Renon, Denpasar 16.9.2026.bali inspire— While "gudeg" eateries are typically associated solely with cuisine, Warung Gudeg Joglo—located on Jalan Badak Agung, Renon, Denpasar—breaks the mold. This "Joglo"-style establishment houses a hidden art gallery featuring sketches with a truly unique character.
Beyond the deliciousness of its Yogyakarta-style "gudeg", the eatery is owned by a talented female artist, Retno Arya Bayuaji. Known affectionately as Mbak Retno, she has long pursued sketching as both a hobby and a passion.
Her sketches come to life with a strong nostalgic aesthetic, capturing classic Javanese life, female figures, and traditional market scenes through spontaneous, expressive strokes.
"It turns out there are many admirers; in fact, my original works have even been exhibited in Ubud. I’ve received positive feedback from various painters who frequent Warung Gudeg Joglo here on Jalan Badak Agung. Sketching—letting the lines flow spontaneously—has been a hobby of mine since childhood," Retno Arya Bayuaji revealed when met at her eatery.
From Ubud Exhibitions to the Walls of Warung Gudeg Joglo
Retno Arya Bayuaji’s original works are no mere amateur efforts; they have been exhibited in Ubud, a renowned global hub for the arts. Many painters and artists who stopped by to enjoy the "gudeg" found themselves captivated by the artworks displayed on the eatery's walls.
Retno’s sketching style is known for its high degree of spontaneity. She avoids excessive reworking, allowing the lines to flow naturally while successfully capturing the emotion and narrative of her subjects. It is this distinctive quality that makes her work highly sought after by collectors. Savoring Authentic Gudeg Amidst Vintage-Style Sketch Art
Beyond serving as an art space, Warung Gudeg Joglo maintains its core identity as an eatery offering authentic, original Jogja-style gudeg at affordable prices.
The blend of Jogja’s signature sweet-and-savory gudeg flavors with the atmosphere of a vintage-style sketch gallery offers visitors a unique experience.
The combination of authentic, affordable Jogja gudeg and the chance to admire vintage-style sketches inspires visitors from near and far—both domestic and international.
Many travelers—from various cities across the country to international tourists—make a special trip here not just to dine, but also to view and discuss the displayed artwork.
"After eating the gudeg and looking at Mbak Retno’s paintings, it feels like stepping back into the Jogja of yesteryear. It’s truly inspiring; I leave with a full stomach and a happy heart, having found artistic inspiration," said a visitor from Jakarta.
With this "culinary-meets-art-space" concept, Warung Gudeg Joglo in Renon has become a unique, must-visit destination in Denpasar, especially for food and art enthusiasts. VISIT INFO:
Warung Gudeg Joglo
Address: Jl. Badak Agung, Renon, Denpasar
Signature Dishes: Original Jogja Gudeg, Krecek (spicy cattle-skin stew), Free-range Chicken, Pindang Eggs
Facilities: Art Studio & Vintage-Style Sketch Gallery.#storytelling bali-inspire