Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart, is a wellness sanctuary that draws yogis, digital nomads, and health-conscious individuals from all corners of the globe. Consequently, the town is brimming with high-quality restaurants offering plant-based and raw food dishes.
However, when trying to find a place, many might wonder, ‘Where can I truly find delicious vegan food?’ or ‘Are these just tourist traps with overpriced menus?’ To answer these questions, we’ve carefully selected five truly exceptional vegan restaurants that will satisfy everyone visiting Ubud, from short-term tourists to long-term residents.
Beyond just menu introductions, we’ll provide a wealth of insider information, including ‘must-order secret menu staples’ known only to locals, the local vibe, and the best times to visit to avoid crowds. Enjoy these authentic insights!
Moksa Ubud
📍 Address: Ubud II Kutuh Jl. Melati, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Nestled quietly in the Sayan area, slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of central Ubud, ‘Moksa Ubud’ is a nature-inspired restaurant with an attached permaculture garden. Passing through the lush green path leading to the restaurant, you’ll discover a breathtakingly quiet and serene open-air space.
The dishes served here generously feature organic vegetables harvested directly from the on-site farm. Among them, Chef Made Runatha’s vegan creations are highly acclaimed for ‘颠覆 plant-based food concepts.’ For first-time visitors, we highly recommend the set menu at ‘190k (approx. 190,000 IDR)’ which includes a starter, main, and dessert. You can savor inventive dishes where spices and natural flavors are exquisitely intertwined, such as a chimichurri stir-fry that masterfully replicates the texture of squid, or fish cakes made with taro.
Dinner time tends to get crowded with food connoisseurs from around the world, so aiming for an early evening visit or making a reservation in advance is recommended. Additionally, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, a farmers’ market featuring vegetables from the farm is held, offering a chance to connect with the local community. While Wi-Fi is available, power outlets are limited, making it more suitable for enjoying ‘the meal in front of you and a connection with nature’ rather than laptop work.
Sayuri Healing Food Cafe & Academy
📍 Address: Jl. Sukma Kesuma No.2, Peliatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
This immensely popular establishment, led by Japanese owner Sayuri, is a pioneer in Ubud’s raw and healing food scene. The clientele consists mostly of Western yogis and long-term residents, creating a laid-back, hippie vibe where people might even recline and relax in the tatami seating area at the back of the cafe.
Among the many menu items, the ‘Nourish bowl’ loaded with vegetables, the ‘burrito’ that ingeniously recreates an egg-like texture from coconut and corn paste, and the ‘banana flower fish tacos’ available only on Thursdays (so voluminous they’re hard to wrap!) are passionately supported by regulars. For drinks, the ‘Yoga Proof Tonic,’ powerfully spiced (with cayenne pepper, etc.), offers a detoxifying sensation unlike anywhere else.
While the prices are slightly higher compared to local warungs (eateries), its overwhelming quality and reliability mean it’s often almost full even during late lunch hours on weekdays, around 2:30 PM. The atmosphere transforms at night, turning into a vibrant community space with live band performances and dancing, making it highly recommended for those looking to enjoy Ubud’s deeper nightlife and social scene.
Plant Bistro
📍 Address: Blanco Museum Area, Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Located in the Blanco Museum Area of Campuhan, this vegan Italian bistro boasts an excellent location overlooking valleys and lush forests. The sophisticated open-air interior harmonizes with Ubud’s nature, creating a supreme ambiance perfect for dates or special occasion dinners.
The biggest characteristic of this restaurant is its ‘fake meat’ and ‘fake fish’ dishes, so elaborately crafted, you might mistake them for the real thing. From ‘Pappardelle al Ragu’ (flat pasta with a meat sauce-like flavor) and ‘Bruschetta Salmon,’ which masterfully replicates salmon, to the ‘Balifornia Roll,’ an evolved California roll – both the appearance and taste are full of surprises.
On the other hand, because it pursues ‘plant-based food as gourmet cuisine,’ some strict raw food or additive-free enthusiasts have pointed out that ‘some desserts are too sweet’ or ‘some items claiming to be natural use white sugar.’ However, for enjoying beautiful meals with an unbeatable view, it’s truly unique. If you’re aiming for the prime two-person balcony tables, visiting around 5:30 PM, just before sunset, is your best strategy. Note that cigarette smoke can sometimes waft up from the 1st floor parking lot, so if you are sensitive to smells, you might want to avoid the inner sofa seats or choose a well-ventilated seat closer to the front.
