The restaurant's namesake dish features an entire log of squid perfectly grilled in a richly sweet, dark sauce made from Indonesian palm paste and spices. Reviewers note it's hard to stop eating — the texture is tender, the sauce is complex and deeply flavored.
Tips from diners
The whole squid is tender and not rubbery. The sweet black sauce is the magic — ask for extra on rice.
A traditional Indonesian dessert served cold and refreshing. Shaved ice is layered with soft pandan rice cake noodles, rich coconut milk, and sweet brown sugar syrup. The combination of cold, chewy, creamy, and sweet is indulgent.
Tips from diners
Eat immediately after it's served. The ice melts quickly, but the flavors meld beautifully.
A vegetable dish where kangkong is quickly stir-fried in a spicy sambal base. Anchovies and peanuts add umami and crunch. The dish is aromatic, spicy, and balanced — neither too salty nor overly oily.
Tips from diners
This is more flavorful than simple blanched kangkong. The sambal and anchovies make it interesting.
Thick cuts of meat marinated in aromatic spices and grilled on skewers. The peanut sauce is made from Indonesian palm paste, creating an richly flavored condiment. Reviewers note the meat marinade is complex and the sauce is dense and satisfying.
Tips from diners
Order several sticks — they're addictive. The peanut sauce is house-made and worth savoring.
A fresh whole fish grilled over charcoal until the skin crisps and the flesh becomes tender. The seasoning is minimal — lime, chili, garlic, and salt — allowing the fish quality to shine. The charcoal grill imparts subtle smoky notes.
Tips from diners
Ask which fish is freshest that day. The grilling is simple — the quality of the fish is paramount.
Cumi Bali is a no-frills Indonesian restaurant in Tanjong Pagar earning Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition. The restaurant focuses on grilled squid, prawns, and fish alongside traditional curries and vegetable dishes. Despite simple furnishings, the food quality is excellent, with prices reflecting fair value for the cooking.
Simple decor with fake flowers and hanging plants, but the food speaks for itself. Earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition.
Dinner hours are popular for the grilled seafood. Arrive early or wait for a table. Lunch is quieter.
In the evenings, sit on the five-foot way outside and watch the neighborhood. It's part of the experience.
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