It has been some time since departing from our bustling island-state has been easy to do. Travel‘s gradual resumption might feel almost too good to be true, but there is no time like the present for a getaway to Bali. It’s an idyllic location for a weekend escape—its sunny beaches and clear waters the perfect antidote to our skyscraper-filled city. And if you’re in the mood to turn up, look to hospitality insider and restaurateur Rushi Krishna’s selection of the best nightlife spots and kickbacks in Bali.
Having lived in Bali for four years, Krishna has just opened her own venture on the island: an Indian restaurant named Krishna’s Kitchen. To her, Bali’s biggest charm lies in its lush nature-scape, but its thriving nightlife comes in as a close second. With people from all across the globe flocking to the island to unwind and let loose, there is never a shortage of a lavish party.
Now, Krishna lives in Uluwatu—which is a much sleepier town than the nearby Canggu—but she still loves a good after-work tipple. “To me, partying is about good friends, good music and good drinks. I am a true believer that a party can happen anywhere as long as the vibe is right,” she comments. As a seasoned hospitality professional, Krishna’s standards for service are exacting, so you can be sure that her recommendations include only the best of the best. Here, find her favourite bars to visit around the island, alongside a special supper spot handpicked by Vogue.
1 / 5
40 Thieves
This speakeasy prides on craft cocktails and a boisterous ambience, to the point that regular patrons often end up dancing on tables. While the menu is a shortlist, the tipples are backed up by its consistency and variety. According to Krishna, “Come here for top-shelf spirits—if you can find the secret entrance hidden away above a ramen shop.”
2 / 5
The Shady Pig
“A secret speakeasy in Canggu known for throwing really fun parties,” Krishna says. Which is basically all the important keywords we need in a watering hole. The Shady Pig is part glamour, part grit and serves up experimental concoctions for anyone game for change.
3 / 5
Il Salotto
Krishna’s favourite hang on a Friday night? At this charming hideout in the heart of Uluwatu. She comes here for a negroni as well as to catch their DJs in action. Beyond serving up delicious cocktails, their grub is also vegan-friendly.
4 / 5
Sunset Park at Potato Head Bali
The cult-favourite restaurant in Bali now has a rooftop area that’s primed to open between the hours of dusk on the island. Think cocooning sounds of waves crashing alongside schmoozing under the stars with a drink in hand. Sunset Park is another one of Krishna’s picks: “The new rooftop bar at Potato Head is laid-back and serves a great selection of botanical cocktails.”
5 / 5
Bossman Burger
Known for their blinged-up venue and thrumming party beats playing all night, the food at this joint is not to be underestimated. Look forward to beers and premium patties (shaped in-house from 60-day dry-aged chuck steaks) dressed in all the works—from Indonesian-inspired to Texas-style flavours.
