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☕ The Beverage Culture of Bali 📷
Through the Eyes of a Chef & Photographer
In every culture, beverages are more than just a way to quench thirst — they are part of a daily ritual, a social connector, and often a reflection of heritage and place. In Bali, where I have had the privilege to live and work for decades, the beverage scene is both simple and vibrant, deeply rooted in local habits and flavors. As a chef with over 50 years of experience across the globe and as a passionate photographer, this dual perspective allows me to both appreciate and capture the unique role drinks play in everyday life.
From early mornings in a bustling warung (local roadside eatery) to peaceful afternoons at home, beverages accompany nearly every moment. Coffee and tea are among the most beloved staples across the island — always served hot, often sweet, and most definitely strong. Whether sipped in quiet corners of family homes or shared over laughter in roadside stalls, these simple pleasures provide the comforting rhythm of daily life.
While Bali is often associated with exotic cocktails and beach bars in the eyes of many visitors, alcohol does not play a large part in traditional Balinese food culture. The notable exceptions are arak (a traditional palm spirit) and brem(sweet rice wine), which are deeply woven into ceremonial life rather than recreational drinking. Beer has become popular, particularly among young locals, and is often enjoyed socially in the late afternoons. Imported wines and liquors are available but tend to be expensive and remain largely consumed by tourists.
A unique feature of the island’s beverage culture is its love for sweet, "refreshing" drinks — from iced teas to tropical fruit juices. Many of these can be intensely sugary by Western standards, but they are undeniably a part of the everyday landscape here. They offer a burst of energy in the humid heat and are available almost everywhere — from street stalls to upscale restaurants.
In our own restaurants, one beverage has become especially meaningful to us both personally and professionally: our Bumbu Bali Jamū Infusion. Jamū, a centuries-old Indonesian herbal elixir, has found a daily place in our kitchen and in our homes. It’s more than just a drink — it’s a daily ritual of wellness, crafted from turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, pandan leaf, tamarind, and other healing herbs. After my regular two-hour workout and during a busy service in the kitchen, a cup of jamū helps me replenish, refocus, and reconnect. It's a tradition we proudly share with our guests and one I personally enjoy every single day.
Photographing beverages presents its own unique challenges — especially when glass is involved. The reflective nature of glassware demands attention to detail, patience, and creative lighting to capture both the clarity of the drink and the mood of the moment. I strive to present not just the drink itself, but the story, culture, and emotion that surrounds it.
This gallery is a visual exploration of these stories — from a frothy cup of kopi Bali enjoyed at sunrise to the deep golden glow of jamū served at dusk. Each image is a reflection of how I see and experience beverages — not just as a chef or a photographer, but as someone deeply connected to the rhythms of life here on the Island of the Gods.
All images in this gallery are available as fine art prints in various sizes or as high-resolution digital files, ideal for creative projects, personal inspiration, or adding a touch of Bali to your home or business.
Thank you for joining me on this flavorful journey.

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