What To Eat In Bali: Best Food You Must Try!

Bali is this incredibly vibrant island where every day feels like a mix of adventure and serenity 🌞🌴. You can wake up to the sounds of the ocean or a jungle breeze, spend the morning wandering through rice fields 🌾, and end the day with your feet in the sand watching a fiery sunset over the waves 🌅.

The island has a spiritual heartbeat you can actually feel 🕯️. Temples pop up around every corner, and locals place offerings of flowers and incense in front of homes, shops, and even scooters it’s part of everyday life 💐🛵, and it gives Bali this calm, respectful energy, even in the busiest areas.

It’s also a food lover’s dream 🍛. Whether you're eating freshly grilled fish on the beach in Jimbaran 🐟🏖️, trying babi guling (suckling pig) at a roadside warung 🐖, or sipping on an oat milk latte in a hip Ubud café ☕, Bali really knows how to feed you well.

🍜Must-Try Local Dish in Bali

🍛 A First Bite of Babi Guling That Changed My Trip

I stumbled upon a small warung tucked away in Ubud, drawn by the rich smells wafting through the air. When the plate of babi guling arrived, the crispy, golden-brown pork skin caught my eye first. As I took my first bite, the juicy meat melted in my mouth, balanced perfectly by the smoky, earthy spices of turmeric and lemongrass. The tangy sambal kept my taste buds dancing while the savory rice soaked up the rich juices, giving me a sense of warmth and satisfaction. The whole experience felt like I was tasting Bali’s soul—spicy, comforting, and unforgettable.

Babi guling, or Balinese roasted pork, is a beloved dish in Bali, often served at ceremonies but enjoyed by locals every day. The pig is marinated with a blend of spices like turmeric, garlic, and ginger before being slow-roasted to perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Balinese culture and flavors.

🍴 Best place to try: Ibu Oka, Ubud

💡 Pro Tips

• Don’t miss out on the crispy skin; it’s the highlight of the dish!
• Pair it with a cold Bintang beer 🍺 for the ultimate Balinese meal experience.
• Be sure to ask for a side of sambal for that extra kick!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Perfect for adventurous foodies 🌶️ who enjoy bold flavors and crispy textures. If you love roast meats, this one’s for you.

🍲 A Rich Bowl of Soto Ayam That I’ll Never Forget

On a quiet corner of Seminyak, I found a little local eatery that served soto ayam. As the steaming bowl was placed before me, the aroma of chicken, lemongrass, and garlic filled the air. I dug in, scooping a spoonful of the aromatic broth, which was surprisingly light yet rich in flavor. The tender chicken was topped with crispy fried shallots, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime, creating the perfect balance of warmth and freshness. It was comfort in a bowl, simple but unforgettable.

Soto ayam is a fragrant chicken soup that’s popular in Bali. The broth is infused with turmeric, lemongrass, and ginger, giving it a rich yet delicate taste. Often served with rice and a variety of toppings, it’s a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

🍴 Best place to try: Warung Nasi Ayam Ibu Oka, Ubud

💡 Pro Tips

• Try it with a side of rice or lontong (rice cakes) to make it a full meal.
• Add a dash of chili paste for an extra layer of spice 🌶️.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Great for spice lovers and those craving something comforting, perfect for any meal of the day.

🍚 A Taste of Nasi Campur I’ll Never Forget

As I walked through the bustling markets of Denpasar, the vibrant colors and smells pulled me in. I sat down at a small stall where I ordered nasi campur, a traditional Balinese dish. When the plate arrived, it was like a colorful mosaic steamed rice topped with a bit of everything: satay, fried tempeh, vegetables, and a dollop of sambal. The flavors were a perfect harmony sweet, spicy, salty, and umami. I took a bite, and instantly, I was hooked. Each bite was a different experience, full of variety yet perfectly balanced.

Nasi campur, which means "mixed rice," is a quintessential Balinese dish that can be customized to suit any palate. The rice is typically served with a variety of side dishes, such as grilled meats, fried vegetables, and sambal. It’s a dish that showcases the diverse and vibrant flavors of Bali.

🍴 Best place to try: Warung Sate Babi, Ubud

💡 Pro Tips

• Don’t be afraid to try different side dishes—the more variety, the better!
• Add extra sambal for a fiery kick!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Perfect for those who love variety in their meals, ideal for adventurous eaters and those who enjoy a little spice.

