As the new year begins, the culinary scenes in Bali and Jakarta are buzzing with fresh energy, welcoming a lineup of exciting new dining destinations. From hidden speakeasy bars and cozy cafes in Bali to fine dining and unique culinary experiences in Jakarta, these openings promise to make 2025 a year filled with unforgettable flavors and moments. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for new gems or just looking to try something different, this month’s restaurant radar has something for everyone.
In Bali, the offerings range from elegant French dining to fiery, spice-filled menus, while Jakarta serves up a variety of options, including intimate dining settings, coffee and matcha bars, and luxurious fine dining experiences. Both cities are ready to elevate your dining adventures as we dive into the new year. So, whether you’re savoring a seaside brunch in Bali or indulging in a sophisticated dinner in the bustling capital, one thing is certain—2025 is off to a delicious start.
Jakarta
Bakmi Bangka 888
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Bakmi Bangka 888, also known as Bakmi PAN-PAN-PAN, brings the cherished flavors of Bangka noodles to the heart of Blok M. Founded by Chef Iwan Bedjo Sulaiman and his partners, Babas and Bandjo, the shop is a tribute to the love and nostalgia that Chef Bedjo and Babas, both natives of Bangka, hold for their hometown’s iconic noodles. The menu features Ja Mian served with a variety of toppings such as caisim, ayam cincang, bakso ikan, and more, providing a flavorful and hearty experience. Staying true to their roots, they incorporate signature Bangka ingredients, including the distinctive sweet soy sauce and the renowned Muntok white pepper, which elevate each dish with authentic regional flair.
Banjoo Jakarta
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Nestled along Wolter Monginsidi, BanJoo Jakarta presents a modern take on Korean cuisine led by Chef Ahn Narae, a Seoul-born chef with roots in Vienna, Austria. Known for her innovative approach to Korean flavors, Chef Na Rae draws inspiration from her mother’s traditional cooking and the joy it brought to guests. This passion has led her to open three acclaimed restaurants in Seoul before bringing her expertise to Jakarta. BanJoo offers a private dining experience complemented by a versatile space that includes a bar, two private rooms, an outdoor seating area, cozy booth seating, and an open kitchen counter for an interactive dining experience. The menu features familiar yet inventive dishes like Truffle Potato Jeon, Octopus Pajeon, Gajami Grilled Fish, and Crispy Bulgogi Toge Kucai, promising a delightful journey of Korean flavors with a modern twist.
Bastian Restaurante & Wine Bar
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Following the success of Franco Restaurant last year, Arka Group introduced Bastian Restaurante & Wine Bar, bringing European charm to the bustling Grand Indonesia. Offering an array of European dishes accompanied by a curated selection of cocktails and wines, Bastian sets the stage for an elevated dining experience. From freshly baked puff pastries to rich, creamy sauces crafted with care, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to ensure excellence. The menu features a variety of options, including pasta, pizza, steaks, salads, and a special brunch selection. A standout dish is the Stuffed Squid, where tender squid is filled with savory ingredients and finished with a vibrant Mojo Verde, delivering a delightful zesty-herbal note. Bastian promises a sophisticated yet inviting culinary journey in the heart of Jakarta.
Hakuji Tea Room
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Hakuji Tearoom, a haven for matcha enthusiasts, has recently opened its doors in Kemang, offering an intimate space for tea lovers to gather. Known for its dedication to high-quality Japanese tea, Hakuji specializes in a variety of matcha and hojicha drinks, crafted with precision and care. But Hakuji is more than just a café—it’s a destination for a unique “matcha teasperience,” where guests can learn about the art of matcha, craft their own creations, and immerse themselves in the world of premium Japanese tea. While this beloved brand is not new, its Kemang branch brings its signature charm and expertise to a fresh audience in South Jakarta.
