Amici Bali by Enrico Bartolini – Italian Restaurant Seminyak
Monica Tindall
Fortunate to have many chef friends in Bali, when I asked for a restaurant recommendation not too far from my hotel that was worth writing home about, the suggestions were many! Bali is the place where big names leave a mark, and such is the case with Amici Bali.
Amici Bali by Enrico Bartolini – Italian Restaurant Seminyak
Amici Bali’s menu is designed by one of Italy’s most awarded chefs, Enrico Bartolini, whose restaurants currently hold 13 Michelin Stars! While the maestro himself isn’t a constant presence in the kitchen, his culinary vision is meticulously executed by the talented Sicilian Head Chef Alessandro D’amico. Alessandro’s experience at one of Enrico’s three-Michelin-starred establishments ensures a legacy of exceptional flavour at Amici.
Evenings at Amici are known for their lively atmosphere. Patrons enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and engaging conversations over delicious meals in an upbeat setting. Opting for a quieter experience, we visited mid-afternoon to fully appreciate the restaurant’s beautiful details.
Lush greenery mingles with rustic tiled floors and wooden furniture, creating a greenhouse-like vibe in the lounge – a perfect setting for a leisurely brunch. Moving further in, the atmosphere changes into an elegant dining area with warm lighting and a view into the kitchen. The rhythmic sounds of cooking and the occasional murmur of Italian conversation add to the restaurant’s exciting energy.
Amici Bali Menu
Staying true to Italian cuisine, the menu at Amici Bali by Enrico Bartolini is based on quality ingredients prepared simply to encourage the natural character of the produce to shine. However, it’s not your repetitive Italian menu appealing to the flock with a list of standard dishes that those-not-from-Italy consider the classics. Sure, there are classic dishes, but there is so much more to Italian cuisine than what survives the journey overseas. Here, we’re refreshingly surprised by the contemporary presentation and detour from what has become the norm in Italian restaurants overseas.
Scroll to the end for detailed menus and prices. Add 000 and ++ for tax and service.
Antipasti
La Mia Parmigiana (IDR 160) might be the most visually stunning version I’ve encountered. Creamy white and basil pesto sauces are swirled artistically on top, accented by a delicate pink edible flower. Deep-fried eggplant slices are layered within, alternating with rich tomato sauce, melty Grana Padano cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
Chef’s Il Polpo (IDR 160) is a must-try for octopus enthusiasts. The dish is edible art: tender grilled octopus with a beautifully charred finish. The plate explodes with vibrant colours – saffron-infused potatoes, sweet and sour bell peppers, and splatters of black squid ink sauce. Dabs of yellow saffron, orange bell pepper, pesto green, and white sauces complete the picture, like a colourful artist’s palette surrounding the centrepiece.
Uovo 62 Degree E Tartufo (IDR 170) is a rich, creamy, cheesy dish. Pecorino cheese dominates the palate with its earthy and slightly tangy character. The slow-cooked egg oozes at the touch of our forks, while small pieces of green asparagus have been treated lightly, gifting a light, firm crunch. Lastly, fresh black Italian truffle slices lay over the top.
Pizza
Restaurant manager Sebastian, a seasoned industry veteran of over a decade, declares Amici’s pizza “the best he’s ever had.” Coming from a self-proclaimed foodie who has lived around the world, that’s high praise. The Pizza Siciliana (IDR 195) lives up to the hype. The base, crafted from a unique blend of three flours, undergoes a 48-hour fermentation process, resulting in a light, airy crust with a satisfyingly crisp edge. The pizza is generously topped with a vibrant tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, pan-fried eggplant slices, salty dollops of ricotta cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
Primi
The Ravioli Alla Vaccinara (IDR 230) is a visual treat. Deep green and rich purple colours burst from the plate. Delicate pasta parcels are filled with a savoury wagyu tokusen oxtail ragù. A creamy Taleggio cheese sauce and a light, airy kale foam add contrasting textures and depth. The dish features a classic soffritto, a base of slowly cooked vegetables, for an extra layer of aromatic complexity.
We’re sipping a 2021 Caldora Montepulciano D’Abruzzo, from Abruzzo, Italy (IDR 165). It offers a bold experience with juicy aromas of blackberry and plum, followed by a full-bodied palate with a touch of gripping tannins. The finish is refreshingly clean with mid to high acidity, making it a great food partner.
Dessert
Spuma Al Cioccolato (IDR 90) is a deceptively simple dessert served in a jar. However, the first spoonful explodes with a cloud-like texture, with a subtle hint of bitterness from the 54% Callebaut dark chocolate. A sprinkle of salt adds another layer of complexity.
Dish of the Month
This month, Amici Bali celebrates a taste of Sicily with Cannoli Siciliani (IDR 160 for 3 pieces). These traditional fried pastries are filled with creamy vanilla custard and studded with dark chocolate chips and pistachios.
Amici Bali Review
Amici Bali by Enrico Bartolini showcases the innovative Italian cuisine of one of Italy’s most awarded chefs. While Enrico Bartolini’s restaurants in Italy boast 13 Michelin stars, the menu here reflects his vision, meticulously executed by talented chef Alessandro. Expect fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with Italian simplicity and a touch of artistic flair.
Reasons to visit Amici Bali: colourful and beautifully plated Italian cuisine; dual environments with a casual, garden-lined lounge at the front and a more formal dining area in the back; must try Il Polpo and the pizza.
Amici Bali by Enrico Bartolini
Italian Restaurant Seminyak
Jl. Petitenget No.19x, Seminyak
Bali 80361, Indonesia
@amicibali
+62 899-6999-000
Link to Amici Bali on Google Maps
* Vegetarian options
* Non-halal
Amici Bali Opening Hours
Restaurant (Mon – Sun)
11 am – 3 pm
6 pm – 12 am
Veranda (Mon – Sun)
11 am – 12 am
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