An Unexpected Discovery: The Indian Restaurant in Bali Ubud That Won Me Over

Besides Kuta, another place in Bali that left a lasting impression on me was Ubud. Unlike Kuta which is famous for its lively beaches and bustling nightlife, Ubud offers a more serene charm with lush rice terraces, tranquil temples, and streets filled with art galleries and cozy cafés. Yet, amid this cultural and natural beauty, I stumbled upon something I did not expect at all: an Indian restaurant in Bali Ubud that completely changed the way I experienced this town.

The funny part is, I never really planned to visit Ubud in the first place. I was simply going along with the flow of my trip, and since Ubud is one of Bali’s most popular spots and only about an hour away from Kuta, it naturally slipped into my itinerary. But what I did not expect was that this spontaneous detour would lead me to such an unforgettable experience.

Exploring Every Single Corner of Ubud

It did not take long for me to feel the charm of Ubud. The road itself became part of the journey. Lush greenery, rice fields, and the calm atmosphere of the countryside immediately set a different tone from the crowded southern parts of Bali. The sense of peace felt so natural, as if Ubud was ready to welcome every curious traveler with its quiet beauty.

As I explored deeper, I noticed so many things happening at once. Stylish restaurants lined the streets, small shops invited passersby, temples stood gracefully, and yoga studios seemed to attract seekers from all over the world. Tourists walked casually, some even stopping to watch playful monkeys on the way.

My walk continued to the Ubud Art Market, a place buzzing with life yet still comfortable to explore. Rows of stalls offered everything from handmade crafts to woven bags and colorful local souvenirs. It felt like a cultural kaleidoscope, where every corner told a different story. And just like my unexpected stop at an Indian restaurant in Bali Ubud, this market reminded me that Ubud is full of surprises waiting to be discovered.

An Unexpected Culinary Discovery in Ubud

For me, every trip feels incomplete without exploring its food. Ubud already had so much food to offer. Yet, the one that truly stood out was discovering an Indian restaurant in Bali Ubud.

Actually, I did not plan to visit this restaurant at all. While wandering down Jalan Bisma in the early evening, I came across Chai of the Tiger. It’s a cozy Indian restaurant in Bali Ubud. To be honest, I had never tried Indian food before. But it was around 6 p.m., my stomach was rumbling, and curiosity won me over. I decided to step inside and give it a try.

The moment I entered, the atmosphere pulled me in. Tables were filled with tourists from all over the world, not just India. Chai of the Tiger itself carries a unique concept: bold Indian street food with a touch of Bali. The open kitchen allowed guests to watch dishes being freshly prepared, adding to the excitement.

My First Taste of Indian Cuisine

Since I was completely new to Indian food, I asked the waiter for recommendations. He responded warmly, patiently explaining the menu and suggesting dishes that would be friendly for a first-timer. After hearing his explanation, I decided to try the classic Butter Chicken, a safe yet flavorful choice that seemed perfect for my very first experience at an Indian restaurant in Bali Ubud.

The first bite surprised me. The chicken was tender, coated in a creamy tomato-based sauce that balanced spices with just the right amount of heat. It was rich, comforting, and paired beautifully with warm naan bread. I began to understand why so many people describe Indian food as both bold and addictive. It really was a feast for the senses.

By the time I finished my meal, I felt satisfied yet curious for more. Walking back through the streets of Ubud, I knew this memory would stay with me. Until today, I still crave that taste, and if I return to Bali, Chai of the Tiger will definitely be on my must-visit list as my favorite Indian restaurant in Bali Ubud.