A Food Lover’s Guide to Bali - Must-Try Dishes and Where to Find Them

Bali is not just a paradise for beach lovers and adventurers it’s also a haven for food enthusiasts. The island’s rich culture and traditions are beautifully reflected in its cuisine, offering an explosion of flavors that cater to every palate. From smoky street side grills to refined restaurant experiences, Bali’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes.

If you’re a food lover looking to embark on a delicious journey, here’s your ultimate guide to Bali’s must-try dishes and where to find them.

1. Babi Guling - The Legendary Roast Pork

No food lover’s trip to Bali is complete without trying Babi Guling, a traditional Balinese dish featuring a whole pig roasted to perfection. The crispy, golden skin, tender meat, and aromatic spices make this dish an absolute delight. It’s often served with rice, sambal, and lawar (a mix of grated coconut, vegetables, and minced meat).

The flavors are a testament to Bali’s culinary heritage, with spices like turmeric, lemongrass, and coriander enhancing every bite.

Where to Find It:

• Warung Ibu Oka (Ubud): A favorite among locals and tourists, this spot serves some of the most iconic Babi Guling on the island.
• Warung Babi Guling Men Agus (Sanur): Known for its perfectly spiced roast and generous portions.

Personal Tip: Visit early as the dish is typically prepared fresh in the morning and sells out quickly!

2. Sate Lilit - A Twist on Traditional Satay

Unlike the skewered satays found elsewhere in Indonesia, Sate Lilit is uniquely Balinese. Made from minced fish, chicken, or pork mixed with grated coconut and aromatic spices, the mixture is wrapped around a lemongrass stalk or bamboo stick before being grilled to smoky perfection.

The result is a fragrant and flavorful bite that pairs wonderfully with peanut sauce or sambal.

Where to Find It:

• Made’s Warung (Seminyak): A long-standing establishment offering authentic Sate Lilit alongside other Balinese favorites.
• Warung Nyoman (Jimbaran): Known for its smoky, fresh-off-the-grill satays served with traditional condiments.

3. Bebek Betutu - A Feast of Slow-Cooked Duck

If you’re in the mood for something hearty, Bebek Betutu is a must-try. This dish involves a whole duck marinated with a spice blend called bumbu genep and wrapped in banana leaves before being slow-cooked for hours. The result is a tender, flavorful dish with a complex medley of spices.

Where to Find It:

• Bebek Tepi Sawah (Ubud): A scenic dining spot surrounded by rice paddies, serving succulent Bebek Betutu.
• Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner, Ubud): Famous for its crispy and slow-cooked duck dishes.

Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a cold coconut for the ultimate tropical dining experience.

4. Lawar - A Traditional Balinese Side Dish

Often served as a companion to mains like Babi Guling or Bebek Betutu, Lawar is a mix of minced meat, grated coconut, and spices. Some versions include jackfruit, adding a slightly sweet undertone to this savory dish. It’s a staple at Balinese ceremonies and a must-try for those seeking a taste of authentic local flavors.

Where to Find It:

• Local Warungs Across Bali: Lawar is commonly found in traditional eateries and pairs well with a variety of dishes.

5. Nasi Campur Bali - A Flavorful Rice Platter

Nasi Campur Bali is a vibrant rice dish accompanied by an assortment of sides like satay, lawar, fried chicken, sambal, and vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to sample a variety of Balinese flavors on one plate.

Where to Find It:

• Warung Wardani (Denpasar): A local favorite known for its well-balanced and flavorful Nasi Campur.
• Bali Asli (Karangasem): This restaurant offers a gourmet take on the traditional dish, with views of Mount Agung as a backdrop.

6. Jaja Bali - Traditional Balinese Desserts

For a sweet ending to your culinary journey, try Jaja Bali, traditional Balinese cakes and sweets often made with rice flour, palm sugar, and coconut. Popular options include klepon (sticky rice balls filled with palm sugar) and laklak (Balinese pancakes).

Where to Find It:

• Traditional Markets: Visit markets like Pasar Ubud or Pasar Badung to sample fresh Jaja Bali.
• Warung Sweets: Many small warungs offer these treats alongside a cup of Balinese coffee.

7. Where to Experience Balinese Cooking Firsthand

If tasting isn’t enough, why not learn to make these dishes yourself? Many cooking classes in Bali offer hands-on experiences where you can explore local markets, learn traditional techniques, and prepare your own Balinese feast.

Recommended Cooking Classes:

• Paon Bali Cooking Class (Ubud): A highly rated experience that includes a market visit and lessons in preparing authentic dishes.
• Casa Luna Cooking School (Ubud): Known for its focus on Balinese culinary heritage and use of fresh, local ingredients.

Bali’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich culture and warm hospitality. From the bold flavors of Babi Guling to the delicate sweetness of Jaja Bali, each dish tells a story of tradition and creativity. Whether you’re indulging in a lavish meal or savoring street food, Bali offers a feast for the senses that food lovers won’t soon forget.

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey through Bali? Start planning your foodie adventure today and taste the authentic flavors that make Bali a true paradise for food lovers.