Try Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng, Satay, and Martabak – the signature dishes that showcase Bali’s diverse food scene, blending traditional Indonesian flavors with international influences.
The 8 Dishes You Must Try Before You Leave
- Nasi Goreng (NAH-see GO-reng) – Indonesian fried rice, $2-$3 IDR 20,000-30,000, at Warung Cita Rasa
- Mie Goreng (MEE GO-reng) – fried noodles, $2-$3 IDR 20,000-30,000, at Bakmi GM
- Satay (SAH-tay) – grilled meat skewers, $3-$5 IDR 40,000-60,000, at Satay Khas Senayan
- Martabak (MAR-tah-bak) – stuffed pancake, $2-$3 IDR 20,000-30,000, at Martabak Pecenongan
- Gado-Gado (GAH-doh GAH-doh) – vegetable salad, $2-$3 IDR 20,000-30,000, at Gado-Gado Boplo
- Soto (SOH-toh) – traditional soup, $2-$3 IDR 20,000-30,000, at Soto Betawi
- Es Campur (ESS CHAM-poor) – shaved ice dessert, $1-$2 IDR 10,000-20,000, at Es Campur Stall
- Krupuk (KROO-pook) – shrimp crackers, $1-$2 IDR 10,000-20,000, at Krupuk Stall
Street Food Guide: Where, What & How Much
Head to Pasar Badung, Pasar Kereneng, and Pasar Ubud for an authentic street food experience.
- Pasar Badung: try Sate Plecing and Bakso, $2-$3 IDR 20,000-30,000, open 6am-6pm
- Pasar Kereneng: try Nasi Uduk and Gado-Gado, $2-$3 IDR 20,000-30,000, open 6am-6pm
- Pasar Ubud: try Martabak and Krupuk, $2-$3 IDR 20,000-30,000, open 6am-10pm
Pro Tip: Always check the food stalls’ hygiene and choose the busiest ones for the freshest food.
Where to Eat: By Budget
Street Food & Markets
Price per meal: $2-$5 IDR 20,000-60,000, example dishes: Sate, Nasi Goreng, and Gado-Gado, neighborhoods: Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud.
Local Neighborhood Spots
Price per meal: $5-$10 IDR 60,000-120,000, example dishes: Mie Goreng, Soto, and Es Campur, neighborhoods: Canggu, Kerobokan, and Denpasar.
Tourist-Friendly Mid-Range
Price per meal: $10-$20 IDR 120,000-240,000, example dishes: Satay, Krupuk, and Bakmi, neighborhoods: Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua.
Worth-the-Splurge Restaurants
Price per meal: $20-$50 IDR 240,000-600,000, example dishes: seafood, steak, and fine dining, neighborhoods: Seminyak, Nusa Dua, and Ubud.
Pro Tip: For a unique dining experience, try a local warung or food stall, and don’t be afraid to try new dishes.
Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergy-Friendly Options
Bali offers moderate options for vegetarians and vegans, with many warungs and restaurants catering to dietary needs.
Useful phrases: “Saya makan vegetarian” (I eat vegetarian), “Saya makan vegan” (I eat vegan), and “Apakah ada MSG?” (Is there MSG?).
Safe dishes: Gado-Gado, Nasi Goreng, and Es Campur, and apps like Happy Cow and Vegan Bali for more options.
What Locals Actually Drink
Traditional drinks: Kopi Bali (Balinese coffee), $1-$2 IDR 10,000-20,000, and Es Teh (iced tea), $1-$2 IDR 10,000-20,000.
Local alcoholic drinks: Bintang beer, $3-$5 IDR 40,000-60,000, and Arak, $5-$10 IDR 60,000-120,000, at local bars and restaurants.
Avoid: tap water and ice from unknown sources.
Food Etiquette & Practical Tips
Tipping: 5-10% of the total bill, and always round up to the nearest thousand.
Dining hours: 6am-10pm, with peak hours 12pm-2pm and 6pm-8pm.
Reservation culture: not necessary for most warungs and restaurants, but recommended for fine dining and popular spots.
Pro Tip: Learn basic Indonesian phrases, like “terima kasih” (thank you), to show respect and appreciation for the local culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Bali for food?
A: The best time to visit Bali for food is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is dry and the food is fresher.
Q: Is it safe to eat street food in Bali?
A: Yes, it is safe to eat street food in Bali, as long as you choose busy stalls with good hygiene and handling practices.
Q: Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Bali?
A: Yes, Bali offers moderate options for vegetarians and vegans, with many warungs and restaurants catering to dietary needs.
Q: How much should I tip in Bali?
A: Tipping in Bali is around 5-10% of the total bill, and always round up to the nearest thousand.
Plan a Foodie Trip to Bali
Ready to explore the culinary delights of Bali? Use our free AI trip planner to plan your trip and discover the best food spots: Destinexa’s free AI trip planner.
Don’t forget to check out our other travel guides and tips for an unforgettable experience in Bali: Destinexa’s free AI trip planner.