Bali is not only known for its beautiful beaches, temples, and jungles—the island also offers a rich and exciting culinary culture. Whether you eat at local warungs, beach restaurants, or fine dining establishments, Balinese food will give you flavors you won't soon forget.
Here are the dishes, ingredients, and dining experiences you absolutely must try in Bali.
Nasi Goreng — Bali's National Dish
Nasi Goreng means "fried rice" and is perhaps the most famous Indonesian dish. Typically, it contains fried rice with garlic and chili, vegetables, chicken, shrimp, or egg — topped with a fried egg and crispy onions. You can find it everywhere, from street food stalls to luxury restaurants.
Babi Guling — Whole Roasted Suckling Pig
This is Bali's most famous specialty, and something you won't find in many other places in Indonesia. Slow-roasted suckling pig seasoned with lemongrass, garlic, turmeric, and chili, often served with rice, vegetables, and sauce. Best known in Ubud and Gianyar.
Satay — Small Skewers
Satay consists of grilled meat skewers served with peanut sauce — perfect as street food or a light dinner. The most common varieties are Satay Ayam (chicken) and Satay Lilit, the Balinese variant made from fish.
Lawar — Traditional Balinese Dish
Lawar is an authentic dish often served at ceremonies and festivities. It consists of finely chopped meat mixed with coconut, vegetables, and Balinese spices — simple in expression, complex in flavor.
Gado-Gado — Vegetarian Favorite
A fresh and popular dish for vegetarians: steamed vegetables with tofu and tempeh, topped with plenty of warm peanut sauce. Healthy, filling, and flavorful.
Sweet Desserts and Snacks
Don't miss Pisang Goreng (fried banana), Dadar Gulung (pancakes with coconut and palm sugar), and Klepon (rice balls filled with liquid palm sugar). All three are simple, inexpensive, and impossible to resist.
Drinks in Bali
Fresh juices and smoothies are available everywhere. Coconut straight from the tree is unbeatable in the heat. Try Indonesian coffee — especially Kopi Bali — and the local beer Bintang, which is Bali's unofficial summer companion.
Cooking Class — Learn Balinese Cuisine Yourself
Want to take the taste of Bali home with you? A cooking class is one of the most popular activities among Norwegian travelers in Bali. You start the day at a local market, learn traditional recipes, and prepare several dishes from scratch with a local chef — and then eat them yourself afterwards.
Food is a big part of travel — and Bali offers flavors that make your vacation even more memorable. Start your day at the market and take the recipes home.
See cooking classes →