Ubud Food Guide: Where and What to Eat in Bali’s Cultural Heart

There is a way to experience the spirit of Ubud that’s not waiting in line for a picture at rice terraces and temples, through a symphony of flavors found along the vibrant streets. From traditional Balinese warungs, contemporary Indonesian cuisine, elevated vegan-friendly menus, specialty coffee shops, Ubud offers it all. And often, with a breathtaking view.

This is why Ubud has become a culinary hub for foodies and curious tastebuds from all over the world. And to help you guide you through your flavorful journey through Ubud, we’ve compiled a list of several cuisines and eateries worth trying.

Quick Guide: Best Places to Eat in Ubud by Category

Category	Best for	What to Order	Budget
Local warungs	Authentic Balinese food	Nasi campur, babi guling, ayam betutu	Low
Vegan cafes	Plant-based meals	Smoothie bowls, vegan nasi goreng, tempe curry	Low–Medium
Brunch cafes	Casual travelers	Eggs, coffee, pancakes, smoothie bowls	Medium
Fine dining	Foodies, anniversaries	Tasting menus, modern Indonesian dishes	High
Jungle-view restaurants	Romantic meals	Indonesian sharing plates, cocktails	Medium–High
Coffee shops	Remote workers, slow mornings	Balinese coffee, pastries, breakfast	Low–Medium

Must-Try Local Dishes in Ubud

Curious about the local cuisine that Ubud is renowned for? Here is a list of Indonesian and Balinese delicacies that you must try when visiting Ubud.

Nasi Campur

Nasi campur is one of the simplest ways to experience the taste of Indonesian cuisine. This dish involves steamed rice with various additions, such as vegetables, sambal, meat, eggs, tofu, or tempeh. Each warung makes its own version, so you'll have a chance to taste something new every time.

Babi Guling

Babi guling, or roast suckling pig of Bali, is a famous dish of Bali. It is usually seasoned with spices from Bali and slowly roasted until crispy. It is mostly loved by tourists, especially those interested in authentic Balinese cuisine. Availability may differ depending on the warung.

Bebek Betutu or Ayam Betutu

Bebek betutu or ayam betutu are traditional Balinese dishes featuring duck or chicken. They are prepared by marinating the meat in aromatic Balinese spices and slowly cooking them.

Gado-Gado

Another popular dish is the gado-gado, which consists of vegetables with a layer of peanut sauce above them. It is often suitable for vegetarians.

Satay

Satay is a dish made from grilled meat which is usually chicken that comes with peanut sauce or sambal. There are other variations of satay that include beef and goat meat, while vegan-friendly versions may be made with tempeh, tofu, or mushrooms. It can be enjoyed as a snack or a complete meal.

Lawar

Lawar is an Indonesian dish which combines several vegetables along with spices and coconut milk. Lawar can include meat and blood. Therefore, visitors with dietary constraints must inquire before ordering the dish.

Best Local Warungs in Ubud

What Is a Warung?

Warung refers to small and family-owned restaurants offering low-priced Indonesian or Balinese cuisine. Many tourists find the warungs the best spots for trying local cuisine. The method of ordering is often a build-your-own lunch, where you can point to a display of side dishes and proteins to go along with your choice of rice.

What to Look for in a Good Warung

While searching for a warung to try, pay attention to the following criteria:

• Crowded during mealtime
• Availability of a clear menu or food displayed clearly
• Regular change of fresh products
• Separate sambal and condiment serving

Here are several warungs to try for your next visit to Ubud.

1. Puspa Warung

A beloved build-your-own nasi campur spot, Puspa Warung specializes in protein-filled lunches and refreshing smoothie bowls.

Jl. Sugriwa No.46, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

2. Sweet Orange Warung

Tucked into the rice fields along Jl. Kajeng, Sweet Orange Warung is one of Ubud's most atmospheric spots for a meal. Peaceful, lush, and surrounded by swaying paddies.

Subak Juwuk Manis, Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

3. Nasi Ayam Kedewatan

A true Ubud institution, set a little north of the town centre in Kedewatan. The dish here is simple and singular: Balinese chicken rice, served with rich spiced broth poured over the top, accompanied by satay lilit, cubed vegetables, peanuts, sambal, and crispy fried kampung chicken skin. 

Jl. Raya Kedewatan No.18, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

Best Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Ubud

Reasons Why Ubud is Good for Vegan Travellers

The town has grown into one of the best places for vegan cuisine in Southeast Asia as the wellness tourism, yoga retreats, and the healthy culture in Ubud have all contributed to the development of a diverse range of vegan restaurants. 

Ingredients like tempeh, tofu, coconut, rice, vegetables, and sambal are already integrated into the daily Balinese diet, so finding a vegan-friendly restaurant in Ubud is less a matter of if and more a matter of which one.

Here are our top picks for best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Ubud

1. Moksa Ubud

In line with Ubud’s wellness movement, Moksa Ubud is dedicated to creating hearty  meals that will make you forget that these delicious menus are all plant-based.

Ubud II Kutuh Jl. Melati, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

2. This Is Bali

Get to know the flavors of Bali the vegan and vegetarian-friendly way, without compromising. This Is Bali showcases the best of Bali’s lasting culinary heritage, from signature bowls to must-try desserts.

Jl. Goutama No.2, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

3. Alchemy

Alchemy takes wellness to a whole new level. Aside from vegan and vegetarian friendly cuisines, Alchemy also provides an extensive range of wellness retreats to nourish your  body and soul.

