Babi guling in Ubud is one of Bali’s most iconic dishes, famous for its cultural importance and unforgettable flavor. Traditionally served during Balinese Hindu ceremonies, like weddings, tooth-filing rituals, and temple festivals—this roasted suckling pig has deep roots in local tradition.
In this article, you’ll discover the top spots to enjoy authentic babi guling in Ubud. These places offer the true taste of this beloved Balinese dish and are perfect for anyone wanting a real culinary experience.
What is Babi Guling? Understanding Bali’s Iconic Dish
Babi guling Bali (roasted pig) is a must-try traditional dish that represents Balinese cuisine. It’s made by slow-roasting a whole pig over wood-fired coals for hours, after marinating it with a rich mix of Balinese spices, including Basa Genep.
The result is a juicy, flavorful interior with a crispy, golden-brown crust on the outside. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but babi guling also has cultural importance, often served during Balinese Hindu ceremonies. If you’re looking for a unique place to eat, this dish is definitely worth trying.
Best Babi Guling in Ubud
1. Ibu Oka’s Suckling Pig
One of the most famous babi guling Ubud spots is Babi Guling Ibu Oka, which became internationally known after Anthony Bourdain visited. This family-run eatery has been passed down for three generations and is loved for its crispy pork skin coated with turmeric and coconut oil.
Its main branch on Jl. Tegal Sari No. 2 is always the busiest because it’s close to Ubud Palace, easy to include in your list of things to do in Ubud. Prices range from IDR 60,000 to IDR 85,000.
2. Gung Cung Suckling Pig
If you want a budget-friendly alternative, try Gung Cung in central Ubud. Its flavor is often compared to Ibu Oka’s, but the prices are more affordable, making it a great stop during your what to do in Ubud itinerary. Their complete set (meat, crispy skin, urut, lawar, sambal, and broth) starts from IDR 35,000 to IDR 51,000. Located on Jl. Suweta No. 23, it’s just a short walk from Ubud Palace.
3. Babi Guling Ibu Gendut
For a richer and spicier Balinese pork flavor, head to Ibu Gendut in Pengosekan. Many locals love it for its generous portions, especially the special menu with extra crispy skin. With prices ranging from IDR 50,000 to IDR 75,000, it’s a great stop before exploring nearby cafes or checking into one of the luxury resorts in Ubud. This spot is also convenient for travelers exploring different babi guling Gianyar flavors around the region.
4. Babi Guling Pande Egi
This spot is perfect if you want to enjoy balinese roast pork with a beautiful rural view instead of a typical roadside stall. The semi-open dining area overlooks wide green rice fields, making it one of the most scenic places to try the best babi guling Ubud–style dishes.
Their crispy pork skin and juicy, mildly spiced meat appeal to many visitors, and the spacious, clean setting is great for families or groups. Located in Banjar Pande, Beng, Gianyar (about 20–30 minutes from central Ubud), prices range from IDR 30,000 to 50,000.
5. Ocin Babi Guling and Samsam
If you’re craving something different from usual babi guling, Ocin is known for its special Samsam Guling, rolled pork belly that’s incredibly savory and rich. They even offer creative menus like Fried Samsam and a Vegan Babi Guling option, making this local warung Ubud a great choice for diverse eaters.
With a casual café-style setting and a peaceful outdoor area in Lodtunduh, you can enjoy flavorful Balinese roast pork in comfort. Located at Jl. Ambarawati No. 1, Lodtunduh, prices range from IDR 40,000 to 65,000.
6. Babi Guling Payangan Buk Ari
This is a top pick for travelers wanting traditional Balinese village flavors at very affordable prices. Payangan-style babi guling is known for its bold spices and flavorful lawar, making it one of the tastiest options for those seeking local-style balinese roast pork.
It’s a popular local warung Ubud alternative, great for breakfast or a quick lunch, with many branches now available closer to Denpasar. Located on Jl. Raya Payangan, prices start from just IDR 15,000 to 25,000.
Price Range for Babi Guling in Ubud
The price of babi guling in Ubud can vary quite a bit depending on the location, portion size, and the type of stall or shop you visit. At local warungs offering traditional Balinese food, a portion of Nasi Babi Guling Campur usually costs around IDR 25,000–45,000.
Mid-range spots generally charge IDR 45,000–60,000, while more premium Ubud restaurants can reach IDR 65,000–85,000 or more. With this wide price range, travelers can easily choose options that fit their budget.
Tips for First Time Travelers
- For the best taste, always order the Mixed Suckling Pig Rice or Special Suckling Pig Rice. This gives you the full experience, tender meat, crispy pork skin, lawar, urut, broth, and sambal, all the elements that make babi guling special.
- If you don’t handle spicy food well, ask for the sambal to be served separately. The base seasoning is already rich and flavorful, so separating the sambal lets you adjust the heat level to your comfort.
- When deciding where to eat in Ubud, choose a busy stall with steady customers. A crowd usually means the babi guling is fresh and the hygiene is reliable. Most traditional spots only accept cash, so make sure to bring some, even if you’re used to paying at fine dining restaurants.
Babi guling in Ubud offers one of the most authentic culinary experiences in Bali, with each warung serving its own unique blend of spices, textures, and traditional flavors. From iconic spots near Ubud Palace to hidden gems in Gianyar’s village areas, you’ll find options that suit every taste and budget. To explore more local food, culture, and travel recommendations, check out Insight Bali, your trusted guide to discovering the best of the island.
