Bali’s culinary scene reflects the island’s rich diversity and vibrancy. Each dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and local pride.
From ceremonial staples to humble street food, every bite invites food enthusiasts to experience the heart and soul of the Island of the Gods.
Whether indulging in iconic dishes like Babi Guling or sampling unique street snacks such as Rujak Bulung, Balinese cuisine offers something for everyone. Each flavourful creation celebrates the island’s heritage, bold ingredients, and timeless passion for good food.
Babi Guling (Suckling Pig)
A quintessential Balinese cuisine, Babi Guling features succulent roasted suckling pig, stuffed with aromatic spices such as turmeric, lemongrass, and coriander. Served with crispy skin, tender meat, and side dishes like sambal and vegetables, it’s a must-try. Warung Ibu Oka in Ubud is renowned for this delicacy.
Ayam & Bebek Betutu (Slow-Cooked Chicken and Duck)
Traditionally served during ceremonies and celebrations, this dish can be made with chicken (ayam) or duck (bebek), each offering a unique flavour. The meat is marinated with a spice paste made from turmeric, ginger, galangal, lemongrass, and other fragrant herbs, then wrapped in banana leaves. It is slow-cooked—sometimes underground or steamed—for hours, resulting in tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone. This dish is widely available in speciality warungs.
Nasi Campur Bali (Balinese Mixed Rice)
This staple dish offers a mix of flavours and textures. It features steamed rice surrounded by portions of spiced meats, sautéed vegetables, boiled eggs, sambal, and crispy crackers. Each warung puts its unique spin on the dish, making it an exciting culinary experience. Perfect for those who want to sample a variety of Balinese flavours in one meal.
Lawar (Spiced Meat Salad)
Lawar is a classic Balinese side dish made with finely chopped meat, coconut, and a blend of spices. Typically prepared with pork or chicken, it also comes in variations like red lawar (made with fresh animal blood) and white lawar, which is milder. Vegetarian versions substitute meat with jackfruit or green beans. Often paired with babi guling, lawar adds texture and spice to any meal.
Sate Lilit (Minced Meat Satay)
This Balinese take on satay features minced meat—usually pork, chicken, or fish—mixed with grated coconut, kaffir lime leaves, and spices, then wrapped around bamboo or lemongrass skewers. The lemongrass adds a citrusy aroma, while grilling creates a smoky, juicy flavour. A popular snack, it’s also served alongside rice dishes.
Tipat Cantok (Vegetable and Rice Cake Salad)
Tipat Cantok is a beloved street food dish that combines simplicity with robust flavour. It features compressed rice cakes (tipat) and boiled vegetables like bean sprouts, spinach, and long beans, tossed in a creamy peanut sauce spiced with garlic and chillies. A light yet satisfying dish, it’s ideal for a midday meal while exploring Bali’s markets and streets.
Rujak Bulung (Seaweed Salad)
Rujak Bulung showcases Bali’s coastal influences with a refreshing twist. Fresh seaweed is mixed with grated coconut, lime juice, palm sugar, and chilli, creating a sweet, tangy, and spicy flavour profile. This light street food is bursting with flavours and textures, perfect as a snack or side dish.
Laklak (Balinese Rice Flour Pancakes)
Laklak is a traditional dessert that’s as delightful as it is simple. These small green pancakes, coloured with pandan leaves, are cooked over a clay stove. They’re served with grated coconut and drizzled with palm sugar syrup—a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
Jaja Bali (Traditional Balinese Sweets)
Jaja Bali encompasses a variety of ceremonial snacks. Popular choices include Klepon (glutinous rice balls with a liquid palm sugar centre) and Dadar Gulung (pandan crepes filled with sweet coconut). These vibrant treats offer a delicious glimpse into Bali’s sweeter side.
Sambal Matah (Raw Balinese Sambal)
Sambal Matah is more than just a condiment—it’s a vibrant representation of Balinese cuisine. Made with finely chopped shallots, lemongrass, bird’s eye chillies, and kaffir lime leaves, it’s seasoned with lime juice, salt, and aromatic coconut oil. The result is a refreshing yet fiery accompaniment, perfect with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian options like tofu and tempeh.
Urutan (Balinese Pork Sausage)
A lesser-known delicacy, urutan is beloved by locals for its bold and savoury flavour. Made from pork mince and spices stuffed into pork intestines, the sausages are grilled or fried to perfection. Paired with steamed rice and sambal, this dish offers a hearty and flavourful meal.
From sweet desserts to fiery sambals, Bali’s culinary offerings are as diverse as the island itself. Whether you’re dining in a local warung or exploring vibrant street markets, the flavours of Bali promise an unforgettable experience.