It’s pretty obvious that any seasoned traveller to Bali would tell you that Jimbaran is the place to go to for a good seafood fix. But which restaurant should you pick? The entire strip of sand is lined with a dozen seafood joints offering similar dishes with slightly different pricing. From experience however, the best place to dine at is Menega Cafe.
What to expect…
Located in the middle of Jimbaran’s famous foodie stretch, Menega Cafe offers reasonably good service, great pricing and a beautiful view. Though the food may take a little longer than usual to arrive from the time of order, it is worth the wait. While grilled seafood come in two styles based on authentic Balinese seasoning and sauces, the fun part about ordering food here is the personal involvement in choosing your fresh seafood at the entrance of the restaurant.
For approximately IDR420,000 (USD45), a set for two people includes one whole live lobster, one fish, six large clams, six skewers of calamari and a drink selection from either 2 glasses of wine, 2 small beers, 2 fruit juices or 2 soft drinks. This set usually is accompanied with a basket of steamed rice, stir-fry Balinese vegetables and slices of fruit.
Apart from jumbo prawns, crabs, lobster, squid and clams, their selection of fish is rather wide with choices of barracuda, grouper, red snapper, white snapper, and king fish. As the restaurant is always full, its best to either make a reservation before hand or arrive early to grab a spot. The best part about arriving early is the glorious sunset that unfolds before you.
Its a great place for families as well as couples looking for that special dinner by the water.
The stretch of seafood joints along the beach
The busy sands of Jimbaran
Selecting fresh jumbo prawns at the entrance
Grilled to perfection!
The beautiful sunset
Amazing views till darkness sets in 
Menega Cafe is located near the Four Seasons Hotel at Jalan Four Seasons, Muaya Beach, Jimbaran, Bali. Contact No: +62.361705888
Text & Photography by Rosemarie John © All Rights Reserved
I’ve been to Bali – loved it! – but I didn’t go here. I’m gutted now because it looks great! Nothing is better than fresh seafood with a bottle of Bintang.
Hi Simon, when I first visited Bali I ended up on the other side of Jimbaran which charged us a bomb for a seafood dinner. This restaurant was by recommendation and it was so worth it!
The next time you’re in Bali you should go to Sanur – to the Hyatt Reef row of restaurants. There you’ll find Isakaya. Menega is darn good, but Isakaya is better, and their sambals are to die for. Trust me, I live in Indonesia. I go to Bali once a month. Plus, the price will be much much cheaper than Menega.
Thanks for the tip, shall check it out when I return next.