Popular Bali party hangout refocuses to casual dining with modern cuisine and refreshing tropical cocktails
July 14th, 2014
Previously best known for their vibrant late night parties on weekend nights, the owners of Mantra have re-focused the concept with an emphasis on quality casual dining and bespoke cocktails. With newly installed Australian chef Nick Phillip (previously executive chef at Cocoon) heading up the kitchen team, and Monaco-based mixologist Max Giannetti shaking things up behind the bar, Mantra now offers visitors and locals in Bali’s popular Seminyak neighborhood a refreshing new destination for lunch, dinner and all-day beverage service. Since its opening back in early 2012 by local couple Tipi and Feby Jabrik, Mantra has attracted a cool, chic crowd- drawn by the laid-back convivial vibe, friendly service, and convenient location adjacent to the entrances of iconic beachfront venues- Potato Head Beach Club and WOOBAR at W Bali. While its legendary Weekend Music Session events will continue, Mantra has elevated its appeal as a place to enjoy accomplished cooking and cocktails, both for lunch and dinner.
Mantra is housed in an open-fronted building on Jalan Petitenget Raya- one of Seminyak’s preeminent stretches for dining and nightlife outlets. Design follows a retro / rustic aesthetic with raw brickwork, recycled materials timbers, and classic teak dining chairs and tables. The spacious yet cozy layout features several sections that meld together seamlessly- a street front open-air garden terrace- the adjacent bar- and a generously proportioned inner room with further dining table settings, and soaring double height ceiling above a feature wall covered with a vast array of framed prints. In total Mantra can comfortably accommodate 80 diners across the various sections.
Open daily from 11 am, Mantra offers a special Set Lunch Menu at the very reasonable price of Rp79K++ Reservations are recommended for dinners- particularly on weekend nights. And check on the Mantra Facebook Page for the latest news on the Weekend Music Sessions and other events.
Mantra interior
Selections from the new Mantra menu
Mantra serves a lunch and dinner menu designed by chef Nick, featuring his meticulous renditions of contemporary international dishes that encompasses salads, fresh seafood and premium meats. Standout dishes include Octopus a la gallega, crispy potato, black aioli, paprika oil; Seared King Scallops, apple and ginger purée, rose apple & tamarind couli; and BBQ pork belly, apple and cassava purée, mango, macadamia, prawn fritter.
Cocktail highlights from the Mantra mixologist
Internationally experienced mixologist Max has created a terrific list of classic and signature cocktails- utilising the abundant local tropical fruits and premium quality spirits to craft thirst-quenching beverages. Also adept at creating bespoke cocktails- customers can indicate some taste and spirit preferences and leave the rest to Max. Signature cocktails include Peach & Rose Caipirissima- a popular classic with a twist- fresh lime chunks muddled with rose sugar & shaken with a large measure of Havana Club 3 yrs & peach purée ; and Hendricks Snapper- a classic review on the Bloody Mary, based on Hendricks Gin, fresh cucumber & rhubard liquor, mixed with tomato juice & spices.
