My Vegan Travel Guide To Bandung Indonesia
When it comes to food, Bandung does not disappoint. But what is it like to travel this region as a vegan or someone who follows a mostly plant-based diet?
From humble warungs serving up centuries-old recipes to modern cafes offering vegan dishes, Bandung’s culinary scene is something to indulge in. Over the years, I have seen Bandung’s vegan community grow, with several new plant-based eateries opening and more restaurants serving vegan options.
So let’s check out where to enjoy a vegan meal, coffee or sweet treat in Bandung.
How To Order
There are two different food delivery platforms that you have to get when you travel anywhere in Indonesia: Go Jek and Grab. Both applications can be downloaded for free to your smartphone and are used for various services, including food delivery.
Your driver will collect the order at the restaurant and bring it to your location for a fee. To order, search for the business name below and browse the menu items. You can also manually search ‘vegan’ in the search bar to make it easier to find suitable menu options.
Restaurants
There are only a few 100% vegan restaurants in Bandung, but that doesn’t mean other restaurants don’t serve a vegan option. The word ‘vegan’ might not be on the menu, but there are several vegetarian dishes that the kitchen can customise on request.
In Indonesia, dietary staples include rice, tofu, tempeh, vegetables and fruit, so many traditional dishes are accidentally vegan. I find vegan options by searching on Google Maps, Go Jek, Grab or Happy Cow, but I think the easiest way is to go out and explore.
HEJO EATERY
Photo Credit - Travel For Change Co
This is the place for vegan comfort food and where you can try a plant-based take on Indonesian dishes. Hejo also serves Western options like fries covered in vegan cheese, bolognese pasta, carbonara, salad bowls and a mix of Thai and Korean fusion food. In addition to their impressive plant-based menu, you will find a delicious coffee selection and some sweet treats to take home.
GREENS AND BEANS
Photo Credit - Travel For Change Co
A unique concept in Bandung combines a restaurant and coffee shop with a grocery store and not-for-profit community kitchen. The menu at Greens And Beans is not 100% vegan but offers a range of options and healthy dishes. There is also a strong focus on organic and locally sourced produce such as organic brown rice, gluten-free pasta, organic and hydroponic vegetables and natural sweeteners.
KEHIDUPAN TIDAK PERNAH BERAKHIR
Photo Credit - Travel For Change Co
Kehidupan is a fully vegan buffet-style restaurant that offers plant-based versions of traditional Indonesian dishes. It is bustling at lunchtime due to the health benefits and affordable price. You will also enjoy the unique layout and decore plus the TV plays informative shows on health and wellness. Be sure to try the sate with vegetables and rice. New menu items also feature a vegan steak with french fries and vegan ice cream!
Vegan Coffee Spots
The island of Java is also Indonesia’s largest producer of coffee and is renowned for its gourmet Arabica coffee beans. This is why you will find a vibrant coffee culture highlighting the region’s coffee beans all over the city.
In Bandung, you will see some familiar coffee spots like Starbucks and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf but don’t overlook the speciality coffee shops on almost every corner. A favourite for locals is to chill out with friends over coffee and chat, commonly referred to as nongkrong, which could explain why there are so many coffee spots here.
KOPI KENANGAN
Photo Credit - Kopi Kenangan
Popular coffee franchise Kopi Kenangan is now offering a new oatmilk series with three items on the menu: Oatside Latte, Oatside Kopi Kenangan Mantan and Oatside Boba Gula Aren Latte. Various teas and other coffee options are available.
OSEEBO COFFEE
Photo Credit - Oseebo Coffee
A charming coffee shop serving various hot or cold drinks made with oatmilk and plant-based creamer. There is also a Mixed Berries Iced Tea and a Tangerine Latte with espresso and fresh orange juice. Oseebo has some creative ideas and offers reusable cup holders.
Sweet Treats
You will be spoiled for choice in Bandung if you have a sweet tooth. Commonly used ingredients in traditional Indonesian sweets include palm sugar, coconut sugar, coconut milk, pandan and different tropical fruits. Many are also accidentally vegan.
Today you can also find a wide selection of healthier desserts, raw cakes and gluten-free options thanks to increased demand for plant-based alternatives.
ENDORPHINS COOKIES
Photo Credit - Endorphins Cookies
Selling a selection of decadent gourmet cookies with two delicious vegan options. These make the perfect gift because they look great in a cute box. The menu has non-vegan biscoff and choc chip varieties, so check that you order the plant-based/vegan option from Endorphins.
BELLE MUNCHIES
Photo Credit - Belle Munchies
Serving a range of vegan, raw and gluten-free cakes and desserts, Belle Munchies is a must-try cafe just to see the beautiful designs. You can also order online for same-day delivery. Make sure you check out the different seasonal options on the menu. There is also a Sweet Share Box and a 3-piece Baby Raw Cake Bundle. The gorgeous cakes make a perfect option for any special occasion.
Bakery
Fresh bread is one of the things I did not think would be widely available in Bandung. It turns out that there are numerous cafes and bakery spots where you can find all kinds of artisan breads and delicious pastries and cakes.
You can also find a selection of gluten-free options and keto-friendly options.
MOM’S BAKERY
Photo Credit - Mom’s Bakery
A long-standing favourite with locals and visitors, Mom’s Bakery is a one-stop shop for bread, cakes, pastries, and freshly made-to-order meals. Dine in and enjoy coffee, tea or fresh cold-pressed juice. The best part is the smell of freshly baked bread. You can also choose from a list of fresh ingredients at the salad bar, including this vegan chicken and salad sandwich.
ANT ARTISAN BAKERY & COFFEE
Photo Credit - Ant Artisan Bakery
Here at Ant Artisan, you can find a selection of coffee, herbal tea, juice and mocktails. The menu features sweets, desserts, bread and healthy meal options. If you are looking for gluten-free, keto or vegan options, you should have no problem finding something here to choose from.
SARAE BAKES
Photo Credit - Sarae Bakes
Sarae Bakes has vegan and non-vegan treats, including freshly baked bread and various loaves and rolls. You can also find other vegan products, including almond milk, almond spread and natural peanut butter. On the lunch menu, there is a Vegan Chicken Teriyaki Sandwich.
For an in-depth look at the vegan food scene across Indonesia, check out my