If we were running away from the world, you’d probably find us at W Retreat & Spa Bali. It is one of our all-time favourites in the Island of Gods, and there is no reason to not swing by for a resort getaway.
Well, if we really need to dig out one to justify our recent trip back to the property, it is because Starfish Bloo – a gorgeous restaurant and seaside beach club that serves Pan-Asian cuisine in a classy and stylish setting – has a new chef leading the team. That only means more yums for the tums, right?
Having worked in Beijing for two years, Chef Matthew McCool is no stranger to Asian food. That aside, he has an admirable resume working under world-renowned chefs such as Gordon Ramsay at his three-star Michelin restaurant in London, Tom Aikens and two-star Michelin restaurant Chez Bruce, and Altitude Restaurant at Sydney’s Shangri-La Hotel which earned three hats from the prestigious Gault&Millau Australia and won Restaurant of the Year at the Tourism Accommodation Awards in 2014.
Whoa, that was quite a mouthful. But hey, Starfish Bloo deserves that attention! They are all about communal dining; the menu features a selection of modern Asian dishes done in a refined manner – dishes that you will find in top restaurants around the world.
The recommendation is to get 5 dishes for 2 people to share. Suffice it to say, it is best to dine here with a big group of friends so that you can try many dishes from the menu. Gluttons are exception.
There are too many dishes to love, but we will list our favourites to share. You have to start your meal with the Crab Taco’s (RP140,000) – BEST SNACK EVER. Plump crab chunks stuffed in crispy tacos with avocado, soy salsa and homemade chilli sauce. Need more guacamole? Sure, just squeeze it from the super cute tube like you are squeezing toothpaste.
Under the ‘Bao Buns’ category (RP135,000 each), spoil yourself silly with options such as Crispy Peking Duck Bun, Korean Fried Chicken Bun, Crispy Black Cod Bun and Pork Katsu Bun.
The Hawker section offers the best of South East Asia, and with a strong Thai influence. Think Green Curry of Wagyu Beef (RP185,000), Jimabaran Prawn Curry (RP180,000) cooked in a Thai red curry, Beef Short Ribs (RP185,000) and River Prawn And Ginger Yakitori (RP165,000) with kickass Indonesian sambal paste.
Go for the Grilled Black Cod (RP190,000) that is accompanied with corn, rice puffs and a subtle hint of green Thai curry; that is our absolute favourite for the myriad of flavours all in one seemingly simple fish dish.
Starfish Bloo sits at a corner of W Retreat & Spa Bali, and it has an incredible sea view to boast. We love the outdoor seats that come with a panoramic view of the Seminyak beach and the resort’s pool. Dining while watching the waves dance in the ocean is such a pleasure, and one that we’d do all over again.
And you there, Chef Matthew. Your brilliant culinary skills got us hooked. You will see us back at Starfish Bloo soon.
Starfish Bloo
W Retreats & Spa Bali
Jalan Petitenget, Seminyak
Daily: 7am – 10.30pm
Note: This was an invited media tasting.