If you’re in Ubud and looking for a dining spot that combines authentic Balinese cuisine with a stunning setting, Café Lotus is a must-visit. Located right next to the Ubud Water Palace, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of a serene lotus pond and the intricate Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati temple. It’s the perfect place to soak in the local culture while enjoying a delicious meal.

One of my top recommendations here is the Platter for Two. It’s an excellent way to sample a variety of traditional Balinese dishes, all bursting with rich, authentic flavours. The portion is generous, making it ideal for sharing and exploring the local cuisine together.

The menu at Café Lotus is extensive, featuring a range of Indonesian and international dishes. However, their Balinese offerings truly stand out. From the succulent Coffee Glazed Pork Ribs served with fresh vegetables and spicy sambal to the classic Nasi Goreng, each dish is prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant takes pride in using produce from their own land, ensuring quality and freshness in every bite. 

The ambiance is both relaxing and culturally enriching. Dining in the open-air pavilion, with the lotus pond and temple as your backdrop, creates a serene atmosphere that’s hard to beat. In the evenings, Café Lotus hosts traditional Balinese dance performances, adding an extra layer of cultural immersion to your dining experience.

Service here is warm and attentive, with staff eager to guide you through the menu and share insights about the dishes and Balinese culture. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Café Lotus provides a memorable culinary journey in the heart of Ubud.

Just a heads-up: the restaurant is quite popular, especially during performance nights, so making a reservation is a good idea to secure a spot with the best views.

In summary, Café Lotus offers not just a meal, but an experience that beautifully blends authentic Balinese flavours, cultural performances, and a picturesque setting. It’s a place where food and culture come together, making your visit to Ubud even more special.