Quick Summary
- Gooseberry Uluwatu is a family-owned restaurant located in a hidden alley above Bingin Beach, featuring a sophisticated French-inspired interior and a tranquil poolside outdoor area.
- The menu offers modern casual French cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with standout dishes like Tuna Tataki, Double Filled Ravioli, Turkish Eggs, and Soufflé Pancakes.
- Pricing is in the moderately upscale range for Bali, with a complete dinner for one costing around 620,000 IDR, justified by high-quality imported ingredients.
- Service is consistently praised as exceptional, with staff described as attentive,Â
- professional, and warm, contributing to a memorable dining experience.
- While most reviews are excellent, some customers note inconsistencies in dinner quality, with specific pasta dishes sometimes found to be bland and portions small for the price.
- The nearby Coco Hills Resort is presented as an option to extend the experience, offering luxury villas, a wellness sanctuary, and a coworking space.
What We’ll Cover
- Atmosphere & Location
- Menu & Cuisine
- Price & Value
- Service & Dining Experience
- Convenience & Accessibility
- What Customers Are Saying
- A Hidden Gem Nearby: Coco Hills Resort
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- Sources
Uluwatu’s dramatic cliffs and world-class surf breaks hide countless culinary treasures, but few have earned the quiet devotion that the Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant has. This family-owned establishment has built a stellar reputation as a sophisticated yet relaxed destination, blending modern French cuisine with the laid-back charm of Bingin.
This review will take you inside this acclaimed Uluwatu dining spot, exploring everything from its intimate, poolside atmosphere to its standout dishes and impeccable service. We’ll also uncover a nearby destination that can turn your exceptional meal into a complete lifestyle getaway.
Atmosphere & Location
Tucked away in a narrow alley just above Bingin Beach, Gooseberry feels like a well-kept secret. Its hidden gem location creates a sense of exclusivity from the moment you arrive. Despite the secluded access, this Bingin Beach restaurant offers ample parking with staff providing a warm, hotel-style valet welcome.
The interior is a beautifully designed, air-conditioned space that balances modern casual French aesthetics with cozy, contemporary comfort. In a refreshing move, Gooseberry maintains a screen-free policy, encouraging diners to connect and engage with their surroundings and company.
Outside, a tranquil pool serves as the centerpiece for the outdoor seating area, transforming the venue into a relaxed tropical oasis. Lush greenery surrounds the deck, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a meal or cocktail in Bali’s open air. This seamless blend of indoor sophistication and outdoor resort-like calm allows the atmosphere at the Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant to transition effortlessly from a bright breakfast spot to an elegant dinner setting.
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Menu & Cuisine
Gooseberry specializes in modern casual French cuisine with international and contemporary BBQ influences. The kitchen emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients to create a menu that is both refined and approachable, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
Several signature dishes have become favorites among regulars. For pasta lovers, the Gnocchi Tartufo and the Double Filled Ravioli with 12-hour wagyu brisket are rich and satisfying. Seafood is a highlight, with options like the delicate Tuna Tataki Yuzu Truffle and charcoal-grilled Brown Butter Squid. Meat enthusiasts praise the high-quality prime aged steaks and the perfectly moist Rotisserie Chicken.
The breakfast and brunch menus are equally impressive, cementing its status as a top spot for brunch in Uluwatu. Standouts include the savory Turkish Eggs on Pillowy Flatbread and the unique Chicken & Waffle Benedict. For those with a sweet tooth, the light and airy French Omelette Soufflé is a must-try.
The kitchen at the Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant thoughtfully caters to various dietary needs, with clear labeling for vegetarian (V), vegan (VG), and gluten-free (GF) options on the menu. The beverage program is just as robust, featuring a full bar, a curated wine list, and expertly crafted cocktails like the Spiced Coconut Margarita.
Price & Value
The Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant positions itself in the moderately upscale price range for Bali, with pricing comparable to dining in a major international city. A complete dinner for one person, including a main course, side, beverage, and dessert, typically costs around 620,000 IDR.
Breakfast items range from 90,000 to 155,000 IDR, while main courses like the Grilled Tasmanian Salmon are priced at 265,000 IDR and the 250g AUS Black Angus Ribeye at 595,000 IDR. All prices are subject to a 10% government tax and a 7% service charge.
While more expensive than typical local eateries, guests often find the value justified by the exceptional quality of the ingredients. The restaurant uses high-grade imported proteins like Australian Black Angus beef, Tasmanian salmon, and Japanese oysters. For diners accustomed to European or North American fine dining prices, specific dishes like the foie gras and burrata are considered reasonably priced. The value here is in the premium ingredients and skilled execution, not necessarily in portion size.
