Lunch at Five Elements, Bali

Photography by Ndoema

When in Canggu Beach, I discovered a wonderful little raw vegan eatery called CuePlay Cafe run by my new-found Russian friend Dennis Jablonskiy (and his surfing pal - turned super raw chef - Andrew). I can't tell you how comforting it was and how grateful I felt to be enjoying such genuinely soulful company and to feast on the kind of healing and nutrient-dense meal that feeds my body and soul. When Dennis found out I was heading to Ubud the following day, he suggested I swing by Five Elements, an eco-conscious wellness retreat and raw living foods restaurant nestled on the lush, tropical banks of the Ayung River.

Five Elements takes a holistic approach to health by combining ancestral Balinese healing modalities with plant-based nutrition and Sacred Arts all within an eco-luxurious setting that's both innovative and an homage Bali's beautiful traditions and culture.

Though I had just left magical Candi Kuning market, where I had loaded up on truckloads of delish tropical fruits, I was hungry (as I always am ;) and thrilled to be sampling more fabulous raw food delicacies.