Bali is known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes — but its food is just as unforgettable. Balinese cuisine is deeply rooted in ritual, spice, and community, offering a mix of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and rich traditions. Whether you’re exploring Ubud’s rice terraces or relaxing in Seminyak, here are 8 must-try foods in Bali to make your trip deliciously complete.
1. Babi Guling (Balinese Suckling Pig)
🐖 What It Is: Roasted whole pig seasoned with turmeric, garlic, lemongrass, and chili
📍Where to Try: Ibu Oka (Ubud), Warung Babi Guling Pak Malen (Seminyak)
Babi Guling is Bali’s most iconic ceremonial dish, traditionally prepared for religious feasts. The skin is crispy, the meat is tender and juicy, and it’s served with rice, crackling, blood sausage, and spicy veggies. It’s a must-try for meat lovers.
2. Ayam Betutu
🍗 What It Is: Slow-cooked chicken stuffed with spices and wrapped in banana leaves
📍Where to Try: Ayam Betutu Khas Gilimanuk (multiple locations)
This flavorful dish is marinated in rich Balinese spices like turmeric, ginger, and galangal, then steamed or roasted until tender. Aromatic, spicy, and satisfying, Ayam Betutu is often served at traditional ceremonies.
3. Lawar
🥗 What It Is: Traditional mix of chopped meat, grated coconut, vegetables, and rich spices
📍Where to Try: Warung Wardani (Denpasar), local family-run warungs
Lawar is a Balinese staple, often eaten with rice and babi guling. Some versions even include fresh animal blood for authenticity. It’s a dish full of texture and bold flavor.
4. Sate Lilit
🍢 What It Is: Minced fish or chicken mixed with coconut and spices, wrapped around lemongrass sticks
📍Where to Try: Bumbu Bali (Nusa Dua), Warung Bambu (Ubud)
Unlike regular satay, Sate Lilit uses minced meat and is grilled on lemongrass stalks instead of wooden skewers. The result is aromatic, juicy, and slightly sweet — perfect with rice or sambal.
5. Nasi Campur Bali
🍛 What It Is: Mixed rice plate with various meats, vegetables, peanuts, eggs, and sambals
📍Where to Try: Warung Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku (Ubud)
Nasi Campur (“mixed rice”) is a perfect introduction to Balinese flavors. Every plate is slightly different, depending on what’s available — but expect layers of flavor, heat, and texture on a single plate.
6. Tipat Cantok
🥜 What It Is: Rice cakes (ketupat) with boiled vegetables and peanut sauce
📍Where to Try: Local markets and roadside stalls in Denpasar or Ubud
Tipat Cantok is Bali’s answer to gado-gado — a hearty vegetarian dish drenched in thick, sweet-spicy peanut sauce. It’s healthy, filling, and totally vegan-friendly.
7. Bubur Injin (Black Rice Pudding)
🍮 What It Is: Black glutinous rice pudding with coconut milk and palm sugar
📍Where to Try: Cafes in Ubud, local dessert vendors
This warm dessert is comforting and not too sweet. Served with a drizzle of thick coconut cream, Bubur Injin is rich, earthy, and uniquely Balinese.
8. Jaje Bali (Balinese Traditional Cakes)
🧁 What It Is: Assorted colorful rice cakes and sweets made from sticky rice, coconut, and palm sugar
📍Where to Try: Traditional markets like Pasar Badung or Sukawati Market
Jaje Bali refers to a variety of traditional sweets, often served during temple ceremonies. Try klepon (pandan rice balls with melted palm sugar inside) or dadar gulung (green coconut pancakes). They’re vibrant, chewy, and perfect for snack lovers.
