What are the typical dishes to try in Bali?
Checked October 2026 · 3 sources
The must-try Balinese dishes are babi guling (spit-roasted suckling pig), bebek or ayam betutu (duck or chicken slow-cooked in spices), sate lilit (minced fish or meat satay on lemongrass), lawar (spiced minced salad with coconut) and nasi campur. Add sambal matah, the raw shallot and lemongrass relish, plus Indonesian classics like nasi goreng and mie goreng.
In detail
Babi guling is the island's festive dish: a whole pig rubbed with turmeric, chilli and spices, then roasted for its crispy skin. Bali is mainly Hindu, so pork is common here, unlike in most of Indonesia. Warung Ibu Oka in Ubud is the best-known address.
Betutu is duck or chicken stuffed with base genep, the Balinese spice paste, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked for hours. Bebek Bengil in Ubud made crispy duck famous, and betutu is also served across Gianyar.
Nasi campur is a plate of rice with small portions of several dishes, often sate lilit, shredded chicken, vegetables, peanuts and sambal. It is the easiest way to taste a lot in one meal, and every warung has its own version.
Lawar mixes minced meat, young jackfruit or green beans, grated coconut and spices. Traditional versions can contain fresh blood, so ask if you prefer to avoid it.
Good to know
- Eat babi guling at lunchtime: the best warungs often sell out by early afternoon.
- Ask for "tidak pedas" (not spicy) if you do not like strong chilli.
- Try night markets such as Gianyar or Sindhu in Sanur to taste several dishes cheaply.
On Bali Reply
More questions about food & shopping
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- Where can I find the best seafood in Bali?
- Is it easy to find vegetarian or vegan food in Bali?
- Can you find genuine local handicrafts in Bali?
- What food souvenirs can I bring back from Bali?
- Are there local markets to explore in Bali?
Sources
Rules and prices in Indonesia change often. Always check official sources before you travel.