Tabu

Dinner that turns into a party

On Jl. Labuansait No.10 in Pecatu, Tabu starts as a Japanese–Mexican “supper club” and slowly morphs into a full-blown night out. Guests describe dim lighting, modern boho décor and an “Insta-worthy” setting that feels classy yet playful, especially once the DJ turns the volume up.

Arrive from 17h00 for the main show; the core experience happens at dinner and into the late hours, even if some visitors also drop in for lunch.

Fusion plates and sushi obsessions

The menu leans hard into the Jap-Mex mash-up: sushi rolls, sashimi and aburi salmon sit next to tacos, wagyu skewers and truffle-heavy dishes. Diners rave about salmon sashimi, crunchy salmon rolls, California-style rolls and charcoal-braised chicken, as well as steaks, picanha and beef marrow that “melt in your mouth” (Google 2024).

Prawn tacos, fish tacos and trio taco plates divide opinion: some call them the highlight of the night, others find dressings too heavy on mayo or flavours unbalanced. A few guests report ceviche dominated by lime or underwhelming guacamole that needed more seasoning.

Cocktails, 2-for-1 deals and DJ sets

Tabu’s bar is a major draw. Reviewers single out strong margaritas (including spicy versions), pornstar martinis and creative, bespoke drinks mixed by named bartenders like Gee and G. Several mention “the best cocktails we’ve had in Bali” and love DJ sets that range from Afrohouse to violin over electronic tracks.

Value depends on timing. Visitors highlight 2-for-1 deals on Wednesdays, 50% off sushi rolls and cocktails on Sundays, and other 241 margarita and sushi specials, noting that they make this otherwise “upscale” spot feel relatively affordable.

Service: standout hosts and occasional misses

Service is often praised as warm, attentive and genuinely fun, with repeated shout-outs for staff such as Alex the GM, managers like Federico, and servers including Tia, Henry, Andrei, Angga, Panca and Eka. Many guests say they were remembered on return visits, welcomed like friends and guided through the menu.

Not every night runs smoothly: a few diners mention struggling to get staff attention during busy services, feeling rushed between courses, or sensing inexperience with finer details. One review notes workmen using tools near the dining area and music that felt “seriously loud”.

Atmosphere: from relaxed lunch to indoor jungle

Earlier in the day, the room can feel relaxed with a “nice buzz” and easy sushi-and-taco lunches. Later on, lighting, sound and crowd shift the space into what one guest calls a “trippy indoor jungle” with a proper dance floor, top sound system and club-style energy.

This isn’t a quiet, candlelit spot: proximity to a busy road and intentionally loud music mean conversation can be a challenge, especially indoors and near speakers. Some diners embrace the crossover—lingering at the table before sliding into the party—while others find the in-between vibe a bit overwhelming.

Reservations, prices and consistency

Tabu sits at the higher end of Bali pricing, but many visitors feel the quality of sushi, steak and cocktails justifies the bill, especially during promos. Several guests say they returned multiple times during one trip.

Reservations are strongly recommended for dinner and weekends; walk-ins sometimes succeed but others report being turned away when the room is full. A small number of reviews flag issues such as overcooked octopus, not-so-fresh oysters, one reported case of suspected prawn-related food poisoning, and desserts that some find too sugary.

Who will love Tabu

Tabu suits travellers and locals who want bold sushi and tacos, strong cocktails and a high-energy atmosphere in one place, especially if they’re happy to dress up a little, book ahead and trade quiet conversation for a big night out in Uluwatu.