Knalpot Restaurant & Bar

Knalpot calls itself a tropical bistro, and it is one of the larger, better-looking venues on Jl. Raya Kuta: an open garden of shady trees and timber tables wrapped around a swimming pool. The kitchen team has Michelin-restaurant experience and the menu mixes local produce with international technique, backed by an on-site herb garden.

Breakfast runs into a bistro-style lunch and dinner menu. Regulars recommend the pulled-pork burger, fish tacos, tuna tartare and duck breast, and there are lighter small plates for grazing by the pool. The bar covers draught beer, wine, daiquiris, margaritas and a full cocktail list.

The dress code is relaxed (shorts and flip-flops are fine) and you are welcome to bring a towel and swimsuit and spend the afternoon by the pool while ordering food and drinks. There is also a table-tennis table. It is open from 11:30 to midnight; groups can reserve through the website or WhatsApp. Prices sit at the upper end of mid-range for Kuta.