A Food Lover’s Guide to Bali – Where to Eat for the Best Local Flavors

Bali Gate Tours

04 March 2025

Blog & Article

Bali is not just a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers; it is also a dream destination for food enthusiasts. The island offers a rich and diverse culinary scene, blending traditional Balinese flavors with Indonesian, Asian, and international influences. From authentic street food stalls to Michelin-worthy fine dining, Bali has something to satisfy every craving.

If you are a true foodie looking to explore Bali’s best local flavors, this guide will take you through the must-try dishes and where to find them.

1. Must-Try Traditional Balinese Dishes

Before diving into the best places to eat, it is essential to know what dishes you should try while in Bali.

A. Babi Guling – Balinese Suckling Pig

Babi Guling – Balinese Suckling Pig

Babi Guling is Bali’s most famous dish, typically served during ceremonial feasts but widely available at local warungs. This dish consists of roasted suckling pig seasoned with turmeric, garlic, and Balinese spices, giving it a crispy golden skin and tender, flavorful meat.

Where to Eat Babi Guling in Bali:

Babi Guling Ibu Oka (Ubud) – The most well-known spot for this dish, offering a rich, flavorful version served with crispy skin.
Babi Guling Pak Malen (Seminyak) – A favorite among locals for its spicy and aromatic pork servings.

B. Bebek Betutu – Slow-Cooked Balinese Duck

Bebek Betutu – Slow-Cooked Balinese Duck

A traditional ceremonial dish, Bebek Betutu is duck marinated in turmeric and Balinese spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked for at least 8 hours until incredibly tender.

Where to Eat Bebek Betutu in Bali:

Bebek Tepi Sawah (Ubud) – Famous for its crispy yet juicy Bebek Betutu, served with a side of rice fields views.
Bebek Bengil (Ubud & Nusa Dua) – Also known as the "Dirty Duck Diner," serving one of the best crispy ducks in Bali.

C. Nasi Campur – Bali’s Ultimate Mixed Rice Dish

Nasi Campur – Bali’s Ultimate Mixed Rice Dish

Nasi Campur is a popular Balinese dish consisting of white rice served with an assortment of meats, vegetables, sambal, and peanut sauce. Each warung has its own special mix, making it one of the most exciting local meals to try.

Where to Eat Nasi Campur in Bali:

Warung Nasi Bali Men Weti (Sanur) – Famous for its authentic and spicy version of Nasi Campur.
Warung Wardani (Denpasar) – A local favorite for its rich flavors and perfectly balanced side dishes.

D. Lawar – A Balinese Delicacy with Unique Flavors

Lawar – A Balinese Delicacy with Unique Flavors

Lawar is a traditional Balinese side dish made from minced meat, coconut, and spices, sometimes mixed with fresh pig’s blood for extra richness.

Where to Eat Lawar in Bali:

Lawar Bali Kartika (Denpasar) – One of the best places to try authentic Lawar with various options like pork, chicken, and jackfruit.
Warung Jero Kawan (Ubud) – A great spot to experience Lawar made the traditional Balinese way.

2. Best Warungs for Authentic Balinese Cuisine

For the best local flavors in Bali, visiting warungs (small, family-run eateries) is a must. These spots serve home-cooked meals full of authentic Balinese spices and flavors.

Top Warungs in Bali:

Warung Mak Beng (Sanur) – Famous for its spicy fish soup and fried fish combo.
Warung Biah Biah (Ubud) – A great spot for small Balinese tapas-style dishes, including Lawar and Sate Lilit.
Warung Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku (Ubud & Seminyak) – The go-to place for Nasi Ayam, a flavorful Balinese-style chicken rice dish.

3. Best Street Food Markets for Food Lovers

If you love trying local street food, Bali has some amazing night markets and street food stalls where you can sample authentic Balinese flavors at affordable prices.

Best Street Food Markets in Bali:

Gianyar Night Market – A street food paradise with local favorites like Babi Guling, Sate Lilit, and Pisang Goreng (fried banana).
Sanur Night Market (Sindhu Market) – Great for Nasi Campur, grilled seafood, and sweet Balinese desserts.
Kreneng Night Market (Denpasar) – A mix of local street food and Balinese snacks, perfect for foodies looking to explore.

4. Fine Dining with a Balinese Twist

Bali is also home to high-end restaurants that take traditional Balinese flavors and elevate them into world-class dining experiences.

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Bali:

Locavore (Ubud) – A Michelin-worthy restaurant serving modern Balinese cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
Mozaic (Ubud) – A gourmet dining experience blending Balinese flavors with French techniques.
Kaum Bali (Seminyak) – Specializing in authentic Indonesian flavors in a stylish beachfront setting.

5. Where to Get the Best Bali Coffee and Desserts

Bali is also famous for its amazing coffee culture and delicious local desserts.

Best Coffee Shops in Bali:

Seniman Coffee Studio (Ubud) – The best place for high-quality, locally sourced Balinese coffee.
Revolver Espresso (Seminyak) – A trendy café serving strong espresso-based drinks.
Expat. Roasters (Canggu & Seminyak) – Specializing in single-origin Balinese coffee with a modern twist.

Best Balinese Desserts to Try:

Dadar Gulung – A green pandan crepe filled with sweet coconut and palm sugar.
Klepon – Chewy rice cake balls filled with melted palm sugar, covered in grated coconut.
Bubur Injin – A Balinese black rice pudding served with coconut milk and palm sugar.

Where to Try These Desserts:

Bali Buda (Ubud & Canggu) – A great place for traditional Balinese sweets and organic desserts.
Warung Sopa (Ubud) – Serves authentic Balinese cakes and healthy desserts.

A Food Lover’s Paradise in Bali

Bali is a culinary destination like no other, offering a mix of authentic warung dishes, vibrant street food, and world-class fine dining. Whether you are savoring Babi Guling, indulging in fresh seafood, or enjoying a cup of Balinese coffee, every meal in Bali is an experience to remember.