While in Bali, we were constantly surrounded by some of the best foods in Southeast Asia! 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 best restaurants in Bali and local dishes you must try that are likely 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, Bali’s best restaurants 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
Warung
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, Avocado, 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!
Babi Guling
To discover as many dishes as possible, we constantly asked locals about their favorite dish. Time and time again, we were told, Babi Guling. Babi Guling is a whole roasted pig often served for special occasions. However, many beautiful restaurants are serving this.
Bebek Betutu
Another dish that was highly recommended was Bebek Betutu, a duck dish wrapped in bamboo that you won’t want to miss!
Beef Rendang!
I honestly had these 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 Bali
Lotus Cafe
It’s likely that while visiting Ubud, you will visit the 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-fried instant noodles.
A highlight for me was their coconuts. While coconuts are plentiful here, Café Lotus offers coconut with rum, which 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.
Café La Pasion
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 won’t find 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 a Bali restaurant, but my burger-addict husband was impressed with the quality there. Expat restaurants often serve this dish, and 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 Motion café, which also includes a decadent and guilt-free brownie!
Locavore NXT
If you’re a foodie at heart, Locavore in Ubud is a must-visit. Located in Ubud, Bali, Locavore NXT is a revolutionary concept offering an entire village experience. Known for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients, this place truly lives up to its name. We tried their famous 20-course tasting menu, which was an artistic journey through Bali’s vibrant flavors. The journey begins with welcome drinks at the aperitif bar, leading to four captivating snacks and culminating in a stunning open-space dining room. Guests had rave reviews regarding the meticulous attention to detail in both the architecture and design of the venue, creating an exceptional dining experience that lingers in memory long after.
Mama San
Mama San Bali offers Asian street food in a stylish setting. The restaurant features loft-style floors and decor inspired by an old Shanghai salon, creating a welcoming atmosphere to relax and enjoy bold flavors with friends. The interior has a cool vibe, emphasized by low lighting, dark wood, metal-trimmed tables, and an eye-catching mural. Chef Will Meyrick skillfully prepares delicious Asian dishes, such as prawn curry, roasted Peking duck with cranberry hoisin sauce, and slow-cooked beef rendang. To enhance your meal, you can choose from a carefully selected wine list and a diverse cocktail menu, making your dining experience truly special.
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 all the top restaurants and food stalls across the tropical 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 produce sourced from local farmers, 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 diversity in a more casual and authentic way. With a wide range of traditional 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 American 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 food lovers 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
I 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 delicious foods that identifying the best ones to try in Bali can be quite challenging. 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.
Best Restaurants 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-starred restaurants?
While Bali does not have any official Michelin-starred restaurants (as the Michelin Star 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 with added perks of ocean views and a laid-back vibe. 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 to the island of the gods, my best advice is to stay curious and let your taste buds guide you! Have you tried any amazing dishes or dined at some high end restaurant in Bali? Share your favorite Balinese food experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear all about them!
Last Updated 3 weeks ago by Jessica Serna | Published: June 8, 2018
