Looking for the signature dishes of Bali? Try Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng, Satay, and Martabak, which showcase the island’s rich culinary heritage and will hook you on the food scene.
The 8 Dishes You Must Try Before You Leave
- Nasi Goreng (NAH-see GO-reng) – Indonesian fried rice, mixed veggies, and meat, find at Warung Cita, average cost 20,000 IDR ($1.40 USD)
- Mie Goreng (MEE GO-reng) – stir-fried noodles, veggies, and meat, try at Mie Goreng Ibuk, 25,000 IDR ($1.80 USD)
- Satay (SAH-tay) – grilled meat skewers, peanut sauce, at Satay Khas Senayan, 30,000 IDR ($2.10 USD)
- Martabak (MAR-tah-bak) – stuffed pancake, eggs, and veggies, at Martabak Pecenongan, 40,000 IDR ($2.80 USD)
- Gado-Gado (GAH-doh GAH-doh) – mixed veggies, tofu, and peanut sauce, at Gado-Gado Boplo, 20,000 IDR ($1.40 USD)
- Soto (SOH-toh) – traditional soup, meat or veggies, at Soto Betawi, 25,000 IDR ($1.80 USD)
- Siomay (SEE-oh-may) – steamed dumplings, peanut sauce, at Siomay Koko, 30,000 IDR ($2.10 USD)
- Es Campur (EHs CHAHM-poor) – shaved ice, coconut, and fruits, at Es Campur 77, 20,000 IDR ($1.40 USD)
Street Food Guide: Where, What & How Much
Head to Pasar Badung, Ubud Art Market, or Kuta Night Market for a street food experience. At Pasar Badung, try the fresh fruits and veggies, and don’t miss the satay at 10,000 IDR ($0.70 USD) per stick. At Ubud Art Market, order the nasi goreng at 20,000 IDR ($1.40 USD) and explore the local handicrafts. Kuta Night Market offers a variety of dishes, including mie goreng at 25,000 IDR ($1.80 USD) and martabak at 40,000 IDR ($2.80 USD). Remember to always check the food stalls for hygiene and handle your food with care.
Where to Eat: By Budget
Street Food & Markets
Price per meal: 10,000 – 50,000 IDR ($0.70 – $3.50 USD), example dishes: satay, nasi goreng, and fresh fruits, neighborhoods: Kuta, Ubud, and Denpasar.
Local Neighborhood Spots
Price per meal: 50,000 – 100,000 IDR ($3.50 – $7 USD), example dishes: mie goreng, soto, and gado-gado, neighborhoods: Seminyak, Canggu, and Sanur.
Tourist-Friendly Mid-Range
Price per meal: 100,000 – 200,000 IDR ($7 – $14 USD), example dishes: western and international cuisine, neighborhoods: Kuta, Ubud, and Nusa Dua.
Worth-the-Splurge Restaurants
Price per meal: 200,000 – 500,000 IDR ($14 – $35 USD), example dishes: fine dining and seafood, neighborhoods: Seminyak, Canggu, and Jimbaran.
Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergy-Friendly Options
Bali offers a moderate level of vegetarian and vegan options, with many restaurants catering to these diets. Useful phrases in Indonesian include “Saya makan vegetarian” (I eat vegetarian) and “Saya makan vegan” (I eat vegan). Some specific safe dishes include gado-gado, siomay, and es campur. For more options, use apps like Happy Cow or Vegan Bali.
What Locals Actually Drink
Non-alcoholic traditional drinks include fresh coconut water at 10,000 IDR ($0.70 USD) and es teh manis (sweet tea) at 5,000 IDR ($0.35 USD). Local alcoholic drinks include Bintang beer at 20,000 IDR ($1.40 USD) and arak at 50,000 IDR ($3.50 USD), try at local bars and restaurants. Avoid drinking tap water and ice from unknown sources.
Food Etiquette & Practical Tips
Tipping norms: 5-10% of the total bill, when: at mid-range and high-end restaurants. Dining hours: 7 am – 10 pm, tourist hours: 10 am – 10 pm. Reservation culture: not necessary, but recommended for high-end restaurants. Cultural rules at the table: use your right hand when eating, and avoid finishing a meal completely, as it implies the host did not provide enough food.
Pro Tip: When eating at a local warung, try to sit at a table with a view of the kitchen to ensure the food is prepared fresh and hygienically.
Pro Tip: Learn some basic Indonesian phrases, such as “terima kasih” (thank you), to show respect and appreciation for the local culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Bali for foodies?
The best time to visit Bali for foodies is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is dry and sunny, and the food festivals are in full swing.
Are there any food safety concerns in Bali?
Yes, there are food safety concerns in Bali, such as food poisoning and hygiene issues, so make sure to eat at reputable restaurants and stalls, and avoid undercooked meat and raw veggies.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Bali?
Yes, Bali offers a moderate level of vegetarian and vegan options, with many restaurants catering to these diets, and some specific safe dishes include gado-gado, siomay, and es campur.
How much should I tip at restaurants in Bali?
Tipping norms in Bali are 5-10% of the total bill, and it’s recommended to tip at mid-range and high-end restaurants, but not necessary at local warungs and street food stalls.
Plan a Foodie Trip to Bali
To plan your foodie trip to Bali, use our free AI trip planner at Destinexa’s AI trip planner to get personalized recommendations and itineraries. You can also link to our free AI trip planner to start planning your trip today!