During the late 90�s Zanzibar was one of "the" places that people would recommend you to go to when you were in Bali. Fast forward almost 20 years later, it still is a recommended place. Besides the fact that their location is just fabulous and easily accessible, Zanzibar�s secret not only for surviving but remaining in the top spots for almost 2 decades is their consistency of providing good food, service and also being able to think ahead, and meet the demands of an ever changing environment.

With a setting that makes you feel like you are on the Greek islands in the azure Mediterranean, where everything is decked in the colors of white and blue and surrounded with beach-side views of Legian, it is no surprise that Zanzibar is always busy for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Your Mediterranean experience at Zanzibar should start with a nice cold glass of their Hawaiian Margaritas and their Mezze plate, which is an amazing array of appetizers featuring Hummus, Babganoush, and Feta cheese with kalamata olives. This generous portion of protein and fiber rich dips are accompanied, of course, with a freshly baked focaccia breads.

The Fisherman�s Dream is one item that has always stayed on the menu, as it is just a simple, classic all time favourite dish. It consists of fresh squid cut into a perfect shape of a big leaf accompanied by tuna (cooked to your liking of rare, medium or well done), fresh shrimps and perfectly roasted Mediterranean vegetables. The squid is just fantastic and it is perfectly seasoned and most importantly, it does not feel like you are chewing on rubber. If you are a company of more than 2 people, and are looking for a dish to share which similar to the Fisherman�s Dream, then go for the Seafood Temptation which comes with more fresh seafood goodness.

Zanzibar always offer special menus at select times and fortunately on the day that "Love Indonesia" visited it was the Beef stew. The slowly braised beef with bedugal organic vegetables is just delicious to begin with, but the added touch of fresh tomato and reduced red wine sauce makes this dish an absolute star and winner! If you happen to dine on a day when this dish is featured, be sure to try it.

Their humble and down to earth character does not only shine in their service or the quality of their foods, but it does especially on their menu. Luca�s pasta is one good example. This dish was named after one their loyal customers who religiously orders this penne with garlic, bacon and mushroom pasta every time he walks into Zanzibar. After finishing a bowl of this pasta with the light white wine sauce and fresh herbs, you can understand why.

For those who are select when it comes to seafood quality, they would be relived to know also that the chef at Zanzibar is extremely picky when it comes to freshness and he always makes sure that their daily seafood supplier only caters to Zanzibar so that they get the pick of the freshest seafood. That is why it is mentioned in their menu which clearly states that certain dishes are subject to availability. Thus, if you are after a certain dish, which is subject to availability, then it is recommended to call beforehand to see what is available.

For a casual European dining experience in the heart of Bali, Zanzibar is one restaurant that must be featured in your Bali meal itinerary.