The Cave, Uluwatu

Desember 2023

As the sun dipped low on the horizon in late 2023, my fam and I jetted off to Bali for a chill fam getaway. Technically, it was just to drop the kids at a holiday camp, but me and my husband saw it as a chance to sneak in some alone time and explore Bali’s food scene.

About a month before our trip, I started hunting for cool dining spots. I was craving something unique, and that’s when I stumbled upon this dope joint tucked away in Uluwatu—a cave restaurant serving up an epic 7-course feast. Sounds lit, right? So, I snagged us a reservation for December 28th, a chill weekday vibe. There were 2 session options (lunch/dinner) that we can choose. If you bring kids, lunch session is your only option. We choose lunch just because we need to pick up our kids in the afternoon.

With the day finally here, we hit the road, relying on Google Maps to navigate Bali’s crazy streets (We went there during new years week). Gotta make sure we’re on time. Because I don’t think this just our regular date. It’s an experience crafted by culinary wizards. To be ontime is part of my appreciation to the team and the chef.

We rocked up early, greeted by the lobby of the resort where the restaurant was at. After a quick chill sesion at the café, we hopped on a buggy and rolled through the resort to the main event.

Entering the cave, it was like stepping into another world—dark and mysterious, yet strangely cozy with dim lighting and natural cave vibes. The place was bougie but not too extra, with just ten tables decked out for the occasion.

While waiting for the dishes to be prepared, we could explore different parts of the cave, discovering natural pools with refreshingly cool water. There were also unique spots for photo ops. To navigate through the cave’s areas, we were provided with helmets, as some stalactites hung low.

As each course hit the table, it was like fireworks in my mouth. The chef’s creativity was off the charts, and every bite told a story of fresh ingredients flavors and culinary finesse.

During the intervals between courses, we were treated to exciting experiences. Video mapping projections onto the cave ceiling showcased intricate stalactite formations with various themes. It was mesmerizing and kept us thoroughly engaged. I only took out my phone for snapshots, preferring to immerse myself in conversation, sharing jokes with my husband, and savoring each dish without distraction.

This dining experience wasn’t just about filling our bellies; it was a journey—one that left us stuffed but stoked for more. And as we left, our taste buds buzzing, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for stumbling upon this hidden gem in these food scene.

May your culinary adventures be as enriching and transformative as ours, dear readers, for in the realm of gastronomy, every meal is an opportunity for discovery and delight. Bon appétit!

Some details during my visit in 2023:

For booking go to : https://www.instagram.com/thecavebali?igsh=cnQ1ZnI3cnl3anQ2

Package :

• IDR 1.600.000++ 7 course set menu. (We took this one)
• IDR 3.000.000++ 7 course set menu with wine and cocktail pairing.
• IDR 2.150.000++ 10 course set menu.
• IDR 3.900.000++ 10 course set menu with wine and cocktail pairing

The cave by Chef Ryan Clift is pork and lard free, however it is not a halal certified restaurant and alcohol is used in some dishes, despite being cooked off.

Dress code: Please note the dress code to respect the venue and other diners no thongs, singlets or alcohol branded attire, bathers, beach slippers, ripped short or beachshorts. Formal shorts are permitted. Guests not adhering to the dress code will be given a sarong.