Restaurant Review: Riviera Trattoria – A Slice of Italy in Bali

In the heart of Bali’s vibrant culinary scene, Riviera Trattoria, the latest addition from the Riviera Group, led by the talented Chef Emilio Bean, offers an authentic Italian experience infused with the island’s warmth. Nestled in this tropical paradise, Riviera Trattoria seamlessly blends the best of Mediterranean traditions and Balinese hospitality, inviting guests to savour dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients and Italy’s signature bellissimo passion.

From the moment we stepped inside, all formalities melted away, and we immediately relaxed into the welcoming atmosphere—truly a little slice of Italy. Chef Emilio, who has spent seven years as part of Bali’s evolving gastronomic landscape, opened Riviera Trattoria as a natural extension of his culinary empire, which began four years ago with Riviera Bistro. His ethos? “It’s all about enjoying simple, delicious food with your favourite people.” And truly, isn’t that what life is all about?

Interiors and Ambiance

As a designer, I always begin by taking in the interiors. Riviera Trattoria is a two-story gem, with a design that effortlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces. The front offers high tables and a sleek bar, perfect for cocktails or light bites, while the main dining area features plush green velvet banquettes, complemented by warm wood tones and burgundy accents, right through to the fabulous bathrooms. The décor strikes a balance between on trend and timeless, with arched windows, ambient table lamps, and lush greenery that create a cosy yet elegant vibe.

For those daring enough to brave the heat, the outdoor seating area at the back, complete with well-placed fans, offers a charming spot to dine al fresco. Upstairs, an intimate private dining room provides the perfect setting for a more exclusive experience. The background music, a nostalgic mix of Italian classics, transports you to the Mediterranean coast, enhancing the laid-back yet elevated dining atmosphere.

The Food Journey

Chef Emilio greeted us warmly and asked about the kind of evening we had in mind. As this was a preview of the new menu, we were eager to let him guide us through his personal favourites. The menu, which evolves based on the freshest local ingredients, offers a delectable selection of Mediterranean and Italian classics.

We began with the antipasti—a delightful puff bread paired with whipped ricotta and honeycomb butter, both visually stunning and delicious. Juicy marinated olives, zucchini flowers stuffed with lemon ricotta, and lightly fried calamari with garlic aioli set the tone for an exceptional meal. From the wood-fired oven, we enjoyed chargrilled king prawns, bathed in garlic butter. The spinach and ricotta ravioli, topped with a buttery sauce and cheese crumble, took me back to my childhood in the Netherlands with its rich, cheesy flavours reminiscent of Gouda biscuit crumbs.

For drinks, I opted for a Pisco Negroni, a refreshing Italian twist on the classic cocktail, while my date chose the Foglie Colada—a fascinating mix of pandan puree, passionfruit, coconut, and orange—a complex yet perfectly balanced drink that added a local flair to the evening. And of course we finished on a fabulous limoncello.

To elevate your dining experience even further, Riviera Trattoria offers an extensive and beautifully curated wine list. Renowned for its quality and variety, it features some of the finest Italian wines in Bali, each chosen to pair perfectly with the dishes—it’s a wine lover’s paradise. Whether you opt for a modern or classic cocktail or indulge in the perfect aperitivo or digestivo, the selection available balances tradition and contemporary style to enhance any setting.

Though we focused on the pescatarian options, Riviera offers plenty for meat lovers, including a selection of cured meats like Prosciutto Crudo and Mortadella with Pistachio, as well as a 300g Black Angus rib-eye, perfect for those craving a hearty dish. For dessert, we couldn’t resist the Amaretto cherry gelato and chocolate of course —a smooth, indulgent taste of what’s to come from Riviera’s upcoming Gelateria in Berawa.

A Growing Culinary Empire

Riviera Trattoria is just one of Chef Emilio’s impressive ventures within the Riviera Group. His other locations include Riviera Bistro in Berawa and Riviera Café in Cemagi, which offers a more casual dining experience.

What truly sets Riviera apart is the dedication to quality, not only in its food but in its atmosphere and service. Chef Emilio’s philosophy is clear: “Riviera was born out of my desire to bring the flavours and vibes of the Mediterranean to Bali.” This passion resonates in every bite, every glass of wine and every interaction.

Whether you’re stopping by for a cocktail at the bar, indulging in a thoughtfully curated Italian meal, or treating yourself to some of the island’s finest gelato, Riviera Trattoria promises to deliver. Casual yet refined, welcoming yet sophisticated—it’s a true reflection of Chef Emilio’s culinary vision.

Mark your calendars for November, when Riviera Trattoria and the gelateria are set to open. You won’t want to miss this little piece of Italy, nestled in the heart of Bali.

And to leave you with a quote that captures the essence of Riviera: “The discovery of a new dish does more for the happiness of the human race than the discovery of a star.” – Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

For more information, visit rivieragroupbali.com.