Sage — Restaurant in Bali

I find it a mystery why this place is so popular. I tried it five years ago while living in Ubud, again three years ago during a visit, and I gave it another chance a few days ago, hoping my previous experiences were mistaken. Unfortunately, each time ended in disappointment, both in terms of service and food. The vegan offerings at Sage are exactly what you would imagine how people think of tasteless and disappointing vegan meals. Perhaps it's just that I don't connect with this place.

To reply to the owner: I'm not an "affiliate" of any competitor; I'm just an honest reviewer. You can check my previous reviews to see for yourself. I recently tried the Hula burger, but it didn't hold together well, making it difficult to take a proper bite. Everything fell apart and was drenched in what tasted like teriyaki sauce, which overwhelmed the other flavors. The potato fries were dry and bland.

Additionally, the staff seemed overwhelmed during busy hours, with only a few employees working, so I had to keep waving to get their attention. They honestly looked tired.

On a positive note, I really liked the atmosphere of the restaurant. I'm glad the shop is operating well, but I wanted to provide my honest...

Imagine you go to a restaurant where the food is yummy and comes to your table quickly, which is super cool because not all places in Bali are like that. The people who work here are also friendly and welcoming, just like in many other places on the island. You might think this restaurant is perfect and should get five stars, even if the music playing in the background isn't the best.

But, there's a big "but"! Most of the seats and tables are super uncomfortable. It's like they weren't made right because every time you sit, you might hit your legs or knees against the table. It feels like you're squished between the bench and the table, which isn't fun. The benches have cushions on top, but they slide off too easily, and then there are so many of other cussion on the top, that there's hardly any room to sit without moving some away.

Also, when you go to the restroom, there's this fake smell that doesn't fit with the restaurant's natural look. It's so strong that it could make your head hurt if you stay in there too long.

So, even though the food and service are awesome, sitting uncomfortably and the smelly restroom make the visit a bit less fun. So maybe next time better order home...

Ok so, I got the kitchari burgers which is the BEST vegan burger I have had in Bali. You can taste how homemade it is, plus the sauces and buns are delicious.

Food does take a while to come so be ready for the wait.

My only issue is that I ordered a small plate as an appetizer, and I clearly told the waitress to bring it before the burgers, for some reason she heard the opposite but again we are in Bali so I am not surprise.

We received the burgers and the small plate arrived 20-25 minutes later. It took so long that I told her to cancel the order as I thought it wasn’t coming anyways. I receive it 2 minutes after I wanted to cancel it. Obviously the waitress didn’t know what to do with her Balinese awkwardness service. They don’t like confrontation… so I just said I will take it even though I wasn’t hungry anymore.

The small plate (Gorditas) was a disappointment. : / some fried I don’t know what on a bed of cheap iceberg lettuce. I also saw a little bug in there which I guess it’s ok. Not too shocked… but yeah

I had videos but it looks like I can...