Kala, Uluwatu: A Restaurant Review

Uluwatu has long been known for its surf breaks, clifftop views, and laid-back vibe, but my visit in 2024, showed a clear addition: a burgeoning food scene and at the top of the list is Kala. Blending modern Greek cuisine with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, Kala is a restaurant that effortlessly balances high-end dining with local charm. With its open kitchen, woodfire oven, and minimalist, natural design, Kala is carving out its place as a must-visit dining destination in Bali.

Before you even step inside, the understated lighting casts a warm glow over wooden tables and rattan chairs, creating a space that feels both chic and cozy. The interior is the brainchild of its three founders—Roman Golubyatinikov, Vladimir Vanin, and Ryan Jefferson—who have honed their expertise in Bali’s hospitality scene with Lola’s Mexican Cantina which is always pumping and Two Moods. Together, they’ve crafted a venue that’s both sophisticated and unpretentious, offering a high-end experience reminiscent of exclusive LA dining spots, but with a laid-back, island vibe.

A Feast for the Senses

The experience at Kala begins with a warm welcome. Eka, the manager, greeted me with that genuine Balinese warmth, immediately setting the tone for an evening of friendly service. Freshly baked flatbread arrives at the table as soon as I sit down—still warm from the oven—and served with a drizzle of olive oil that’s as simple as it is delicious.

To kick things off, I couldn’t resist the Greek Dirty Martini from the Aperitif menu, garnished with olives and feta—mmm feta in a martini works and paired perfectly with the first round of dishes: local sardines, fried and charcoal-grilled, served with a dollop of tzatziki and a squeeze of lemon. The flavors were fresh and distinctly Greek, yet perfectly at home in Uluwatu’s breezy setting.

Kala’s menu is a celebration of traditional Greek flavors, elevated with modern techniques and the finest local ingredients. A few standout dishes stole the show as I sipped a Chilean Chardonnay recommended from a curated list of classic and natural wines. 

Halloumi Tiropita: A magic combination of crispy pastry and creamy halloumi, drizzled with honey butter for the perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Dolmadakia: Grape leaves stuffed with minced beef and lamb, served with a smoked sour cream sauce that added a rich, velvety layer of flavor.

Tuna Carpaccio: Thin slices of fresh tuna served in a ponzu sauce that literally melted in my mouth.

For mains, Chef Zarrukh recommended the Lamb Koftas and Beef Rib. The lamb was perfectly spiced and cooked to tender perfection, while the beef rib fell effortlessly off the bone accompanied by skewered oyster mushrooms.

And then there was dessert. Now I am not really a “sweets guy,” but after one bit of this recommendation from Head Chef Zarrukh to try the Baklava Cheesecake I was a convert. Creamy, rich, and drizzled with a delicate vanilla cream, it was the perfect end to an unforgettable meal.

Sustainability at Its Core

Kala doesn’t just deliver on flavour—it also leads the way in sustainability. The dinnerware is a testament to this commitment, created in collaboration with Kevala and designer Sara Howard. Made from industrial byproducts, the plates and bowls embody eco-conscious design while maintaining a refined aesthetic.

This philosophy of sustainability extends to the restaurant’s ethos, reflected in its name. “Kala” means “good” in Greek and “time” in Indonesian, symbolizing the restaurant’s mission to create a “good time” for every guest. It’s a fitting name for a place that blends cultural influences so seamlessly.

At the helm of Kala’s kitchen is Head Chef Zarrukh Farkhodovich, whose warm humility and passion for his craft shine through in every dish. With over a decade of experience working alongside some of the world’s top chefs, Chef Zarrukh has brought his global expertise to Bali, creating a menu that honors Greek tradition while embracing local ingredients.

A Dining Experience Like No Other

Kala offers more than just a meal—it’s an experience that lingers. From the open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work to the inviting atmosphere that encourages long conversations over shared plates, everything about Kala is designed to bring people together.

Whether you’re a local foodie, a traveler in search of the next great meal, or someone looking to celebrate a special occasion, Kala is a place that will leave you smiling—and already planning your return visit.

So next time you’re in Uluwatu, don’t just stop by for the surf. Head to Kala for a taste of Greece, a touch of Bali, and an experience that truly feels like a “good time.