Unofficially the spiritual capital of Bali, Ubud offers plenty of temples, small shops and cafes. Ubud is surrounded by the Sayan valley to the west, and the large river that runs through the city gives lots of jungle atmosphere and nature close to the busy shopping streets in the city center by the royal temple.
In this Ubud guide you can find my favorite cafes and restaurants, and a few bonus tips at the end that I'm sure you'll love to treat yourself to!
OUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN UBUD:
MOKSA
One of our absolute favourites! The food at Moksa is all about freshness and taste. The fact that it is also plant-based and super healthy is a welcome bonus. Enjoy your food while overlooking Moksa'a very own permaculture garden, where they grow their own produce. Tip: Try their laksa, if there is room for dessert, they have a dessert tester with 3 of their raw food cakes and otherwise the Coco Choco panna cotta is delicious. Can also recommend their "Ginger-Tonic" mocktail.
MILK & MADU
Right in the heart of Ubud close to the palace. This is where we end up when the youngest family member is allowed to choose. Here is pizza made in a stone oven, burgers and good salads, so we can all find something we like. The atmosphere here is tropical and cozy with modern-chic decor. Perfect if you have children on your trip, as the menu also offers favorite dishes for the little Bali globetrotters.
ALCHEMY
All vegan with a lot of love for healthy ingredients and raw food with good taste are the core values. Their range of healthy chocolates and desserts are top of mind at this stylish cafe. They have a large menu and in addition both a delicious salad and soup bar matched with their sweets, which you gotta try! Check out their decadent banoffee pie or sugar-free Bounty bars. Our favorite for lunch is their hot vegetable Laksa, which is a spicy soup with lots of greens and herbs.
ZEST
One of our favorite lunch restaurants. Yes, it's also vegan, but you won't find boring bowls of alfalfa sprouts or soft tofu here. There are plenty of tasty dishes, try for example their jackfruit steak or their moringa curry. The place has a Dutch chef who also organizes cooking classes if you have the courage to try cooking their dishes yourself. Tip: Try to book a table in the corner of the restaurant, there is a great view of the river below.
SAGE
Here you'll find large salads and creamy desserts alongside tempting-but-oh-so-delicious snacks, like tempeh buffalo wings and cauliflower fritters, plus a delicious selection of smoothies, juices and mocktails.
THE SAYAN HOUSE
This gem is located just ten minutes from the city center, away from the hustle and bustle with panoramic views of the surrounding forest bordering the Sayan Valley. Expect relaxed atmosphere and exquisite food with a fantastic fusion of Latin-Japanese inspired cuisine. The view and the bar are in a special class for a fantastic sunset.
ROOSTERS
Roosters is a coffee shop with its own roastery, a restaurant with a beautiful view of the rice fields, a furniture and design store and a potter's workshop wrapped in a large, stylish building. Here you will find delicious coffee and tea, good food and if you have children with you, they will love Rooster's own ice cream bar.
LACASITA FONDA MEXICANA
Here you get chili, enchiladas and Laca's legendary Jalapeño Margaritas. Lacasita is spicing up Ubud's food scene with its fresh picante modern cuisine. Think ginger ceviche, sweet potato tacos and lots of Mexican charm.
2 X BONUS
NADIS HERBAL
This small local herbal shop is not to be missed. They have herbs, creams, oils and the best lip balm. Nadis is certified by the government of Bali with the highest distinction, and produces all of its products from fresh, local ingredients. I'm addicted to their lip balm citrus and we buy our tea and tumeric powder here.
PYRAMIDS OF CHI
Pyramids of Chi is a Sound healing and wellness center just outside Ubud. In the 2 pyramid-shaped halls, you can experience sound healing and various types of "sound baths", which heal your body both physically (vibration) and mentally. We come here often, and the favorite is their "Ancient Sound Healing" which uses many different types of sound and vibration.