The very mention of the word “Bali” is bound to conjure up images of a tropical paradise with an amazing culinary, art and cultural scene. One of the highlights of a visit to this province in Indonesia is sampling its diverse array of dishes such as Babi guling (roasted pork), betutu (roasted chicken or duck with spices) and lawar (chopped meat with vegetables and grated coconut).
Spices, vegetables, meat and fish are the markers of Balinese cuisine, which is strongly influenced by its own indigenous heritage and that of Chinese, Indian and Indonesian gastronomy. It may not come as a huge surprise then that as a popular tourist destination veganism has taken off on the island and its neighbouring islets.
Here are the best places to enjoy a vegan meal made with fresh ingredients on your Bali tour.
Starting with a room to accommodate only 20 people, Kynd Community has quickly become one of the most popular vegan restaurants on the island. Their gourmet pizzas, pastas, curries, smoothie bowls, waffles and ice cream have people filing in to have breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner. With two branches across the island—one in Seminyak and the other in Canggu—the pick interiors and tropical décor could have you fooled into thinking you’re in a Barbie movie. Try their “buffalo wings” when you go.
Address: Jalan Petitenget No.12 Kerobokan Kelod, Seminyak, Kuta Utara, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Fresh meals every day in a cosy café and a plate of pancakes as you work on your daily tasks? Sign us up. On I am Vegan Babe’s menu you will find homemade butters, dressings, creamy cheeses, plant-based meats, wraps, juices, freshly-baked bread, desserts and sauces—truly a one-stop shop for vegans and those curious about eating plant-based meals.
Their blue latte is made using blue spirulina and their “bacon” with cashew cheese is mouthwateringly good.
Address: Jl. Tanah Barak No.49, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80351, Indonesia
Potentially the best vegan outlet on Nusa Penida Island, a tiny islet to the east of the main island of Bali, Vegan Soul Kitchen has amazing views of the island’s jungle from its patio. Sitting in the restaurant feels like being in a giant tree house where you can relax and eat. Getting there means navigating steep gravel roads but the pay off is worth it. Their gado gado, tempeh satay, burgers, smoothie bowls, coffee with coconut milk and tofu curry, to name a few dishes, are popular with customers.
Address: 7GV3+4Q3, Unnamed Road, Sakti, Kec. Nusa Penida, Kabupaten Klungkung, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Incorporating ancient Chinese, Ayurvedic and macrobiotic principles into their cooking, Sayuri Healing Food sees food as energy which can be harnessed to help balance the mind, body and spirit. Their dragon roll sushi, pumpkin soup, laksa and desserts are particularly appetising.
The restaurant also has a studio at the back where they host various events on plant-based nutrition and cooking vegan food, as well as hosting yoga programs.
Address: Jl. Sukma Kesuma No.2, Peliatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
This is one of the more affordable places on the list. Tasty Vegan crafts wholesome and delicious vegan meals that don’t break the bank. This small restaurant has a cosy vibe and visitors love its satay with peanut sauce, mie goreng, curry rice, nasi campur, Australian-style pizza, scrambled tofu and "egg omelette". Don't forget to try its matcha and chocolate cake.
Address: Jl. Raya Basangkasa gg. dewata No.15B, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Flights from Indian metropolitan cities take off regularly to I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), Bali's main airport.
