DO NOT COME DURING THE RAINY SEASON Update 27/12/24 01:28AM: My mother is now puking from our visit (Indoor staff has been rather courteous despite the initial impression)
A horrific first impression. The entryway, although is quite the visual showpiece, leaks water from above during heavy rain. Strong winds throw water directly at you from the water installation. We have asked the staff for umbrellas, but they are said to not be allowed to give umbrellas for people waiting in the entryway. The security guard replied back in an inaudible angry grunt as well when asked for umbrellas. As I write this, I am soaking wet from the water installation, my mother aged 53 is also soaking wet from the wait. AND THERE'S STILL A LINE FOR 3 TABLES. I am watching people EXIT THE ENTRYWAY FROM INSIDE THE BUILDING WITH SAID UMBRELLAS THAT THE STAFF WAS SAID THEY WERE NOT ALLOWED TO HAND TO CUSTOMERS WAITING OUTSIDE. Behind me people are sneezing from the cold and the rain. Stay away during the rainy season
Edit: made it inside the building, a puzzling decision by the staff not to let people waiting in the entryway in as the place is spacious inside. We arrive cold, my mother was shivering a bit as she adjusted to the air-conditioning indoors. Indoor staff to their credit were quick to hand over paper napkins (a bit too small to dry ourselves from the rain) and apologize for the wait, but were unaware of the plight of the rain outside.
I understand trying to provide a premium experience for the customers inside already paying for coffee and cake. But to allow your paying customers to just get drenched by the rain when you have an atrium of this size (pictured in my photos), I cannot see why this cannot be a waiting area for when it rains. Heck, have the line snake through this entryway why not?
There is no seating left, even after having been given a number to order coffee and other refreshments they sell. Cannot say this has been a good experience.
Edit 2: Have finally gotten a seat thanks to the indoor hostess, shout out to her for stepping up and trying to salvage what has been a completely horrible experience. Attached is the final bill of our order
Edit 3: Food has finally arrived, and unfortunately, I cannot give an objective review as I am still quite bitter from the experience in the entryway. I have decided to give a 3/5 as a neutral middle ground for the taste.
Value for money is very questionable. I would say, for what I paid for, I expect much better service from the outdoor staff. 1/5
Would I come back? No. I don't want to pay money for this kind of experience again.
Concluding remarks: Was chatting about the experience in retrospect and we were still puzzled with what the security was saying back. The rain was so heavy that what the security person shouted back was inaudible to any of us. However, the aggression remains apparent, and I do not believe this is the quality of service anyone should receive when your asking price is this steep.
Something of note that I would recommend the management to rethink is that if the policy on no umbrellas in the entrance hallway is because the umbrellas do not fit (WHICH IS HILARIOUSLY WRONG AS I DISTINCTLY REMEMBER PEOPLE WALKING OUTSIDE FROM INDOORS WITH SAID OVERSIZED UMBRELLAS JUST FINE), then in the rainy season, why not prepare smaller sized umbrellas? The couple behind me had the foresight to bring theirs and they were able to shield themselves ok. Why didn't I bring my umbrella, you ask? My mother has been here before and she has clearly seen the numerous amounts of umbrellas and has been serviced by the umbrellas before. With that in mind, she said explicitly that we needn't bring it as the expectation was that we will be serviced by the cafe. This expectation has been spectacularly broken.
Reading here on google reviews, clearly this problem has occurred more than once before. If the front facade cannot be fixed/front canopy cannot be extended to prevent the overflow of heavy rain into the hallway, then the simple addition of smaller umbrellas should...
Read moreLet me be clear, this is not a bad review. i just want this place to have a better improvement, or else the beautiful place is such a waste!
Food / Beverages They serve a variety of beverages and food. There's even a bar for liquor, since I don't drink, I skipped it. there's a variety of coffee and non-coffee drinks. They charge a pretty high price, but I just feel like maybe they will serve a spectacular pastry and drinks according to what they charge. I ordered a very basic drink -- hot americano, their recommended non-coffee drink -- Kiwi Melon Yogurt, and the last one is Milk with Strawberry (I forgot the name). the beverages are just ok. The coffee is pretty good, yet the non coffee one is just so-so.
