A Complete Guide to Authentic Balinese Cuisine You Must Try When Visiting Bali
When people talk about Bali, images of pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, luxurious villas, beach clubs, and Instagram-worthy cafés often come to mind. However, beyond its stunning landscapes and vibrant tourism scene, Bali is also a paradise for food lovers. The island’s culinary heritage is deeply rooted in tradition, culture, and local wisdom, making Balinese cuisine an essential part of any visit to the Island of the Gods.
Despite the common misconception that traveling and dining in Bali is expensive, the reality is quite the opposite. Many authentic Balinese dishes can be enjoyed at very affordable prices, especially at local warungs and traditional eateries. These places may not always have modern interiors or viral social media appeal, but they offer something far more valuable: rich flavors, authentic recipes, and unforgettable culinary experiences.
It is important to note that not all Balinese dishes are halal, as pork plays a significant role in traditional Balinese cooking. However, many alternatives using chicken, duck, seafood, or vegetables are widely available across the island.
If you plan to explore Bali’s food scene extensively, consider using a dining pass available in Bali. This pass often provides access to up to 20 selected restaurants with discounts of up to 24%. The participating restaurants range from popular local favorites like Wahaha Pork Ribs, Bebek Bengil, and Bebek Tepi Sawah, to fine dining establishments such as Koral Restaurant at The Apurva Kempinski Bali, Cuca Restaurant, and Aperitif Restaurant in Ubud.
Below is a detailed guide to some of the most iconic and must-try Balinese dishes that will give you a deeper understanding of Bali’s culinary identity.
1. Balinese Mixed Rice (Nasi Campur Bali)
No discussion about Balinese cuisine would be complete without mentioning Balinese Mixed Rice, locally known as Nasi Campur Bali. As the name suggests, this dish consists of steamed rice served with a variety of side dishes, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors on one plate.
A typical serving includes rice accompanied by shredded or minced meat, lawar (a traditional vegetable and meat mix), urap (vegetables mixed with seasoned grated coconut), and sate lilit. It is often complemented with boiled egg slices, fried peanuts, and most importantly, sambal matah, a raw Balinese chili relish that adds freshness and heat.
In Bali, mixed rice is commonly categorized into three variations:
Pork mixed rice, featuring roasted or fried pork
Chicken mixed rice, made with shredded or spiced chicken
Spicy mixed rice, known for its extra-hot chili sauce as the main highlight
This dish is widely available across Bali, from street vendors to casual restaurants, making it one of the easiest ways to experience authentic Balinese flavors.
2. Suckling Pig (Babi Guling)
Suckling pig, or Babi Guling, is arguably the most famous Balinese dish, even among international travelers. This iconic specialty is deeply associated with Balinese ceremonies and celebrations, but it has also become a culinary attraction for visitors.
The dish is prepared by roasting a whole pig over an open fire while continuously turning it to ensure even cooking. The pig is stuffed and marinated with a rich blend of Balinese spices, including turmeric, coriander, lemongrass, galangal, and garlic. The result is tender, flavorful meat with crispy skin.
Babi Guling is usually served with rice, lawar, crispy pork skin, and spicy sambal. For non-halal eaters, enjoying suckling pig in Bali is often considered a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience.
3. Ayam Betutu (Chicken Betutu)
Ayam Betutu is a traditional Balinese dish originating from Gilimanuk, located in the western part of Bali. This dish consists of chicken that is marinated with a complex spice paste and then slow-cooked for several hours, allowing the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
The spices used are bold and aromatic, resulting in a dish that is both savory and spicy. The slow cooking process makes the chicken incredibly tender, almost falling off the bone.
Although it originated in Gilimanuk, Ayam Betutu is now widely available throughout Bali, especially in popular tourist areas such as South Bali and Ubud. It is a must-try dish for those who enjoy rich, spicy flavors.
4. Lawar
Lawar is a traditional Balinese dish made from a mixture of finely chopped vegetables, grated coconut, herbs, and meat. Traditionally, pork is used, but many variations with chicken or duck are available, making it accessible for Muslim travelers as well.
The flavor profile of lawar is complex, combining savory, spicy, and slightly earthy notes. It is commonly served as a side dish alongside Balinese mixed rice and other traditional meals.
Lawar is an essential component of Balinese culinary culture and is often prepared for religious ceremonies and family gatherings.
5. Sambal Matah (Raw Balinese Chili Sauce)
Sambal Matah is more than just a chili sauce—it is one of Bali’s most iconic condiments and has gained popularity throughout Indonesia. Unlike cooked sambal, Sambal Matah is made from raw ingredients, giving it a fresh and vibrant taste.
