Canggu, Bali was love at first sight for us. In fact, our intended stay of one week turned into a whole month. A good balance of working and surfing every day is just too appealing! Canggu is everything that you want Bali to be, without the hustle and bustle of over tourism.
Since our first visit, we’ve been back and forth Canggu multiple times.
Being only a 45-minute drive from the International Airport and a stone throws drive from trendy Seminyak to us, Canggu has everything.
There are a few different beaches in Canggu which offer a laid back atmosphere whilst having beautiful rice paddies as a backdrop.
Canggu is also a popular spot for surf camps in Bali so you can surf some waves and eat in trendy restaurants after.
Although we weren’t able to eat in all the places that we wanted to, here is a quick list of our must-try restaurants in Canggu, Bali.
View Contents
- Where to Eat in Canggu
- Milk & Madu
- Watercress Cafe
- One-Eyed Jack
- Ulekan
- Ji Terrace by the Sea
- Macan Cafe
- Moana Fish Eatery
- Old Man’s Restaurant
- Canteen Cafe
- La Finca
- People’s (Update: This place is now closed)
- Deus Ex Machina
- Dandelion Café
- Budget Restaurants in Canggu:
- Looking for Recommendations on Where to Stay in Canggu?
Where to Eat in Canggu
Milk & Madu
Whenever we’re mulling over where to go for brunch, Milk & Madu is always a top contender. While most people frequent this place for breakfast or lunch, keep an eye out for their dinner specials such as 2-for-1 pizza night with live acoustic music.
Located in Berawa area, we’ve tried at least a few dozen of their dishes and never went home disappointed. From their burgers to their salads, a meal at Milk & Madu is something I highly recommend.
What to Order: For brunch, definitely go for one of their sourdough creations or their Eggs Benedict meals that come in different variations. I personally love their Madu special (Eggs Benny and bacon, baby!) If you’re going there for lunch, their burgers are really good and so are their wraps.
However, the real highlight and show stealer are their salads. We ordered the Mexicana salad which we have officially dubbed as the best salad in Canggu. Corn chips, lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, and purple lettuce served with beans and cheddar cheese. Think nachos..but served as a healthy salad. Oh yeah.
Location: Jl. Pantai Berawa No.52, Tibubeneng | Google Pin
Watercress Cafe
Although technically, Watercress is in Batu Belig area (still just a few minutes drive from Canggu), I am kicking myself for not trying this place sooner.
Another brainchild from the guys over at Good Food Brotherhood (same geniuses behind Milk & Madu), Watercress is a place that I highly recommend you check out while in Canggu. Serving healthy clean meals for breakfast and lunch so if you’re looking for top quality salads, sandwiches and more, this is your place.
Although it was difficult to resist the urge to visit for brunch (we’re suckers for brunch!), we opted to go on a Friday night and boy, were we glad we did! As soon as we got there, we were served random tapas appetizers whipped up by their chef.
That night, it was wagyu beef tartar served on a dehydrated oat biscuit topped with parmesan cheese. They also had tuna poke appetizers served on a bed of dry ice. Really, I couldn’t make this stuff up.
Oh, did I mention they have free-flowing margaritas for an hour during Fridays? Whaaat.
What to Order: Everything we had from the tapas to the mains was fabulous. My partner is obsessed with ribs so naturally, we had to try their tamarind glazed bbq ribs which he loved. He even went as far as saying it was one of the best ribs he’s had in Bali.
I, on the other hand, broke my beef fast for their wagyu steak served with a light cream, caramelized onions, and cabbage. The beef was melt-in-your-mouth delicious and was incredibly flavorful. While we’re here, we might just make it our Friday dinner place so stay tuned for other must-try dishes from their menu.
Location: Jalan Batu Belig No.21 A, Kerobokan | Google Pin
One-Eyed Jack
Located near Berawa Beach, I would always pass this restaurant with curiosity. Finally decided to try it out, and boy, were we glad we did! Serving modern Japanese food with a twist, One-Eyed Jack is a place that ticks all the boxes. Great vibe, interiors, and more importantly, fantastic food. First things first, this isn’t your typical sushi roll type of place. Instead, it serves fresh sashimi, sliders, and little servings of “Japanese tapas”.
