This! Ubud Indian Food Every Food-Loving Traveler Should Visit
Traveling to Bali always feels like coming back to something familiar, yet somehow new every time. This time, my journey led me deeper into the island, straight into the heart of Ubud. Among Bali destinations known for beaches, nightlife, and luxury resorts, Ubud feels calmer and more personal. It is where art, culture, and slow living meet in the most natural way. And here, I unexpectedly found a cafe that introduced me to Ubud Indian food, Chai of the Tiger.
This Indian street food cafe sits on Jalan Sukma, only about five minutes from Ubud Palace. The place feels cool and comfortable with full air conditioning. It is small, yet neatly arranged and very welcoming. The decor feels playful and photogenic, since every corner looks good on camera. What interested me most is that this Indian restaurant does not only serve food and drinks, but also Indian desserts.
Desserts First, Always
As a dessert lover, I could not resist trying them. I opened the menu and went straight to the dessert section. That habit never changes for me. There were two options on the list, Chikki Chaat and Ice Ice Puri. I chose Chikki Chaat out of curiosity, since I had never tried it before. Something interesting here is that the food is prepared in an open kitchen, so I could watch the dessert being made. Moments like this shape my experience with Ubud Indian food.
I did not wait long before it arrived at my table, and the Chikki Chaat looked colorful and inviting. The first bite tasted tropical and sweet, with a pleasant crunch. Fresh seasonal fruits brought brightness to each bite. The yogurt added a smooth and creamy balance. Caramelized peanut brittle gave a deep, nutty crunch that tied everything together. The flavors felt playful yet satisfying.
A Comforting Main Dish
Besides ordering dessert, I also chose a main dish to complete the meal. I went with Butter Chicken, a dish I often heard about but never tried. This was my first proper experience with Indian food at this level. The chicken was tender and clearly well marinated. It came coated in a rich tomato-based sauce with a creamy texture. For someone new to Ubud Indian food, this dish felt like a safe and comforting choice.
The flavors were warm, balanced, and not overwhelming. The spices felt fragrant rather than sharp. The yogurt sauce added smoothness and softened the richness. Each bite felt familiar yet new at the same time. I could taste depth without feeling confused by strong spices. It made the dish very approachable. After finishing it, I understood why Butter Chicken is often recommended. It fits well into the experience of Ubud Indian food for first-time visitors.
A Comforting Main Dish
Beyond the food and desserts, the atmosphere feels cozy and genuinely friendly. The seating encourages conversation and relaxed dining. During my visit, guests from different countries shared tables and stories. It felt natural and welcoming. That mix added warmth to the experience of Ubud Indian food.
The staff moved easily between tables, creating a calm rhythm. Laughter and quiet chats filled the room. It showed how Ubud Indian food can bring travelers together in a simple, comfortable space.