The Unforgettable Service at Gooseberry Uluwatu Restaurant
The service is consistently cited as a highlight of the dining experience at the Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant. Staff are described as attentive, professional, and genuinely cheerful, often going the extra mile to make guests feel welcome. From crafting decorative flowers out of napkins to personally greeting tables, the owner and team add a warm, personal touch that elevates the meal.
Waiters are knowledgeable about the menu and strike a perfect balance between being responsive and unobtrusive. In a progressive touch noted by reviewers, the staff offers female diners the opportunity to taste the wine first, departing from traditional norms.
The restaurant accommodates reservations, which is recommended, especially for larger groups seeking a memorable Uluwatu dining experience. Diners should note the 10 PM closing time; some guests arriving later in the evening have mentioned feeling a bit rushed as staff begin closing procedures. Overall, the hospitality is exceptional, making Gooseberry a top choice for special occasions, from romantic dinners to celebratory group gatherings.
Convenience & Accessibility
The Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant is located at Gang Pirta, Pecatu, a short distance from some of Uluwatu’s most famous beaches. It is approximately 0.58 miles from Bingin Beach, 0.89 miles from Pantai Dreamland, and 1.43 miles from Balangan Beach, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the area.
The restaurant is open seven days a week, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. While its hidden location in a narrow alley can make it tricky to find, the on-site parking and valet-like assistance make arrival seamless. Takeout services are also available for those who prefer to enjoy their meal elsewhere. Reservations can be made through their official website or various online booking platforms.
What Customers Are Saying
Customer feedback for the Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant is overwhelmingly positive, with an estimated 90-95% of reviews describing the experience as “amazing” and the “best in Uluwatu.” Breakfast and brunch receive universal acclaim. However, a small number of detailed, critical reviews highlight significant inconsistencies, particularly concerning dinner service and specific dishes.
Recurring Praise
- Exceptional Service: This is the most frequently praised aspect. Staff are consistently described as incredibly friendly, attentive, professional, and warm. Many guests mention employees by name (including Nadia, Ovi, Oko, Suan, Dodi, and Nick), noting personalized and memorable interactions.
- Beautiful Atmosphere: The restaurant’s stylish decor, cozy vibe, and poolside setting are consistently highlighted. It is often referred to as a “hidden gem” and considered a perfect venue for dates, special occasions, or a relaxed meal.
- Outstanding Breakfast & Brunch: The breakfast menu is a major highlight, with several dishes frequently recommended:
- Soufflé Pancakes: Described as “divine” and “fluffy like marshmallows.”
- Turkish Eggs: Often cited as one of the best versions customers have ever had.
- French Toast and Miso Avocado Toast are also popular choices.
- The Coconut Matcha Cloud is a standout unique drink.
Common Complaints
- Inconsistent Dinner Quality: While most food is praised, some dinner items are polarizing. The Truffle Gnocchi and Ravioli received conflicting feedback, with some guests finding them bland, tasteless, and poorly executed.
- High Price Point: Multiple reviewers note the restaurant is expensive for Bali. While many feel the quality justifies the cost, it becomes a point of criticism when the food or service does not meet expectations.
- Small Dinner Portions: A few customers mentioned that dinner portion sizes felt small for the price.
Standout Feedback
On the positive side, many patrons are repeat visitors, with some dining at Gooseberry in Uluwatu multiple times during their trip. It is frequently called the “best meal” of their entire Bali vacation.
However, some significant negative feedback stands out:
- One review alleges that the restaurant offers free desserts in exchange for 5-star reviews.
- A returning customer noted a decline in quality over three years, stating a beef tartare dish was now smaller, more expensive, and less flavorful.
- One guest reported a severe service failure, including an inflexible cocktail policy, multiple unavailable menu items (wine, mashed potatoes), and receiving the wrong ingredients, calling it their “worst and most expensive dinner in Bali.”
A Hidden Gem Nearby: Coco Hills Resort
The experience of discovering a hidden gem is part of what makes a trip to Uluwatu so special. For those searching for the same level of quality found at the Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant, Coco Hills Resort offers a complete lifestyle experience just moments away in the beautiful hills of Bingin.
Surrounded by luxury villas with breathtaking ocean and city views, Coco Hills is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination designed for balance. After a delicious brunch at Gooseberry, you could retreat to the resort’s peaceful wellness sanctuary for a holistic treatment or recharge with a session in the modern, fully equipped gym.
For remote professionals, the beautifully designed coworking space provides a focused environment for creativity and collaboration, complete with a professional podcast studio. The highlight is the stunning beach-style pool, where soft sands meet crystal-clear water, creating an island vibe perfect for lounging under the sun. With its own on-site restaurant serving everything from hearty breakfasts to sunset cocktails, Coco Hills allows you to immerse yourself fully in the elegant, convenient, and vibrant community that defines this exclusive part of Bali.
