During my stay in Bali, I had the pleasure of dining at Hiiragi Restaurant, and honestly, it was one of the most memorable culinary experiences I've had. Nestled in the heart of Umalas, this hidden gem offers a fascinating fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine — a style known as Nikkei — and I was absolutely impressed.
The Culinary Style The fusion of flavors at Hiiragi Restaurant is nothing short of extraordinary. Each dish beautifully combines the precision and simplicity of Japanese cooking techniques with the vibrant, bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine. The result? Clean, fresh, and absolutely mouthwatering dishes that left me wanting more.
The Chef’s Touch Behind this delightful culinary journey is Chef Fendi Setiawan, a true master in blending these two rich gastronomic cultures. His deep knowledge of flavor profiles, ingredient combinations, and artistic presentation is evident in every dish. Each plate felt like a visual masterpiece, and the flavors were perfectly balanced — delicate yet bold, with a creative flair that made the experience unforgettable.
Signature Dishes One of the standout dishes I tried was their exquisite sushi selection, where the fresh ingredients truly spoke for themselves. The balance of textures and flavors was spot on. I also had the chance to try a flavorful ceviche-inspired dish, which combined zesty citrus notes with delicate sashimi — a perfect example of their Nikkei style.
Unique Experiences & Packages Hiiragi Restaurant also offers several special experiences that elevate your visit:
Romantic Dinner: This was absolutely magical. Picture a candlelit setup in a beautifully decorated garden setting — perfect for a special evening. Making Balinese Cocktail Class: I joined this fun workshop where I learned how to make Arak, a traditional Balinese cocktail — a great mix of learning and tasting! Chef’s Degustation: If you’re a foodie like me, this experience is a must! Each dish felt like a delightful surprise, carefully designed to showcase the best of their fusion cuisine.
Final Thoughts If you’re visiting Bali and looking for a dining experience that combines art, flavor, and ambiance, Hiiragi Restaurant is an absolute must. The blend of Japanese precision, Peruvian vibrancy, and Chef Fendi’s creative touch makes it a standout spot for both casual diners and serious food lovers alike. I can't wait to go back and explore more of their...
Read moreIf you are looking for a cozy Japanese restaurant in the area, this is a great option. The friendly staff will welcome you and provide you with a very happy dining experience.
Entering the gate of this Hiiragi restaurant, you will find yourself in the garden of Blue Karma Village, where the ancient and modern worlds of Bali and Japan merge. The sight of the garden is a reminder that what you eat is important, but the sight before your eyes is also a treat.
Hiiragi is a Japanese word chosen by the Balinese manager and the French owner. It is a flower with blue or red-colored berries that has the meaning of "to protect your loved ones," and is named after the resort's overall attitude and policy toward its guests.
As a Japanese, I have experienced at least 10 Japanese restaurants in Bali (Sanur, Nusa Dua, Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud)where Japanese chefs are involved. All the chefs say, "The difficult part is the soup stock “Dashi in Japanese “ and broth, and the amount of salt,". If these are good, in most cases, there is no need to worry about the other Japanese dishes.
As I am a small eater, I had Edamame and Yakitori on this day. These dishes are dangerous (in a very good way) and make you want to drink more and more. The grill was perfectly cooked, and the salt and sauce were so well seasoned that I wanted rice. In other words, I almost gave in to my desire to make a Yakitori bowl, and ended up drinking most of the Yakitori sauce (please don't tell my wife, as she would be furious if she knew, saying it was...
Read moreThis breakfast felt like waking up in a five-star dream — and it delivered beyond expectations.
The Breakfast Basket alone earns an A+: flaky pastries, artisan breads, tropical fruits, and homemade jams, all bursting with freshness and flavor.
From an extensive menu of global and local delights, I chose a Greek yoghurt and granola bowl, elevated with local honey and exotic fruits — light, fresh, and energizing. I followed with perfectly cooked scrambled eggs, though I regret not trying the Indonesian black rice pudding, which looked rich, coconutty, and deeply indulgent.
From classics to cultural gems, everything was thoughtfully crafted. Warm service and a serene setting...
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