Bali is arguably one of the most popular summer destinations in Southeast Asia. With its promise of sun, surf and that ever-present tropical heat, it’s hard to deny the island’s enduring allure. For those of us accustomed to the chaos and relentless pace of city life, Bali often feels like the perfect respite—a sunny place where the days stretch a little longer and a reset of both body and mind is around every corner.
Somehow, mornings in Bali come easier. Early starts feel less like a chore and more like a welcome change of pace. Gym sessions are energising rather than draining, and the act of stepping out for a coffee begins to feel like a ritual in itself. Café runs are defined by wholesome, thoughtfully prepared plates, rich coffee brewed from locally sourced beans, and open, sun-drenched spaces that invite you to stay a little longer. There’s a soft slowness to life, where island living encourages you to settle in and savour every minute.
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While Bali’s café scene can at times feel saturated with Western establishments serving a familiar rotation of brunch staples, not all hope is lost. Indonesia is, after all, one of the world’s largest coffee exporters, and the island remains home to a growing number of cafés that stay rooted in traditional coffee practices. Alongside these are menus that draw from the depth and richness of local Indonesian flavours, offering a more nuanced and grounded take on café culture.
As you plan your next trip to the island, consider carving out time to explore beyond the usual hotspots. Whether you’re an early riser in search of a strong cup to start your day, or simply in need of a midday pick-me-up between beach swims and sunset plans, these seven underrated café outposts are well worth adding to your Bali itinerary.
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Woods Pererenan
Woods Pererenan in Canggu carries that familiar Bali café duality: visually striking while retaining a sense of ease. Built with natural textures, open space and ceaseless greenery, it’s a place designed for slow mornings and long catch-ups with friends. The menu covers familiar Bali brunch territory—eggs, grains, colourful salads and shareable plates—but with the notable addition of tropical ingredients such as coconut, citrus and fresh herbs. Coffee anchors the experience here, while the big plates are generously portioned—if not slightly indulgent—made for easy morning chats that naturally extend into the afternoon.
Woods Pererenan, 943H+W8F, Jl. Dalem Lingsir No.8, Pererenan, Kec. Mengwi, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80351, Indonesia
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Jivva Koffie Kitchen
For Indonesian fare that feels both comforting and considered, Jivva Koffie Kitchen is a strong start. Set within a lush, garden-like space designed to relax the soul, the menu leans traditional and familiar, with dishes like Asinan Sayur—a bright, pickled West Javan salad—and Nasi Rawon Jawa, a deeply flavoured beef soup enriched with buah keluak. It’s hearty and unapologetically local. That said, Jivva doesn’t shy away from the café staples either. The coffee holds its own (their cappuccino, in particular!), and if you’re lingering well into the afternoon, there are beers from Breman Brewery on hand to round things out.
Jivva Koffie Kitchen, Jl Dewi Saraswati II No.90, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
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Little Langkah
Situated on a quiet street in Seminyak, Little Langkah is one of those cafés that feel like a home away from home. Picture little wooden stools, unpolished decor and simple menu items done right. Visitors looking for conversation will enjoy the cosiness of Little Langkah, for their baristas and customers alike hold space for genuine connection.
With a slim food menu, the stars of the show here are the coffee options. Little Langkah is best known for the Little Dirty E, their spin on the coffee classic, as well as their refreshing Mont Blanc which presents bright citrus notes.
Little Langkah, Jl. Sarinande, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
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Kayunan Warung and Coffee
Located in Ubud, Kayunan Warung and Coffee feels closer to a traditional Balinese rhythm, where delectable food leads and everything else follows. Though not your conventional warung, the menu leans deep into Indonesian cuisine—a wide array of nasi dishes, homely stir-fries, and comforting dishes that prioritise flavour over elaborate presentation. At Kayunan, it’s less about the curation, and more about the ease of dining with your loved ones. Regulars at this spot rave about the familiar Indonesian dishes such as nasi campur and mie goreng, for their rich and smoky notes.
Kayunan Warung and Coffee, Jl. Hanoman No.7, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
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Toko Kopi Tuku Renon
Celebrating 10 years of coffee-making expertise is Toko Kopi Tuku, a coffee label hailing from Jakarta that has now made its way to Bali. Since setting up shop in 2015, Toko Kopi Tuku has evolved to become a true household name in the Indonesian café scene—and for good reason. The brand takes pride in spotlighting the country’s local produce, putting sustainable farming practices at its heart. On the menu of their Denpasar outlet is a sizeable selection of beverage options, with regular coffee mainstays, alongside local options like Javan teas and fruit-infused coconut water concoctions that will instantly refresh the body on a humid Bali day.
Toko Kopi Tuku Renon, Jl. Raya Puputan No.10, Sumerta Kelod, Kec. Denpasar Tim., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80239, Indonesia
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Karo Espresso
The focus at Karo Espresso is, unsurprisingly, on coffee done well, with a straightforward, no-frills approach that lets the beans take centre stage. To beat the heat, their iced coffees are especially worth a try—delightfully balanced and made for Bali’s humidity. While the menu may, at first glance, appear international in format, there’s still a subtle sense of place running through it. Think familiar café staples elevated by local ingredients and tropical touches. Rather than trying to reinvent café culture in Bali, Karo’s offerings stay grounded and reliably consistent across the board.
Karo Espresso, F7M6+J3F, Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
7 / 7
Herb Library
Herb Library in Seminyak leans into a calm, plant-forward approach where food feels light but still satisfying. The menu puts the spotlight on fresh, often locally-sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on herbs, vegetables and clean flavours, like garden greens, tempeh and bright greens. Expect nourishing bowls, salads and warm plates that will nourish you from within. The beverages follow a similar formula—cold-pressed juices, herbal blends, and straightforward coffee without overcomplication.
Herb Library, Jl. Jembawan, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
