Zen Cuisine: Nourishing the Body
Maitri, the name of our restaurant, translates to universal loving kindness. We believe that sharing a meal is a fundamental act of care, and we celebrate this by making every dining experience a memorable occasion.
The Culinary Experience
Our kitchen is led by Chef Made, who brings over two decades of international and Balinese culinary expertise to Zen. Supported by a team of nine chefs, our menu reflects a diverse range of Balinese, European, and Indian traditions. Whether you crave a local speciality, handmade pasta, or a rich Indian dish, our team delivers with genuine care and precision.
You can dine in two settings. On clear days, meals are served outdoors beside the pool, overlooking the valley; when it rains, we move into our covered restaurant. Meals are served at set times — breakfast at 8:00, lunch at 12:30, and dinner at 7:30 — though we are flexible, and happy to adapt around your schedule.
A Team That Cares
Our food and beverage team, led by Komang, is the warm heart of every meal at Maitri. They are your main point of contact throughout your stay — checking that you are happy, remembering how you like things, and always ready to help. Whether you would prefer to dine quietly in your villa or need your meals adjusted around your day, they will make it happen with genuine care. For many guests, it is this team, as much as the food itself, that makes dining at Zen feel like being looked after by family.
Mindful Nutrition
The majority of our menu is vegetarian, and we believe deeply in vegetable-forward, balanced eating. That said, there is always a fish or chicken dish at every meal for those who prefer it.
Guests on a retreat programme enjoy three courses at lunch and dinner: a vegetarian soup and salad to start, followed by a choice of main — Indian vegetarian, Balinese, Indonesian, or Italian — and a dessert.
Every meal is wholesome and generous with fresh vegetables. Guests who are not on a retreat programme can order from our à la carte menu.
We happily accommodate all dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. While our standard menus are not strictly Sattvic, we are glad to adapt your meals to suit those requirements on request.
Balancing Powders
At every table, you will find our signature dosha powders — herbal blends for Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. If your constitution is Vata-Pitta, for example, you might add a teaspoon each of the Vata and Pitta blends to your meal. It is a simple, everyday way to bring a little Ayurvedic balance to your plate.
For guests who need it, our Ayurvedic doctor may tailor your meals or suggest herbal teas following your consultation, so your nutrition can be gently matched to your needs during your stay.
Earth to Plate
True nourishment begins in living organic soil. We champion farm-to-table practices, sourcing produce fresh daily from our on-site organic farm and herb gardens.
We encourage you to eat with intention, as conscious eating supports digestion and wellbeing. Herbal teas and freshly brewed coffee are available throughout the day, and for those who would like it, we serve wine and cocktails, with a pool bar close at hand.
From sunrise herbal teas to dinner beneath the stars, we ensure every meal is as healthy as it is enjoyable.