If you find yourself in up-and-coming Batu Belig, a local surfing suburb north of Petitenget, pop in on this expat fave. A sun-filled, semi-open establishment sandwiched between a quaint front garden and (dwindling) working rice fields out back, Watercress welcomes with recycled and vintage wood furnishings, boho informality, and quirky flourishes.

The brainchild of a stylish Byron Bay native and eco-warrior designer, Watercress lives up to its fierce "Eat fresh, live well!" mantra. Rustic gourmet dishes, inspired by Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, and Pan-Pacific cuisines, are wholesome, nutritious, and vegetarian-orientated, yet still managing to taste scrumptious (and not take themselves too seriously). The fresh produce is around 90 percent organic and locally sourced, ranging from village free-range eggs to smoothies infused with organic Borneo honey. (There's also a far-from-saintly line in home-baked cakes and buttery croissants). Don't miss the sensational "Lunchtime Showcase," a chilled cabinet displaying freshly prepared global treats, anything from pumpkin ricotta tarts to pan-hot falafel. Big bowls of signature fresh salads drenched in tangy dressings are some of the island's yummiest, while detox juices, obscenely good house-blend coffees, and Sydney-style rustic breakfasts (from 7:30am to 4pm) are suitably delish. Meat eaters won't feel too hard done by, what with gourmet burgers and a new dinner menu covering grilled seafood, charred meats, and mixed grills. Wine and cocktails are allowed; reservations are advised.