A Foodie’s Guide to Bali: Must-Try Local Dishes and Best Warungs
Bali is not only famous for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture but also for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this Bali food guide will take you through the best Balinese dishes and top warungs where you can experience authentic flavors.
Must-Try Local Dishes in Bali
1. Babi Guling (Suckling Pig)
A Balinese specialty, babi guling is a whole roasted pig stuffed with spices and slow-cooked until crispy.
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Where to try: Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka (Ubud), Babi Guling Pak Malen (Seminyak)
2. Bebek Betutu (Slow-Cooked Duck)
This dish features duck marinated with rich Balinese spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked for hours.
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Where to try: Bebek Tepi Sawah (Ubud), Bebek Bengil (Ubud)
3. Nasi Campur Bali (Mixed Rice)
A plate of steamed rice served with a variety of side dishes like grilled meat, vegetables, tofu, and sambal.
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Where to try: Warung Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku (Ubud), Warung Wardani (Denpasar)
4. Lawar (Minced Meat Salad)
A traditional Balinese mix of minced meat, grated coconut, and spices, often served with rice.
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Where to try: Warung Lawar Kartika (Denpasar)
5. Sate Lilit (Balinese Satay)
Unlike typical satay, sate lilit is made from minced meat (usually fish or chicken) mixed with coconut and spices, wrapped around a lemongrass stick, and grilled.
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Where to try: Warung Nyoman (Jimbaran), Sate Plecing Arjuna (Denpasar)
6. Ayam Betutu (Spiced Chicken)
Similar to bebek betutu, this dish features slow-cooked chicken infused with Balinese spices, resulting in a rich and aromatic taste.
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Where to try: Ayam Betutu Khas Gilimanuk (Denpasar & Ubud)
7. Jaje Bali (Balinese Desserts)
Traditional sweets made from rice flour, coconut, and palm sugar, perfect for a light treat.
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Where to try: Traditional markets like Pasar Sindhu (Sanur) and Pasar Badung (Denpasar)
Best Warungs and Local Restaurants in Bali
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Warung Mak Beng (Sanur) – Famous for its legendary fish soup and fried fish.
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Warung Nasi Bali Men Weti (Sanur) – A small but popular spot known for its flavorful nasi campur.
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Warung Bambu Pemaron (Lovina) – A hidden gem offering authentic Balinese dishes with a scenic garden setting.
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Warung Sopa (Ubud) – A great choice for vegetarian-friendly Balinese cuisine.
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Jimbaran Seafood Cafes (Jimbaran Bay) – Perfect for a fresh seafood dinner by the beach.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Bali’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself. From savoring the best Balinese dishes to discovering hidden local gems, this Bali food guide ensures you won’t miss out on the island’s most delicious offerings. So, if you're wondering where to eat in Bali, start with these must-visit warungs and indulge in the rich flavors of Balinese cuisine!