🍩 A First Bite of Dadar Gulung That Took Me by Surprise

Walking along the streets of Kuta, I saw a vendor selling dadar gulung, a green pancake roll filled with sweet coconut. Intrigued, I took one and unwrapped the vibrant green pancake. The fragrance of pandan hit me first, followed by the soft, chewy texture. The coconut filling inside was sweet, just the right amount of sugary goodness, and the pancake itself was light and fluffy. I couldn’t believe something so simple could taste so good! It was the perfect sweet treat after a day of exploring.

Dadar gulung is a traditional Balinese dessert made from pandan-flavored pancake filled with sweet coconut. The green color comes from pandan leaves, which give it a distinct fragrance and flavor. This simple dessert is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

🍴 Best place to try: Pasar Seni Kuta, Kuta

💡 Pro Tips

• Look for it fresh, straight from the vendor!
• If you like coconut, ask for extra filling!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth or those who enjoy light, tropical desserts.

(Source: Google Page)

🍌 A Crispy Bite of Pisang Goreng That I Can’t Forget

After a long day of sightseeing in Ubud, I needed a little energy boost. I stumbled upon a street vendor selling pisang goreng, or fried bananas, and decided to give it a try. The bananas were golden brown and crispy on the outside, with the warm, soft banana inside melting in my mouth. The sweet syrup drizzled on top added just the right amount of sweetness to balance the crispy edges. It was the perfect snack to end my day. a comforting, warm treat.

Pisang goreng is a popular street food snack in Bali, consisting of ripe bananas that are battered and fried until crispy. It’s often served with a drizzle of honey or sugar syrup for added sweetness. It’s simple, delicious, and totally satisfying.

🍴 Best place to try: Street vendors in Ubud or Denpasar

💡 Pro Tips

• Ask for extra syrup if you want a sweeter treat!
• Enjoy it fresh and hot for the best texture!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit
Ideal for those who love fried snacks and sweet treats! Great for both kids and adults.

🌶️Street Food or Hawker Favorite in Bali

🍢 Satay & Smoke at Ubud’s Warung Sate Babi

As I walked through the bustling streets of Ubud, I was drawn to the smoky aroma of grilled meat wafting through the air. I followed the scent to a small street stall known for its sate babi (grilled pork skewers). The sizzle of meat over the hot charcoal was hypnotic, and within moments, I had a steaming plate of juicy, perfectly charred skewers in front of me. Each bite was bursting with smoky flavors, while the peanut sauce added a creamy, slightly sweet contrast. The atmosphere was lively with locals chatting and laughing as they enjoyed their meals. The vendor’s friendly smile made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

Warung Sate Babi is a legendary spot in Ubud known for its tender, smoky sate babi. The skewers are marinated with a blend of spices before being grilled to perfection, offering an irresistible balance of savory and sweet.

🗓️ Best time to go: Evening, when the smoke fills the air and the crowds gather.

📍 Location: Jl. Suweta, Ubud – Near Ubud Palace

💰 Price: Approx. IDR 30,000-50,000, cash preferred

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Perfect for solo travelers and casual foodies craving authentic street food experiences.

🍩 Crispy Bites at Kuta’s Pisang Goreng Stalls

Kuta’s streets are lined with food vendors, but it’s the pisang goreng (fried bananas) that stopped me in my tracks. As I walked along the bustling beach road, I saw a vendor dipping ripe bananas into batter and frying them until golden. The hot, crispy exterior gave way to the soft, sweet banana inside. It was a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness, and the drizzle of honey made every bite a warm, comforting indulgence. The crowd around me was a mix of locals and tourists, all eager for this classic Balinese snack.

Pisang goreng is a beloved Balinese street snack where ripe bananas are battered and deep-fried until crispy. It's a sweet, satisfying treat that’s as popular as it is delicious.

🗓️ Best time to go: Late afternoon, when the snack becomes a perfect sunset companion.

📍 Location: Jl. Pantai Kuta, Kuta – Near Kuta Beach

💰 Price: Approx. IDR 15,000-30,000, cash only

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Ideal for families and sweet-toothed snack lovers.

🍲 Soto Ayam Magic at Warung Nasi Ayam Ibu Oka

Nestled in the heart of Ubud, I stumbled upon a bustling warung serving soto ayam, a traditional chicken soup. The scent of ginger and lemongrass hit me as soon as I walked in. The steaming bowl arrived with a swirl of golden broth, tender pieces of chicken, and fresh herbs. The crispy fried shallots and a squeeze of lime added the perfect finishing touches. The locals were happily slurping away, and I couldn’t wait to join them. Each spoonful was comforting, fragrant, and satisfying, warming me right up.