Kindling Jakarta
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BIKO has unveiled its first fine dining venture, Kindling, redefining the culinary scene with a seamless blend of modern Asian flavors and French culinary artistry. Helmed by the acclaimed Chef Vallian Gunawan, Kindling embraces a timeless approach to fine dining while offering an elevated, multi-sensory experience. The journey begins in the warm and inviting ambiance of the Living Room, followed by the main event in the Dining Hall, and concludes in the refined setting of the Library. Guests can choose between a meticulously curated 7 or 9-course tasting menu, each course paired with handcrafted beverages designed to complement and enhance the intricate flavors, setting a new benchmark for innovative dining in the city.
Kin Khao
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Arka Group introduces another culinary gem with Kin Khao, a soulful Thai restaurant and bar nestled in Grand Indonesia. Moving beyond familiar classics like Pad Thai, Kin Khao takes Thai cuisine to new heights with bold and inventive dishes, such as their standout Dry-Aged Duck Red Curry. This signature dish features duck dry-aged for 14 days, enhancing its natural flavors and tenderness, paired with a fragrant red curry, fresh okra, and kaffir lime leaves to deliver a perfect balance of spice, heat, and depth. The menu showcases a vibrant celebration of Thai flavors, crafted with the finest ingredients and thoughtful techniques, promising a memorable dining experience steeped in both tradition and innovation.
Laun Coffee Concept
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Laun Coffee Concept brings a fresh and exciting approach to the coffee scene in BSD, located in the Anggrek Loka area. Designed with a sleek black industrial aesthetic, the coffee shop features a Slow Bar concept, highlighting unique menu offerings such as Magic and Dirty White (dirty latte). Beyond the day-to-day selections crafted with beans sourced from Champions Roastery Indonesia, Laun elevates the experience with a monthly tasting course, showcasing specialty coffee, matcha, and charcoal drinks for enthusiasts looking to explore distinct flavors.
The Maple Brasserie
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The Maple Brasserie has officially opened its doors in Jakarta’s Gunawarman district, offering an all-day dining experience that blends Indonesian, Asian, and Western cuisines in a chic, modern setting. Designed to accommodate up to 100 guests, the venue features a cozy indoor dining area, two private VIP rooms for intimate gatherings, and a picturesque outdoor patio. Its interiors exude warmth and elegance, combining natural wood, limestone accents, and lush greenery to create a relaxed, garden-inspired atmosphere. Open from morning to evening, The Maple Brasserie serves a wide range of options, from breakfast and brunch to lunch and dinner, making it a versatile destination for business meetings, family meals, or celebratory events.
Bali
Aged and Butchered Bali
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After years of success in Jakarta, Aged and Butchered has expanded to Bali, now welcoming guests in Canggu with the same bold flavors and culinary story as its Jakarta counterpart. Led by Chef Andri Dionysius, Chef Patron of the MDA Restaurant Group, the restaurant showcases his dedication to culinary excellence and innovation. Chef Dionysius’ vision is evident throughout, from the carefully designed menu to the top-tier service that ensures each dining experience is truly memorable. Aged and Butchered offers a Japanese-inspired yakiniku dining experience, featuring both dry- and wet-aged steaks, each prepared to highlight the depth of rich flavors. The restaurant also boasts a full-service bar with 27 unique whisky dispensers, making it a standout for whisky lovers. In addition to its extensive whisky selection, the bar offers handcrafted cocktails and a range of curated bar snacks, all designed to complement the premium drinks and elevate the overall dining experience.
Cafe Vera Bali
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Bar Vera is excited to introduce its latest offering, Cafe Vera, a vibrant new addition that celebrates the essence of brunch culture. Located in Pererenan, Bali, Cafe Vera opens its doors from Tuesday to Sunday, 8 AM to 4 PM, serving a thoughtfully curated selection of elevated brunch classics, hand-crafted cocktails, and an impressive range of European wines. The café will also feature a lunch menu starting at 12 PM, offering an inspired take on traditional dishes paired with bespoke cocktails and wines. Part of the Mason Hospitality Group, Cafe Vera promises a lively and sophisticated dining experience, bringing a fresh and exciting energy to the local brunch scene.
