Bali’s enchanting coastal area of Uluwatu welcomes a new addition to its thriving culinary scene with the grand opening of YUKI Uluwatu. The new Japanese-inspired izakaya is nestled close to the scenic coastline and promises to be a celebration of creativity, culture, and exceptional flavours.
Embracing the Balinese heritage of founder Rai Sutama, YUKI Uluwatu fuses traditional Japanese cuisine with locally sourced Balinese ingredients to offer an unforgettable dining experience in a relaxed, open-air setting.
Following the success of YUKI Canggu, which opened in December 2021, YUKI Uluwatu embraces Uluwatu’s surf culture, vibrant community, and coastal allure, infusing creative elements and the spirit of Bali into its culinary offerings. Focusing on fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients, the culinary team collaborates with local fishermen to bring the finest seafood, fresh off the boat, to the table.
Executive Chef Yudha Permana (ex-Sangsaka Restaurant with Chef Kieran Moreland) expertise shines through as he combines Japanese handling techniques with Balinese ingredients to create masterful dishes.
From innovative plant-based sushi to wood-fired specialities, YUKI Uluwatu presents a delectable array of dishes that transcend traditional Japanese cuisine.
Menu highlights include Truffled Tuna Tartare; Nori Ahi Tacos with ponzu watermelon; Line Caught Island sashimi; Charcoal-grilled Yakimono Octopus with black vinegar, and shiso oil; Wagyu Beef Sando with smoked cheddar cheese, truffle aioli and onion jam; Primary & Secondary Beef Cuts like Jack Creek Wagyu Striploin with a choice of sauces such as karashi mustard or green pepper miso, and sides from burnt butter corn puree to green asparagus with garlic shoyu.
The menu caters to diverse tastes, offering vegan options like Yaki Onigiri Chickpea and creative dishes like Torched Salmon Maki with tuna, crab, tobiko and spicy mayo.
YUKI Uluwatu’s cocktail menu complements the culinary journey by presenting a collection of light and refreshing drinks that perfectly suit the relaxed setting. Each cocktail is crafted with care, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a touch of surprise. Signature cocktails include Yukies with goji berry-infused gin; Yuku Daiquiri with house blend rum and burnt lemon; and Pulau Merah with vodka, Aperol, watermelon, raspberry and ginger ale.
Designed by Kōsame, the restaurant’s elegant interior reflects Japan’s wabi-sabi aesthetics, embracing simplicity and warmth.
Sustainable elements, such as Java wood, Kerobokan stones, rattan, and Japanese Noren-inspired fabrics, hang from the ceiling, creating a space that tells a captivating tale of responsible consumption and transparent value chains.
The 120-seat restaurant features tables for communal style dining, an intimate bar, cosy two-seaters, sunken lounges, and a private dining enclave.
A Cultural Journey at the Heart of YUKI Uluwatu can be seen in its deep respect for Balinese culture, with its entire management team and staff composed of Balinese and Indonesian individuals, all committed to offering a warm and welcoming experience to patrons.
The restaurant’s journey began with a Melaspas Ceremony, seeking blessings from the gods to operate on the sacred land. With guidance from the highest priest in Bali, the ceremony marked a significant milestone in the restaurant’s inception, infusing it with divine blessings and cultural reverence.
About Founder Rai Sutama and the YUKI Team
Born to an Italian/Australian mother and a Balinese father, Rai Sutama was raised between Melbourne, Australia, and Bali, fostering a profound connection to his cultural roots.
With a background in the Australian hospitality industry, notably the Crown Towers in the Mahogany Room, Rai’s passion for hospitality led him back to his homeland in Bali, where his father (after 14 years managing nightclubs at the Crown Casino) is now a Hindu priest, carrying forward the ancestral Mangku wisdom and devotion within the Anak Agung family of Royal Descent.
Immersed once again in the vibrant Balinese culture, Rai took on a leadership role at Old Man’s in Canggu, one of Bali’s prominent establishments. Feeling inspired, he bravely embarked on his own entrepreneurial journey and successfully opened YUKI Canggu in December 2021 and now YUKI Uluwatu in August 2023.
Returning to Bali held a deep sense of privilege and honour for Rai, allowing him to immerse himself in the culture he cherishes. At YUKI, Rai takes immense pride in working with talented individuals who hail from the heart of the island’s hospitality and charm, showcasing the true essence of Bali through their remarkable skills.
Rai is joined by a dynamic team of passionate individuals at YUKI, each playing pivotal roles in shaping the restaurant’s success.
Dewa Waho, also a Managing Partner, contributes his 14 years of expertise in operations and service management (notably international operations with Mano Beach House), infusing experiences with ancient traditions and contemporary style.
Aris Pritana, the Operational Manager, boasts 13 years of invaluable hospitality knowledge (including 5-star hotels Hyatt in Dubai and the Santika Hotel in Bali), ensuring every guest enjoys an extraordinary dining encounter.
Windu Tenaya, the Beverage Director and Managing Partner, brings over two decades of hospitality experience, curating a creative drinks list with cocktails that focus on island flavours with a Japanese influence.
The culinary team is led by Executive Chef Yudha Permana (ex-Sangsaka Restaurant and Mano Beach House) and Head Chef Kadek Bajil (ex-Sake No Hanna with Chef Tadashi Inose, Toro Sushi, and the prestigious Pullman Hotel), both masterfully blending tradition and innovation in crafting exceptional culinary experiences.
As Yuki’s ventures continue to prosper and expand, Rai’s sister Camelia Sari assumes a pivotal role in overseeing marketing and operations, playing a vital part in driving the brand’s growth. Her warm and welcoming smile always remains a constant presence, epitomising her unwavering commitment to curating memorable experiences for YUKI’s guests.
Together, this cohesive team creates a dining space that celebrates Balinese culture and Japanese flavours while delivering unforgettable moments to every diner.
YUKI Uluwatu Website.
Open from 4 pm til late daily.
Address: 53MV+5H5, Uluwatu, Pecatu, South Kuta, Bali
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