Soto ayam is a traditional Indonesian chicken soup, spiced with turmeric and lemongrass, offering a comforting, light yet flavorful meal. It's a favorite in Bali, known for its aromatic broth.

🗓️ Best time to go: Lunchtime, when it’s served fresh and hot.

📍 Location: Jl. Tegal Sari, Ubud – Near Ubud Monkey Forest

💰 Price: Approx. IDR 25,000-50,000, cash only

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Great for those seeking a comforting, light meal. Perfect for solo travelers or families.

(Source: Google Page)

🍔 Martabak Madness at Jimbaran’s Street Stalls

In Jimbaran, after a long day of exploring, I found myself irresistibly drawn to the sizzling martabak stalls. The street was alive with the sound of sizzling dough and laughter as vendors flipped the thick, stuffed pancakes on their griddles. The savory martabak I tried was filled with spiced ground meat, eggs, and vegetables. The dough was perfectly crispy, with a soft interior that melted in my mouth. I added a drizzle of sweet soy sauce, and the combination of savory and sweet was heavenly. The whole experience was vibrant and filled with the energy of both locals and tourists.

Martabak is a savory stuffed pancake that’s fried to crispy perfection. In Bali, the filling can vary from meat to vegetables, offering a customizable, satisfying snack.

🗓️ Best time to go: Evening, when the street comes alive with food and chatter.

📍 Location: Jl. Raya Uluwatu, Jimbaran – Near Jimbaran Bay

💰 Price: Approx. IDR 20,000-40,000, cash only

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Perfect for late-night snackers and those craving a hearty, savory bite.

(Source: Google Page)

🍬 Sweetness at Denpasar’s Klepon Vendors

While strolling through Denpasar, I found a small food stall selling klepon, a traditional Balinese dessert. As soon as I took a bite, the soft, chewy rice dough gave way to a burst of sweet palm sugar syrup, and the outer coating of shredded coconut made every bite a tropical delight. The chewy texture and sweet filling were unlike anything I’d tasted before, and I instantly fell in love with this small but powerful snack. It’s the perfect end to a day of exploring Bali’s vibrant streets.

Klepon is a sweet rice cake filled with palm sugar syrup and rolled in shredded coconut. It's a favorite street food snack, known for its burst of sweetness and satisfying chewiness.

🗓️ Best time to go: Late morning or early afternoon when the snacks are freshly made.

💰 Price: Approx. IDR 10,000-20,000, cash only

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Persona Fit: Perfect for sweet-toothed snack lovers or those looking for a light dessert.

(Source: Google Page)

🍽️Signature Restaurant or Food Institution

🍽️ Sunset Elegance at La Lucciola

As I stepped into La Lucciola in Seminyak, the golden hour light poured through the open-air pavilion, casting a warm glow on the rustic wooden interiors. The salty breeze from the beach mixed with the aroma of garlic, olive oil, and something sweetly charred from the kitchen. I ordered the grilled snapper with lemon caper butter flaky, perfectly seared, and paired with crispy potatoes and a tangy fennel salad. The view of the ocean as the sun dipped below the horizon sealed the moment.

One of Seminyak’s most iconic beachfront restaurants, La Lucciola has been serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes for decades. Its no-wall design, prime location, and elegant simplicity make it a staple for food lovers in Bali.

📍 Location: Jalan Kayu Aya, right on Petitenget Beach

🍴 Don’t miss: Grilled snapper with lemon caper butter

🕒 Reservation recommended? Yes, especially for sunset

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for couples or anyone planning a romantic night out

🍷 Farm-to-Table Bliss at Locavore

Walking into Locavore in Ubud felt like entering a culinary laboratory. The space was sleek, minimalist, and buzzing with anticipation. I chose the “Locavore” tasting menu—nine courses of pure artistry using ingredients sourced entirely from Indonesia. One standout? The smoked duck with jackfruit and fermented cassava earthy, tender, and impossibly creative. Each plate was explained in detail, making me feel part of the story.

This multi-award-winning fine dining spot is known for pioneering the farm-to-table movement in Bali. It’s a celebration of local produce, reinvented through modern gastronomy.

📍 Location: Jalan Dewi Sita, Ubud

🍴 Don’t miss: The full Locavore tasting menu

🕒 Reservation recommended? Yes, at least a week in advance

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for adventurous foodies and special occasions

🍜 Balinese Heritage on a Plate at Bumbu Bali

The air inside Bumbu Bali was rich with spices, lemongrass, turmeric, and grilled satay smoke. The restaurant felt like a traditional Balinese home, complete with temple offerings and gamelan music playing softly. I ordered the Rijsttafel set, which brought a parade of dishes to my table: ayam betutu (spiced chicken), sate lilit (minced fish satay), lawar (spiced coconut salad). Each bite told a story of tradition.