Alchemy Bali
📍 Address: Jl. Penestanan No.75, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Founded in 2011, this well-established restaurant is known as a pioneering institution for ‘100% raw vegan cafes’ (cooking methods that keep heating below 43 degrees Celsius) in Bali. It was named one of the top 10 vegan restaurants in America, and its expansion into Azabudai Hills, Tokyo, in 2023, brought it instant fame among Japanese travelers.
With the ‘Alchemy Yoga Center’ located directly across the road, the cafe is always bustling with wellness-minded individuals finishing yoga sessions, and adult digital nomads. The absolute must-try is the massive ‘salad bar’ where you can customize your own creation. The style involves choosing a base of brown rice or a hearty salad, then adding three toppings and a protein (BBQ jackfruit is popular). You can sample the six homemade dressings before ordering, so there’s no need to worry if you’re undecided. One plate offers an overwhelming cost performance, enough to satisfy even an adult male.
With plenty of seating and a large space, it’s easy to drop by without a reservation, which is a great plus. The cafe also features a retail space stocked with organic ingredients and popular Balinese brands, making it perfect for finding stylish, healthy souvenirs.
Sage
📍 Address: Jl. Nyuh Bulan No.1, Mas, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Located in the Mas area of southern Ubud, Sage is an inviting restaurant offering Mexican-inspired vegan cuisine. Despite its prices being more reasonable compared to organic cafes in central Ubud, it delivers on taste, portion size, and atmosphere, earning immense support from mid- to long-term residents and students as ‘a place they want to visit every day.’
Regulars consistently order the ‘Nourish bowl’ with perfectly seasoned tofu and tempeh, the spicy ‘jackfruit tacos,’ and the Mexican-style ‘cauliflower fritters.’ These dishes offer a level of satisfaction you wouldn’t expect from plant-based food, with no bad choices. Additionally, for after-meal or cafe time, the ‘matcha’ drink, sugar-free and offering authentic bitterness and aroma, is a quiet favorite.
The staff’s hospitality is exceptionally high, with thoughtful touches like handwritten message cards attached to the cutlery bundles, heartwarming the guests. Even during less busy times, they tidily organize shelves while cheerfully engaging in conversation, providing some of the best-trained customer service in Bali.
【Column】Real Tips for Enjoying Vegan Restaurants in Ubud
Here are some practical tips about local conditions that are useful to know when exploring vegan restaurants in Ubud.
■ Ordering Tips and Portion Sizes
Vegan restaurants in Bali generally set generous portion sizes to cater to Western physiques and the needs of long-term residents. Especially for salad bowls and burritos, it’s often just right for two Japanese women to share. If you’re unsure when ordering, don’t hesitate to ask the staff about portion sizes or request a dressing tasting (possible at some places like Alchemy Bali) to avoid disappointment.
■ Cafe Use for Digital Nomads
While many of the restaurants introduced here offer free Wi-Fi, they are not necessarily suitable for ‘long hours of PC work.’ For example, ‘Moksa Ubud’ has limited power outlets and is designed for enjoying nature, while ‘Sayuri Healing Food’ fosters a strong atmosphere for relaxing on tatami seats or socializing. For work purposes, larger establishments with many adult digital nomads, like ‘Alchemy Bali,’ are more suitable.
■ Securing Transportation
Ubud’s vegan restaurants are often scattered in slightly more remote areas, such as the ‘Sayan area’ and ‘Mas area,’ away from the congested town center. Walking is usually impractical, so utilizing local ride-hailing apps ‘Grab’ and ‘Gojek’ for motorcycle taxis (ojek) is standard. However, in some areas (especially the town center around the Royal Palace), ride-hailing app pickups might be difficult due to local taxi regulations. In such cases, it’s advisable to ask the restaurant staff to arrange a taxi for your return, or walk a bit outside the regulated area to request a ride-hailing app.
Ubud, Bali, is a special place where you can experience ‘harmony with nature’ and the ‘warmth of community’ through food, not just healthy eating. We hope this article helps you find your favorite dish!
