The building blocks of Balinese cuisine
At the core of Balinese cuisine are the island’s fertile offerings—fresh rice, spices, vegetables, and seafood. The base of many dishes is “bumbu,” a fragrant spice paste made daily by locals. Composed of ingredients like ginger, turmeric, garlic, chili, lemongrass, and coriander, bumbu adds depth to every meal. These spices, when combined, create a rich flavor profile that easily transitions from sweet to spicy and from sour to umami.
The island’s geographical diversity is also reflected in its cuisine. Along the coasts, freshly caught fish and seafood dominate restaurant menus, while the inland rice terraces and forests provide chicken, various meats, fresh vegetables, and unique mushrooms to the culinary scene. Coconut milk, on the other hand, is a fundamental ingredient in Balinese cooking, lending a creamy texture and subtle sweetness to countless dishes.
Traditional Balinese dishes you must try
Balinese cuisine combines popular Indonesian recipes with specialties unique to the island. Here are some dishes you shouldn’t miss when visiting Bali:
Nasi Goreng and Mie Goreng
Considered Indonesia’s national dishes, Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Mie Goreng (fried noodles) are classic staples you’ll find on nearly every corner in Bali. Flavored with soy sauce and spices, they’re typically served with vegetables, egg, and your choice of chicken or seafood. These dishes are often topped with crispy shallots and accompanied by krupuk (prawn crackers). Affordable, filling, and delicious, they make for an ideal lunch option.
Sate Lilit
Sate is Indonesia’s beloved version of skewered kebabs, and Sate Lilit is Bali’s unique variation. Typically made by mixing minced fish, chicken, or other meats with grated coconut and a blend of spices, the mixture is then wrapped around a lemongrass stalk and grilled. This unique method imparts both an exotic aroma and a remarkable texture. For a fresh, juicy, and authentic experience, you’ll find some of the best Sate Lilit from street vendors or in local restaurants.
Ayam Betutu
Ayam Betutu is a distinctive, slow-cooked Balinese chicken dish that is very flavorful. A whole chicken is marinated in a blend of bumbu spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and then cooked for hours—either steamed or over fire. This method allows the spices to deeply infuse the meat, resulting in tender, juicy chicken bursting with aroma. Widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Balinese cuisine, Ayam Betutu reflects both patience and mastery in its preparation.
Street food and local restaurants
To truly experience Bali’s flavors, you should visit the local Warung restaurants. These small, inviting eateries are the best spots to enjoy authentic dishes at affordable prices. One of the most popular options is Nasi Campur, a plate of rice topped with an assortment of meats, vegetables, and sauces. Each Warung has its own version of the Nasi Campur plate, so every visit offers a fresh and unique taste of Balinese cuisine.
When choosing where to eat in Bali, don’t limit yourself to Warung; explore the island’s vibrant street food scene and discover many flavors you’ll definitely want to try. Popular bites like Sate Lilit (seafood skewers) are available at street stalls and local vendors. If you’re looking for something more refined, Bali also features Michelin-starred or Michelin-recommended restaurants like Apéritif, where local ingredients are reimagined with modern culinary techniques. These venues showcase both the traditional and luxurious sides of Balinese cuisine. Whether you enjoy the warmth and authenticity of street food or the sophistication of fine dining, Bali’s culinary scene will keep surprising you at every turn.
Tropical fruits, drinks, and desserts
Beyond the savory dishes, Bali’s tropical fruits, which are both plentiful and affordable, shouldn’t be missed. Along with familiar favorites like pineapple, mango, papaya, dragon fruit, and rambutan, the island also offers exotic options such as mangosteen and salak (also called snake fruit)—flavors that never fail to impress those who try them.
When it comes to drinks, an ice-cold Kelapa Muda (fresh coconut water) is the ultimate tropical refresher, perfect for enhancing your beach experience. You should also try Jamu, Bali’s traditional herbal drink made from root herbs like ginger and turmeric, which is delicious and healthy. Finally, for a truly unique treat, don’t miss Luwak coffee, one of the world’s most expensive brews, offering a distinctive taste found only in Bali.
An unforgettable culinary journey
Balinese cuisine makes every journey feel like an adventure and every meal a discovery. With this guide, you’ll not only explore flavors that suit your taste but also get a closer look at the island’s warm and welcoming culture. Whether you dine in a humble Warung hidden on a side street or in an upscale restaurant, each bite in Bali invites you into a different story.
