Exploring the Best Cafés in Uluwatu. Uluwatu, Bali, is known for its stunning cliffs, world-class surf breaks, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Alongside these natural wonders, Uluwatu has become a haven for coffee lovers and brunch enthusiasts, offering a range of trendy cafés that serve quality coffee, delicious food, and breathtaking ocean views. These cafés are more than just places to grab a meal; they provide the perfect setting to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and immerse yourself in Bali’s laid-back vibe.
This article highlights three of the best cafés in Uluwatu, each with its unique atmosphere, menu, and style. Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking a cozy spot to work, a foodie looking for creative dishes, or simply craving a good cup of coffee with a view, these cafés offer something for everyone.
1. Drifter Café & Restaurant
Drifter Café & Restaurant is more than just a café; it’s an iconic Uluwatu establishment that combines great food, quality coffee, and a unique surf-inspired ambiance. Located along the main road in Uluwatu, Drifter Café is part of a surf shop that specializes in vintage and custom boards, clothing, and surf gear. The café is a popular spot for both surfers and travelers who appreciate its laid-back atmosphere, creative menu, and bohemian vibe.
Atmosphere and Design
The design of Drifter Café is rustic and relaxed, with wooden interiors, vintage surfboards, and decor inspired by Bali’s surf culture. The café’s indoor seating area is cozy and filled with natural light, while the outdoor area is shaded by tropical plants, creating a breezy, beachy feel. It’s an ideal spot to escape the heat, enjoy a good meal, or catch up with friends.
Menu Highlights
Drifter Café offers a variety of healthy, wholesome dishes that emphasize fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The menu includes a mix of breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices.
Some standout items include:
- Açaí Bowls: Made with fresh tropical fruits, coconut, and granola, Drifter’s açaí bowls are a favorite among health-conscious visitors.
- Smoothies and Cold-Pressed Juices: Refreshing and packed with nutrients, these drinks are perfect for a post-surf boost.
- Vegan Buddha Bowls: Filled with a mix of quinoa, avocado, roasted veggies, and flavorful sauces, these bowls offer a filling, nutritious meal.
- Tacos and Burgers: For those craving a bit more substance, Drifter’s menu includes delicious tacos and burgers with fresh toppings and unique flavors.
Coffee and Drinks
Drifter Café takes its coffee seriously, offering a selection of locally sourced, freshly brewed options. From espresso-based drinks to pour-overs and cold brew, the coffee is smooth, rich, and expertly crafted. The café also has a variety of teas, matcha, and turmeric lattes for those seeking caffeine-free options.
Why Visit Drifter Café?
Drifter Café is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Bali’s surf culture while enjoying quality food and coffee. The friendly vibe, surf-inspired decor, and excellent menu make it a must-visit spot for surfers, travelers, and digital nomads alike.
2. The Cashew Tree
The Cashew Tree is a vibrant café and restaurant located near Bingin Beach in Uluwatu. Known for its colorful ambiance, spacious layout, and delicious menu, The Cashew Tree has become a favorite among locals, expats, and visitors. This café offers a welcoming environment for families, friends, and solo travelers who want to relax in a beautiful garden setting with great food and refreshing drinks.
Atmosphere and Design
The Cashew Tree has a bright, open layout with both indoor and outdoor seating areas. The décor features tropical plants, comfortable seating, and playful touches like hanging hammocks and fairy lights. The café’s garden seating provides a peaceful escape, where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by lush greenery and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.
The Cashew Tree is especially popular in the evenings, with live music and events that add to the lively atmosphere. The café also has a designated play area, making it an ideal choice for families with young children.
Menu Highlights
The Cashew Tree offers a variety of healthy, flavorful dishes with an emphasis on organic and locally sourced ingredients. The menu caters to a range of dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Popular items include:
- Nourish Bowls: Packed with fresh vegetables, grains, and protein options, these bowls are both filling and nutritious.
- Smoothie Bowls: The Cashew Tree’s smoothie bowls are visually stunning and packed with fresh fruits, superfoods, and crunchy toppings.
