Ubud’s food scene is absolutely incredible, blending traditional warungs serving authentic Indonesian classics with ultra-hip healthy cafes and sophisticated fine dining.
After exploring this cultural centre of Bali extensively, I’ve discovered the restaurants that truly stand out from garden settings overlooking rice paddies to bustling spots along Jalan Raya Ubud.
Whether you’re craving Nasi Goreng at affordable prices or Mediterranean fine dining with modern interpretations, these eight restaurants showcase the very best of what Ubud offers.
8 Best Restaurants in Ubud
Watercress
Best For: Breakfast and people-watching upstairs
Watercress became my favourite breakfast spot during my time in Ubud, conveniently located just a 5-10 minute walk from Monkey Forest.
The two-storey building features strong wooden beams and an industrial-style blue and white coffee dock leading to the open kitchen.
I’d recommend grabbing upstairs seating for excellent people-watching views. The corn fritters and Bircher muesli are absolutely divine.
Pre-booking is wise as they run out of popular items like acai bowls, but honestly, anything you order delivers consistent quality in a relaxed atmosphere.
Opening: Daily 7:30am – 10:30pm
Atmosphere: Industrial-chic two-storey space with upstairs views, open kitchen, and relaxed casual vibe
Menu Highlights:
- Corn fritters
- Bircher muesli
- Acai bowls (arrive early)
Mozaic
Best For: Fine dining tasting menu experience
Mozaic represents Ubud’s pinnacle of fine dining, where head chef Blake Thornley masterfully combines Indonesian spices with French technique.
The restaurant’s recent redesign introduced an exciting mixology lounge and private dining kitchen, whilst the roasting duck garden offers front-row views of culinary action.
With over 200 wines including natural and organic options, plus inventive cocktail pairings, every course becomes a tasting extravaganza.
The stunning presentation and unique flavour combinations justify the premium pricing. This is sophisticated dining at its finest, so reserve well in advance.
Opening: Daily 11am – 11pm
Atmosphere: Sophisticated fine dining with roasting duck garden, air-conditioned interior, and private dining options
Menu Highlights:
- Multi-course tasting menu
- Duck from the roasting garden
- Wine pairing (200+ selections)
- Inventive cocktails
Locavore
Best For: Farm-to-table sustainable fine dining
Locavore has earned international recognition for its farm-to-table philosophy and innovative approach to contemporary Indonesian cuisine.
The restaurant’s commitment to locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable cooking practices shines through every multi-course tasting menu.
I found their seasonal offerings exceptionally creative, with each dish showcasing gastronomic innovation whilst respecting authentic local flavours.
The sophisticated atmosphere and expert service team elevate the experience beyond mere dining. Advance reservations are absolutely essential for this celebrated culinary destination that’s become synonymous with food sustainability and excellence in Ubud.
Opening: Reservations essential, check schedule
Atmosphere: Sophisticated contemporary space celebrating sustainable practices with international fine dining standards
Menu Highlights:
- Seasonal tasting menu
- Locally-sourced ingredients
- Wine pairing programme
- Contemporary Indonesian creations
Bridges
Best For: Romantic dinners with forest views
Bridges delivers one of Ubud’s most romantic dinner settings, surrounded by forest walls with the soothing sounds of the Wos river below.
The open forest view from the lower bar area is absolutely gasping, whilst the International Indonesian cuisine caters brilliantly to all dietary requirements with clear labelling.
I particularly loved the open mushroom ravioli and crusted zucchini blossoms, both showcasing exceptional quality at €6-10 per dish.
The formal service style suits sophisticated evening dining, though the casual lunch option at the bar offers a more relaxed atmosphere if you prefer.
Opening: Daily 11am – 11pm
Atmosphere: Romantic forest setting overlooking Wos river with formal dining room and casual lower bar area
Menu Highlights:
- Open mushroom ravioli
- Crusted zucchini blossoms
- International Indonesian cuisine
- All dietary options available
Warung Pondok Madu
Best For: Authentic BBQ ribs local recipe
This became my absolute favourite restaurant in Ubud, hands down.