Opened by Heinz von Holzen, a chef passionate about preserving Balinese cuisine, this restaurant has become a cultural icon. It also runs a popular cooking school.

📍 Location: Tanjung Benoa, near Nusa Dua

🍴 Don’t miss: Rijsttafel tasting platter

🕒 Reservation recommended? Yes, especially for dinner

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for culture seekers and families

🥩 Fire & Flavor at Barbacoa

Barbacoa in Kerobokan lured me in with its smoky aroma drifting down the street. Inside, reclaimed wood, exposed brick, and high ceilings set a chic, rustic tone. I ordered the 8-hour wood-fired pork crispy on the outside, melting inside, served with a side of chimichurri that added a zingy freshness. The open kitchen and massive grill gave me front-row seats to the magic.

This Latin-American inspired grill house is all about big flavors and rustic presentation. A local favorite for meat lovers and stylish nights out.

📍 Location: Jalan Petitenget, Kerobokan

🍴 Don’t miss: 8-hour wood-fired pork

🕒 Reservation recommended? Yes, especially on weekends

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for groups, meat lovers, and lively dinners

🍤 Seafood with Soul at Menega Café

The moment I arrived at Menega Café in Jimbaran, I knew I was in for something special. The scent of grilling seafood filled the air, and the beachside tables were lit by candlelight under the stars. I picked out my seafood fresh from the display snapper, prawns, and clams and it was grilled over coconut husks, smokey and succulent. The sambal matah on the side? Pure fire and flavor.

One of the original beachfront seafood cafés in Jimbaran Bay, Menega is beloved for its no-frills, flavor-first approach and unbeatable sunset views.

📍 Location: Jimbaran Bay, near the fish market

🍴 Don’t miss: Grilled seafood platter with sambal matah

🕒 Reservation recommended? Not required, but come before sunset for a table

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for families, sunset chasers, and seafood fans

🍰Café, Bakery or Dessert Spot in Bali

🍰 A Slice of Calm at Pison Coffee, Seminyak

📝 The Vibe & Taste
Tucked away in Seminyak, I wandered into Pison Coffee just as a soft indie playlist drifted through the warm wood interiors. Locals and digital nomads chatted quietly over laptops. I ordered their signature avocado coffee, yes, avocado and it was a creamy, nutty surprise that somehow worked perfectly with rich espresso.

📖 About Pison Coffee
A beloved Bali café blending Indonesian comfort with Western café culture, Pison is known for bold coffee twists and hearty brunches. It’s also Muslim-friendly with a mostly halal menu.

📍 Location: Seminyak, near Petitenget Beach"

💰 Price: Drinks from IDR 40K, best to visit mid-morning on weekdays"

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for café-hoppers, solo travelers, and remote workers.

🧁 Dreamy Layers at Ubud’s Room4Dessert

📝 The Vibe & Taste
Stepping into Room4Dessert felt like entering a cinematic dessert lab with low lighting, jungle chic, and an open bar where I watched desserts being crafted like art. I went for the “Not Chocolate” creation with smoky, citrusy, silky layers that played on your expectations.

Run by Chef Will Goldfarb, this place blends haute cuisine with Balinese botanicals, offering an experience rather than just a menu.

📍 Location: Ubud, near Campuhan Ridge Walk"

💰 Price: IDR 150K–250K per dessert, book for dinner hours"

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for foodies, date nights, and adventurous dessert fans.

(Source: Room4Dessert)

🍦 Gelato Bliss at Gaya Gelato, Sanur

📝 The Vibe & Taste
It was a sun-soaked afternoon in Sanur when I stumbled across Gaya Gelato’s charming little white-walled shop. Kids giggled outside while I tried their mango ginger scoop tangy, cold, and bursting with real fruit.

An artisanal gelateria using local tropical fruits and Italian techniques. Small batches, natural ingredients, and no shortcuts.

📍 Location: Sanur Beach, near Jalan Danau Tamblingan"

💰 Price: IDR 35K per scoop, come just before sunset for fewer lines"

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Best for families, gelato lovers, and beachside wanderers.

☕ Hidden Espresso Heaven at Expat. Roasters, Ubud

📝 The Vibe & Taste
I found Expat. Roasters by accident, lured in by the scent of freshly ground beans. Inside, minimalist wood tones and the hum of an espresso machine created a cozy haven. I sipped their piccolo latte balanced, nutty, and flawlessly frothed.

