The Little Bali is a newly opened Indonesian restaurant in the relatively underdeveloped Cluster U of JLT. Located at lake level, its one of the larger outlets, about the same size as Streetery in Cluster D. The kitchen, which is visible though a full-length glass display, is small in comparison with the dining area. It made me wonder how they’ll cope when at capacity. Little Bali uses communal benches similar to Wagamama and Noodle House to seat diners. It’s not quite as professionally harmonized as either but looks and feels far more upmarket that direct rival Betawi…yet somehow doesn’t have the same raw charm.
View from the pavement 
The interior 
The interior
I dined at Little Bali with a food buddy (who is also a famous restaurateur and for which reason shall remain anonymous). Together we ordered…a lot, starting with Bakwan (a vegetable fritter or pakora) followed by their Satay Sampler consisting of three skewers each of chicken, beef and lamb. I liked the chicken and lamb satay, but the beef was fatty and chewy; none (not even the peanut sauce) were anywhere near the satays at Betawi or Streetery. The Bakwan was tasteless and best forgotten.
Satay Sampler 
Bakwan
Our mains were much, much better. We ordered a Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice), Bakmi Goreng (Mie Goreng by a different name, spicy fried noodles), Bebek Betutu (Balinese roast duck) and Sotong Sumbat (braised squid stuffed with curried minced chicken). The latter two came with steamed rice. I liked everything. I loved the Sotong Sumbat, which is one of the most unique dishes I have had in a long time, and the Nasi Goreng, without doubt one of the best I have had in Dubai. The noodles missed perfection by being a little too salty; I will give them another chance on my next visit. I enjoyed the contrast the curried duck presented from the usual roasted style I have become accustomed to eating Asian duck. I recommend all these dishes.
Sotong Sumbat 
Bebek Betutu 
Nasi Goreng 
Steamed rice 
Bakmi Goreng 
Excellent sambals
Service at Little Bali was typically Asian-style friendly and polite. Our table was looked after by an accommodating young Indonesian lad by the name of Bella. In addition to the way he took care of us, I am also grateful to him for recommending the Sotong Sumbat and Bebek Betutu to us. Staff with good product knowledge and the confidence to make recommendations are so important. Well done, Bella.
Bella 
This is the only dessert available for the time being
Summing up, I felt the excellent mains and service made up for the disappointing starters. Yes, Little Bali may not have the quaintness of Betawi, but it has more than enough to earn a hearty recommendation from this new fan.
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