Eat Like a Local: 7 Must-Try Traditional Dishes in Bali + Where to Find Them
Bali is not just about beaches, temples, and sunsets—it’s also a paradise for food lovers! The local cuisine is rich, flavorful, and packed with spices that reflect the island’s vibrant culture. If you want to experience the authentic taste of Bali, skip the fancy restaurants for a day and head to local warungs (small eateries). Here are 7 traditional dishes you must try and the best places to find them.
1. Babi Guling
What is it?
Babi Guling is Bali’s most famous dish. It’s a whole pig stuffed with spices like turmeric, garlic, and lemongrass, then roasted to crispy perfection. The dish is served with rice, fried intestines, pork satay, and vegetables.
Where to try it:
- Warung Ibu Oka – Jl Tegal Sari No. 2, Ubud
- Babi Guling Candra – Denpasar & Kuta
- Warung Babi Guling Pak Malen – Jl Sunset Road No. 554, Seminyak
2. Nasi Campur (Mixed Rice)
What is it?
Nasi Campur is a plate of steamed rice served with various side dishes like chicken, beef curry, vegetables, tempeh, and sambal (spicy chili sauce). It’s like a little sampler of Bali’s best flavors.
Where to try it:
- Warung Wardani – Denpasar & Kuta
- Warung Yess – Jl Pantai Pererenan, Canggu
- Stop Makan Yuk – Jl Raya Uluwatu No. 7, Jimbaran
3. Sate Lilit (Balinese Satay)
What is it?
Unlike the regular satay you might know, Sate Lilit is made with minced fish mixed with coconut, spices, and lime leaves. The mixture is wrapped around a lemongrass stick and grilled for a smoky, delicious flavor.
Where to try it:
- Warung Mertha Sari – Jl Pesinggahan, Tuban
- Warung Ari – Jl Tukad Pakerisan, South Denpasar
4. Bebek Betutu (Smoked Duck)
What is it?
Bebek Betutu is a dish of duck marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and traditionally cooked underground for hours. The result is tender, smoky meat that’s full of flavor.
Where to try it:
- Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner) – Jl Hanoman, Ubud
- Art Cafe Bumbu Bali – Jl Pintas Siligita No. 101, Nusa Dua
5. Nasi Goreng and Mie Goreng (Fried Rice and Noodles)
What is it?
Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Mie Goreng (fried noodles) are staples in Indonesian cuisine. They’re cooked with sweet soy sauce, garlic, and shallots, and often topped with a fried egg.
Where to try it:
- Poppies Restaurant – Jl Poppies Lane I No. 16, Kuta
6. Sambal Matah (Balinese Chili Relish)
What is it?
Sambal Matah is a raw chili relish made with shallots, lemongrass, lime, and chili. It’s spicy, tangy, and perfect for adding a kick to grilled fish, chicken, or vegetables.
Where to try it:
- Warung Cahaya – Jl Dewi Ratih No. 1, Legian
7. Lawar (Traditional Meat Salad)
What is it?
Lawar is a traditional Balinese salad made with minced meat (usually pork or chicken), shredded coconut, spices, and sometimes fresh animal blood for authenticity. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a true local experience!
Where to try it:
- Warung Lawar Sapi Odah – Denpasar
- Lawar Kuwir Men Sono – Sangeh, Abiansemal
Tips for Enjoying Balinese Food:
- Most local warungs are casual, so don’t expect fancy settings.
- If you’re not used to spicy food, ask for "tidak pedas" (not spicy).
- Pair your meal with a refreshing iced tea or coconut water.
