From bean to brew: Ubud’s coffee spots stealing the spotlight!

Surrounded by lush rice fields and dotted with ancient temples, Ubud stands as a testament to Bali’s rich cultural tapestry. But beyond its scenic landscapes and spiritual allure, Ubud is brewing a revolution – a coffee revolution. This bustling town, pulsating with tradition and art, has added a burgeoning artesian coffee scene to its cultural mix. Today, Ubud beckons not just yogis and spiritual seekers but also discerning coffee aficionados.

Let’s be honest. Indonesia has long been celebrated for its coffee beans. About 5% of the world’s coffee is grown across the islands, with regions like Java and Sumatra being the most famous coffee growing areas. However, Bali, and particularly Ubud, is carving out its niche, showcasing lesser-known but equally tantalising beans from Flores, Sumbawa, and West Papua.

As you wander through Ubud’s vibrant streets, you’ll discover a myriad of cafes that are committed to locally-sourced and freshly roasted beans. It’s not just about sipping a cup; it’s an immersive experience that fuses of traditional Balinese charm with contemporary coffee culture.

So, whether you’re an iced-latte enthusiast or someone who relishes their coffee dark and robust, dive into this guide and embark on a caffeinated journey through some of Ubud’s most cherished coffee havens.

1

Monkey Cave Espresso

Nestled right next to the iconic Monkey Forest, Monkey Cave Espresso is a great chill-out zone for those who like sipping on a divine flat white. Imagine a rustic, open-plan sanctuary with a coffee bar on the ground floor and a loft-style seating area above, where you can people-watch or gaze at the lush scenery of Ubud.

But there’s more! Not only does this café serve some of the best coffee in Bali (no kidding!), but it also offers a curated menu of light bites. From scrumptious tacos to hearty breakfasts and salads, there’s something for everyone. The menu includes the ubiquitous smashed avocado on toast and has veggie and plant-based options.

So, whether you’re taking a breather from your Monkey Forest escapades or simply seeking a spot for a tasty breakfast, Monkey Cave Espresso is your go-to. It’s not just a café; it’s an experience that’ll stick with you long after you’ve drained your cup.

Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali, 80571
Open: Monday to Sunday 07:30 until 10:00

Top coffee spots in Ubud - Monkey Cave Espresso
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Monkey Cave Espresso
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Monkey Cave Espresso
2

Ubud Coffee Roastery

If you’re a coffee connoisseur on the hunt for the crème de la crème of Ubud’s coffee scene, look no further than Ubud Coffee Roastery. Tucked away on the charming Jl. Goutama Selatan street, this hidden gem is a sanctuary for those who live and breathe coffee. With beans sourced from the breezy highlands of Kintamani and roasted to perfection on-site, every cup is a love letter to the art of coffee-making.

It’s not just the coffee that’ll have you hooked; it’s the whole vibe. The café is a cosy, air-conditioned haven where you can escape the Balinese heat and the hustle and bustle of Ubud’s streets. Whether you’re a digital nomad in need of fast Wi-Fi or a weary traveller looking for a chill spot, this café has got you covered. And if you’re feeling peckish, they’ve got a range of baked treats, donuts, and pastries to satiate your cravings.

What sets Ubud Coffee Roastery apart is its commitment to quality and authenticity. The owner regularly visits the coffee plantations to ensure the beans are top-notch, and the baristas are not just employees; they’re coffee enthusiasts eager to share their knowledge and recommendations. And don’t forget, you can take a piece of this coffee heaven home with you – just grab a bag of their freshly roasted beans.

So, if you’re wandering around Ubud and stumble upon this quaint café, consider it fate. It’s not just a place to grab a cuppa; it’s an experience that’ll make you question why you ever settled for mediocre coffee.

Address: Jl. Goutama Selatan, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali, 80571
Open: Monday to Sunday 07:00 until 18:00

Top coffee spots in Ubud - Ubud Coffee Roastery
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Ubud Coffee Roastery
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Ubud Coffee Roastery
3

Gangga Coffee

If you’re on the road to Tegallalang Rice Terraces, make sure to hit the brakes when you spot Gangga Coffee. Trust us, this pit stop is worth every second. A bit off the beaten path from Ubud’s main town, Gangga is a caffeine sanctuary that’s a hit with locals and tourists alike.

What sets Gangga apart? For starters, their house espresso is a harmonious blend of Kintamani Bali beans, grown on farms that shun the use of pesticides and chemicals, and then roasted to perfection. As well as coffee, they serve a range of fresh juices, smoothies and teas. Food is available, ranging from an all-day breakfast menu to nasi goreng.