Jl. Penestanan No.75, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

Vegan Food Tips

• Make sure that sambal does not contain shrimp paste.
• Check if food items contain eggs. Menus tend to usually be straightforward with their labeling.
• See if vegetarian dishes use fish sauce.

Best Cafes and Brunch Spots in Ubud

Brunch culture isn’t exclusive to Canggu. Here in Ubud, you can walk from one restaurant to the next in pursuit of the best avocado on toast and a fresh cup of coffee just in time for brunch. 

Whether you’re catching up with friends, looking for a quiet space to open your laptop, or a cozy nook to soak in the gentle energy of Ubud, here are some of our favorite cafes and brunch spots in Ubud.

1. AME Bistro

It needs no introduction, obviously. AME Bistro does it simple and does it right. A no-frill brunch destination in Ubud that provides the perfect rest stop after spending your morning at the iconic Monkey Forest. Enjoy a decadent savory crepe or a sweet apple tartin before seeing more of what Ubud has in store.

Jl. Raya Sanggingan No.87X, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

2. Milk & Madu

Milk and Madu knows how to do brunch with style. With three outlets across Bali and one consistent flavor, this is where the foodies go for delicious meals at any time of the day.

Jl. Suweta No.3, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

3. Suka Espresso

Aside from specialty coffee, another guarantee you’ll find at Suka Espresso is their brunch game. 

Jl. Raya Pengosekan Ubud No.108, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

Best Restaurants in Ubud for Dinner

When the day winds down, Ubud transforms into an elegant dining scene at twilight. From lively eateries to curated dining rooms, this is where it all comes together. 

1. Aperitif

Recognized by the Michelin Guide, Aperitif is the epitome of best fine dining restaurants in Ubud. Curated menus, unforgettable views, and impeccable service makes for the culinary excellence that many reserve weeks in advance for. Dinners are popular here, perfect for romantic evenings and intimate celebrations.

Br. Nagi, Jl. Lanyahan, Petulu, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

2. Nari Ubud

Flame-kissed and flavorful, Nari Ubud specializes in grilled delights. The jungle view is what makes this wood-fire bistro one of the best dinner spot in Ubud, offering a unique vantage point of the Gunung Lebah Temple from above.

 Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

3. Donna 

For contemporary flavors and the best romantic dinner in Ubud, Donna is your destination. Blending Mediterranean with Latin American cuisine, Donna knows how to make dinner feel like an event.

Jl. Monkey Forest No.67, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

4. Hujan Locale

For an elevated take on Indonesian cuisine, Hujan Locale is an all-day dining experience that is the perfect introduction to the diversity of Indonesian flavors using the finest local ingredients 

Jl. Sri Wedari No.5, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

Ubud Food Experiences Beyond Restaurants

Want to get an in-depth look into what you’re eating around Ubud? These experiences will take you beyond a simple tasting menu, you’ll go home with brand new appreciation and impressive cooking skills!

Take a Balinese Cooking Class

The following activities are common during cooking classes:

• Visits to markets
• Exposure to local ingredients
• Preparation of sambal
• Preparing satay
• Gado-gado
• Making nasi goreng
• Cooking curries

Such experiences are perfect for couples, families, and cultural enthusiasts.

Visit a Local Market

The markets include:

• Fresh produce
• Local spices
• Tropical fruits
• Local snacks

It is advised to carry some cash as well since visits are usually made during mornings.

Try Balinese Coffee Tasting

Locally produced coffee, herbal tea, and other beverages can be sampled here. For those who plan to experience kopi luwak, it is recommended that they go for companies that prioritize ethical animal treatment.

Join an Ubud Food Tour

Food tours are especially helpful for first-time tourists since they get an opportunity to taste different cuisines in one visit.

Where to Eat in Ubud by Area

Central Ubud

For beginners who will have difficulty exploring various attractions in the city, it is better to choose Central Ubud, which allows easy access to all the main places in the city, including the art market, temples, cafes, warungs, and other dining establishments.

Penestanan

Penestanan is located on the outskirts of Central Ubud, but it is distinguished by its quietness and beauty. It is a good place for digital nomads and long-term travelers, as it features vegan-friendly cafes and beautiful walks through the rice fields.

Sayan

Some of the most luxurious resorts and romantic dinner spots can be found in Sayan. With its picturesque jungles and river valleys, Sayan is a good area for romantic dinners and sightseeing.

Tegalalang

Tegalalang is famous for its impressive rice terraces, so you can expect many people taking pictures at its lunch restaurants and cafés that are located nearby. This area is worth visiting as part of day trips around Ubud.

Nyuh Kuning

With its quiet village atmosphere, Nyuh Kuning is suitable for families that will appreciate the calmness of this neighborhood. There are plenty of family-friendly places to dine and relax here.

Ubud Food Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Bring cash to pay at warungs.
• Confirm the opening hours before going to them.
• Book ahead at popular places.
• Drink filtered or bottled water.
• Inquire regarding spiciness.
• Make sure vegetarian food does not have shrimp paste or fish sauce.
• Use ride-sharing apps for eateries not located in Central Ubud.
• Order food wisely in small quantities to start.
• Follow customs, particularly in religious places.

FAQ

Discover Ubud Through Food

Nothing beats getting to know Ubud through its cuisine. Starting from traditional eateries providing centuries-old dishes to chic restaurants such as AME Bistro featuring contemporary takes on Indonesia’s traditional dishes, each and every dining experience provides insight into Ubud’s rich culinary tradition.

If you are looking for traditional dishes, nutritious vegan meals, specialty coffee, romantic dinner dates, and much more, Ubud offers you an exceptional culinary experience in Indonesia.