IN BETWEEN YOGA CLASSES
If you’re at Yoga Barn, have a cup of Chai Masala and a slice of banana bread at GARDEN KAFE, located within Yoga Barn itself (second outpost: KAFE on Jl. Hanoman No. 44B).
The shot of wheatgrass essence is good for your body, and juices are amazing here. Raw tacos, lasagna and raw cakes redefine “health food” as cravings-to-be-had, colourful and absolutely delicious. Bottled cold pressed juices are available at the lower deck juice bar.
If you’re up for a walk, TACO CASA at Jl. Pengosekan makes some kickass burritos that have us back for more during our teacher training days. Herbivore and carnivore options available.
Around Radiantly Alive are two streets with super amazing warungs and cafes. BALI BUDA at Jl Jembawan has the most delightful array of bakes (I bought muffins as gifts to my homestay hosts and the little girl loved it!)
The Balinese style Chia Pudding is simply divine. So is their Indian Spiced Chai for that nice evening slowdown. Mmmm.
A little further down the road is RUN’S WARUNG in a sweet hut. Friendly local ladies fry up tasty local dishes such as mi goreng and freshly blend red dragon fruit juice.
You’d see many locals buying takeaway from this warung – always a good sign!
GET ON A SCOOTER
Hop on a scooter and find your way to ALCHEMY at Jl. Penestanan Kelod No.75, Ubud’s first 100% raw vegan cafe and juice bar. It’s gonna be tough making decisions at the salad bar, with all the kale, coconut shaving balls, pumpkin, slaw mixes and nuts.
Please do not skip on the juices here, they’re naturally sweet and freshly pressed upon order. Kiss Kiss is my favourite!
You have to either arrive by foot or scooter to SARI ORGANIK (Warung Boday Maliah), located at Subak Sok Wayah. Cars are not allowed to enter this quiet little getaway in the heart of Ubud. Surrounded by padi fields and fresh cool air, the atmosphere here suits the pristine organic food and juices served. There are salads, pizzas and a whole list of local dishes. Take an evening walk and you may be lucky to spot some fireflies in the paddies.
MUST. HAVE. COFFEE
For good coffee, there’s ANOMALI COFFEE by the busy street of Jl. Raya Ubud No. 88. Ambience here exudes chill-out vibes and friendly baristas. Take a street seat to people-watch over a cup of latte, or find a cosy corner inside (or level two) for quiet journaling time.
WATERCRESS on Jl Monkey Forest serves up coffee from the famed Revolver Coffee and does not disappoint. The cafe prepares delicious food such as Acai Bowl and Baked Eggs. Make your visit a brunch affair – it’s worth the calories.
FOR LOCAL FOOD
Besides Run’s Warung and Sari Organik as listed above, here are three must-go local eateries, also known as Warungs. First up is WARUNG BIAH BIAH at Jl. Goutama No. 13, along my favourite street to be in Ubud. The mi goreng is a killer, and so are the tempe sate (on sticks) and perkedel (fried potato balls).
I stumbled upon VEGGIE TABLE at Jl. Hanoman No. 53 because of its punny name and found my favourite Yellow Rice set, one which I never fail to return to for each trip to Ubud.
If you’re on a date or would like local food in a beautiful beautiful setting (four levels of different atmosphere!), head to MURNI’S WARUNG at Jl. Raya Campuan. Desserts , especially the banana fritters, are an absolute must-have.
FOR WHOLE FOOD
Along the same street of Jalan Sugriwa are two warungs I’d never miss on my trips to Ubud. They’re located close to where I live too so that makes them perfect for that lazy, cosy afternoon/evening personal space time.
At WARUNG SOPA on Jl. Sugriwa No. 36, go for the pumpkin soup and refreshing taco rice with egg (you have to add that egg!) Mr. Antara who runs the cafe is a friendly local who always smiles and makes lighthearted, inspiring conversations.
Salads are good at DAYU’S WARUNG on Jl. Sugriwa No. 28X, but what’s keeping us coming back are their raw cakes made of pumpkin, sweet potato and sometimes, chocolate chilli. Mmm.
Jl. Goutama (my favourite street with Warung Biah Biah) is also home to CAFE SOMA, where organic holistic food and drinks are to be had. I have so much love reading the menu of Cafe Soma for the heartfelt copywriting, and of course, long list of offerings. Pick the Pesto Pasta and opt for a Jicama Booster on a cool evening night to warm hearts.
Slightly off Jl. Hanoman, on the same street is EARTH CAFE PARADISO. This cafe at level two prepares food so clean and fresh, you’d be shopping for the ingredients in its market at level one. Enjoy the falafel and of course, try the detoxifying kombucha. They offer interesting flavours such as coconut and hibiscus.
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