Bali’s food scene is a delicious blend of local tradition, spicy flavor, and global influence. Whether you’re eating at a roadside warung, a bustling night market, or a beachfront seafood grill, Bali’s cuisine tells the story of its people, culture, and island soul.
Here’s a tasty guide to what to eat in Bali—from must-try Balinese dishes to street snacks and sweets.
🍛 1. Nasi Goreng & Mie Goreng – Indonesia’s Signature Fried Dishes
- What it is: Nasi = rice, Mie = noodles, Goreng = fried
- Where to try: Warungs (local eateries), beach cafes, hotel breakfast buffets
- Typical price: 20,000–40,000 IDR (~$1.50–$3)
You can’t leave Bali without trying Nasi Goreng (fried rice) or Mie Goreng (fried noodles). Served with vegetables, egg, fried shallots, and often chicken or shrimp, this is comfort food at its finest.
Pro Tip: Add sambal (spicy chili paste) if you like it hot!
🥢 2. Babi Guling – Balinese Roast Suckling Pig
- What it is: Spiced whole pig roasted over a spit
- Where to try: Ibu Oka in Ubud, traditional Balinese banquets
- Typical price: 50,000–80,000 IDR (~$3.50–$5.50)
This ceremonial dish is a Balinese specialty. The pork is marinated with turmeric, lemongrass, garlic, and coriander, and served crispy with rice, vegetables, and lawar (spiced coconut mix).
Note: This is not available in Hindu temples or during religious fasting.
🐟 3. Seafood Feasts – Grilled Snapper, Lobster & Prawns
- What it is: Fresh catch of the day, grilled over coconut husks
- Where to try: Jimbaran Bay, Sanur, beach BBQ stalls
- Typical price: By weight (starting ~80,000 IDR / $5+)
Order your seafood by weight and watch it grilled to perfection. Many spots include rice, sambal, and sautéed veggies with your platter.
Bonus: Some places let you pick your fish from the tank!
🌽 4. Balinese Street Food – Satay, Corn, and More
- What it is: Local skewers, grilled corn, fried snacks
- Where to try: Street vendors, night markets (Gianyar, Sanur)
- Typical price: 5,000–15,000 IDR (~$0.30–$1)
Try satay lilit (minced meat skewers wrapped on lemongrass sticks), grilled corn with chili butter, or fried tofu/tempeh snacks.
Look out for: Gorengan stalls (fried food carts), especially during sunset hours.
🧉 5. Herbal Teas & Jamu – Traditional Health Drinks
- What it is: A turmeric-based elixir mixed with tamarind, ginger, or honey
- Where to try: Ubud cafes, health shops, local markets
- Typical price: 10,000–20,000 IDR (~$0.75–$1.25)
Jamu is a traditional Balinese herbal tonic known for its anti-inflammatory and detox properties. The taste? Earthy, spicy, slightly bitter—but surprisingly refreshing.
🍨 6. Balinese Desserts – Sticky Rice, Fried Bananas & More
- Popular choices:
- Mango sticky rice
- Pisang Goreng (Fried Banana)
- Dadar Gulung (green coconut pancakes)
Where to try: Ubud cafes, street stalls, traditional ceremonies
Price range: 8,000–25,000 IDR (~$0.50–$1.75)
Perfect for a sweet bite after spicy meals!
🍴 Final Tips for Eating in Bali
- Water safety: Avoid tap water—stick to bottled or filtered.
- Tipping: Not mandatory, but 5–10% is appreciated.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Bali is very veg-friendly, especially in Ubud and Canggu.
- Local Warung Tip: If it’s busy with locals, it’s probably good and cheap.
