Balinese cuisine carries a depth of flavor shaped by Basa Genep, a traditional spice blend that creates the island’s signature spicy, savory, and aromatic dishes. It’s a must-try for visitors because each bite reflects Bali’s culture, traditions, and culinary heritage in the most authentic way.
This guide offers clear recommendations on essential Balinese dishes—from classic street favorites to time‑honored specialties found in family kitchens and traditional warungs
What Makes Bali Local Food Unique?
Babi Guling
A true icon of Balinese cuisine, this whole roasted pig is slow-cooked for hours with a belly full of Basa Genep, creating juicy, flavorful meat and ultra-crispy skin. A typical serving comes with rice, pork slices, sayur lawar, crackers, and spicy sambal. It’s one of the best local foods in Bali you absolutely can’t miss.
Bubur Ayam Bali
This Balinese-style chicken porridge is richer and more aromatic than the versions you’ll find in Jakarta or Bandung. Cooked in a savory broth andTopped with shredded chicken, peanuts, and sometimes liver, it’s a favorite for quiet rainy days in Bali or a simple breakfast.
Ayam/Bebek Betutu
A classic local food in Bali, Betutu features whole chicken or duck stuffed with Basa Genep, wrapped in leaves, and slow-cooked for 6–8 hours until incredibly tender.
The spices soak deep into the meat, giving every bite a rich, smoky flavor. Usually served with rice, plecing kangkung, and sambal matah, ideal for an authentic Bali dining experience.
Nasi Campur
One of the most popular choices in Bali street food, Nasi Campur lets you try a little bit of everything in one plate. You’ll get rice with small portions of Sate Lilit, shredded chicken (ayam suwir), lawar, egg, and sometimes a bit of pork depending on the stall.
It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for travelers wanting variety without a heavy meal, great for lunch before exploring or heading to a top brunch spot.
Lawar
Lawar is one of the most popular foods in Bali, known for its rich, savory taste. Instead of lettuce, it’s made from chopped long beans, minced meat (or jackfruit), grated coconut, and lots of Balinese spices. Its texture is soft yet crunchy, making it a perfect side dish for meals like Babi Guling or Betutu. You’ll find it easily in many spots, from Bali local food Seminyak stalls to traditional warungs.
Sate Lilit
Sate Lilit is a must-try Indonesian food in Bali, made from minced fish, chicken, or pork seasoned with coconut and spices, then wrapped around bamboo or lemongrass sticks. This technique keeps it juicy and fragrant with a hint of lemongrass aroma. Often served with sambal matah, it’s a favorite place to eat in Ubud and local food spots across the island.
Sate Babi Plecing
This spicy grilled pork satay stands out for its fiery Sambal Plecing topping. The mix of smoky meat and spicy-sweet chili sauce makes it one of the most delicious foods in Bali for chili lovers. You can find it at many warungs known for serving bold, traditional flavors.
Siobak (Crispy Roast Pork)
Siobak is all about texture—crispy, crackling skin paired with juicy, tender pork belly. Served with sweet-savory sauce and spicy chili, it’s a satisfying dish for roast pork fans and one of the top choices for where to eat local food in Bali. Pair it with rice, and you have a comforting, flavorful Balinese meal.
Bali Local Food for Vegetarians
Sayur Urap
Sayur Urap is a light and refreshing option for anyone looking for food in Bali for vegetarians. It’s made from steamed vegetables like bean sprouts, long beans, and spinach, all mixed with grated coconut seasoned with aromatic spices. The flavor is savory and fresh, and it’s commonly served as a side dish with rice in many traditional meals.
Serombotan
Serombotan is a classic vegetarian Balinese food from Klungkung, made with water spinach, regular spinach, and bean sprouts. What makes it special is the combination of two sauces: rich peanut sauce and spicy coconut chili sauce mixed with Balinese spices. The taste is more complex than Urap, making it a favorite among locals who love layered flavors.
Sayur Ares
Sayur Ares is a unique Balinese dish made from thinly sliced banana tree trunk cooked with spices and sometimes coconut milk. The texture is soft yet crunchy, and it absorbs spices beautifully. If you’re vegetarian, ask for the version made with vegetable broth only, as the traditional recipe often uses meat stock. It’s a great addition to try any Indonesian food in Bali.
Gado-Gado
Gado-Gado is a widespread Indonesian favorite and is also commonly found in Bali. It includes boiled vegetables, tofu, and hard-boiled eggs (optional for vegetarians), topped with Balinese-style peanut sauce that’s slightly more spiced. Filling enough to be a full meal, it’s easy to find in many warungs if you’re exploring where to eat local food in Bali.
Sweet Tempeh
Sweet Tempeh is a crunchy, sweet-savory snack made from fried tempeh coated in caramelized sweet soy sauce, chili, and mild spices. It’s a delicious side dish or snack and a great plant-based option for travelers wanting something light yet flavorful.