Explore the full experience at https://cocodevelopmentgroup.com/coco-hills-resort-bali/.
Final Thoughts
Gooseberry Uluwatu is a must-visit for travelers seeking an elevated dining experience that feels both special and effortlessly relaxed. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner, a celebratory brunch, or simply for anyone who appreciates high-quality food served with genuine warmth and professionalism. The beautiful setting and exceptional service create a memorable atmosphere that stands out even in Bali’s competitive culinary scene.
For the ultimate Uluwatu getaway, pairing a meal at this French-inspired oasis with a stay at the nearby Coco Hills Resort offers a seamless blend of sophisticated dining and luxurious living. Together, they capture the perfect balance of comfort, elegance, and tropical charm, making your visit to the Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant the centerpiece of an unforgettable Bali adventure.
FAQ
The Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant is located at Gang Pirta, Pecatu, tucked away in a narrow alley just above Bingin Beach. It's approximately 0.58 miles from Bingin Beach, 0.89 miles from Pantai Dreamland, and 1.43 miles from Balangan Beach.
Gooseberry is open seven days a week, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Yes, despite its hidden location, the restaurant provides ample on-site parking with a warm, hotel-style valet welcome.
The restaurant specializes in modern casual French cuisine with international and contemporary BBQ influences, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
For breakfast and brunch, guests highly recommend the Soufflé Pancakes, Turkish Eggs, and the French Omelette Soufflé. Popular dinner items include the Double Filled Ravioli, Tuna Tataki Yuzu Truffle, and the prime aged steaks.
Yes, the menu clearly labels vegetarian (V), vegan (VG), and gluten-free (GF) options for easy identification.
The restaurant offers a sophisticated yet relaxed "hidden gem" vibe. It features a modern, air-conditioned interior and a tranquil outdoor area centered around a pool. The venue also has a screen-free policy to encourage guest interaction.
It is in the moderately upscale range for Bali. A three-course dinner for one person costs around 620,000 IDR. Prices are subject to a 10% tax and 7% service charge. While considered expensive for the area, many find the price justified by the high-quality imported ingredients.
Service is the most consistently praised aspect of Gooseberry. Staff are described as exceptionally attentive, professional, and friendly. However, some late-night diners have reported feeling rushed near the 10 PM closing time.
While most reviews are positive, some guests have found specific dinner dishes, like the Truffle Gnocchi and Ravioli, to be bland and disappointing. A few diners also mentioned that dinner portions felt small for the price.
Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, to ensure a table. They can be made through the restaurant's website or other online platforms.
Yes, Coco Hills Resort is located just moments away in the hills of Bingin. It offers a luxurious lifestyle experience, allowing you to pair an elegant meal at the Gooseberry Uluwatu restaurant with a stay that includes access to a wellness sanctuary, a modern gym, and a coworking space.
After enjoying brunch at Gooseberry, you can retreat to Coco Hills to relax by the pool, enjoy a spa treatment, or work from its professional coworking space. This combination turns a fantastic meal into a complete, immersive getaway that blends fine dining with wellness and sophisticated living.
Sources
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/RestaurantReview-g1380108-d17713871-Reviews-GooseberryFrenchRestaurantUluwatu-PecatuBukitPeninsula_Bali.html
- https://bali.com/places/gooseberry-restaurant
- https://www.gooseberry-restaurant.com
- https://www.dishcult.com/restaurant/gooseberry
- https://gooseberry-french-restaurant-uluwatu.wheree.com
- https://wanderlog.com/place/details/1898091/gooseberry-french-restaurant–uluwatu
- https://my.trip.com/moments/detail/bali-438-124140424
- https://gofood.co.id/en/bali/restaurant/gooseberry-restaurant-uluwatu-aa92fc05-64ec-485a-89ed-6bc8d9090a52
- https://www.chope.co/bali-restaurants/restaurant/gooseberry-restaurant-uluwatu
- https://sincerelyloewe.com/gooseberry-restaurant-upscale-french-restaurant-in-uluwatu
- https://safarway.com/en/property/gooseberry-restaurant
- https://www.rexby.com/melandphil/ttd/charming-upmarket-french-restaurant
- https://www.google.com/maps/place//data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x2dd2451a469faef9:0xe58a483efe67c924
Rasmus Holst is a serial entrepreneur and Co-Founder of COCO Development Group, where he helps drive innovation and growth through strategic business development. He is also the Co-Founder of Estate of Bali and Regnskabshelten.dk, Denmark’s fastest-growing accounting firm, which grew to 35 employees and generated $2.5M in turnover in 2023. Rasmus is passionate about building businesses that create long-term value and impact.