Intrigued? I urge you to try it. Every small plate and dish that we had was bursting with flavor. It’s also worth saying that they have a great selection of cocktails, Japanese whiskey, wine, and sake.
While the menu is more on the expensive side, the little bite-sized pockets of flavor that you would get from every bite made it worth it.
What to Order: As we wanted to try a few different dishes, we ordered a few small tapas plates here and there. The soft shell crab sliders served on a buttery roll which was melt-in-your-mouth delicious! Apart from that, we also had the rock shrimp tempura and the crispy pork belly which was again, pretty much to die for. We balanced things off with a sashimi salad alongside with a tonkatsu donburi bowl. Every single thing we ordered was delicious so I cannot recommend this place enough.
Location: Jl. Pantai Berawa No.c89, Tibubeneng | Google Pin
Editor’s Note: Want to learn how to cook Indonesian food? Take a look at these incredible cooking lessons in Indonesia.
Ulekan
If you’re looking for good Indonesian food, I would highly recommend visiting Ulekan, located on Berawa beach. Ironically, we stumbled upon this place on our second to the last night in Canggu which was a shame as we can only usually get our Indonesian fix from local warungs (which is hardly the best setting for dinners at night!) All the dishes are reasonably priced and were nothing short of delicious!
As it was our last night out, we ordered up a feast sampling their satay, chicken curry, beef cheek rendang, and a few other mixed vegetables. The staff were also super friendly and accommodating, making the entire meal very pleasant. After our meal, I decided to check out their Trip Advisor page which was full of praises and compliments. If you want good Indonesian good, Ulekan is our top pick!
What to Order: Definitely order an assortment of things so you can try a little bit of everything. We recommend the Karedok (crunchy vegetables with peanut sauce), the Rendang Sapi (beef cheek), and Bebeng Gorek (crispy duck). Don’t forget to try out their assortment of different sambals!
Location: 4 Jl Tegel Sari, Pantai Berawa, Tibubeneng | Google Pin
Ji Terrace by the Sea
If you’re looking for a place to dine while gazing at stellar views, hands down, our top recommendation has to be Ji Terrace by the Sea located at Tugu Hotel. This multi-level restaurant is our top pick for cocktails due to the fantastic seaside views that it provides. Overlooking Batu Bolong beach, from the comforts of their lovely terrace, you can drink a delicious cocktail while watching the sun go down.
Offering a variety of cocktails and a wide range of Japanese food, when we feel like splurging a little bit, this is where we go. While we’ve only tried their sushi, the ingredients are always fresh and the combination of rolls are always flavorful.
Prices range from 50-170k for main meals. Given the quality of ingredients and the ambiance of the place, going here is definitely worth it. They also recently introduced lunchtime bento boxes, offering a variety of these set meals.
What to Order: We’ve been to Ji Terrace by the Sea twice now and each time, we’ve only gone for their sushi. If you were to go here, you HAVE to order their specialty roll, the Dragon of Ji. The combination of prawn tempura, avocado, and spicy mayo is to die for. Apart from that, another must-order is their tempura! One order is made up of large pieces of shrimp delicately fried to perfection. Check out our full photo diary if you want to see more photos of the food.
Location: Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu Beach | Google Pin
Editor’s Note: Looking for awesome villas while in Bali? Check out our post on the best Bali Villas for Under $100!
Macan Cafe
Over the past years, Berawa area is slowly picking up and gaining popularity especially with the Bali digital nomads. Amidst the many trendy cafes and restaurants, another must try is Macan Cafe. As soon as you walk in, you will see a trendy and upscale dining area without the pretentious feel. The staff are helpful and attentive without being overbearing.
If you’re looking to take a break from traditional Indonesian meals where you can enjoy a few glasses of wine, Macan Cafe is definitely somewhere we recommend you go. Prices range from 40-60k for breakfast and 70-150k for main meals. Not cheap, but the quality of the ingredients and the entire meal makes it worth it.
