Seafood curry in Bali is its own kind of experience. The island’s spices, fresh herbs, and access to incredible local seafood make the dish richer, brighter, and more memorable than almost anywhere else. If you’re staying around Canggu and looking for seafood curry that feels refined, bold, and deeply satisfying, Red Gunpowder is one of the best places to put on your list.
This is where Indian coastal flavors meet Bali’s relaxed dinner atmosphere, creating dishes that are fragrant, rich, and cooked with the kind of precision that lets the seafood shine. I’ve tried seafood curry in many different spots across Bali, and Red Gunpowder’s version consistently stands out thanks to their attention to spice layering, slow cooking, and ingredient quality. Their seafood dishes are not only flavorful but also feel like they were built with intention, the aroma hits first, then the heat, then the smooth depth of the sauce.
Here’s everything you need to know if you’re searching for the best seafood curry experience in Canggu.
Why Red Gunpowder Is a Top Pick for Seafood Curry in Canggu
Red Gunpowder’s cooking is rooted in Indian flavors, and that makes their curries especially interesting compared to typical Bali seafood spots. Instead of a simple coconut-based sauce, the curries here use a blend of roasted spices, slow cooked bases, and aromatics like ginger, garlic, curry leaves, and mustard seeds. The result is a richer profile, a more textured gravy, and depth that comes from ingredients cooked the right way, not rushed.
Seafood curries here are cooked gently so the seafood stays tender. The spices complement the fish rather than overpowering it. The gravy tends to be aromatic, layered, and slightly indulgent in the best way. If you’re someone who enjoys a curry that feels both comforting and full of character, this is exactly the kind of dish you’ll enjoy. The restaurant is set in Pererenan, not too far from Canggu’s center, it’s easy to reach if you’re staying in the area.
Top Picks Seafood Curry Dishes
Red Gunpowder is well loved for its curries in general, but when it comes to seafood, there are a few dishes that really highlight how good their spice blends are. While the exact menu can rotate, the restaurant consistently serves seafood prepared in bold gravies and masalas that capture the essence of Indian coastal cooking. These dishes show up again and again in reviews, especially from guests who love seafood with strong, aromatic flavors.
Here are the standout recommendations:
Fish Masala (Highly Recommended)
This is one of the dishes that really showcases Red Gunpowder’s strength in balancing spice and freshness. The fish is cooked in a thick, fragrant masala that has the perfect harmony of chili heat, tomato richness, and earthy spices. The texture of the fish stays flaky and tender, absorbing just enough of the masala to become flavorful in every bite. The dish isn’t overly creamy or heavy, it’s more spice-driven and aromatic, which makes it satisfying without feeling too rich. If you enjoy seafood curry that leans on bold seasoning and traditional Indian flavors, this is one to order.
Seafood Claypot (Guests Favorite)
Claypot dishes at Red Gunpowder are frequently mentioned in reviews because they intensify the flavor. The slow cooking keeps the seafood moist and tender while letting the spices deepen. If you see a claypot seafood curry or seafood masala on the menu during your visit, it’s worth choosing.
The combination of slow heat, sealed moisture, and their signature masala blend creates a curry that is full-bodied, aromatic, and incredibly comforting. The seafood absorbs the spices beautifully, and the sauce tends to be richer and slightly smokier because of the claypot cooking method.
Prawn Curry or Masala Variations (When Available)
Reviewers often highlight any prawn based curry at Red Gunpowder. Prawns pair extremely well with Indian spices, and Red Gunpowder handles this balance perfectly. Their prawn curries usually feature a smooth gravy with heat coming from chili and warmth from spices like cumin and coriander. The natural sweetness of the prawns rounds out the flavors, making this dish both satisfying and slightly indulgent. If you love prawn curry that’s flavorful but not too heavy, this is the kind of dish to go for.
What Makes Red Gunpowder’s Seafood Curry Stand Out
The spice layering is intentional
You can taste the difference between spices simply added to a dish versus spices that have been roasted, bloomed, and cooked slowly into the gravy. Red Gunpowder uses the latter technique, and it shows, especially in seafood dishes where strong spices can easily dominate if not handled well.
The seafood is cooked to the right tenderness
This might sound simple, but it’s not. The fish isn’t dry, the prawns aren’t rubbery, and the texture stays juicy. Their cooking technique preserves the natural sweetness of the seafood while letting the curry base bring the depth.
Flavors are bold without being overwhelming
The curry tends to be hearty, aromatic, and rich, but not in a way that feels heavy. It’s the kind of balance that makes you want rice or roti to scoop up every bit of the gravy.
The overall dining experience matches the food
The restaurant has a cozy, warmly lit atmosphere that makes a curry dinner feel even better. Many guests mention that the ambiance enhances the experience, and from my own visits, it definitely adds to the enjoyment of a hearty seafood curry.
Tips for Ordering
- Choose at least one seafood dish and pair it with a milder curry or vegetable side for balance.
- Go for claypot versions if you want intensified flavor and tenderness.
- Always order rice or roti, they soak up the gravy perfectly.
- If you’re visiting for dinner, make a reservation because the place fills up quickly.
- Ask the staff for spice level adjustments if needed; they’re good at tailoring heat without changing the dish’s identity.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the best seafood curry in Canggu and want something that feels flavorful, aromatic, and thoughtfully prepared, Red Gunpowder is a top choice. Their approach to spice, slow cooking, and ingredient quality results in curries that feel both bold and comforting. The seafood dishes, whether it’s a fish masala, a claypot curry, or a prawn based option, have depth, aroma, and the kind of richness that makes a dinner feel special.
Red Gunpowder doesn’t just serve curry; they serve curries that feel balanced, warm, and full of character. If seafood curry is on your Bali food list, this is the place that delivers a satisfying, memorable meal from the first bite to the last scoop of gravy.
