Jamu is the name given to traditional Indonesian herbal medicine elixirs that have been used for thousands of years to aid in the healing of both body and mind. One in particular that’s incredible for all round health and wellbeing is Jamu Kunyit – a turmeric, tamarind, lemon, honey elixir highly regarded in Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine. Turmeric is the ‘Granddaddy’ of all spices… an incredible multi-faceted healer that works in supporting the bodies immune system and nervous system (assisting in a healthy response to stress), promotes radiant skin (supporting antioxidant protection against free radicals), healthy digestion, healthy bone, joint and skeletal function, and is great for blood and liver function too. For women turmeric also aids in supporting the reproductive system.
On my last trip to Bali, I decided to scour the island in search of the best Jamu to feed my turmeric obsession. And damn did I find some good Jamu! Here’s my top favourites and where to find them. Next time you’re in Bali, grab a Jamu (or two) and drink this life giving elixir to stay healthy, vibrant and full of energy.
Best Jamu in Bali…
Clear Café in Ubud – this is a delicious, strong and punchy Jamu with yellow and white turmeric, ginger, lemon and tamarind. It tops my list by far and I highly suggest you stop by Clear Café and get your Jamu on.
Biku in Seminyak – another close favourite with a strong concentrated flavor but this time balanced off with the sweetness of honey. If you don’t want it too sweet, ask for no honey (or just a little sweetness)!
Kafe and Little K in Ubud – these cafes both do a great Jamu in a tall glass mixed with coconut water. It allows you to sip on your drink and enjoy the layered flavours of the Jamu (again ask for no sweetener if you want to avoid the honey!) Both these café’s also have a fantastic Ayurvedic menu.
Betel Nut in Canggu – this place is delicious for breakfast (you must try the Naga Smoothie Bowl – see photo below) and it’s my go to cafe when staying in Canggu. They do a Jamu shot – smaller then other cafes but strong and sweet – lots of honey in this one! And they also have great gluten free bread to serve with their breakfasts.
Bali Buda in Kerobokan and Ubud – the Jamu at Buda is served in a tall glass yet is still strong and punchy. They also have a great mini-mart attached to their restaurants where you can get healthy takeaway food and all your organic travel needs!
Avocado in Canggu – this new little café just up the road from Betel Nut sells Jamu by the litre bottle. Although it’s not as strong as the other Jamu’s, it’s great to be able to take a bottle home and drink it in a more diluted form (note to self 1 bottle is never enough once you try this Jamu).
If you know of any other places in Bali that do a good Jamu then please let me know or comment on this post so we can all share the Jamu love! Or if you want to make it yourself, check out my Jamu recipe blog post.
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Where to find the best JAMU in Bali