Sustainability is at the heart of Gangga’s ethos. They source their premium beans through fair trade and traceable farming, making your delicious cup of coffee also a responsible one. So, whether you’re a coffee aficionado or a casual sipper, Gangga Coffee offers a unique, ethical, and utterly delightful coffee experience that you won’t want to miss.

Address: Jl. Raya Andong11, Peliatan, Gianyar Regency, Bali, 80571
Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 until 18:00
Book a table at Gangga Coffee

Top coffee spots in Ubud - Gangga Coffee
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Gangga Coffee
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Gangga Coffee
4

Seniman Coffee Studio

The interior of the studio makes use of vintage Indonesian furnishings, complete with upcycled tableware and rocking chairs. Yes, rocking chairs! It’s a communal space where friends, strangers, and digital nomads converge, all united by their love for quality coffee.

Each coffee order comes with a paddle that holds a small jar of water, a light bite, and your coffee – talk about a full sensory experience!

But let’s get to the coffee, shall we? The baristas, trained by ‘coffee masters’, are your personal coffee guides. They’ll walk you through the extensive menu, which features everything from classic espressos to siphon coffee. The beans are sourced from across the Indonesian archipelago, and you can even try a ‘flight’ of three different coffee tastings.

Seniman is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a movement. They’ve shifted the coffee narrative from consuming countries to growing countries, spotlighting the richness of Indonesian coffee culture. So, whether you’re a coffee novice or a seasoned aficionado, Seniman offers a unique, enriching coffee experience that you’ll not only enjoy but also respect.

Address: Jl. Sri Wedari 5, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali, 80571
Open: Monday to Sunday 07:30 until 22:00

Top coffee spots in Ubud - Seniman Coffee Studio
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Seniman Coffee Studio
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Seniman Coffee Studio
5

F.R.E.A.K. Coffee

If you’re a cold brew aficionado, then F.R.E.A.K. Coffee is your mecca in Ubud. The acronym stands for Freshly Roasted ‘Enak’ Arabica from Kintamani, and ‘enak’ means ‘delicious’ in Indonesian. Trust us, the name doesn’t lie!

This cosy café is wholly dedicated to Bali-born beans, specifically from the Kintamani region, which is just a stone’s throw away from Ubud.

What sets F.R.E.A.K. apart? For starters, they roast their beans daily, ensuring that your cuppa is as fresh as it gets. And it’s not just any cuppa; it’s a sweeter, less bitter, and much richer brew. The café uses top-of-the-line equipment like Rancilio espresso machines and Mazzer grinders, and their baristas are well-versed in the sacred art of espresso-making.

But let’s talk about their pièce de résistance—the cold brew. It’s not just cold brew; it’s an experience. Full of flavour, super smooth, and with a gradual caffeine kick that’ll keep you going. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their vegan cold brew ice cream. Yes, you heard that right – vegan cold brew ice cream!

The café is small but mighty, focusing on a ‘farm to cup’ experience. They even provide information about the entire coffee-making process, from farming and harvesting to roasting and drinking. And if you’re into matcha, they’ve got that covered too.

Owned by a local who’s been growing coffee for years using organic methods, F.R.E.A.K. Coffee is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a nod to sustainable farming and local livelihoods. So, whether you’re there for the cold brew, the vegan ice cream, or just to soak in the relaxed vibe overlooking Ubud’s main street, F.R.E.A.K. Coffee offers a unique, ethical, and utterly delicious coffee experience.

Address: Jl. Hanoman 19, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali, 80571
Open: Monday to Sunday 08:00 until 20:00

Top coffee spots in Ubud - F.R.E.A.K. Coffee
Top coffee spots in Ubud - F.R.E.A.K. Coffee
Top coffee spots in Ubud - F.R.E.A.K. Coffee
6

Anomali Coffee

If you’re a coffee connoisseur on the hunt for a unique Indonesian coffee experience, Anomali Coffee is your go-to destination. Originating from Jakarta, this specialty coffee chain has become a household name in Indonesia, and its Ubud location is no exception.

Anomali stocks an extensive range of single-source Indonesian beans – from the smoky aroma of Sumatra to the fruity notes of Papua and Flores. Whether you’re a fan of the Hario V60, cold drip, French press, or the snazzy syphon coffee, Anomali has got you covered. Their espresso machines are top-notch, churning out strong and creamy cappuccinos that are sure to delight your palate.

