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Bali food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Bali.
What to eat in Bali
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Babi Guling
A whole roasted suckling pig, marinated with a rich blend of spices, herbs, and chili, then slow-roasted to perfection. The crispy skin and succulent, flavorful meat make it a quintessential Balinese experience.
Bebek Betutu
A whole duck or chicken slow-cooked or roasted in banana leaves with a complex spice mixture, often for many hours. The result is incredibly tender meat infused with aromatic spices.
Sate Lilit
Minced meat (often fish, chicken, or pork) mixed with grated coconut, spices, and herbs, then wrapped around a lemongrass stalk or bamboo skewer before grilling. Its unique texture and aromatic flavor are addictive.
Nasi Campur Bali
A mixed rice dish served with small portions of various Balinese delicacies, including meats, vegetables, peanuts, and a hard-boiled egg, often accompanied by a spicy sambal. It's a great way to sample a variety of local flavors in one plate.
Lawar
A traditional dish made from a mixture of minced meat, vegetables (like green beans or jackfruit), grated coconut, and rich spices. Variations include red lawar (with blood) and white lawar (without).
Ikan Bakar
Freshly caught fish marinated in spices and grilled over charcoal, often served with rice and various sambal sauces. The smoky char and fresh seafood are a delight.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Spiritual and artistic, with a focus on healthy, organic, and traditional Balinese cuisine.
Trendy and upscale, offering a mix of international fine dining, chic cafes, and sophisticated Indonesian fusion.
Relaxed beachfront dining, famous for its fresh seafood grills.
Bustling and authentic, offering a wide array of local street food and snacks.
Dietary notes
Balinese cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, with pork (Babi) and chicken (Ayam) being staples. However, with the rise of tourism, vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, particularly in areas like Ubud. Gluten-free options can be found, but it's wise to confirm ingredients due to soy sauce and other common flavorings.
Local etiquette
- •When eating with your hands, always use your right hand for hygiene.
- •It is customary to finish all the food on your plate to show appreciation.
- •Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for excellent service, typically around 5-10%.
- •Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural villages; cover shoulders and knees.
- •While many places accept cards, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller warungs and markets.
Plan the rest of your Bali trip
Food guides elsewhere