A few months ago, I packed my bags in Toronto and flew to Bali, more specifically to Ubud. Ubud wasn’t a random choice though, I went there to complete my yoga teacher training. Over 4 weeks, I took full advantage of my time to explore the local food scene. The result? My favourite restaurants in Ubud, all tested and approved, so you can eat well on your next trip to Bali!
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Zest
Zest was recommended by so many people online, and for good reason. It became one of my favourite restaurants in Ubud. I was lucky enough to be staying just a few steps away from House of Om Melati, my yoga school. Over 4 weeks, I went there at least 8 times. No regrets. The oversized comfortable couches make it the perfect spot to settle in before your meal, or long after. Grab a book, open your journal, or just watch the lush greenery outside if you’re there during the day. I also met some wonderful people there. A menu recommendation, a smile exchanged, and suddenly you have a new friend. Zest is fully vegetarian.
Alchemy
Alchemy Alchemy is another Ubud staple you’ll find recommended everywhere, and it earns it. I spent 3 nights at Outpost Ubud Penestanan, which is part of the same complex, so it was my go-to for meals. The menu is extensive, from starters to desserts, and there’s even a shop where you can pick up tea, crystals, drinks, chocolate and more. Some portions felt a little on the lighter side, but overall it’s a beautiful space with warm staff and food that genuinely makes you feel good. Fully vegetarian.
Plant Bistro
Plant Bistro is stunning and the menu will make you want to come back for more. I visited twice, both times with girls from my yoga training. It’s easily accessible from the town centre. I only went in the evening, but apparently the view during the day is incredible. One big plus if you’re in a group: the restaurant is spacious and can accommodate large tables. If you go, order the 3 hummus. You will not be disappointed. Tag me on Instagram so I can live vicariously through your plate. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the mains either. A must-visit. Fully vegetarian.
Donna
Completely different vibe, and budget too. Donna is a restaurant in the heart of Ubud that’s perfect for a special night out. You know that dress you packed but never wore because you’ve been in yoga clothes for two weeks? This is the place to wear it. The interior is gorgeous. The mocktails are treated with the same care as cocktails, which I really appreciated as someone who doesn’t drink alcohol. We ordered prawns to share, ceviche, burrata and wood-fired lobster. I kept the lobster entirely to myself. No apologies. We went on a Saturday night for a girls’ night out and I recommend it 1000%.
Sini Saja Ubud
One of my absolute favourites, for the food, the aesthetic and the welcome. Located right in the centre of Ubud, I had walked past it several times before finally stepping in. It was one of the best avocado toasts I have ever had, though they call it a “croast” on their menu. The staff made me feel instantly at home. I had only been in Ubud a few days, I was on my own, no friends yet (that came later with the yoga training) and the warmth of the team genuinely made a difference.
Yellow Flower Coffee
Another Ubud spot that gets a lot of love online, and the setting absolutely delivers. You have to walk through some small streets to get there but it is worth it. You can sit under the covered section for shade and a cosier feel, or outside with a direct view over the Balinese greenery. I went for the outdoor option, obviously. It is incredibly peaceful. Bring a book and settle in without any rush. I will be honest though, I loved the atmosphere more than the food. It was good, but nothing that stood out compared to the other restaurants on this list. Fully vegetarian.
NARI – Fire Influenced Bistro
Let’s continue with my favourite restaurants in Ubud. I chose NARI because they cook over a wood fire, which always draws me in. It was an evening near the end of my training, I was tired and I wanted a quiet dinner on my own. I had no idea I was about to eat the best burrata of my life. The one that is now the reference for every burrata that comes after. The restaurant is calm and intimate, the lighting is soft and warm. It was raining that evening and a few frogs had gathered on the terrace nearby, jumping around and croaking. It was a genuinely lovely experience. I recommend it 1000% if you are looking for a chic, quiet evening out.
Atman Nourish Kafe
A wonderful spot for brunch. I went with a few friends on our first Sunday off from training. The space is calming, the food is nourishing and the natural light pouring through the restaurant made everything feel easy and unhurried. One thing to note: they have 2 locations and they are quite different from each other. I wasn’t able to track down the exact addresses, but the larger space is the better one!
Waroeng Bernadette
I won’t lie, the French name is what caught my attention first. I was not expecting to find a restaurant called Bernadette in Bali. The atmosphere is calm and dimly lit, the kind of place where you take your time. I loved that the menu also tells the story of the woman who created it. It makes the whole experience feel more personal and real. I trusted the menu and ordered the authentic beef rendang. It was delicious.
Jinny’s Garden
I almost didn’t include this one. I had seen it recommended on so many TikToks and blogs and I went in with high expectations. It is pretty, I will give it that. But the food is really quite basic and you can find so much better in Ubud. If you are going purely for the aesthetic, sure, go take a look. If you actually want a great meal, skip it.
I hope this list of my favourite restaurants in Ubud helps you eat well and make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of Bali!