What to Order: While we’ve tried a bit of their menu, their rosemary garlic-infused lamb is a real highlight! Seriously, it’s what good dreams are made of! We’ve also heard good things about their Black Angus Fillet but I opted to try their Prawn Risotto which I was more than happy with.
Location: Jl. Pantai Berawa No.14, Tibubeneng | Google Pin
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Moana Fish Eatery
I have to say, if there is one restaurant that I eat in on a weekly basis while I am in Canggu, it has to be Moana. Located in Batu Bolong Street, Moana is my go-to place for healthy seafood dishes.
They have a pretty varied menu but every single time I go there, I get their Maui poke bowl. Large chunks of tuna, avocado, cucumber, edamame, and other bits of goodness go over a bed of rice before it’s drizzled with sauce. Trust me. This is to die for.
What to order: Maui Poke (black sauce), Poe Tataki and their Coconut Cheesecake
Location: Jalan Raya Batu Bolong No.28, Canggu, Badung Regency, Bali, Canggu, Kuta Utara, Canggu, Bali 80361 | Google Pin
Old Man’s Restaurant
Old Man’s is an iconic sunset and nighttime dancing spot where everyone gathers due to its very strategic location by the beach. Whether it’s for their brunch menu, or happy hour cocktails in the afternoon, every time we have eaten at Old Man’s we always left satisfied.
Their breakfast menu is quite extensive, serving always fresh ingredients making it the perfect post-surf meal. Expect to spend 70,000-100,00rph ($5-7) for a meal.
What to order: Full English Breakfast or their Avocado and Feta Cheese on Sourdough toast. Our first brunch here was seriously one of the best meals that we have had since we left for traveling.
Location: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong, Kuta Utara, Canggu | Google Pin
Betelnut Café
A popular spot amongst all the ex-pats and travelers, Betelnut offers a delicious and healthy menu to choose from. They even offer breakfast combos of their breakfast wraps along with their healthy smoothies. This place is always packed so be prepared to fend for a table-but trust us, the wait is worth it!
This place is perfect for the health-conscious as they serve such a good selection of healthy meals. Did I mention that they are located at this tiny bamboo shack overlooking some lush rice fields? Talk about a meal with a view. Meals are roughly around 50,000-60,000rph ($4-5) while a smoothie would be around 20,000rph. ($1.50)
What to order: Breakfast wraps + any of their smoothies; Chicken burger or falafel wrap. Seriously, it is hard to choose! They also deliver so check out their Facebook page or website for more details.
Location: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.60, Canggu | Google Pin 
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Canteen Cafe
Along with Betelnut, Canteen is another popular breakfast spot. This place is always packed to the brim as they only open until 3. They do breakfast deals with a platter of fresh fruit, juice or coffee, and your choice of main for 50,000rph ($4). They also serve lots of healthy wraps and burgers. We love the vibe in this place but getting a table can be quite difficult.
What to order: Try their feta basil scrambled eggs or the breakfast bagel-so good! We haven’t tried them yet but apparently, their burgers are pretty popular with the crowd as well!
Location: Jl. Batu Mejan No.33, Canggu | Google Pin
Crate Café
Basing from our previous list, you probably all know that we are suckers for brunch. Crate Café does just that. A hipster joint that serves breakfast and lunch food which is regularly crammed with people. Understandably because their coffee is delicious and breakfast is…amazing!
Update: They have now expanded their seating area meaning there is now more room! Most of their dishes are reasonably priced at 50,000 rph which is excellent value!
What to order: The Barber: French toast with scrambled eggs, bacon, and bananas. Also give their breakie board a go which is sourdough toast with spinach, grilled tomatoes, bacon, avocado, and eggs done to your liking. Their breakfast fruit bowls are pretty good too!
