Bali’s cafe culture has become as integral to the island as its beaches and temples. Two of the best places in Southeast Asia to go for brunch are Canggu and Seminyak, think acai bowls, cold brew, and brunch menus all day long, served in open-air spaces full of plants. No matter whether you are craving a great coffee, a healthy bowl before surfing, or a casual weekend brunch, this is your destination.
Canggu: The Café Capital of Bali
With the largest number of cafés found anywhere on the island, Canggu owes much to the presence of its digital nomads and surfers. To learn more about things to do here outside the cafés, check out our things to do in Canggu page. They tend to congregate around Batu Bolong and Berawa.
Crate Cafe
One of the original brunch spots in Canggu and still among the most popular there. Famous for its granola bowls, banana bread, and good flat whites. Always crowded on weekends.
The Shady Shack
Fully plant-based menu in an outdoor setting that feels like a jungle. Its loaded nachos and smoothie bowls are among the locals’ favourite dishes.
Milk & Madu
This place has a better presentation of all-day breakfast dishes, along with its selection of baked goods in addition to its bowl and egg options. Nice choice for those who need a proper brunch and not just coffee.
Betelnut Canggu
With a health-conscious menu, this place has an extensive range of juices and smoothies in addition to the traditional brunch menu. It is popular among yogis and other wellness enthusiasts.
Nalu Bowls
If you are looking for a place that offers acai and smoothie bowls, then this is your go-to place in Canggu.
Seminyak: Brunch with a Twist and Specialty Coffee
While still a little bit more high-end compared to Canggu, Seminyak’s cafe culture comprises specialty coffee roasters and Instagram-worthy brunch cafes.
Revolver Espresso
Hidden away in a small alleyway, Revolver is one of the more notable specialty coffee places in Bali; a small place, great coffee, and good food too.
Sisterfields
Australian-style café that serves some of the best brunch in Seminyak, with a very wide range of items on their menu. So much so that you can get a line on weekends.
Sea Circus
Vibrant, fun place that serves rainbow bowls and massive breakfast dishes. A good choice for a group trip because of its diverse menu.
Coffee Culture: Trying Locally Produced Balinese Coffee
Coffee Culture: Taste Local Bali Coffee
In addition to the coffee experience offered to tourists, Bali is home to locally grown coffee, including the renowned (and pricey) kopi luwak, or civet coffee. Various plantations around Ubud allow tourists to sample the local Balinese coffee and tea, along with the more well-known civet coffee, in exchange for buying some of the product. If you are based in Ubud, please refer to our Things To Do In Ubud page
When to Visit
Almost all the cafés in Canggu and Seminyak get crowded from 9 am to 11 am on weekends, primarily the popular ones such as Crate and Sisterfields. It would be good to arrive earlier than 8:30 am or later than 1 pm.
FAQ
1. Which part of Bali is the best for a cafe?
Canggu houses the greatest number of cafes and is great for a relaxed surf town brunch experience, whereas Seminyak offers a somewhat sophisticated and speciality coffee-based experience.
2. Are Bali cafes vegetarian or vegan friendly?
Yes, Bali’s café culture is great when it comes to eating plant-based, with some cafes offering a vegan menu (like The Shady Shack), and others a good vegetarian menu.
3. Should I make a reservation in advance at these cafes?
Cafes in Bali do not accept reservations; hence, one should visit early (before 9 am) to avoid crowds during the weekend.
4. What should I order in a Bali cafe the first time?
A smoothie bowl (acai or dragon fruit) along with a coconut coffee will be your classic choice from a Bali cafe menu, which is usually based on this kind of combination.
5. Are Canggu and Seminyak cafes expensive?
Yes, prices in such cafes are slightly higher compared to local Indonesian restaurants called warungs, but they’re still quite acceptable — you should pay around Rp60,000-120,000 ($4-$8 USD) for a coffee with snacks and up to Rp150,000-200,000 for a brunch plate.
Interested in other activities in Bali aside from the cafe hopping? Try checking our list of Things to Do in Bali, or you can view our Bali Holiday Packages.