When people think of Ubud, Bali, they often picture emerald rice fields, ancient temples, and a vibrant art scene. Yet, hidden within this cultural hub lies another gem worth exploring—Friends Café & Bistro, a modern café that blends comfort, culinary creativity, and high-end coffee culture. If you’re searching for the Best Cafe in Ubud, especially one that offers the rare luxury of an air-conditioned space, this spot should be at the top of your list.
Comfort Meets Style in Central Ubud
Many cafés in Ubud showcase rustic, open-air concepts designed to embrace Bali’s natural beauty. While that’s charming, sometimes the tropical climate can be overwhelming—especially for visitors who just want a cool, calm place to relax. That’s where Friends Café & Bistro sets itself apart.
Inside, guests are welcomed into a fully air-conditioned room, offering a refreshing escape from Bali’s humidity. It’s the perfect answer for travelers who specifically search for a Cafe with AC in Ubud, a rarity in this part of town. The cool indoor area is ideal for digital nomads, families with kids, or anyone wanting to savor a meal in absolute comfort.
But this café doesn’t stop at air-con comfort. On the upper floor, a semi-outdoor rooftop inspired by Ibiza provides a breezy, stylish setting where guests can soak up the tropical atmosphere. This duality—cozy indoors and chic rooftop—makes Friends Café & Bistro versatile for every mood and occasion.
Coffee Like Nowhere Else in Bali
One of the defining features of Friends Café & Bistro is its devotion to the art of coffee. Unlike most cafés that use standard espresso machines, Friends is home to something extraordinary: the Victoria Arduino Black Eagle Maverick.
For coffee enthusiasts, this machine is a dream come true. It’s among the most advanced espresso machines in the world, and in all of Indonesia, only 20 exist. Bali itself has just two—and one of them is here. The Maverick doesn’t just make coffee; it ensures that every espresso shot is pulled with precision, consistency, and full-bodied flavor.
But great coffee isn’t just about the machine. Friends Café & Bistro partners with Lawang Coffee, roasting beans in-house for maximum freshness. This commitment to roasting on-site guarantees that every cup reflects the true character of the beans, offering rich aromas and complex flavors. Whether you’re sipping a simple espresso or a creamy cappuccino, the quality shines through in every sip.
For this reason alone, many coffee lovers say Friends Café & Bistro is the Best Cafe in Ubud for anyone serious about their daily brew.
A Menu That Bridges East and West
Of course, coffee is just one part of the experience. The menu at Friends Café & Bistro is a thoughtful balance of East-meets-West cuisine, designed to suit a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Highlights include:
- Healthy Options – Fresh salads, smoothie bowls, and nutrient-packed dishes made with local produce.
- Halal Selections – A menu respectful of cultural and religious needs, making it accessible for Muslim travelers.
- Vegan Creations – Plant-based meals that are as hearty and flavorful as their traditional counterparts.
For those in the mood for something light, the café also offers an assortment of homemade cakes and croissant sandwiches. These flaky, buttery croissants—filled with ingredients like cheese, eggs, or vegetables—pair perfectly with a hot coffee or iced latte. It’s the kind of breakfast or brunch that makes you want to linger a little longer.
A Gathering Place for Everyone
What makes Friends Café & Bistro so special is how it feels equally welcoming to locals and international travelers.
- Tourists often stumble upon it while searching for the Best Cafe in Ubud and are pleasantly surprised by its balance of comfort and style.
- Digital Nomads love the reliable Wi-Fi, air-conditioned interior, and plenty of seating that makes it easy to work for hours.
- Locals drop by regularly, whether for a quick coffee break, weekend brunch with friends, or an evening dessert on the rooftop.
The atmosphere is casual yet refined, tropical yet modern—a rare combination that keeps guests returning time and again.
Why Friends Café & Bistro Stands Out
There are countless cafés in Ubud, but few offer the same unique features as Friends Café & Bistro:
- Air-Conditioned Comfort – A lifesaver in Bali’s hot and humid climate.
- Ibiza-Style Rooftop – Perfect for those who still want to feel the tropical breeze in a chic setting.
- World-Class Coffee Equipment – The Victoria Arduino Black Eagle Maverick sets a global standard in espresso quality.
- In-House Coffee Roasting – Fresh beans roasted by Lawang Coffee guarantee a cup unlike anywhere else in town.
- Inclusive Menu – Vegan, halal, and health-conscious diners can all find something to enjoy.
Put simply, Friends Café & Bistro doesn’t just serve food and coffee—it creates an experience.
When to Visit
- Morning: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with croissants and coffee in the cool AC room before exploring Ubud’s cultural sites.
- Midday: Escape the peak heat of the day and savor a refreshing iced latte and salad in comfort.
- Afternoon: Bring your laptop, order a cappuccino, and make it your workspace for a few hours.
- Evening: Head to the rooftop with friends, share a dessert, and soak in the twilight atmosphere.
This flexibility makes Friends Café & Bistro more than just a café—it’s a lifestyle spot, perfect at any time of day.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Café in Ubud
Whether you’re a coffee purist, a foodie, or simply someone seeking a comfortable escape from Bali’s heat, Friends Café & Bistro has it all. From its air-conditioned dining room to its breezy rooftop, from its world-class coffee setup to its creative East-meets-West menu, every detail is designed with comfort and quality in mind.
It’s easy to see why so many consider it the Best Cafe in Ubud. And if you’ve been searching specifically for a Cafe with AC in Ubud, look no further—Friends Café & Bistro delivers exactly what you need, with an added dose of tropical charm.
So, the next time you’re in central Ubud, don’t just settle for any café. Step into Friends Café & Bistro and discover a place where world-class coffee, delicious food, and ultimate comfort meet in perfect harmony.
