After an incredible few days exploring the breathtaking island of Nusa Penida, we found ourselves yearning for something fresh and vibrant. Our diet had consisted mainly of delicious Indonesian rice and noodles, and we were dreaming of smoothies, juices, and wholesome salads. Little did we know, our cravings were about to be satisfied just a short walk away.
A Hidden Gem by the Beach
Nestled just a minute's walk up the beach from our accommodation, we stumbled upon Ginger and Jamu. From the moment we entered, we knew we had discovered a culinary paradise. The menu featured an array of smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and a variety of vegan dishes, including avocado toast, veggie tacos, and unique bowls. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with cozy lounge areas perfect for enjoying a meal with our toes in the sand.
The Story Behind Ginger and Jamu
We had the pleasure of chatting with the founders, Sunny, Jaime, and Kai, about their journey in creating this delightful cafe. Sunny, with a background in yoga, found the perfect location while walking along the beach and decided to bring her vision to life. She launched her studio, Yoga Village, and reached out to her friend Jaime, who has a passion for cooking and health. Together, they transformed their dream into reality.
Jaime’s experience in hospitality and his studies at the Institute for Integrative Health in New York helped shape the cafe’s concept. Their mission at Ginger and Jamu is to provide fresh, nourishing meals that promote vibrant, healthy lifestyles. Kai, Sunny’s son, joined the team from Australia and has embraced the island culture while helping with the business.
Fresh and Local Ingredients
At Ginger and Jamu, every dish is crafted with local, high-quality ingredients sourced primarily from Bali and Nusa Penida. The cafe caters to all dietary preferences, ensuring there is something for everyone. Jaime emphasizes the importance of mindful eating: “It’s not about creating a hard line between what I do or do not eat. It’s essential to listen to your body’s needs.”
Our Favorite Dishes
During our stay on Lembongan, we found ourselves dining at Ginger and Jamu every day. Some standout dishes included:
- Pink Panther: A refreshing smoothie bowl made with dragonfruit, raspberries, banana, and coconut cream.
- Smashing Pumpkin: A savory bowl featuring roasted pumpkin, cauliflower, pepitas, and hummus.
- Jamu Shots: An Indonesian healing tonic made with fresh turmeric, tamarind, and honey—perfect for boosting the immune system!
These delectable dishes quickly became our favorites, and we couldn’t get enough!
Community Spirit and Future Plans
In addition to running the cafe, Ginger and Jamu also hosts yoga teacher training programs in partnership with Santosha Yoga Institute. We had the opportunity to meet some trainees who shared their positive experiences, reflecting the strong sense of community and spirituality that permeates the cafe.
Looking ahead, Jaime shared exciting plans for Ginger and Jamu’s future. They aim to open a second cafe on Nusa Penida, which will allow them to create their own farm to supply fresh produce for their plant-rich menu.
Thank You!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sunny, Jaime, and Kai for welcoming us to Ginger and Jamu. From the inviting vibes to the delicious food, everything was exceptional. We can’t wait to see what lies ahead for this wonderful cafe!
Much Love,Patrick & Kahala
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