For the food, I dont recommend it. the one that super needs improvement is their basque cheesecake, which I taste more on the eggy side (and from what I know basque cheesecake does not require egg, CMIIW), not cheese creamy-ish, and there's no hint of sourness at all? as for the Pandoro Custard, the sponge cake is good. as for the custard, I also wish it could be more creamy, but it is more to the airy side. I don't know whether it's just my taste or it is supposed to be like that, however, the custard I know is nothing like that. the good side is, it is not too sweet and very light. I forgot the last pastry that I bought, it's chocolate pastry and it's just decent. if you ask me about the overall mark for the beverages and food, I would say it's just a so-so one, and I don't find it good enough. moreover, after you compare with the price.
Service We arrived at the place with a car and the staff greeted us with very informative steps to park the car at the Sijin parking area or to have their valet service. we choose to park the car ourselves and some of us has already dropped at the cafe to register for the waiting list. fortunately, at that time, it wasn't as hot as mentioned in the other reviews. but surely, you need shade for the guests to wait in line, Bali can be as hot as hell. moving on to the story, the staff says we need to wait until someone/another group comes out so we can have our table prepared. it's just us, the last queue, no one before or after us. we waited for 15 minutes, and after that they let us in. but what made me surprised and a bit disappointed was, when we were already inside, the staff inside told us just to find the seat ON OUR OWN. I don't get it with the waiting list system. then why do we need to wait outside if they don't prep the seat/table? we even changed table 3 times and finally, we can have a cozy seat altogether. it's so unfortunate for this type of cafe. anyway, there's a positive side, your staff is very friendly, you have a very great team. well done! but pls fix your system ugh.
Atmosphere THIS IS YOUR STRENGTH. the place is so beautiful and well-designed. applause for your architect, ID, and everyone involved in this building design. every corner is designed beautifully. this is the only part that can help me not to regret paying for an expensive so-so coffee. you need to visit the toilet as well, it is very comfortable and well executed. well done team!
IN CONCLUSION, this place has so-so beverages, no-no pastry, a weird waiting list system, friendly staff, and a really beautiful place. will I come back? probably no, not on my own. if I have very fomo relatives or acquaintances, that need content for their social media, I might bring them here just to take some photos and drink...
Read moreIf you find yourself wandering through the vibrant streets of Bali, one spot you definitely shouldn’t miss is 32DO Cafe. Nestled in an idyllic location, this cafe has quickly become a favorite among both locals and tourists alike, and it’s easy to see why.
Ambiance: As soon as you step inside 32DO, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The decor beautifully blends modern aesthetics with traditional Balinese elements. Natural light floods the interior, thanks to large windows that overlook lush greenery, creating an oasis of tranquility. The seating arrangements are versatile, with cozy corners for intimate chats and communal tables for those who enjoy the company of others. Whether you’re looking for a quiet space to work or a lively place to catch up with friends, 32DO caters to all moods.
Menu: Their menu is a delightful fusion of international and local flavors. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast or a light lunch, there’s something for everyone. The coffee is, of course, a highlight—expertly brewed and sourced from local beans, it stands out for its rich taste and aroma. For those who prefer non-caffeinated options, the selection of herbal teas and smoothies is extensive and equally refreshing.
One cannot go wrong with their signature smoothie bowls, which are not only visually stunning but also packed with fresh, nutritious ingredients. The avocado toast is another must-try, topped with a variety of toppings that add the perfect crunch and flavor. Vegan and gluten-free options are plentiful, making it an inclusive spot for all dietary preferences.
Service: The staff at 32DO Cafe are friendly and attentive without being intrusive. They seem genuinely passionate about providing a great experience, always ready to recommend dishes or customize orders. The service is prompt, which is a big plus, especially during peak hours when the cafe can get busy.
Conclusion: Overall, 32DO Cafe is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s an experience. With its gorgeous setting, diverse menu, and exceptional service, it perfectly encapsulates the laid-back yet vibrant spirit of Bali. Whether you’re starting your day with an energizing breakfast or simply relaxing with a cup of coffee in hand, 32DO Cafe is a gem you won’t want to overlook on your Bali adventure. Highly recommended!
Follow us at our IG @the.sg.nomad & TT @thesgnomad for more...
Read more