The café itself is a blend of modern Indonesian décor and cosy comfort, offering a variety of seating options from nooks and crannies to bean bags and tables. It’s the perfect spot to work, relax, or simply enjoy a cup of their signature Cikuray coffee blend, which offers a unique taste profile akin to Earl Grey tea with a berry sweetness.

But it’s not just about the coffee. Anomali also offers a delicious range of cheesecakes and desserts, as well as a small selection of pastries. And if you’re keen to deepen your coffee knowledge, the café offers regular training sessions and coffee-making classes.

Anomali Coffee is more than just a café; it’s a celebration of Indonesian coffee culture. With its premium beans, expert baristas, and comfortable ambiance, it offers a coffee experience that is both authentic and exceptional.

Address: Jl. Raya Ubud 88, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali, 80571
Open: Monday to Sunday 07:00 until 21:00

Top coffee spots in Ubud - Anomali
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Anomali
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Anomali
7

KAFE

Nestled in the bustling Jl. Hanoman street, KAFE is a sanctuary for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. With a vibe that echoes old-school New York, this bohemian bistro-style café has been a pioneer in the raw and organic food movement for over a decade.

At KAFE, coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s an art form. The café collaborates with local farmers to create exclusive coffee blends that originate from Bali and Toraja. Whether you’re a fan of the classic brews or looking to try something new, KAFE has you covered.

From the traditional Balinese kopi tubruk to the exotic Cardamon Kopi infused with Indian spices, each cup promises a rich and balanced flavour profile.

But the café’s offerings don’t stop at coffee. KAFE is renowned for its extensive, organic-inspired menu that caters to all dietary needs. Meat may be a minority on the menu, but the flavors are anything but limited. Indulge in their signature Rainbow Buddha Bowl or the Tempe Cashew Nut Curry, each dish crafted with ingredients sourced from their own Yogi’s Garden. This garden not only supplies the café but also serves as a yoga retreat and accommodation, adding another layer to KAFE’s holistic approach.

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, KAFE offers a casual, homely ambiance that invites you to unwind and savour the moment. It’s a place where you can work on your laptop, enjoy a solo dinner, or simply relish a cup of gourmet coffee.

With its commitment to sustainability, quality, and community, KAFE stands as a testament to what a modern café can aspire to be.

Address: Jl. Hanoman 44B, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali, 80571
Open: Monday to Sunday 07:00 until 23:00
Book a table at KAFE

Top coffee spots in Ubud - KAFE
Top coffee spots in Ubud - KAFE
Top coffee spots in Ubud - KAFE
8

Pison

Tucked away on the south side of central Ubud, Pison is a hidden gem that effortlessly blends Balinese tradition with modern café culture. As you walk past the café, it’s hard to resist the allure of its patio area, which offers a serene view of lush green rice fields. Step inside, and you’ll find an airy space that marries traditional Balinese architecture with a sleek, state-of-the-art espresso bar.

At Pison, coffee is not just a drink; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a fan of the classic piccolo or looking to cool off with a nitro cold brew, each cup is a masterpiece in its own right. The café takes pride in its latte art, and their nitro cold brew offers a refreshing burst of fruity notes. For the adventurous, Pison even offers a house special coffee that combines avocado and chocolate syrup – a unique blend that promises to surprise and delight.

Pison is more than just a coffee shop. The café serves an all-day menu that’s as diverse as it is delicious. From the Japanese bowl that bursts with harmonious flavours to the creamy avocado espresso, each dish is crafted to perfection. The food is exceptional, and the service is equally commendable, ensuring that each visit is a memorable one.

The café’s ambiance is the cherry on top. With its chill music and relaxed atmosphere, Pison is the perfect spot to unwind, whether you’re dining alone or with friends. It’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of Ubud and lose yourself in the simple joys of good food and great coffee.

Address: Jl. Hanoman 10X, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571
Open: Monday to Sunday 07:00 until 23:00
Book a table at Pison

Top coffee spots in Ubud - Pison
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Pison
Top coffee spots in Ubud - Pison

There you go!

As the sun sets over the verdant rice terraces of Ubud, there’s no better way to reflect on the day’s adventures than with a cup of artisanal coffee in hand. Each café we’ve journeyed through offers not just a sip, but an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or simply seeking a cosy nook to unwind, Ubud’s coffee scene promises a brew that resonates with your soul.

So, the next time you find yourself wandering the enchanting streets of Ubud, let the aroma of freshly roasted beans guide you. Dive into the heart of Bali’s coffee renaissance and discover a cup that tells a story. Cheers to unforgettable coffee moments in Ubud!

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