- Pizzas and Wraps: For something heartier, the pizzas and wraps are made with high-quality ingredients and are full of flavor.
- Indonesian-Inspired Dishes: The menu also includes local favorites like Nasi Goreng and Gado-Gado, giving guests a taste of Bali’s culinary heritage.
Coffee and Drinks
The Cashew Tree serves a selection of specialty coffees, including espresso-based drinks and iced coffee options. They also offer fresh juices, smoothies, and unique drinks like kombucha and turmeric lattes. For those visiting in the evening, there’s a variety of cocktails, beer, and wine to enjoy.
Why Visit The Cashew Tree?
The Cashew Tree is ideal for families, groups, and anyone looking for a spacious, laid-back setting with excellent food. Its lively atmosphere, beautiful garden seating, and community events make it more than just a café—it’s a social hub for the Uluwatu community.
3. Suka Espresso
Suka Espresso has quickly gained a reputation as one of the top cafés in Uluwatu, thanks to its chic design, modern menu, and attention to quality. Located near Padang Padang Beach, Suka Espresso is known for its beautifully presented dishes, delicious coffee, and a contemporary vibe that attracts both locals and tourists. It’s a perfect spot for brunch, a leisurely breakfast, or a coffee break after a day at the beach.
Atmosphere and Design
Suka Espresso boasts a modern, minimalist interior with clean lines, wooden furnishings, and plenty of natural light. The outdoor seating area is shaded and surrounded by tropical plants, creating a comfortable and stylish atmosphere. The overall design is simple yet elegant, making it a relaxing place to enjoy a meal or work on a laptop.
Menu Highlights
Suka Espresso’s menu focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients and creative dishes that cater to various tastes. The café is particularly popular for its brunch offerings, with beautifully plated dishes that are as visually appealing as they are tasty.
Top menu items include:
- Avocado Toast: Suka Espresso’s avocado toast is a work of art, served with beetroot hummus, feta, and a perfectly poached egg on sourdough bread.
- Eggs Benedict: A favorite brunch choice, their Eggs Benedict is served with fresh greens, smoked salmon, and a creamy hollandaise sauce.
- Açaí Bowls and Smoothie Bowls: These colorful bowls are packed with antioxidants and topped with fresh fruit, granola, and coconut flakes.
- Burgers and Wraps: For lunch, the café offers gourmet burgers and wraps with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
- Desserts and Pastries: Suka Espresso has a selection of sweet treats, including brownies, muffins, and pastries that pair perfectly with a coffee.
Coffee and Drinks
Suka Espresso takes pride in its coffee selection, offering high-quality beans and expertly crafted espresso-based drinks. The café serves everything from classic lattes and cappuccinos to cold brews and flat whites. For non-coffee drinkers, there are options like matcha lattes, fresh juices, and smoothies.
Why Visit Suka Espresso?
Suka Espresso is perfect for brunch lovers and coffee aficionados who appreciate good food, stylish surroundings, and friendly service. Its convenient location, beautiful decor, and delicious menu make it a top choice for anyone visiting Uluwatu.
Conclusion
Uluwatu is home to some of Bali’s best cafés, each offering a unique combination of ambiance, food, and coffee. Whether you’re a surfer looking to refuel, a digital nomad seeking a cozy work spot, or a brunch enthusiast, Uluwatu’s café scene has something for everyone.
- Drifter Café: Ideal for those wanting a taste of Bali’s surf culture and a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere.
- The Cashew Tree: Perfect for families and groups, with a spacious garden setting, healthy menu options, and a lively social scene.
- Suka Espresso: A chic, modern café that’s great for brunch lovers and coffee enthusiasts, with a stylish interior and a menu that’s both creative and delicious.
Exploring these top cafés is not just about enjoying great food and coffee; it’s about experiencing the laid-back, welcoming culture that makes Uluwatu so special. Each café offers a slice of Bali’s vibrant lifestyle, where good food, friendly people, and beautiful surroundings come together to create unforgettable experiences.