While in Bali, we were constantly surrounded by some of the best foods imaginable! We ate in small warungs and enjoyed extravagant meals (without the extravagant prices). Honestly, there are so many options for eating, and it’s hard to say where specifically to go. However, I can share some of the dishes you have to try and some great places to eat that are probably right along the path of your travel plans.
Bali’s Culinary Scene
Bali’s culinary scene is a vibrant and diverse reflection of the island’s rich cultural heritage. With a focus on fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors, the best restaurants in Bali offer a unique fine dining experience that showcases the island’s culinary expertise. From traditional Indonesian cuisine to modern fusion dishes, Bali’s restaurants cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner at a luxury resort like Four Seasons Resort Bali or a casual lunch at a local food stall, Bali’s culinary scene has something to offer.
Best Local Food To Try in Bali
If you have a driver, I recommend asking them to take you to a local Warung. We stopped at several along the way and could get a dish for a cheap price.
We would find Warungs on the side of the road and were never disappointed. Make sure to add a fruit juice to your drinks! We got to try Dragonfruit, Papaya, Mango, Avacado, and other fresh fruit juices for amazing prices.
A couple of popular dishes are Nasi Campur which is essentially rice with a bunch of other smaller dishes. It’s like a sampler platter!
In order to discover as many dishes as possible, we constantly asked locals what their favorite dish is! Time and time again we were told, Babi Guling. Babi Guling is a whole roasted pig often served for special occasions. However, there are countless restaurants serving this.
Another dish that was recommended quite often was Bebek Betutu, a duck dish wrapped in bamboo that you do not want to miss!
Beef Rendang!
I honestly had this 3 different times because there were so many delicious variations of this! To me Beef Rendang was the absolute best food you have to try in Bali! It is a creamy beef that can be served with rice (or my personal favorite at the Komune Resort-—as a taco).
Best Restaurants to try in Bali
It’s likely that while visiting Ubud that you will visit Ubud Palace. Right next to the palace is Lotus Café which overlooks the lily pads and Ubud Palace. We enjoyed Ayam Betutu and Mi Goreng which are stir-fry noodles.
A highlight for me was their coconuts. While coconuts are more than plentiful here, café Lotus has coconut with rum, and it was refreshing and delicious! The chefs at Lotus Café truly create memorable dining experiences with their expert cooking skills!
Dining at Café Lotus in the evening offers a romantic ambiance with candle-lit tables and a serene view of the lily pads and Ubud Palace.
One thing that I found interesting was Mexican food and pizza! In America, we enjoy these familiar foods, but in Bali, they have their own delicious flavors. We went to Café La Pasion and enjoyed queso and a BBQ pizza. This is a popular expat spot with some truly unique food.
You’re not going to get pizza or Mexican food like this in the States, and it’s worth trying!
I know it sounds funny to say to try burgers in Bali, but my burger-addict husband was impressed with the quality there. Expat restaurants often serve this dish. Their burgers are made with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor. The welcoming atmosphere for guests at these expat restaurants is truly remarkable.
You can check out the Ubudian (in Ubud) for one of our favorites or Motion café which also included a decadent and guilt-free brownie!
Traditional Indonesian Cuisine
Traditional Indonesian cuisine is a key part of Bali’s culinary scene, with popular dishes like nasi goreng and satay available at restaurants and food stalls across the island. One of the most iconic Indonesian dishes is babi guling, a whole roasted pig that is typically served on special occasions. Another popular dish is Sambal, a spicy chili sauce that brings extra heat to any meal. For a truly immersive culinary experience, visitors can try a traditional Indonesian cooking class, where they can learn about the island’s culinary traditions and techniques.
With its emphasis on bold flavors and fresh ingredients, traditional Indonesian cuisine is a must-try for anyone visiting Bali.
Local Markets and Food Stalls
Bali’s local markets and food stalls are a great place to experience the island’s culinary scene in a more casual and authentic way. With a wide range of traditional Indonesian dishes and fresh local ingredients available, visitors can sample the island’s cuisine without breaking the bank. Many of the local markets and food stalls also offer a range of international cuisine, from Japanese sushi to Americab burgers.
For a truly unique dining experience, visitors can try a street food tour, where they can sample a range of local dishes and drinks while exploring the island’s vibrant markets and streets. With their emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, Bali’s local markets and food stalls are a must-visit destination for foodies and travelers alike.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Bali’s culinary scene has something to offer, from the beach to the grill, and from Asian to Italian, and from fine dining to casual eats.
Cooking in Bali
II can’t recommend this enough! Try some delicious food and bring back some skills to take home! We stayed with a host family who taught us how to make this amazing spread and included a cocktail using their local alcohol called Arak and it was quite a treat! The cooking classes are led by expert chefs who specialize in both Asian and Western cuisine, ensuring a diverse and interactive learning experience.
You can find other cooking classes online or even stay with the family we stayed at in Ubud!
Honestly, there are so many good foods that identifying the best foods to try in Bali is quite difficult. The best thing I can suggest is to eat as much local food as possible! The cooking classes also offer a deep dive into Indonesian cuisine, highlighting unique aspects such as traditional spices and cooking techniques.
Restaurants to try in Bali: FAQs
What is the most famous food in Bali?
One of the most famous dishes in Bali is Nasi Goreng, which translates to “fried rice.” This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple across the island, served with a fried egg on top and often accompanied by chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
Does Bali have any Michelin star restaurants?
While Bali does not have any official Michelin-starred restaurants (as the Michelin Guide does not currently cover Indonesia), it is home to world-class dining establishments that offer Michelin-star-level experiences.
More Bali Experiences
Check out our blogs below for thrilling adventures, hidden gems, and unforgettable Bali experiences.
- Bali Floating Breakfast Tray
- Things To Know Before Going to Bali
- 5 Day Ubud Bali Itinerary
- Affordable Hotels in Bali
- Spa Day at Taman Air Spa Bali
Best Restaurants to Try in Bali: Final Thoughts
Bali is truly a food lover’s paradise. From savoring authentic dishes like Babi Guling and Nasi Campur at roadside warungs to indulging in creative takes on Mexican food and burgers at expat cafés, there’s something to excite every palate. Don’t forget to sip on fresh fruit juices, explore unique flavors, and maybe even take a cooking class to bring a bit of Bali back home with you.
If you’re planning a trip, my best advice is to stay curious and let your taste buds guide you! Have you tried any amazing dishes or dined at a memorable restaurant in Bali? Share your favorite food experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear all about them!
Last Updated 2 weeks ago by Jessica Serna | Published: June 8, 2018
