Warung Bendega Lebih — Restaurant in Bali

A disappointing visit. Me and my partner (who is Indonesian) grabbed an ocean-facing amben outside and looked at the local menu (some pictures included). The prices were a little higher than advertised on the billboard outside, but still reasonable. However, when the waitress saw us, she tried to insist that we chose from the English menu (which had many of the same Packet, simply at higher prices!). No need, I said, we eat local. She said the portions would be smaller too, but - no problem for me.

When the meal came, the fish I had (Paket 3, Ikan Bakar Kakap) was excellent, and a large portion. But when we went to pay, the inevitable seemed to happen - they tried to overcharge me for my meal (100K rather than the 55 - 70K as advertised). Of course, a slightly heated discussion - and I was given the usual excuses/lies that they didn't have the fish as advertised on the menu, so gave me a bigger one (which was strange since the table next to us had plenty fish of the ‘normal’ size), the waitress was inexperienced etc etc (these type of people never admit fault or take responsibility 🤷🏼‍♂️). Anyway, I stood my ground and eventually the cashier guy backed down in a huff, in what was a rather embarrassing display on his part and a very unfortunate end to a pretty good meal.

PS: It may seem like small change, but the wider issue is that this kind of blatant 'let's overcharge the bule' behaviour is a type of discrimination which fosters suspicion for tourists and heaps disrepute on the local Balinese people, most of whom are honest, charming and friendly. Of course, I won't eat here again or recommend it to my friends. That's...

Location is good, right near the sea. We enjoyed other aspects like the banana chips at the start and the very large coconuts. The food itself is not good, flavour was watery and portions were small. The shrimp was smelly. This is a bad example of Balinese food which is otherwise delicious. And the service is appalling. I would suggest tourists stay away as they have a separate menu for tourists (higher prices) and they also sent us more expensive items than what we ordered. Examples - We ordered a package priced at 55k (Packet 3). When the dishes arrived we asked the waitress what they were and she pointed the dishes in Packet 3. However when the bill arrived we were charged for Packet 6 priced at 150k with the manager telling us they sent those dishes by mistake, but hey, our fault for eating them. For another dish we ordered, the waitress told us the price was 30k (she typed it into my calculator). But on the bill they charged us 45k.

Ultimately we had an argument when the bill arrived. We chose to pay the higher amount because we felt bad for the waitress who they were blaming although they said the issue was with their computer. I think it was all lies. Such type of dishonest business practice brings shame to the Balinese people. Thankfully most of my experience with the local people has been wonderful and positive, I will just need to read reviews more...

I can’t stay away from this local gem! The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and sweet, straight from nearby fishermen. The perfect balance of chili heat, rich ingredients, and that unbeatable seafood texture keeps me coming back. This is the third time for me coming to this place in two months!

This visit, I indulged in a delightful array of dishes: Grilled Snapper with Sambal Matah Nyat-nyat Snapper (Steamed to perfection with turmeric seasoning) Grilled Seashells (seasoned with spices & tomato paste, I guess) Sate Lilit (traditional Balinese skewers, taste like chicken sausage with spices) Plecing Kangkung (morning glory spiced with fresh sambals - a true delight!

Although the seashells were slightly overcooked, it doesn’t deter me from returning. Next time, I’ll just ask the waiter to make sure they’re cooked evenly.

Owh, one thing! They also serve welcome snacks, Keripik Singkong (cassava chips) which you can refill and I think it’s free.

I always hesitate to write glowing reviews for fear of the place getting too popular and them struggling to maintain their quality. But this seafood haven deserves all the love! Here’s to many more...