French Artisanal Flair, Kebun Bistro

Stepping off the sidewalk of busy Jalan Hanoman and into the enchanting setting of Kebun, we discover a characterful bistro offering French and Mediterranean style cuisine served with a hefty side of rustic charm. Flower boxes, terracotta floor tiles, colourful wooden shutters and copper vases filled with daisies, evoke continental Europe. Exposed brick walls, dangling vines and 1940s furniture – including antique marble-topped Singer sewing machine tables add to the atmosphere. The menu amply reflects the setting, with French-trained Chef Adi conjuring up a good selection of tapas, mains and desserts, all of which can be accompanied by a thoughtfully composed – and remarkably well priced wine list. French influences include a classic French Onion Soup, Duck Confit and Herb Roasted Lamb Chops with pommes frites, while a good choice of homemade pastas, salads and vegetarian dishes give Mediterranean flavour. Enjoy the sidewalk views from the terrace, or soak up the ambience and the wonderful aromas from the open kitchen when you take a seat in the ac dining room.

We start with a well presented cheese board, proffering a young tasty parmesan, a sharp cheddar, grilled Mediterranean vegetables, tangy olives, red pepper confit and a crunchy home baked baguette topped with shredded, toasted leek. So simple, but so good, especially washed down with a glass of light and crisp Rose les Lys La Soif Grenache-Shiraz.

We try two main courses; the roasted Lemon Rubbed Chicken Breast has a fresh and juicy taste, imbued with a subtle citrus fragrance and is served in a tower of squash, eggplant and spinach with a drizzle of pesto. The Moroccan inspired Vegetable Tagine is baked and served in a blue stone pot, a warm and flavourful blend of vegetables, chick peas, tempeh and cashews, accompanied with couscous. Dessert brings a smile to my face – a plate of big fluffy profiteroles swirled with a dark chocolate sauce and filled with vanilla ice cream.
Aside from wine, there are also cocktails, including a fruity Pims Cup, Flavoured Mojitos and a rather potent pink French Martini blending vodka, Chambord raspberry liqueur and pineapple juice. Interesting mocktails include the thick green Lime Mint Refresher and a Basil Berry Fizz made with fresh strawberries with basil and soda. Brought to us by the owners of Kafe, and the founders of Bali Spirit Festival, Kebun is earth friendly, with its recycled furnishings, organic preferences and kitchen ventilated with hand made copper flues. Waste is composted, except for bones which are thoughtfully given to the street dogs. Alison

Kebun | 11 Jl Hanoman, Ubud | P +62 361 780 3801