Longtime Bali: The New Go-To for a Good Time … and a taste of the unusual…

Bali’s dining scene has no shortage of incredible restaurants, and after a few days of exploring the island, it was time to hit up Longtime—the latest venture by hospitality heavyweights Banksia Hospitality—is already making waves with its unique approach to its menu. Nestled in the burgeoning Berawa strip in Canggu, this architecturally stunning restaurant will blow your mind. With its blend of contemporary Asian cuisine, expertly crafted cocktails, and a chic yet energetic vibe, Longtime might just be the spot you didn’t know you were waiting for.

Meet the Power Team Behind Longtime

The dream team at Banksia Hospitality includes Jordie Strybos, Pablo Fourcard, and Randa Assi, three industry veterans who’ve already made their mark in Bali with beloved spots like Milk & Madu. Randa, with an impressive résumé that spans international openings for Gordon Ramsay and stints at Melbourne’s Lucas Group, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Together, they’ve created a venue that feels as much like a destination as it does a restaurant.

Heading the kitchen is Chef Tyler Preston, whose resume reads like a greatest hits list of contemporary Asian dining, including iconic venues like Chin Chin Melbourne and Bang Bang Byron Bay. His innovative take on Asian-inspired dishes ensures every plate tells a story. Meanwhile, at the bar, Vitalii Klak delivers a cocktail menu that perfectly complements Tyler’s culinary creations.

First Impressions Count

Walking into Longtime Bali from the front terrace, wrapped in vines and greenery, offers a casual vibe where you can watch the buzzy streets. But almost like a speakeasy, you step inside to a different world, forgetting you are in Bali, greeted by a high-ceilinged dining room with exposed brick walls, an elegant champagne-style bar, and a mix of cozy booths and shared tables. It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend hours sipping cocktails, enjoying great food, and maybe—just maybe—getting into a little trouble at the bar.

For something extra special, there’s a private dining room adorned with custom artwork by Rizz—perfect for intimate dinners or celebrations.

Food That Pushes Boundaries

Now, let’s talk about the food. Chef Tyler Preston has taken familiar Asian dishes and added his signature twist, creating a menu that’s bold, surprising, and undeniably delicious.

We kicked things off with the Curious Burrata, a dish that has no business working—but it does. “Traditionally, burrata is used in European cuisine, but I wanted to bring it into our menu with an Asian twist,” Tyler explained as he cruised the dining room in his signature red hat, chatting with guests. “One of my favorite things to eat is spicy pepperoni pizza topped with burrata—this is my Longtime version: spicy, cheesy, with the crunch of roti.” And holy moly, was it good.

Other standout starters included the Beef Tartare, served with soy-cured yolk and salt-and-vinegar crisps, and the Beef Rendang Spring Rolls, packed with rich, bold flavors.

Mains That Steal the Show

Moving on to mains, we couldn’t resist the Pork Belly, which was twice-cooked in five spice and served with tamarind caramel and pineapple—a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and umami. But the star of the evening was the Dry Ramen. Imagine this: tonkotsu gravy, roasted marrow, smoked tare, ajitama egg, and ramen noodles with a carbonara-like texture. It’s a dish that’s impossible to forget. Go here just for this! (and the Curious Burrata) 

Dessert at Longtime is an event in itself. We tried all three options on the menu: the Mille-Feuille Vanilla Cream Rice Pudding, the Yuzu Pie with its bright curd and delicate meringue, and the Salted Chocolate Soil, featuring milk chocolate ganache gelato and chocolate caviar. Each was a masterpiece, and trying to pick a favorite was near impossible.

The cocktail list, curated by Vitalii Klak, is as creative as the food. Being somewhat of a Negroni nut we had to start with the house Negroni, featuring coconut mango vermouth, before moving on to the Saints of Sanchez, a blend of gochujang tequila, coconut, agave, and lime. Each drink was a testament to the bar team’s creativity and precision, until Tyler (also a Negroni nut) convinced us to try the more traditional Negroni, I was in heaven.

Longtime is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place that suits any occasion. Whether you’re grabbing a casual meal on the terrace, enjoying a date night in the dining room, or sipping wine solo at the sleek bar, Longtime has something for everyone. And with Chef Tyler Preston’s pedigree and a team of hospitality pros steering the ship, you can expect an experience that’s both memorable and elevated.

Why You Need to Visit

If you’re in Bali and looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Longtime Bali should be at the top of your list. With its creative menu, stylish setting, and warm hospitality, it’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again. Just don’t forget to order the Dry Ramen and Curious Burrata—trust me, they’re game-changers.

For more information and bookings visit https://www.longtimebali.com/