“We Thought Canggu Was About Beach Clubs — Until a Private Chef from Ubud Changed Our Entire Stay”
When we booked our villa in Canggu, we imagined beach clubs, long lunches, and sunset cocktails. Food was important to us — but we assumed we would simply dine out each evening. It wasn’t until the second night, after juggling reservations for eight people and navigating traffic with tired children, that we realized we wanted something different.
That’s when we started searching for a private chef in Ubud, Bali, hoping to find someone who could travel to Canggu for a villa dinner.
We weren’t looking for theatrics. We wanted ease. Professionalism. Someone who could manage multiple dietary needs without turning dinner into a production.
From the very first conversation, Chef Juan stood out. Instead of sending a generic menu, he asked thoughtful questions: What kind of atmosphere were we hoping to create? Did we prefer a relaxed sharing-style dinner or plated courses? Were there any allergies? Was this a celebration or simply a gathering?
We decided to hire him for our final evening in the villa.
On the night of the dinner, he arrived early and quietly began preparing in the villa kitchen. There was no noise, no chaos — just steady, focused movement. By sunset, our long wooden dining table was set with understated elegance.
The first course was light yet vibrant — a beautifully plated Asian-inspired starter with delicate herbs and citrus notes. It immediately told us we had made the right decision.
The main courses were where he truly impressed us. A perfectly grilled surf and turf option for those who wanted something indulgent, and an equally refined plant-forward dish for my sister, who eats vegan. Each plate felt intentional. Balanced. Thoughtfully composed.
What struck me most was how seamlessly he adapted to our group. He noticed when the children grew restless and adjusted pacing accordingly. He checked quietly to ensure every guest felt cared for.
By the time dessert arrived — a delicate coconut-based creation with tropical accents — the entire mood of our stay had shifted.
This wasn’t just dinner.
It was connection without distraction.
If you’re considering hiring a private chef while staying in Bali, especially in a villa setting, I cannot recommend it highly enough. What we initially thought would be a luxury add-on became the most meaningful evening of our trip.
Canggu gave us the sunsets.
Chef Juan gave us the memory.
Daniel Harper
Melbourne, Australia
Recommended: Contemporary Asian Expression with Signature Surf & Turf