Gong Corner – Warung Par Excellene

Just about everybody who travels to Bali and seeks a great place to eat inevitably dines a couple of times at Bamboo Corner in Poppies Lane 1. A few years back the owners of the famous warung opened another place in Gang Ronta, just a stone’s throw away and called it Gong Corner. As much as I have tried, I have never been successful in finding out why such a name was created for the new addition to the warung clan. However it really doesn’t matter because Gang Corner represents everything a great warung is – excellent food, value for money with its large portions and of course, excellent service. Out of the two warungs and I have eaten at both many times in the past, I consider Gong Corner to outshine that of its parent warung. And, what’s even better, Gong Corner 2 has newly opened a few metres further along Gang Ronta presenting tourists and travellers alike the choice of three excellent warungs in an area renowned for its budget accommodation.

The theme in all three premises is distinctly alike. Simple bamboo tables and chairs, cosy and comfortable surroundings lend itself to an ambience of friendliness. Gang Corner is the kind of place you can relax over a cold drink and chat, meet friends and even new friends. It’s the kind of place that oozes friendliness amongst its customers. The variety of food on the menu is surprisingly extensive with a choice of Indonesian, European and Chinese dishes to select from. Their choice of steaks makes your mouth water just reading the menu! Candika and I eat there as often as possible and the last time we visited we both enjoyed our choice of foods. I had a simple but super delicious Nasi Goreng Ayam Istemewa (Rp9,000) and although there was way too much on the plate for my stomach, it had a subtle spicy flavour that made it so moorish. What I didn’t eat the resident friendly dog, Bruno, devoured! Candika’s choice tasted even better (I pinched a mouthful!). She selected Fried Chicken Bumbu Bali (Rp12,000). Other delightful dishes we have enjoyed there were the yummy chicken satay (Rp16,000), fish and chips were excellent value at Rp17,000 and of course the Kopi Bali has just the right amount of consistency and full-bodied flavour. Of course we have had many other dishes at Gong Corner and each of excellent value and quality.

Most of the time our bill came to no more than Rp35,000 (including drinks) and this represents great value for budget travellers. Gong Corner is located on Gang Ronta, the lane that runs between Poppies one and two. They are open early for breakfast through until late. I have no hesitation in giving Gong Corner five stars for everything associated with a great place to enjoy a meal in a fabulous atmosphere.