In Reply to: ubud posted by desmodavid on Friday, 22. June 2007 at 13:34 Bali Time:
His name is I Made Darma and is known as Denny and he won painting competitions in his youth. He is probably now in his early thirties and has three young children. His shop is called Dennys and is in the group of shops almost opposite Jl Bisma - a little further up towards the village, about second from a wine shop and travel shop.
He says: "Paint to me is an expression of the soul. Im interested in bright contrasting colour with strong brushstrokes to mould my visual fantasy" They are abstracts, and his theme at the moment seems to be swirls, caves, water - rather dark and mystical. I actually prefer some of his earlier work which is more 'open'.
There are many restaurants in Ubud, but often it is convenient to go to those close to your accommodation. I would highly recommend Tropical Bale - fantastic - and they will pick up up. Lamak is in Monkey Forest road and the decor and food is really modern and exciting. The visual appeal of the food is amazing, especially the Orange Brulee -
Prices range from around 50,000 for main. I notice that they have
a degustation menu for around 220,000. These prices seem high in Bali, but frankly where can you get such quality food any where else in the world for these prices? We found that we paid almost as much in mediocre restaurants in Bali. Ask them if they have any wine by the glass - at one stage we had a glass of french wine for 29,000 ea.
If you are in Seminyak or Legian I would recommend you go to Ultimo - they have a set menu for around 65,000 which included filet steak from Australia when we were there. Last year the set menu included a glass of wine - asked about it this time, and they gave us a free glass each on our next visit - the wine was Italian, ok and about 25,000 a glass. At Ultimo you can sit outside or in the back room which has a tent like ceiling - the decor is very smart, black and white, lots of glass and candles. Staff are great, and remembered us from last year.