Times change and things move on. Anyone who had visited Bali in 2003 probably remembers places such as Spy Bar, Liquid and a host of other places, which are now closed. One place I checked out in July 2003 was the Secret Garden on Poppies I in Kuta. Owner Alvin Hancocks from England told me about his plans to create a lovely garden where people could relax and enjoy a beer or some good food. Today I went back to see how things are going.
Secret Garden is located on Poppies I, about 100 meters in from Jl. Legian at Pasar Agung, the local art market, that is rapidly becoming a cool little area. Alvin told me today that he has opened a cafe there AND has started his own newspaper in the Kuta area. The trend for the roller-door type of shops, will be to recognize their main attribute is location, not Bintang t-shirts. One guy has already put glass windows in and that’s just the start.
Anyway back to Secret Garden. Alvin reckons the start of 2007 was 30% better than last year. He’s optimistic about the rest of 2007 and says 2008 could be a bumper year. Now providing free wi-fi, Secret Garden has an almost irresistible combination of internet access and super low prices on beer. A small Bintang is 8,000rp and a large 12,000rp. At Circle K in Seminyak a small Bintang is 8,500rp. I told Alvin that drinking at Secret Garden is cheaper than drinking at home.
Features of Secret Garden that new visitors to Bali may enjoy are the street-side sit-up bar, where people can gather and enjoy the casual atmosphere. There is also the grill, featuring the famous pork chops which are supposed to be awesome!
Many people stop by Secret Garden to get in the mood for a night out at MBarGo and Bounty. Whatever, its a well run place where you’ll get good quality.
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I stumble across the Secret Garden last October when I was ambling around the Poppie’s area. Just loved it, not only was the beer cheap it was COLD, the food was great as well, Alvin is to be commended - the feel of this place is great. Will defintely be back next time for more than 1 meal.
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