Alchemy Uluwatu — Restaurant in Kuta Selatan

Stepping into Alchemy in Uluwatu is like discovering a beautifully cultivated oasis, immediately setting a tone of serene tranquility. My first impression was one of pure delight – a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, enveloped by lush greenery that felt like a true capture of the 'Bali spirit.' The decor, dominated by earthy browns and greens, intertwined with climbing plants, creates an aesthetic that is both natural and thoughtfully designed, hinting at a cool, subtly 'hipster' vibe.

Despite a noticeable buzz of activity, the atmosphere remained remarkably relaxed and serene. There was a gentle hum of conversation, busy enough to feel lively but never overwhelming, contributing positively to the overall experience rather than detracting from it.

On my visit, I enjoyed a refreshing Kombucha alongside a spicy plant-based meal. While the exact name of the dish escape me, I remember flavors were remarkably fresh and subtle, yet incredibly satisfying. It offered a light mix of spice and easy, clean tastes that were both refreshing and surprisingly filling without feeling heavy. The presentation of the food was as appealing as its taste – clearly prepared with care and an eye for detail. The portion sizes were perfectly balanced; "just right," ensuring a fulfilling meal without any waste. Alchemy genuinely met my high expectations, which were set even before my food arrived, thanks to the inviting ambiance and the tantalizing dishes I saw on other tables.

As a vegetarian, I can confidently say this meal was a standout, and I would eagerly return for another. For anyone curious about plant-based cuisine, or even those who aren't strictly vegetarian, Alchemy's flavorful offerings are sure to impress and satisfy. The service at Alchemy was exemplary—attentive, friendly, efficient, and genuinely knowledgeable. The staff was on point, and their attention to detail was evident when my server recommended a side of chili flakes for my spicy meal. This simple addition allowed me to customize the heat to my liking, perfectly balancing my craving for warmth without overpowering the dish's inherent subtle flavors. Getting their attention was never an issue; the service was consistently seamless.

Considering the exceptional quality of the food, the impeccable service, and the captivating ambiance, Alchemy unquestionably offers excellent value for money. It's the ideal spot for a casual meal or a healthy bite, perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy a nourishing experience. The most memorable aspect of my visit was undoubtedly the combination of the easy, relaxed atmosphere with the consistently good service.

I would enthusiastically recommend Alchemy to anyone visiting Uluwatu, especially those seeking a beautiful, chill space to enjoy delicious, fresh, and satisfying plant-based food. It's truly a gem that embodies the...

Rating: 6/10

This café has a charming atmosphere, and the people around are quite pleasant. One of its highlights is the diverse gluten-free and dairy-free menu, which is particularly appealing to strict vegans. The yoga offered here is decent, though I haven't tried other places in Uluwatu yet—I come here mainly for convenience.

They serve homemade almond milk, which is decent and can also be used to make coffee at the nearby ARABICA café.

However, the food is overrated, and your expectations are likely to fall short. I've given this place multiple chances during my two visits to Bali, and the food has consistently been around 5-6 out of 10, sometimes even less, making it difficult to enjoy. I rarely finished a meal. The dishes are incredibly heavy, and the prices are quite high. I tried many items, including the bestsellers, but nothing stood out—there was nothing I'd eagerly order again or come back for.

If you're not a vegetarian or vegan, you’re even less likely to enjoy the food here. There aren't any non-vegan or pescatarian options at all—everything is made with substitutes and imitations like "tuna" or "bacon." Having been a vegetarian for many years, I can say that there are far tastier and more skillfully crafted plant-based alternatives available elsewhere.

The tea is good, but the desserts are mediocre at best.

The staff is a mixed bag—some are great, knowledgeable, and friendly, while others are less so. Unfortunately, they are inflexible when it comes to customizing dishes. I have dietary restrictions and couldn't eat spinach due to an allergy, yet they couldn't even remove it from a smoothie. Worse, instead of offering alternatives or solutions, the waiter simply walked away and ignored me. The staff clearly needs more training, or perhaps this stems from the management.

I still want to thank the team for attempting to create a place like this in Bali. However, perfection knows no bounds, and it would be wonderful if the establishment listened to its visitors and trained its staff to do the same.

Overall, I give this place a 6/10, mainly for the atmosphere and the convenience of having everything in one place. It’s a nice spot to relax and work after yoga, but many fundamental aspects for a café of this type are average at best.

P.s don’t buy reishi...

Alchemy in Uluwatu offers an incredible concept that blends plant-based food with a yoga and meditation center, creating a peaceful and transformative environment. The philosophy they promote, based on self-care to create a better world, is truly inspiring. I felt deeply connected to their mission of cleansing, healing, and revitalizing, especially after attending a yoga class there before my meal.

The food is certainly innovative, but in my experience, the sushi didn’t quite meet expectations. They tried to do something unique with sticky rice and vegetable garnishes, but the flavor didn’t land, and the salad dressing, instead of the classic soy sauce, felt out of place. While I wouldn’t order it again, the environment and the broader concept were so powerful that I was willing to overlook this small disappointment.

However, I was frustrated by their policy regarding seating for those working on their computers. I wanted to move to a brighter table but was told I couldn’t because they separate those eating from those working. While I understand they may want to create a peaceful dining environment, I noticed that other solo diners were glued to their phones, including a woman sitting at a “no computer” table watching a movie on her phone. The policy felt inconsistent and, honestly, a bit discriminatory. I was made to feel uncomfortable simply because my screen was bigger than her phone. It was disheartening to be treated differently for something so small, especially when the whole philosophy is about connection, unity, and transformation.

I know they have so much potential to improve, and I truly believe they can make this place even better. It just feels like a missed opportunity to fully embody the sense of togetherness they promote. I left with a bittersweet feeling—grateful for the overall experience, but also hoping that they’ll reconsider this policy to better reflect their beautiful mission of...