An insider’s dining guide to where to eat while holidaying in the sun-kissed shores of Bali and Koh Samui to the snowy slopes of Niseko, Furano and Rusutsu
The most memorable holidays often come coupled with fantastic feasts. And why not, when holiday calories don’t count right? Whether you’re a taste-curious traveller or a gourmand eyeing some of Asia’s most sought-after tables, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s a run-down on the most stylish neighbourhoods to visit and the cafes and restaurants to hit when you’re travelling to Bali in Indonesia; Koh Samui in Thailand; and Niseko, Furano and Rusutsu in Hokkaido, Japan.
BALI
This popular Indonesian island is a great getaway for tropical weather all year round and boasts a truly world-class dining scene with venues that span nearly every cuisine imaginable. Of particular note is the northern coast: the neighbouring areas of Berawa, Canggu, Pererenan and Umalas are home to an irresistible mix of beachfront restaurant-bars and café clusters.
Seminyak continues to be perennially popular, and is a place to enter the Bali state of mind with so many spots for sunrise coffees, golden-hour meals and lots of fun boutiques for some window shopping. Meanwhile, up-and-coming Sanur is made for family bonding: think beautiful beaches with shallow areas, coupled with child-friendly facilities and restaurants that are made for a fun and safe time for all ages.
Read more: 72 Hours in Seminyak — Where to Dine, Shop and Unwind
We’ll let you in on a secret: If you’re keen on laid-back meals in your very own space, booking a villa with a private chef is the way to go. From homely, wholesome meals at Nag Shampa Estate (which has its very own farm) to full feasting at Akashi Residence and Villa Anaya Manis, nothing beats having an epic feast in your private space. Plus, photogenic floating breakfasts and stylish sunset BBQs are easy to arrange too.
Top Recommendations: Canggu is overflowing with cool spots like the original MASONRY., the creative complex Desa Kitsuné and Blacksand Brewery. In nearby Pererenan, seek out Bar Vera, Kilo, Shelter, Woods, HOME by Chef Wayan, Milk & Madu; venture a bit further for Bokashi in Berawa as well as the old reliable Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak.
The jungle-clad Ubud is paradise for gourmands with stalwarts like Room 4 Dessert (featured on acclaimed TV show Chef’s Table) and Locavore leading the pack. Don’t miss coffee spots like Seniman Coffee Studio, TONYRAKA Art Lounge, Melali Ubud, Moksa, The Elephant, Suka Espresso.
Other venues to note are The Bench Brewery and MASONRY. in Uluwatu. Byrd House Bali and Shotgun Social in Sanur, both kid-friendly.
Read more: Where to eat in Ubud — Bali’s Culinary Mecca
KOH SAMUI
Thailand’s luxury island destination may be better known for its private villas and indulgent wellness retreats — cue The White Lotus music — but its dining scene is arguably one to watch too, especially if you ask the Michelin Guide. Koh Samui has been receiving extra international attention since the airing of Season 3 of the HBO series, which showcased the island’s luxury villas, idyllic beaches and lively nightlife at Fisherman’s Village.
Part of the island’s charm lies in its rustic natural beauty and laidback island atmosphere. Although there may not be a concentrated area filled with modern dining venues, you’ll find great gems around the island. The best way to explore is by car (a Grab ride away): seek out the beaches, followed by the great dining options, especially in Bophut and Chaweng.
Read more: Shoreline Secrets: The Best Beaches to Visit in Koh Samui
Of course, private chefs are part of the complete villa experience. Examples include Villa Akatsuki, Baan Kilee and Ban Suriya in exclusive Lipa Noi, which are each staffed with a top in-house chef who will ensure tasty meals throughout the day for you and your travel entourage. Panacea Retreat also features a central kitchen ready to whip up delicious meals on demand.
Recommendations: Bophut favourites include 2 Fishes, Kapi Sator, as well as CoCo Tam’s and Thai Tapas in Fisherman’s Village. Phensiri in Chaweng. When it comes to your daily bread, a reliable go-to for baked goods is Cafe K.O.B., which has multiple outlets across the island.
Read More: Your Complete Guide to Where to Eat in Koh Samui
NISEKO
The crown jewel of Hokkaido’s famed Japow triangle, Niseko is the first stop of those looking for their powder fix. Thanks to its international character, this Japanese ski destination has also drawn a colourful mix of restaurateurs who have created a globally forward selection of dining options to be savoured before and after your snow adventures.
Don’t Miss: Niseko Apres-Ski Guide: Where to Eat, Drink and Be Merry
Niseko regulars know Hirafu Village is the heart of it all, from the most popular ski-in ski-out condotels to cafés and bars to visit for relaxing après-ski moments. Another tip: don’t miss out on dining in nearby Kutchan. A 20-minute drive from Hirafu will bring you to more delicious finds at a town known for quality locally-grown potatoes and a great mix of restaurants, with a better value for money.
Top Recommendations: Slopeside restaurants like the newly-opened MASONRY. Japan in Niseko Kyo and Roketto in The Maples Niseko offer sustenance and easy access back to the runs. Stylish arrivals like AóRA and Tepache by Eatme Group are worth checking out for the global gourmand. Don’t forget après-ski favourites Bar Gyu+, Music Bar Mina Mina and Niseko Confidential.
Read Next: Interview with Chef Ben Cross of MASONRY. Japan
FURANO
Located right in the middle of Hokkaido in Japan, this “navel town” is known for flower fields, fresh produce and amazing ski slopes, making it a year-round destination drawing visitors from around the world. Your sightseeing and powder-chasing adventures can be well paired with farm visits as well as great meals at Japanese restaurants and eateries.
Top Recommendations: Farm Tomita and Popura Farm Cafe during the green season, Cheese Factory and Furano Winery as one-stop shops for tasting, shopping and tours; Ronin Coffee at the Fenix West condo hotel for a caffeine hit. Try the Hokkaido-style soup curry at Furanoya and Yuiga Doxon; a meat-focused feast at yakiniku restaurant Mangoo; a modern European menu at Furano French Take and Italian restaurant Rincontro for affordable and delicious pastas.
Read Also: Furano Dining Guide: From Soft Serve to Soup Curry to Indulge In
RUSUTSU
A wide expanse of space, a large amusement park and fantastic ski slopes — these and more await at Rusutsu, a Hokkaido resort town that is a concentrated hub of action. The family-friendly destination offers plenty of options great for kids and travellers of all ages, whether during sunny summer days or in the thick of winter with ample Japow.
Although the dining options may be less varied than Niseko and Furano, the selection available presents a tasty blend of local flavours and international cuisines, within and just outside of the Rusutsu Resort where The Vale Rusutsu is located.
Read More: Rusutsu Dining Guide: Where to Eat This Season
Recommendations: Hokkaido’s famed “Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)” grilled mutton dish at Mokumokuya; Uo-teru and TAKiBi for the quintessential izakaya experience; grilled dishes at Rusutsu Sakaba; Rodeo Drive for fresh pints of beers and homemade dishes; The Red House for a multicultural menu.