This Aussie-run micro-roastery is serious about sourcing and brewing high-quality Indonesian beans.

📍Location: Ubud central, near Saraswati Temple"

💰Price: IDR 45K–60K, go early morning for peace and perfect light"

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Best for coffee geeks, quiet seekers, and couples.

🍮 Island-Inspired Sweetness at Milk & Madu

📝 The Vibe & Taste
Walking into Milk & Madu in Canggu felt like stepping into a Pinterest board—airy spaces, leafy corners, and a buzz of brunch chatter. I ordered their salted caramel banana bread, and it was warm, soft, and just the right amount of gooey.

A family-friendly favorite serving up wholesome café fare and indulgent desserts, with halal options and Aussie-style flair.

📍 Location: Canggu, near Batu Bolong"

💰 Price: IDR 30K–80K, mornings are best before the brunch rush"

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for brunch lovers, Instagrammers, and laid-back families.

(Source: Milk & Madu Canggu)

🛍️ Local Snack or Food Souvenir

🎁 A Crunchy Treasure: Pia Legong Pastries

📝 The Find & the Flavor
Tucked into a local souvenir shop near Denpasar, I stumbled upon a box of Pia Legong. The staff assured me it was a Balinese favorite and they weren’t kidding. The pastry had a buttery, flaky crust, and the mung bean filling inside was soft and lightly sweet, with a comforting richness that lingered.

These round pastries are a popular Balinese gift, often brought home after temple visits or as festive snacks. They’re handmade in small batches, which makes them extra special.

🛒 Where to buy: Pia Legong outlet, near Ngurah Rai Airport

🎁 Sturdy box and lasts for days

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for travelers looking for a compact, halal-friendly gift 🎁

(Source: Pia Legong, Bali)

🛣️ A Flavor-Filled Night at Sanur Night Market

📝 The Vibe & the Bite
Walking into Sanur Night Market just after sunset was a sensory explosion. Lanterns glowed above, sizzling woks filled the air with garlic and chili, and the clatter of plates mixed with laughter from local families. I tried a piping-hot plate of nasi campur rice with spicy chicken, vegetables, and sambal and couldn’t get enough of the layered heat and flavor.

This spot is a favorite among locals and travelers for affordable, freshly made Balinese street food. It’s especially lively at night.

🗓️ Best time to go: 6:30–8:30 PM for peak food action

📍 Location: Jalan Danau Tamblingan, Sanur

💰 Price: Dishes from IDR 10K–30K, cash only

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for adventurous foodies and casual evening grazers

🛣️ Foodie Heaven at Seminyak’s Eat Street

📝 The Vibe & the Bite
Eat Street in Seminyak buzzes with global flavors. I walked past Korean BBQ smoke, sizzling tacos, and the unmistakable aroma of grilled seafood. I stopped for a Balinese-style pork satay grilled on the spot, served with rice cakes and thick peanut sauce. The balance of spice and smoke was unforgettable.

Known for trendy restaurants and fusion eateries, this is the perfect mix of local bites and international treats.

🗓️ Best time to go: 7–9 PM for dinner vibes

📍 Location: Jalan Kayu Aya, Seminyak – near Seminyak Square

💰 Price: IDR 25K–100K depending on dish, card-friendly

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for trendy diners and group gatherings

🎁 Salty-Sweet Love: Bali Sea Salt Caramels

📝 The Find & the Flavor
At a boutique shop in Canggu, I picked up a box of Bali sea salt caramels. Each bite melted slowly sweet buttery caramel with a crystal crunch of local sea salt. The elegant packaging made it perfect for gifting (or snacking on the plane!).

These handcrafted candies are a modern twist on Bali’s traditional salt farming heritage, using sea salt from Amed or Kusamba.

🛒 Where to buy: Bungalow Living Bali, Canggu or airport shops

🎁Sealed and heat-resistant

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Great for chocolate fans and artisanal gift seekers

(Source: Google Page)

Let's Go To Bali

Honestly, after all the incredible bites I had in Bali, it’s hard to pick a favorite but that’s kind of the beauty of eating here. Whether I was slurping spicy bakso on a rainy afternoon, watching the sunset with a seafood feast on the beach, or just grabbing a nasi campur from a tiny warung, every meal felt like part of the island’s soul. If you come with an open mind (and an empty stomach!), you’re in for an unforgettable culinary adventure. So go ahead explore, taste, and fall in love with Bali one dish at a time. 🍜🌴💛