THE NEW. RETRO. MODERN.

There’s nothing kitsch about Desa Kitsuné in Canggu, Bali

Desa Kitsuné, the venue nestled in the heart of Canggu, Bali – renowned for its Mediterranean and Latin-American inspired dishes – is more than just a restaurant. Rather, it is a thoughtfully curated lifestyle destination spanning an impressive 5,000 square metres, and almost like a little village of sorts. Indeed, the ‘desa’ in its name means ‘village’.

We’ll get to the food soon, but first a bit about the venue. A collaborative venture between the French-Japanese lifestyle brand Maison Kitsuné and the Indonesian luxury hospitality company, Savaya Group, this mini luxury resort blends fashion (runway shows run regularly), music (international and local guest DJs regularly) and Balinese culture (the fusion in the food; the very laidback vibe).

It’s like leaving Bali for a moment – but for an even bigger, funner, even more inclusive Bali. Folks of all nationalities come together – on the dancefloor; around the dinner table – to share stories of where they’ve come from and what they like to do in one of the world’s fledgling multicultural hotspots.

From sunrise coffees to late-night parties, the venue effortlessly adapts to every moment of the day or night, offering a refined and welcoming escape from the bustle of Canggu.

Step outside and there are lights that make a dainty garden space dazzle, complete with sunflowers to give you the full summery vibe.

At the heart of Desa Kitsuné is its chic interpretation of Parisian café culture, blending French elegance with Bali’s tropical ease. There are shaded courtyards, greenery aplenty, and small architectural details that when all added up, make a big impression. The design balances contemporary minimalism with warm natural textures, creating an atmosphere that feels both cosmopolitan and deeply rooted in its little corner of Canggu.

Dining at Desa is best done with a group, and the sharing of many dishes so as to really get a taste of all this venue has to offer.

The venue’s restaurant component, Ina Ré, blends South American street food culture and delicacies from the Mediterranean to deliver a delicious and memorable gastronomic experience. Dive into a steaming pot of aromatic paella, fresh ceviche, and succulent wood-fired grilled meats, where each bite is bursting with flavour.

For starters we sampled the woodfired barbeque octopus – the flesh slightly charred and served with bright citrus and olive sauces. Tangy is the word best to apply here.

We also shared the crispy eggplant, rich in flavour with a crunchy skin, pairing perfectly with naughty braised pork belly tacos.

For main we had to include a pan of the seafood paella this place is famous for – more octopus, clams, prawns, oh-my! The dish is first cooked up (slowly of course) in the kitchen and then brought to the table where your waiter sees to it that it sizzles a little longer before blitzing it with lemon, ready for your tastebuds.

Where I thought the kitsuné part in this venue’s name was an Indo-take on ‘kitchen’, it actually refers to supernatural, intelligent fox spirits with magical powers like shapeshifting, often serving the Shinto deity Inari or acting as mischievous tricksters. These powerful beings gain tails (up to nine) and greater abilities as they age, becoming wise, celestial beings or cunning tricksters known for their wisdom, illusions, and shapeshifting into human forms.

For culinary variety, Ina Re is worthy of two hats, and as a fun-filled venue, gets five stars. Drop in for an easy Prosecco or two, or go the full share-dinner experience. Either way, it’s a must-do on the Canggu map.

Antonino Tati & Lisa Andrews

 

Desa Kitsune is situated at Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu, Bali, Indonesia. Visit desakitsune.com for more information or for bookings.

 

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