If you are searching for a proper hearty meat curry in Bali, Pererenan has a spot that really famous for their Indian cuisine: Red Gunpowder. The restaurant focuses on modern Indian comfort food with bold spices, slow cooked meats, and a warm setting that instantly feels inviting. I love it because the menu is full of dishes that feel rich, flavorful, and satisfying in a way only a good curry can offer.
Red Gunpowder sits on Jl. Munduk Tengah No. 6, and the space is filled with reclaimed wood, earthy tones, and soft lighting. It is relaxed, stylish, and perfect for a dinner where you want something filling and full of character. The reviews often mention the same thing I noticed from my first visit: the flavors here are deep, authentic, and cooked with real intention.
Below are the hearty meat curries that I think everyone should try, especially if you want something rich and satisfying while exploring Bali’s food scene.
Best Meat Curry You Should Try
Rogan Josh
If you want a classic curry that feels warm, aromatic, and full of spice complexity, the Rogan Josh is the first thing I would recommend. Red Gunpowder uses slow roasted lamb shank that is cooked until the meat turns soft and tender. The gravy is made with Kashmiri chili, cloves, fennel, turmeric, and garam masala. It is rich, comforting, and perfect with either saffron rice or roti. This is the kind of curry that makes you slow down and enjoy every bite.
Vindaloo Curry with Pork Belly
If your taste leans toward something spicy, the Vindaloo is a strong choice. The pork belly is slow cooked until it becomes soft and juicy, then coated in a hot and tangy gravy made with black and green cardamom, dry red chilies, garlic, and ginger. The balance between heat and richness makes it really enjoyable. I like pairing this one with rice because it absorbs the sauce really well.
Bhuna Curry with Lamb
For a curry with bold and earthy flavors, the Bhuna is another delicious option. Red Gunpowder serves it with slow roasted lamb shank, and the gravy is made from tomatoes, red capsicum, cardamom, cumin seeds, cloves, and curry leaves. The seasoning gives the dish a deeper, slightly smoky character. This curry feels hearty in a very comforting way and it is perfect if you want something rich that still allows the spices to shine.
Makhani
If you prefer something creamy and smooth instead of spicy, the Makhani is one of the easiest choices. It is made with slow cooked chicken thigh in a tomato and butter gravy blended with cashew paste and garam masala. The flavors are soft and rounded, but still rich enough to count as a hearty curry. It pairs really well with roti and is ideal when you want something comforting without too much heat.
Palak Curry with Added Protein
The Palak Curry is usually associated with paneer, but Red Gunpowder lets you choose different proteins. When you add a meat option, it turns into a surprisingly filling curry that still feels fresh. The lemon marinated paneer and spinach gravy combine nicely with whichever protein you choose. It is a good option when you want something vibrant but still hearty.
What to Pair With the Curries
To enjoy these dishes at their best, I always recommend adding a side. Saffron rice, biryani, or warm roti make the meal more complete and help you enjoy the full flavor of the gravies. If you are dining in a group, sharing a few different curry styles gives everyone a chance to try something new.
More Than Just Curry
Even though curry is the star of the menu, Red Gunpowder also offers starters like samosa tartelettes and several tandoor dishes that are perfect to share. The drink menu is also interesting, featuring cocktails that highlight Indian spices. These small touches help elevate the whole dining experience without distracting from the main dishes.
Reviews consistently mention how flavorful and satisfying the curries are. Many diners highlight the tenderness of the lamb and the depth of the spice blends. The restaurant’s atmosphere is another frequent point of praise, making it a favorite spot for both casual dinners and special nights out.
Tips for Ordering
I have found that the best way to enjoy Red Gunpowder is to order with curiosity. Start with one curry you already know you will enjoy, then balance it with something that feels new or outside your usual pick. This gives you the comfort of a familiar flavor while still letting you explore what the restaurant does best.
If you want the richest, most concentrated flavor, choose the claypot curries. The slow cooking process locks in the spices and creates a deeper, more aromatic taste that you simply cannot get from a quick stovetop dish. The texture of the meat also becomes incredibly tender, which is exactly what you want from a hearty curry.
Because Red Gunpowder is one of the most popular dinner spots in Pererenan, I always recommend making a reservation, especially if you are planning to come during peak hours. The warm, intimate setting fills up quickly, and booking ahead ensures you get a good table without waiting.
Whatever you order, do not skip the carbs. Rice or roti is essential for a proper curry experience. Saffron rice brings a floral warmth that pairs beautifully with richer gravies, while roti adds a comforting, chewy texture that is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce. Both options elevate the entire meal.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for hearty meat curry in Bali, Red Gunpowder should be at the top of your list. The slow cooked meats, the layered spice blends, and the attention to detail in every dish make this restaurant a standout choice for anyone craving something rich and satisfying. Each curry feels thoughtfully crafted, whether you prefer something creamy, fiery, or deeply aromatic. The variety on the menu means you will always find a curry that matches your mood, and the warm atmosphere makes the meal feel even more enjoyable.
For anyone exploring Bali’s food scene, Red Gunpowder offers a dining experience that brings comfort, bold flavor, and a genuine love for Indian cooking. It is the kind of place that stays in your memory, especially if you appreciate hearty curries that are slow cooked, generously seasoned, and made with care.
