Recently, we decided to check out the gorgeous and recently opened Divine Wine Bar at Bridges, one of Ubud’s favourite fine dining establishments. After ensconcing ourselves comfortably in one of the salubrious sofas, with a gorgeous view out over the Wos River, it was time to do some serious selecting. Sitting back with an air of ease we perused the extensive wine list, thrown into agonies of indecision. Wine? Or one of the new innovative cocktails that have been concocted? As I was feeling a little viral I settled for a creation of pears and rosemary and some exotic liqueurs, which seemed sure to do the trick. My companions opted for a bottle of specialty wine to share.
This is one of those places that have a view, an ambience, comfortable seating and the kind of music that allows you to talk and engage in the fine art of conversation. Yes folks. No techno! Just a quiet classical background that soothes rather than stimulates, as you settle into a pleasurable relaxation mode.
It is the place to bring a new love, or an old one, or a group of friends who like to talk. Quite simply, it is divine! Not only is there a range of cocktails, both classic and innovative, there is also top shelf labels and a fine selection of wines chosen by Sommelier Antoine from various wine regions around the world.
The Divine Wine Bar comes with its own kitchen, which means easy to eat finger food. The new chef, Miles Belfield has created a whole menu of must try dishes and it is quite a challenge to choose. We tried the specially grown Tasmanian Smoked Salmon with black Bamboo bread toast and a touch of Wasabi cream. Delicious!
The Foie Gras from southern France was served with toasted corn bread and a delicious grape and onion chutney which married perfectly with the Foie Gras.
As the wine flowed, we had prawn balls made from minced jumbo prawns served in a cute little wire container which were also delicious. One of our favourites was the Parma Ham with Gruyere cheese sticks – gorgeous presentation and great tastes.
And these are all just the tip of the culinary iceberg and are all designed to go perfectly well with a glass of wine or a cocktail or two! There is even a delightful serving of Sturia caviar with blinis and sour cream for those feeling particularly celebratory!
Every Friday, Divine opens up for Divine Fridays. From 4-8pm guests have the chance to discover new wines at a special price, together with complimentary canapés and live guitar. Each week it’s a special theme – a certain wine region, a grape varietal or a winery. Every week, five bottles are opened for guests to discover, wines that are normally not available by the glass, are made available at a special price. You can try one glass, a set of three or five wines which will be served with paired complimentary canapés and entertained by live acoustic music. Great cocktails, too!
For those who are still feeling hungry or for those who have come for a pre dinner drink, the restaurant is just a few steps away. The sparkling new chef, Miles Belfield, created an all new menu last month, February, specially for the month of romance! Why create a whole special menu just for a day or two? So guests can get romantic for the whole month. New menu items will likely appear through the year. So many great things to enjoy!
So while you are in Ubud, Divine is simply a divine place to meet, eat, drink, and relax.
Bridges Bali
Jalan Campuhan, Ubud
+62 361 970095, www.bridgesbali.com