Related: What to Eat in Indonesia: Dishes You Need to Try
Location: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.64 | Google Pin
La Finca
Normally, we stick to eating in local warungs but after hearing a friend’s recommendation, we knew we had to try La Finca where we feasted on delicious tapas, sangrias, and the best desserts! The atmosphere of the place gives off a casual yet upscale feel as you enjoy your food in their beautiful outdoor seating area. The quality of both their service and food ingredients are top notch, all while serving delicious, rustic, and fresh food.
Well worth the drive! If you are looking for a romantic place to go, or just a restaurant with fantastic food and a relaxed atmosphere, I highly recommend you check this place out.
Update: Two years later, we visited La Finca once again and they are still as good as we can remember them to be! They now also have tapas-sized Paella platter which was amazing!
What to order:
Although this is hard as everything on the menu was pretty good, don’t miss out on their beef carpaccio and if you feel like splurging a little bit, their hot stone rib-eye steak that just melts in your mouth. Their roasted pumpkin salad with rocket, feta cheese, caramelized almonds, and fried shallots is to die for. Seriously, do I need to say more?
Location: Jl. Subak Sari No.77, Tibubeneng | Google Pin
People’s (Update: This place is now closed)
Now I don’t know about you, but every once in a while (okay, I’m lying…it’s more of all the time) I get this weird insatiable craving for sushi. Much to my delight, we discovered People’s. True to their name, they serve a wide variety of food to cater to what the people want. Everything from sushi, tapas, and pasta can be found in their rather extensive menu. Despite being so diverse, everything was good!
What to order: Sushi, sushi, and more sushi! I loved the unagi (eel) specialty rolls that they had which weren’t on the menu yet. So do ask for it! They also have an excellent selection of tapas which are delicious. Apart from that, they also have a large selection of cocktails and wine to enjoy. 
Deus Ex Machina
More popularly known as a chill out place holding weekly parties, Deus also serves one of the best burgers that we’ve had while traveling in Indonesia (it is a toss-up between Betelnut’s chicken burger and this)
Apart from their burgers, the ambiance of the place is great as they have a large outdoor seating area where they would sometimes do outdoor movie nights and live music. This “Temple of Enthusiasm” as they like to put it encourages the love of good food, music, motorcycles, and surfing.
Update: After coming back to Canggu, two years later, the best burger hands down has to be Strawberry Fields. Although this place is almost considered located in Seminyak rather than Canggu, we recommend you make drive there! Order the Lord of the Rings burger…and you can thank me later!
What to order:
Beef burger. Extra bacon. Enough said. You have to give it a try! We will be honest that every time we’ve gone here, we plan to order something else..but always end up with the same thing!
Location: Jl. Batu Mejan No.8, Canggu | Google Pin
Dandelion Café
This quirky café is beautifully decorated and is set amidst a beautiful garden overlooking the rice fields, creating a great atmosphere for dining. Dandelion showcases local Indonesian cuisine which they serve with a twist.
Their owner Gani is a lovely man who makes it a point to sit on every table and interact and entertain his guests with his funny stories. The food is very affordable and eating there is such a pleasurable experience.
What to order: Their coconut grilled prawn with basil lime sauce, their take on dim sum, and their grilled fish of the day. We had the tuna which was steamed in a banana leaf and grilled-so good! Don’t forget to ask for their wine list as their food pairs perfectly well with a glass of white!
Location: Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong No. 10, Canggu | Google Pin
Budget Restaurants in Canggu:
Warung Bu Mi
For budget travelers, warung Bu Mi is a crowd favorite for cheap and filling food. Bu Mi is a local warung (local Indonesian store) that offers a delicious selection of Nasi Campur (a plate of rice and small portions of vegetables and meat) buffet style.
Try to go during lunchtime as in the late afternoons and evenings, their dishes tend to run out. These small warungs are the perfect way to try out multiple Indonesian dishes at once. The best part is they are cheap!! A full plate can vary from 15,000-20,00 ($1-2)
What to order: Their Yellow rice is delicious, along with their tempe and curries.