It typically consists of finely sliced shallots, chili peppers, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and coconut oil. The result is a spicy, aromatic, and refreshing condiment that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, and rice dishes.
In Bali, Sambal Matah is most commonly served with Nasi Campur but can also be found accompanying modern fusion dishes in many restaurants.
6. Sate Lilit
Sate Lilit is a unique form of satay that is distinctly Balinese. Instead of using chunks of meat, the meat is finely minced and mixed with spices and grated coconut. The mixture is then wrapped around bamboo skewers or lemongrass stalks before being grilled.
This preparation gives Sate Lilit a soft texture and rich flavor, making it different from typical Indonesian satay. It is commonly made with chicken, fish, or pork.
You can easily find Sate Lilit at local warungs, mixed rice stalls, and well-known restaurants such as Bebek Bengil and Bebek Tepi Sawah in Ubud.
7. Fried Duck (Bebek Goreng)
Although fried duck is not exclusively Balinese, its popularity in Bali—especially in Ubud—has made it a culinary highlight. Restaurants like Bebek Tepi Sawah and Bebek Bengil have played a major role in popularizing this dish.
The duck is marinated with spices, deep-fried until crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. It is usually served with rice, vegetables, and sambal.
If you visit Ubud, trying fried duck at one of these iconic restaurants is highly recommended.
8. Pork Satay (Sate Babi)
Sate Babi is a pork-based satay that differs from the more common chicken or goat satay. While the grilling method is similar, pork satay is not typically served with peanut sauce or sweet soy sauce.
Instead, it is often seasoned with Balinese spices and served plain or with sambal, allowing the natural flavor of the meat to stand out. This dish is commonly found in traditional eateries and during local ceremonies.
9. Rujak with Pindang Sauce (Rujak Kuah Pindang)
Rujak is a popular Indonesian fruit salad, but Bali offers a unique variation known as Rujak Kuah Pindang. What makes it special is the sauce—made from pindang, a traditional fish broth with a spicy and savory taste.
The fruits used are similar to regular rujak, such as young mangoes and other tropical fruits. The combination of sour, spicy, salty, and slightly fishy flavors creates a bold and adventurous dish.
This rujak is perfect for those who enjoy trying unconventional local food.
10. Nasi Tepeng
At first glance, Nasi Tepeng may resemble ordinary mixed rice, but its preparation and texture are quite different. Originating from Gianyar, this dish features rice cooked with coconut milk and spices such as turmeric, bay leaves, and salt.
The rice has a soft, porridge-like consistency and is served with vegetables like young jackfruit, long beans, eggs, and sometimes chicken. It is then topped with seasoned grated coconut and flavorful broth.
If you are traveling through Gianyar, especially on your way to attractions like Bali Safari Park, Nasi Tepeng is worth seeking out.
11. Fish Head Soup
Fish Head Soup is not traditionally Balinese, but its popularity in Bali—especially at Warung Mak Beng—earns it a spot on this list. Located near Sanur Beach, Warung Mak Beng is famous for its simple yet flavorful menu.
The fish head soup is rich, savory, and comforting, often served alongside fried fish and rice. It is a favorite stop for travelers before or after heading to Nusa Penida or watching the sunrise at Sanur Beach.
12. Tipat Blayag
Tipat Blayag is a traditional dish from Buleleng, North Bali. It consists of ketupat (rice cakes wrapped in palm leaves) served with urap, shredded chicken, boiled eggs, or sate lilit.
The dish is then topped with a special Balinese sauce that brings all the elements together. Tipat Blayag is commonly sold by street vendors and is a great example of Bali’s regional culinary diversity.
13. Jimbaran Grilled Seafood
While seafood is not traditionally considered a core part of Balinese cuisine, Jimbaran has transformed grilled seafood into an iconic dining experience. Eating seafood on Jimbaran Beach while watching the sunset has become a must-do activity for visitors.
Fresh fish, prawns, squid, and clams are grilled and served with sambal, rice, and vegetables. The beachfront setting, combined with the smoky aroma of grilled seafood and the sound of waves, creates a memorable dining atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Balinese cuisine is a reflection of the island’s rich culture, traditions, and natural resources. From humble street food to elaborate ceremonial dishes, every bite tells a story of Bali’s heritage. Exploring local food is one of the best ways to truly connect with the island beyond its tourist attractions.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning to Bali, make sure to experience these authentic dishes. Not only will they satisfy your appetite, but they will also deepen your appreciation for the Island of the Gods.