com
Celebrate the festive season at W Bali – Seminyak with a month of exciting culinary experiences from December 3, 2024, to January 1, 2025. Indulge in a luxurious holiday Afternoon Tea at W Lounge, or upgrade to free-flow sparkling wine. Enjoy a lavish dinner at Starfish Bloo on Christmas Eve, followed by a sumptuous Christmas Day brunch or dinner featuring a rich spread of meats, seafood, and holiday specialities. Keep the festivities going with a special Boxing Day Afternoon Tea at W Lounge. Don’t miss out on one of Bali’s best dining experiences this holiday season!
W Bali, Jl. Petitenget, Kerobokan, Seminyak, Bali, +62-361-300 0106, whotels.bali@whotels.com, www.marriott.com
Join CasCades Restaurant for a magical Christmas Eve dinner in Ubud's lush jungle on December 24th. Enjoy a gourmet buffet prepared by Chef Yusuf, featuring holiday favourites like glazed roast turkey, prime rib steak, and a Christstollen chocolate log. Begin your festive evening with warm eggnog and savour dishes from live cooking stations while surrounded by stunning jungle views. With live music enhancing the joyful atmosphere, this dinner promises to be unforgettable. Reserve your spot at CasCades Restaurant and create lasting memories this Christmas Eve!
CasCades Restaurant, Jl. Lanyahan, Br. Nagi, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, +62361972111, res@cascadesbali.com, www.cascadesbali.com
Celebrate Christmas Day at KU DE TA on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Enjoy a luxurious lunch with a festive menu featuring Norwegian Salmon Teepee Tart, 21-day dry-aged Wagyu Rump Roast and delightful desserts like a Yule Log and Christmas pudding gelato. The little ones will be entertained with arts and crafts activities, plus special gifts from Santa, making it a magical day for the entire family. As the celebrations wind down, savour a sunset live performance by Sabtu Pagi starting at 4:00 pm. It’s the perfect way to unwind and make lasting memories together. Reservations are essential, and a special kids’ menu is available for children aged 3 to 12.
Ku De Ta Family Sundays, Jalan Kayu Aya No.9, Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia 80361, +62 361736969, reservations@kudeta.com, www.kudeta.com
The Wicked Parrot in Sanur, Bali, is set to celebrate Christmas 2024 with a program. Festivities begin with Christmas carols by the Bali Community Choir (date to be announced). On Christmas Eve, December 24, enjoy a lively party with music from The Wicked Parrot Band at 7:00 pm. Christmas Day features a special lunch and dinner from 1:00 pm, accompanied by live music and a visit from Santa Claus. On December 26, enjoy à la carte dishes and specials while listening to The Sigit Band at 7:00 pm.
The Wicked Parrot, Jl. Danau Tamblingan No.47, Sanur, Denpasar Sel., Bali +62 361 281814, www.wickedparrot.com
FINNS Recreation Club in Bali will transform into a magical Winter Wonderland this Christmas. You can enjoy a festive gourmet buffet for both brunch (10 a.m. – 1 p.m.) and lunch (2 p.m. – 5 p.m.), featuring delicious turkey, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts. The celebration includes live music, a Christmas market, carnival games, and water park fun, making it a perfect spot for families. After the festivities, guests can unwind with live music from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Create cherished holiday memories at this unique Christmas event in Bali.
Finns Recreation Club, Jalan Pantai Berawa Canggu, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, +623618483939, info@finnsrecclub.com, www.finnsbeachclub.com
Bali Dynasty Resort invites guests to a festive culinary experience this Christmas with buffet events at H2O and Senses restaurants. On Christmas Eve, enjoy a dinner featuring Tuna Carpaccio, crispy Pork Porchetta, and Italian Herb-Roasted Chicken, alongside fresh salads and decadent desserts like Christmas Stollen and Yule Log. Christmas Day offers a buffet lunch with highlights like Sage-Stuffed Roast Turkey and Prawn Glass Noodle Salad, followed by a dinner with Beef Wellington and Slow-Roast Lamb Leg. Indulge in festive sweets such as Chocolate Passion Mousse and Christmas Cookies, making it a truly memorable celebration.
Bali Dynasty Resort, Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia, +62361752403, www.pphotels.com
Celebrate Christmas Eve at Celagi Restaurant with a festive feast and joyful performances. Enjoy an enchanting choir and traditional angklung music, plus a special appearance by Bali's famous singer and harpist, Rose Mystica, who is accompanied by a cellist. Indulge in a culinary journey featuring holiday classics like roasted turkey, Greek-style chicken, and unique dishes such as North African pomegranate-roasted beef ribs and stewed Thai duck red curry. Kids will be thrilled with a visit from Secret Santa, bringing gifts. With an all-you-can-eat menu and magical entertainment, this dinner promises a memorable celebration for your whole family.
Bali Mandira Beach Resort & Spa, Jl. Padma No.2, Legian, Kec. Legian, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, +62361751381, info@balimandira.com, www.balimandira.com
Celebrate Christmas 2024 in style at Apéritif Restaurant! On December 25, 2024, starting at 12 PM, guests can indulge in a spectacular Christmas lunch for IDR 1,900,000++ per person. Experience a distinguished 7-course degustation menu expertly crafted by Chef Nic Vanderbeeken, blending Apéritif’s signature culinary flair with festive seasonal touches.
Apéritif Restaurant, Br. Nagi, Jl. Lanyahan, Petulu, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia, click here to book
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