YUKI Uluwatu

Modern izakaya on the Uluwatu cliffs

Set within or right by Uluwatu Surf Villas on Jl. Pantai Suluban, YUKI Uluwatu takes the Canggu-born brand and drops it onto Bali’s dramatic south cliffs. Guests describe a dark, moody space with marigolds on the tables, pottery everywhere and a semi‑open layout that feels both sophisticated and relaxed.

Most people come for dinner, but several mention quiet mid‑afternoons around 3–4pm, when you can watch chefs and bartenders prep for the evening rush.

Cuisine: modern Japanese with cult favourites

YUKI Uluwatu specialises in a modern, izakaya‑style Japanese menu rather than a classic sushi bar. Reviewers rave about the Wagyu Beef Sando, Katsu Sando, truffle tuna and tuna tartare, as well as playful dishes like the Nori Ahi Taco and Watermelon Taco that blur the line between sushi and small plates.

Grilled and meat dishes get as much love as the raw fish: T‑bone and strip loin steaks, lamb, duck and mushroom clay pot rice, black Angus ribeye and yakitori all appear in glowing reviews. A few guests found some items heavy‑handed on seasoning (for example, snapper with lime essence or octopus), but most describe the flavours as "next level" and memorable.

Sushi, bento and chef’s selections

Sushi, sashimi and maki are a major draw, often called some of the “best sushi we’ve ever had”. Truffle tuna rolls, torched salmon with crab, eel, tempura maki, salmon nigiri and mixed nigiri/sashimi platters are singled out. A minority felt certain rolls or scallop and tuna pieces were dull or oddly flavoured, so quality can vary dish to dish.

At lunch, some go for sushi bento box sets, which include miso soup and complimentary iced green tea. In the evening, the 9‑course chef’s selection sharing menu earns strong praise for variety, from miso soup through to T‑bone steak, with only occasional comments about one or two overpowering sauces.

Cocktails, wine and dessert

Drinks are a big part of the experience. Signatures like Mad Matcha, Smoke Coconut Negroni, raspberry mule, bee & basil, Passoa‑based cocktails and classic options are often described as creative and well balanced. One guest felt the rosé and some wines were underwhelming, but cocktails get consistent approval.

Dessert is polarising: some report only ice cream or gelato on offer, while others mention chocolate mousse, coconut gelato and multiple plated desserts, many of them standouts, especially for birthdays or honeymoons.

Atmosphere, music and service

Expect a modern, stylish crowd, dim lighting and “sexy and elegant” date‑night energy. Live music on Tuesdays comes up repeatedly as a highlight, creating a warm, laid‑back buzz without drowning conversation. Dogs are allowed according to one regular.

Service is frequently called exceptional, with guests naming servers like Padma, Sandra, Deva, Ayu, Satya, Desi and others for attentive, personal care—complimentary desserts for celebrations, off‑menu cocktails, and even removing an untouched cocktail from the bill. A few negative notes mention slow or inattentive hosts and long waits for ordering when the restaurant is packed.

Pricing, reservations and practical notes

Multiple sources point out that prices are high for Bali, more in line with Jakarta or western cities, and that portions lean towards tapas/izakaya size. Some diners felt it wasn’t worth the cost, especially if they experimented with more unusual rolls.

Reservations—often via the website (SevenRooms) or WhatsApp—are strongly recommended for sunset and evening; walk‑ins sometimes get squeezed in, but the place is described as “very busy”. A private air‑conditioned room exists, though most choose the open main area for the vibes.

Best suited to travellers and expats happy to spend for design‑driven, modern Japanese with serious cocktails, YUKI Uluwatu functions less as a casual local spot and more as a destination dinner in Uluwatu.