PICA South American Kitchen
Living in the absolute paradise that is Ubud, Bali sounds like it couldn’t possibly get any better. But beyond the breathtaking waterfalls, ancient temples, and lush rice terraces, there’s also an incredible food scene—home to some of the best and most diverse restaurants on the planet. And yet, among all these culinary gems, my top pick is undoubtedly PICA.
I recommend this restaurant to everyone I know who will be anywhere within a hundred miles of it, and without fail, I’m met with messages of appreciation from those who discover this incredible hidden gem.
As its full name suggests, PICA serves modern South American cuisine. Having visited twice, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling both their Seafood Paella and the Crispy Pork Belly (seen below). Both times, the protein was cooked to absolute perfection, and the balance of flavors was spot on. The presentation is refined, with a fine dining flair—arguably even more photogenic than me. While the dishes aren’t necessarily groundbreaking in concept, they are a masterclass in getting the fundamentals right: high-quality ingredients, flawless execution, and undeniably delicious food.
Considering the exceptional quality, the prices are remarkably low—one of the many perks of dining in Indonesia. That said, I’d recommend leaving a generous tip if your experience is even half as brilliant as mine.
I honestly cannot recommend this place highly enough. If you ever find yourself in Ubud, PICA is an absolute must-try.
