There’s a new spot in Pererenan that has everyone talking. Optimist isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience. It’s playful without being gimmicky, stylish without trying too hard, and effortlessly cool in that way that you can’t quite put your finger on.
From the moment you step inside, you can feel that this is someone’s passion project—their baby. And for a first restaurant, the vision here is refreshingly bold.
The design is a feast for the eyes. At the heart of the dining room sits a striking communal table, topped in cool Italian marble with sleek stainless-steel elements. Above you, a mirrored ceiling reflects the entire scene, creating a sense of endless depth.
Look closer at the walls and you’ll find playful details, embossed emojis and abstract symbols “tattooed” into textured plaster. It’s subtle, sparingly done, and feels grown-up despite the whimsy.
Then there’s the second floor. Imported marble tops gleam under soft lighting, while vertical LCD screens create the illusion of a city skyline when reflected at night. It’s futuristic yet intimate, like dining in a chic urban loft with skyscraper views except you’re still in Bali. Add to that a huge glowing moon-like lamp and oversized melting candles, and it all feels a little dreamlike.
Optimist is far more than just a pretty space. It’s alive with energy. On any given week, you might walk in and find a sculptural floral arrangement that completely transforms the room. One week it’s architectural branches, the next it’s wild tropical blooms, there’s always something fresh to catch your eye.
Community is at the heart of what they do. Optimist regularly hosts bar takeovers, bringing in some of Jakarta’s coolest spots like Modern House (Asia’s 50 Best), Between the Sips, UTAP, and others — to shake things up in Bali. It’s a way of weaving the Bali and Jakarta scenes together, building a bridge between creative communities. The music, the people, the vibe — it all comes together in a way that feels connected, not just curated.
Next up? The team is looking beyond Indonesia, with plans to host guest shifts and pop-ups featuring standout bars and restaurants from across Asia. The vision is regional — and the door is open.
There are a lot of “Instagrammable” restaurants in Bali, but Optimist feels different. Yes, it’s beautiful. Yes, it’s undeniably photogenic. But it also has soul. There’s a sense of fun here, an urban edge mixed with a genuine desire to bring people together. It’s the kind of place you can go for a casual dinner and leave feeling like you were part of something just a little bigger.
So whether you’re here for the food, the design, or the ever-changing energy, one thing’s clear: Optimist lives up to its name.
Words by Bali Interiors
Photos by Bali Interiors
