Lombok Island in Indonesia has recently been gaining attention as a wellness tourism destination. Compared to its neighbor Bali, this island retains its untouched nature and exudes a more relaxed, local atmosphere, where vegan and healthy-minded cafes and restaurants that are kind to both mind and body are continuously emerging.
This time, we’ve carefully selected and will introduce four must-visit vegan spots that are passionately supported not only by short-term travelers but also by language students, long-term nomadic workers, and locals who require dietary restrictions such as Halal. These are not just ‘vegan-friendly’ places, but establishments full of love, meticulous about how they utilize local ingredients and create their spaces.
Plant Based Cafe & Restaurant Vegan
📍 Address: Jl. Sriwijaya No.7-8, Cilinaya, Kec. Cakranegara, Kota Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83232 Indonesia
This restaurant, located in Mataram, the central city of Lombok Island, is highly praised by locals and long-term residents as ‘the favorite in Mataram!’ The interior is unified with modern and warm decor, offering a perfect space to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends and family.
Its biggest charm is the incredibly rich menu variety, ranging from Indonesian local food to Chinese, Western, and Italian dishes. Popular Nasi Goreng and Chinese-style fried noodles, Bakpao (vegan buns similar to ‘nikuman’ or steamed pork buns), curry puffs, and even Teriyaki burgers and mushroom pizzas boast such satisfying portions and deliciousness that you might forget they’re vegan. The stir-fried green beans, and post-meal matcha ice cream and apple pie are also exquisite.
Additionally, the store has an attached section for affordable groceries and snacks, which is a welcome bonus for those self-catering during their Lombok stay, offering rare condiments like vegan terasi (a plant-based alternative to fermented shrimp paste, essential in Indonesian cuisine). It also supports Grab delivery, so many regulars conveniently order from their hotels or residences.
JUJU Zero Waste Store & Vegan Cafe
📍 Address: Jl. Mojo, Gili Air, Kec. Pemenang, Kabupaten Lombok Utara, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83352 Indonesia
Located on the beautiful island of Gili Air, a short boat ride from Lombok, this eco-friendly vegan cafe also houses a zero-waste store. You can enjoy nutritious meals and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere with pleasant background music.
For breakfast, we highly recommend the beautifully layered ‘Berry Bowl,’ resembling a surprise bag, or the ‘Pump It Smoothie Bowl’ topped with brownies. They also offer hearty dishes like vegan scrambled ‘eggs’ and French toast. Healthy yet rich in flavor, beverages like the ‘Coach’ juice, infused with vegan protein, are perfect for an energy boost after activities. Unique items like the Gyoza Soup are also highly acclaimed in reviews for their perfectly balanced chili sauce spice.
The cafe is equipped with power outlets and Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable oasis for digital nomads and students working on their laptops (please be mindful of long stays during busy hours). The attached shop offers sophisticated souvenirs, eco-friendly goods perfect for a treat for yourself, and carefully curated local items, so be sure to enjoy some shopping before or after your meal.
Ra Healing Food
📍 Address: Jl. Pelangi Sunset View No.83352, Gili Air, Kec. Pemenang, Kabupaten Lombok Utara, Nusa Tenggara Bar., Indonesia
Also located on Gili Air, this restaurant boasts an excellent location with a clear beach stretching out before it. Its casual vibe allows visitors to drop by directly after swimming or snorkeling for sea turtles, simply throwing on a cover-up over their swimwear, while its overwhelmingly healthy offerings captivate travelers.
Here, you’ll find a wide selection of raw food (meals prepared without heat or at low temperatures) and gluten-free vegan options, made without artificial seasonings to maximize the nutritional value of the ingredients. Thoughtfully crafted dishes like scrambled ‘egg’-style pesto tofu, lentil patties, raw zucchini lasagna, and vegetable tofu curry bowls are of such quality that even non-vegetarians will exclaim, ‘I’d eat this every day!’ Don’t forget to try their exquisite desserts like the refreshing lemon ‘cheesecake’ after your meal.
The recommended time to visit is around 6 PM. Dinner in the front row with an ocean view, watching the magnificent sunset over the sea, will surely be one of the best memories of your Gili Air stay. Coupled with the staff’s warm hospitality, it’s a ‘healing’ space that makes you want to return every day.
SoulCafe Lombok
📍 Address: G2FQ+85X, Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, Kec Batu Layar, Kabupaten Lombok Barat, Senggigi, Kec. Batu Layar, Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83355 Indonesia
This hidden gem of a cafe is nestled quietly within a beautiful garden in Senggigi, a resort area on the west side of Lombok Island. All menu items are ‘fully vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free,’ allowing even those with dietary restrictions to enjoy their meal with complete peace of mind.
The unique feature of this cafe is its deliberate choice not to play music inside. You can spend a peaceful, silent time listening to ‘nature’s background music’ – the rustling of trees in the wind and the distant sound of waves. Avocado toast made with homemade gluten-free bread, tomato and tofu ‘mozzarella’ cheese-style sandwiches, and waffles drizzled with homemade hot chocolate are all bursting with fresh, rich flavors.
And what’s truly wonderful is the German owner’s passionate dedication and contribution to the local community. She generously shares her skills and knowledge with local female staff, supporting their independence. The attentive and warm service from the confident staff creates this cafe’s positive and special atmosphere. Business days and hours may be limited, so it’s advisable to check their operating status before visiting.
Local Tips to Enhance Your Vegan Journey
Vegan restaurants on Lombok Island and the Gili Islands don’t just omit meat and fish; they masterfully blend with Indonesia’s unique food culture, maximizing the potential of local vegetables, spices, and legumes (like tempeh and tofu).
Long-term residents and digital nomads in Mataram city often incorporate their favorite vegan dishes into their daily routine by utilizing delivery apps like ‘Grab’ and ‘Gojek.’ Meanwhile, on Gili Air, where there are no cars or motorbikes, the classic style involves cycling around the island, stopping at seaside cafes to use power outlets and Wi-Fi, and enjoying a relaxed environment for work or reading.
The vegan community on Lombok Island is very open and welcoming, not only for those with dietary restrictions like allergies or Halal requirements but also for travelers looking to give their digestive system a break or who wish to make environmentally conscious and sustainable choices. Please use this article as a guide to discover your own favorite spots.