Location: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong, Canggu | Google Pin
Warung Varuna
This place is our absolute favorite for local Indonesian food, in fact, we ate here almost every day. They have exactly the same concept as Bu Mi, except in our opinion, serves better quality food! The value for money here is great as for about 20,000-25,000 ($2-3), you can get a giant serving of vegetables, noodles, meat, and other local dishes. Seriously, you can’t go wrong here!
What to order: Their corn fritters, tempeh with peanuts, sweet and sour chicken along with all their veggies dishes. Try a little bit of everything and you won’t regret it!
Location: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.89x, Canggu | Google Pin
Looking for Recommendations on Where to Stay in Canggu?
Since we lived in Canggu for two months or so, we decided to do a roundup of our recommendations on where to stay! We have budget options all the way to one-night splurge-worthy villas!
Listed below is a short excerpt of our personal recommendations on where to stay while in Canggu but if you want to read the full article with even more recommendations, check out our guide: Where to Stay in Canggu as well as our Canggu Villa guide
Budget: Desa Cepaka Homestay
Like most homestays, this family-run hotel is great for budget backpackers. The longer you stay, the cheaper the rooms come out! This particular one is run by a lovely family. Rooms are generally clean and the breakfast that comes with the room is fab! The lady is a great cook so be sure to have a couple of meals with them. (Prices for a double room starts at $15 for two plus breakfast)
Compare prices and read reviews on: Booking.com
Mid Range: Red Doorz at Raya Batu Bolong
Friends of mine had stayed here and were quite happy with what they paid for. Very clean, polite staff, and to top it all off, a nice pool to help you cool off. Rooms are equipped with a flat screen tv, wifi, and a bath. The price is very reasonable for what you get. The location isn’t far either from where there are restaurants and coffee shops. (Prices start at $26 for two people)
Compare prices and read reviews on: Booking.com
Splurge: Frii Bali Echo Beach
For those looking to splash out for a night or two, this place is a good place to start. Located right on the beach which makes it ideal for those that don’t drive scooters, Frii is the perfect mix of luxury and trendy. With rooms that have poolside access, it doesn’t get better than this. Surfers would love this place as the popular Echo Beach is literally a 5-minute walk away. The best part about it is that it’s still pretty reasonable!
Compare prices and read reviews on: Booking.com
Luxury: Kawung Villa
What says luxury more than a private villa? What we love about this place is that it comes out quite affordable as they have two and three bedroom villas with their own private pool! The villas come with a flat-screen tv, baths, a private pool, and a large common area. Pretty unreal if you ask me! (Prices start at $220 for FOUR people)
Compare prices and read reviews on: Booking.com
Traveling Around Indonesia? Check out our other articles
- Yoga Journey with Serenity Eco Guesthouse
- Fun facts about Bali, Indonesia
- Surfing in Uluwatu, Bali
- Diving in Komodo National Park
- 10 Best Surf Spots in Bali
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All of these meals look so delicious and so cheap! Why can’t we get such awesome dishes here? Bali, I’m coming for you!
I will be in Bali in a month and I will definitely bookmark this!
Thanks @trishvelarmino:disqus!! Which parts of Bali are you going to? It’s like we are doing a switch! We plan on heading to South America by the end of the year!
I have marked this for food when I visit Bali. Canteen Cafe looks amazing and cheap. I like cheap and good food.
Cheap but delicious food is the way to go!
The food looks amazing and so delicious! So many option to try! Glad you included the budget backpacker part as well 🙂
Always a backpacker’s selection! We actually eat in Cafe Veruna almost everyday after surfing! @deafwanderlust:disqus
All that food looks so good. And big, healthy, affordable portions…. yum yum!
Healthy, tasty, big portions and cheap…sounds like it can’t get any better. I agree with Lesley, you’d find me in Betelnut. Thanks for putting together this restaurant guide!
Have never been to Canggu, but love your list of restaurants! I love big breakfasts or brunches, and good ones are hard to find!
We went to Bu Mi. It was good. I loved bali. Good food with good views.
Betelnut Café sounds like this fit for me. I love breakfast wraps and smoothies.