Note:
Many Balinese seasonings traditionally contain shrimp paste (terasi). If you’re vegetarian or vegan, always ask the server whether a dish is made without terasi or meat broth to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
Bali Local Food Snacks and Desserts
Klepon
Klepon is a classic Balinese sweet snack made from soft glutinous rice flour balls colored naturally with pandan or suji leaves. Inside, they’re filled with melted palm sugar that bursts when you bite into them. Rolled in fresh grated coconut, they taste sweet, slightly savory, and super satisfying, an easy treat to find at any warung in Bali.
Laklak
Laklak is a traditional Balinese mini pancake, often green or white, cooked in clay molds over a stove. It’s soft in the middle with a slightly crispy edge, served with grated coconut and warm palm sugar syrup. It’s a great snack for breakfast or afternoon coffee and often found in local markets or cozy place to eat spots.
Rujak
Balinese rujak is a fresh fruit salad made from tropical fruits like young mango, pineapple, and jicama. What makes it special is the spicy, sweet, and tangy sambal, especially in Rujak Buleleng, which uses palm sugar, chili, and terasi. It’s refreshing, energizing, and perfect on hot days. Variants like Rujak Kuah Pindang use a salty fish broth for extra flavor.
Cenil
Cenil is a colorful, chewy Balinese snack made from tapioca or sago flour. It’s served with grated coconut and sweet palm sugar syrup, making it fun to eat and especially loved by kids. You’ll often find it in traditional markets or small street vendors near local warungs.
Fried Banana (Godoh)
Godoh is Bali’s version of fried banana, made with ripe plantains coated in a thin batter for extra crispiness. It’s simple, naturally sweet, and usually served without toppings so the banana flavor really stands out. A perfect afternoon snack to pair with coffee at your favorite place to eat.
Bubur Injin
Bubur Injin is a comforting dessert made from black glutinous rice cooked into a thick, sweet porridge. It’s served with rich coconut milk, creating a beautiful contrast between the black porridge and white sauce. You can enjoy it warm or cold, often featured even in some of the best fine dining restaurants that highlight local flavors.
Kacang Disco
Kacang Disco is a crunchy Balinese snack made from peanuts coated in seasoned flour, then fried until crisp. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and very addictive. Popular as a souvenir, it’s easy to find in markets, shops, and almost every warung in Bali.
Where to Try Bali Local Food
For the Iconic Suckling Pig
- Babi Guling Candra
A longtime local favorite, known for its big portions and bold, spicy flavors. If you want an authentic suckling pig experience, this spot in Renon, Denpasar is a must-visit. - Babi Guling Ibu Oka
Famous among visitors to Ubud, this place is often busy but worth it if you want to try one of Bali’s most iconic suckling pig dishes. Located right in the heart of Ubud. - Babi Guling Pak Malen
A convenient choice for those staying around Kuta or Seminyak. People love it for the crispy pork skin and rich spices. You can find it along Sunset Road in Seminyak.
For Chicken/Duck Betutu
- Ayam Betutu Khas Gilimanuk
This well-known chain is famous for its moist, flavorful, and spicy Betutu. The whole chicken or duck is cooked until incredibly tender, making it a favorite for many travelers. It has multiple branches across Kuta, Denpasar, and Gianyar. - Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner)
Known for its crispy fried duck, this restaurant also offers delicious Duck Betutu in a beautiful setting overlooking rice fields. It’s a bit pricier, but the atmosphere and quality make it worth a visit. Located in Ubud.
For Traditional Market Snacks
- Traditional Markets
If you want to try classic Balinese snacks like Klepon, Laklak, or Cenil, the best place is the morning markets. Local vendors sell them fresh and affordable. Good spots to visit include Sindhu Market in Sanur and Badung Market in Denpasar. - Local Souvenir Shops
You can also find traditional snacks, including Godoh (fried bananas), in modern and hygienic packaging at Bali’s specialty souvenir stores, perfect to take home or enjoy on the go.
Tips for Enjoying Bali Local Food Safely
- Choose Clean and Crowded Food Stalls
Before eating, take a quick look at how clean the stall or restaurant is. Picking busy places, especially those filled with locals, is usually a good sign that the food is fresh and turns over quickly. This helps reduce the risk of getting an upset stomach. - Know Your Spice Level
Balinese dishes often use strong spices and very spicy sambal like Sambal Matah or Sambal Plecing. If you’re not used to spicy food, ask for the sambal to be served separately or request a mild version. This helps prevent stomach discomfort from spices that may be too intense. - Double-Check Ingredients for Dietary Needs
If you’re vegetarian, vegan, or Muslim, always confirm what’s in your dish.- Vegetarians/Vegans: Ask if the sauce contains terasi (shrimp paste) and request it without.
- Muslim travelers: Make sure the food is fully Halal and doesn’t use pork or pork-based broth.
This ensures you enjoy your meal safely and comfortably, without breaking dietary rules or running into allergy issues.
Bali local food offers a rich and unforgettable culinary journey, blending bold spices, cultural heritage, and comforting flavors that every traveler should experience. From iconic dishes like Babi Guling and Betutu to vibrant street snacks and flavorful vegetarian options, exploring Bali’s food scene is one of the best ways to connect with the island’s traditions.
For more tips, recommendations, and the best guides to explore Bali, be sure to check out Insight Bali, your go-to source for discovering the island’s most authentic experiences.