Daimyo Bali
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Inspired by the regal traditions of Japanese nobility, Daimyo in Petitenget, Bali, offers an exceptional Yakiniku dining experience. Drawing on the values of honor and loyalty, Daimyo elevates the art of grilling premium cuts of meat with a focus on quality and tradition. The menu features a range of traditional Japanese fare, including expertly marinated meats, with the highlight being the sizzling netted grill at each table, where guests can enjoy flash-grilled slices of Wagyu and marinated tongue. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Doto-San, Daimyo brings the Bushido principles of honor, loyalty, and service to life, creating a memorable dining experience. Whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion, Daimyo promises a feast that truly lives up to its name.
French Kiss Bistro Bar Ubud
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Jeevawasa expands its culinary journey with the opening of French Kiss in Ubud this December. A captivating blend of French culinary traditions and Balinese culture, French Kiss offers more than just a meal—it tells a story through every dish. Located near the enchanting Monkey Forest on Jalan Wenara Wana, the restaurant invites diners into a charming setting, where they can enjoy dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Highlights include the Cocotte Baked Egg & Black Truffle and the Braised Wagyu Beef Brisket. The dining experience is complemented by decadent desserts, signature cocktails, and fine wines served at an open speakeasy bar.
Lolita Bali Spanish Bar
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Lolita Spanish Bar, located in Kuta, offers a unique dining experience with a focus on traditional Spanish tapas and drinks. The restaurant transports guests to Spain through its authentic culinary offerings, providing a variety of tapas that highlight the flavors and techniques of Spanish cuisine. Inspired by the independent street food culture, Lolita emphasizes fresh ingredients and natural cooking methods, all served in a casual and friendly atmosphere. The concept is influenced by the Lolita fashion subculture, which draws on the Victorian Rococo style, known for its emphasis on “tea party” aesthetics and cuteness. This fusion of cultural elements creates a distinct environment for diners to enjoy a taste of Spain in Bali.
Steaksmith
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Steaksmith, located within the lush garden of Renaissance Nusa Dua Resort, offers a distinctive dining experience for steak lovers. The restaurant specializes in high-quality cuts of meat, including Wagyu and Black Angus, expertly prepared by skilled grill masters. Drawing inspiration from the craft of blacksmithing, Steaksmith transforms carefully selected cuts of meat into culinary masterpieces. Each piece is marinated, seasoned, and grilled over an open flame to enhance its natural flavors and tenderness. Open exclusively for dinner, the restaurant provides a menu that emphasizes premium ingredients and precise preparation, ensuring that every dish highlights the full potential of the meats served.
Tanah Uluwatu Bakery & Grill
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Tanah Uluwatu Bakery & Grill, a new addition to the dining scene in Uluwatu, is designed as a “third place” where friends gather, ideas are exchanged, and memorable moments unfold. Open from 7 AM to 5 PM, this all-day brunch spot blends the best of modern Australian and European flavors. Led by Head Chef Ranto Simanjuntak, the kitchen serves a menu that encourages guests to savor every bite in a warm, inviting atmosphere. A standout is the Croissant Breakfast Sandwich, with its buttery croissants and savory fillings, making for a satisfying start to the day. For a unique experience, don’t miss Jono’s Grilled Sausage Sandwich, a savory combination that offers both comfort and flavor.
Whisper Cove
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Whisper Cove, a hidden speakeasy bar nestled in the serene landscape of Ubud, offers a captivating experience with a modern vintage twist. Behind a secret wall, guests are greeted with masterfully crafted cocktails that flow like silk, complemented by soft whispers and intimate conversations. Each drink tells its own story, designed to captivate the senses with bold flavors, creative flair, and unexpected ingredients. One example is the Bibir Manado, inspired by the fiery street food of Manado, Indonesia, blending smoky salted butter mezcal, sweet corn, tropical passion fruit, and a hint of citrus. To accompany the drinks, Whisper Cove offers bar bites like the crispy Root Radical with tangy green sambal and skewers of chicken, lamb, and sweet corn. For those with a sweet tooth, the indulgent chocolate truffles provide the perfect finale to a night of refined cocktails and conversation.
