The ever-changing face of Bali never ceases to amaze; this is an island where the local culture has made its own adjustment with modernity and where capitalism brushes shoulders with religious devotion. When Kuta appeared to be unable to expand, either physically or creatively, in any new direction, it was trendy Seminyak that was suddenly swamped with new bars, restaurants and clubs; its sombong patrons declaring Kuta to be the inferior scene.

Now, perhaps, those who are “too cool for school” need to be re-educated, because a renaissance is taking place. Kuta is maturing. Nightspots such as the revamped Maccaroni and MBarGo are instigating a whole new trend in inspirational chic, with the latest and most exciting being an innovation known as ‘Fuel’.

Fuel is the new place to “eat, drink and groove”, a stunning top-notch restaurant, bar and nightclub all rolled into one and offering the very best in every category. The Kuta experience is changing and Fuel is a part of that.
Fuel keeps you going, it is open from 11am till very late and offers fine dining at remarkably low prices, late night small bites, a chill-out rooftop sundeck, an impressive wine list and a novel choice of ‘Fuel hi octane’ cocktails such as ‘Demina Blue Champagne’ and ‘Whisky Tamarind Sour’. Entertainment includes an ongoing series of multicultural parties and community based events; DJs spin a blend of chill and funky house remixed and refuelled; while silent, subtitled, classic, and occasionally risqué movies are projected upon an ample wall. The philosophy of Fuel is about bringing people together, the concept of “Fuel for Life” is about giving back to the community, and the identity is still evolving. The building is stylish and gargantuan, ingeniously divided into a number of different zones, each cultivating a distinct ambience. Dark grey tiled floors are complemented by a red and black décor, an abundance of mirrors, leather-look butterscotch sofas, a wide staircase and a mezzanine overlooking the dancefloor. The sundeck will be a place to enjoy rooftop

barbeques or engage in a game of chess or backgammon; laser-cut spotlights and dramatic lighting will create theatre, and a valet parking service will be the additional layer of icing on the cake.

Fuel is another initiative from the owners of Kafe Batan Waru and Terazo; so the food is, of course, superb. Lunchtime fuel for the body (24 – 32) is served in the form of melts, burgers, sandwiches, Paninis on ciabatta, and wraps on wheat flatbread. Breads are “housemade” and fillings include roasted veggies, cheeses, fresh meats, herbs, mayonnaise and sambal. The dinner menu offers a modern International cuisine including Mediterranean and Asian delights such as the hearty Sop Bontut (56), the Meze for two (56), the Hanoi Roll (38), the Porcini Mushroom Bisque with a tomato and saffron swirl (28), and a collection of pasta and noodle dishes. My friends and I indulged in the Grilled Garlic Sourdough (34), this is a house special served with lashings of smooth, rich melted-down Gorgonzola cream. We concluded that even folks who don’t like blue cheese would enjoy this! We also tried the Nicoise Salad (38), which is quite different from any that you will find anywhere else, the tuna is fresh and seared, and the eggs are laid by quails. We then relished our mains of Bebek Goreng (56) crisply fried Balinese duck served with urap veggies and wholesome red rice, Vietnamese Prawn Curry (84) created from large, imported, lightly cooked prawns accompanied by wide rice noodles, and Chicken Poivrade (64) glazed with Madeira wine and served with scrumptious rainbow beets and sweet potato mash. The ingredients are fresh, veggies are organic, and portions are so generous that we could only cope with one dessert and one float between us. We opted for the Warm Chocolate Fondant Cake (28) with salt caramel and vanilla bean ice cream, accompanied by a Fuel Unleaded Caramel Espresso; both were delicious, filling and divinely decadent. By now it was after 11pm and we noticed that the music was becoming louder and more upbeat as Fuel slowly converted into a nightclub.

As Kuta reinvents herself, this new destination in the heart of town is fast refuelling the imagination. Check it out; you’ll be impressed!
Rache
Fuel
Jl. Legian 62 Kuta, Ph. 7454922