Where Purpose Meets Wellness: Bali for Interns, Students & Vegan Travelers

Food is a central part of any travel experience, and for many visitors, it’s one of the most exciting aspects of exploring a new culture. In Bali, the culinary landscape is incredibly diverse and vibrant, making it a paradise for food lovers of all kinds,  especially vegans. From trendy Western-style cafes serving smoothie bowls and plant-based burgers to traditional Balinese eateries offering authentic local dishes, the island provides a wide range of options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

One of the most appealing aspects of Balinese cuisine for vegans is how many traditional dishes are either naturally plant-based or can be easily made vegan. Staples like Jukut Urab — a flavorful mix of blanched vegetables with spiced grated coconut — and Lawar Jukut, a young jackfruit salad, are great examples of local dishes that align with a vegan lifestyle without compromising on authenticity or flavor. Even traditional warungs (local food stalls) are increasingly aware of plant-based needs and often offer tofu, tempeh, and vegetable-based alternatives.

In addition, Bali's growing wellness and sustainability culture has contributed to the rise of vegan-friendly establishments across the island, especially in areas like Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak. Here, veganism is not just accommodated but celebrated, with many restaurants promoting organic, locally sourced ingredients and cruelty-free dining. This cultural openness makes Bali an ideal destination for vegans seeking both traditional and contemporary food experiences.

Here we listed a Vegan restaurant for you

1. The Shady Shack

Nestled in the laid-back town of Canggu, The Shady Shack is a beloved vegetarian café with plenty of vegan options, known for its tranquil garden setting and breezy tropical vibes. The menu is diverse, offering everything from wholesome smoothie bowls and hearty burgers to plant-based desserts. Whether you're in for a light breakfast or a satisfying dinner, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy flavorful, nourishing meals.

2. Kynd Community

Kynd Community is an iconic vegan café located in the vibrant, touristic area of Seminyak. Famous for its cheerful pink interior, colorful plates, and message-topped smoothie bowls, Kynd has become a social media favorite. Beyond its aesthetic, the café offers a creative and delicious all-day vegan menu; from breakfast to dinner with a strong focus on sustainability and community.

3. Alchemy Bali (Uluwatu Branch)

A pioneer in Bali’s raw vegan scene, Alchemy opened its doors in Ubud in 2011 and later expanded to Uluwatu. The Uluwatu branch continues its plant-based mission, offering wholesome meals made with organic and locally-sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy a raw salad bar, nourishing bowls, smoothies, and healthy desserts in a peaceful, minimalist setting that supports conscious living and wellness.

4. Kood Kolaborasi Untuk Desa (Sanur)

Located in the calm and charming coastal area of Sanur, Kood Kolaborasi Untuk Desa is a hidden gem for plant-based food lovers. This cozy, community-focused café offers a delightful selection of vegan dishes, including homemade noodles, soft bread, desserts, and plant-based drinks. It’s the ideal stop for a peaceful meal in an area that caters to slow, mindful travel.

5. Zest Ubud

Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of Ubud’s lush jungle canopy, Zest Ubud is a vibrant plant-based restaurant that blends Balinese tradition with a modern, conscious lifestyle. The menu is 100% vegan and packed with creativity, featuring bold flavors, locally-sourced ingredients, and beautifully presented dishes from jackfruit tacos to wood-fired pizzas made with cassava flour. The space itself is as inspiring as the food, with an open-air bamboo structure, cozy lounges, and an uplifting atmosphere that reflects Ubud’s spiritual and artistic soul. It’s not just a place to eat, it’s a community hub for wellness, creativity, and connection.

With an abundance of plant-based options from stylish vegan cafés to humble local warungs, Bali makes it incredibly easy to maintain a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. For interns, volunteers, and students living here, nourishing meals are never far away. Whether grabbing a quick tempeh curry after class, exploring weekend food markets, or enjoying smoothie bowls in between work and wellness activities, the island supports conscious living at every turn. From the vibrant streets of Seminyak to the serene corners of Ubud, the list of plant-based dining options is truly endless. Explore more vegan places go to Bali Buddies' article: Where to Get The Best Vegan Food in Bali in 2025.

Bali doesn’t just accommodate a plant-based lifestyle, it celebrates it.