• 5
• Delicious & Beautiful

Buddha’s Cafe is one of the most pleasant surprises hidden away at Lake Toba. The atmosphere is very peaceful and beautiful with lake front view and a large garden with Buddha statues and many types of flowering plants. There is a lot of attention to detail in the decorations on the walls and floor tiles. High standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Their curries are the highlight - all have their own distinct and delicious flavours. We loved the Eggplant Curry and the Tempeh and Pineapple Curry. Our top pick was the Sweet and Sour Tempeh. Their ice creams are actually more like sorbets and have a coconut base. However, the staff are so incredible that they made me a coconut-free sorbet on the spot because I am allergic to coconut. In fact, they modified most dishes without hesitation. We also tried their guacamole w/ home made crackers - it was delicious, though not authentic guac. Their pancakes you can give a miss - I think they are made from rice flour because they are more layers of doughiness than what North Americans would call a pancake. They are more expensive than other restaurants around Lake Tabo, but their food quality is superior, which is why we visited more than once despite its location being more difficult to get to. Most dishes are vegan, but they have a few dishes with egg due to vegetarians requesting frequently. No dairy is served in any dish. To get to it, you must continue past Ambarita in the direction of Simanindo. It’s not convenient to walk to so you should bike or drive. We did kayak there one day from Tuk Tuk - it took about two hours from Tabo Cottages. They also have a guest house.