Despite requiring a bit of a walk, the exceptional food quality and local pricing make the journey worthwhile.
The place was packed when I arrived, but after drinks at the bar, we secured a table for their famous BBQ ribs cooked to perfection following a traditional local recipe.
At these prices, we indulged in starters and shared three main courses between two. The outstanding value and authentic warung atmosphere create a memorable dining experience that’s popular with locals for good reason.
Opening: Evening service, arrive early
Atmosphere: Busy authentic warung packed with locals, bar seating available, traditional Indonesian cooking on display
Menu Highlights:
- BBQ ribs (specialty)
- Traditional starters
- Local recipe preparations
- Shareable main courses
Fair Warung
Best For: Charitable dining supporting local health
If I could only recommend one restaurant in Ubud, Fair Warung would be it. Not just for the freshly cooked perfection emerging from their tiny kitchen, but because 100% of profits support the Fair Future Foundation’s free health programmes.
One meal here equals two free medical treatments and contributes to their new paediatric hospital.
The red chicken curry is absolutely exceptional, whilst the crispy tempe and tofu starters showcase authentic Indonesian flavours beautifully.
Supporting local community whilst enjoying quality food makes this a truly feel-good dining experience.
Opening: Check Fair Future Foundation schedule
Atmosphere: Tiny professional kitchen creating fresh authentic dishes with community-focused charitable mission warmth
Menu Highlights:
- Red chicken curry
- Crispy tempe
- Crispy tofu
- Authentic Indonesian dishes
Hujan Locale
Best For: Modern Indonesian cuisine near market
Hujan Locale brilliantly reimagines traditional Indonesian cuisine with creative modern twists, all whilst maintaining that authentic Indonesian feel.
The helpful waiter guided me toward the steamed ikan bumbu kuning, which was absolutely beautiful, though I hear the beef rendang is equally beloved.
Don’t skip the salted caramel popcorn ice cream for dessert!
The delightfully modern interior creates a fabulous ambience, whilst the laid-back, friendly staff make you feel genuinely welcome.
Just five minutes from the art market, it’s perfectly positioned for a post-shopping meal.
Opening: Daily service, check hours
Atmosphere: Modern interior balancing traditional Indonesian feel with laid-back friendly service and fabulous ambience
Menu Highlights:
- Steamed ikan bumbu kuning
- Beef rendang
- Salted caramel popcorn ice cream
- Creative Indonesian dishes
Donna
Best For: Mediterranean fusion with live music
Donna consistently rates highly with both locals and tourists for good reason. This stylish Mediterranean and Latin American fusion restaurant excels at every course, from starters to desserts.
The tasteful styling with soft lighting and great music creates a vibrant social scene, especially during Friday DJ parties and Saturday live music nights.
I found the wine list excellent and the cocktail masterpieces perfectly complement each dish.
Whilst clearly geared toward adults with premium shisha offerings, children are genuinely welcomed.
The ten out of ten service seals the deal on what’s become my favourite Ubud dining experience.
Opening: Friday DJ parties, Saturday live music
Atmosphere: Vibrant social scene with soft lighting, stylish décor, great music, and Friday/Saturday entertainment
Menu Highlights:
- Mediterranean and Latin American fusion
- Excellent wine list
- Cocktail masterpieces
- Premium shisha experience
Final Thoughts
Ubud’s dining scene truly offers something magnificent for everyone, from affordable warungs with rice paddy settings to sophisticated fine dining excellence.
I found myself returning to favourites whilst constantly discovering new gems. The diversity here is genuinely thriving.
Tips for dining in Ubud:
- Pre-book popular spots to avoid disappointment
- Arrive early for restaurants with limited seating
- Rent a scooter for easy exploration beyond walking distance
- Many excellent options cluster conveniently in central Ubud
Whether you’re seeking traditional Indonesian cuisine or international flavours, this cultural food immersion will undoubtedly become a travel highlight you’ll remember long after leaving Bali.
