Looking for tips on what to eat in Bali? Exploring Balinese food is one of the most delicious and immersive things to do in Bali. The island’s vibrant night markets are a feast for the senses—full of traditional flavours, local ingredients, and cultural stories behind each dish. From savoury skewers to sweet sticky treats, here’s our insider’s guide to seven must-try foods that will give you a true taste of Balinese street food culture.
1. Nasi Campur (Balinese Mixed Rice)
Nasi Campur is a perfect introduction to traditional Balinese cuisine. This dish features a serving of rice alongside a selection of sides—like spicy sambal, tempeh, tofu, vegetable curry, and most popular in Bali, ayam betutu (slow-cooked spiced chicken). The variety of textures and flavors on one plate tells the story of Bali’s rich culinary heritage. Just a heads-up: some vendors love their spice and you may not be used to it.
2. Sate (Grilled Skewers)
One of the most iconic Balinese street foods, sate comes in many forms. You’ll often find sate lilit, a fragrant blend of minced fish or chicken wrapped around lemongrass sticks, or sate ayam, tender chicken skewers grilled over charcoal. Whether served with spicy sambal or creamy peanut sauce, the smoky aroma will draw you in from a distance.
3. Tropical Fruits
Bali’s night markets are filled with vibrant, seasonal fruits that you won’t easily find elsewhere. Be sure to try salak (snake fruit), which has a crunchy texture and a sweet-tangy flavour, or manggis (mangosteen), known as the “queen of fruits” for its juicy, floral taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for durian, the infamous “king of fruits” with its strong aroma and creamy texture. Freshly cracked young coconut is also a refreshing option.
4. Cendol (Iced Sweet Dessert)
Cendol is a beloved Indonesian dessert made with pandan-flavoured rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup, served over ice. It’s the perfect way to cool down after indulging in Bali’s spicy street food.
5. Lak Lak (Balinese Rice Flour Pancakes)
These small, green-coloured pancakes are made from rice flour and infused with pandan leaves, giving them a fragrant aroma. They’re typically topped with grated coconut and a drizzle of palm sugar syrup, making them a simple yet delicious sweet treat. Lak Lak is a simple but satisfying Balinese dessert, often sold by smiling aunties with sizzling griddles.
6. Jaje Uli (Sticky Rice Cakes)
A beloved snack, Jaje Uli is made from glutinous rice, grilled for a crispy exterior while remaining chewy inside. Lightly sweetened and often paired with coconut, it’s perfect for anyone craving something warm and comforting.
7. Pisang Goreng (Fried Banana)
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, pisang goreng is Bali’s version of fried banana. The batter is light and airy, giving the banana a delicate crunch. Some stalls even drizzle it with palm sugar syrup or serve it with cheese and chocolate for an extra indulgent touch. It’s one of those comfort foods you’ll want to try more than once.
Explore Bali’s Night Markets on a Food Tour
A self-guided market visit is exciting, but joining a local food tour transforms the experience. Discover hidden stalls, taste the best Balinese street food, and learn about the cultural significance behind each dish. Local guides can also help you navigate the language barrier, ensure you know exactly what you’re eating (especially if you have food allergies), and share the best tips and recommendations on what to try. They’ll entertain you with stories about the food, ingredients, and culture, making your night market adventure even more memorable. Book a private food tour in Bali and enjoy an insider’s guide to the island’s incredible night markets.
