Bali is known for its breathtaking beaches, lush rice terraces, and rich cultural heritage. But beyond the stunning landscapes and vibrant temples lies a culinary paradise that’s just waiting to be explored. Balinese street food is an essential part of the island’s culture, offering a mouthwatering mix of flavors, textures, and aromas. From savory satays to sweet desserts, the street food scene in Bali is packed with delicious options that you can’t afford to miss. Here’s a list of the most delicious Balinese street foods you need to try right now.
1. Babi Guling (Suckling Pig)
Babi Guling is one of the most famous dishes in Bali, traditionally served during ceremonies and special events. It’s made from a whole pig that’s seasoned with a blend of turmeric, garlic, ginger, and other aromatic spices. The pig is then roasted over an open fire until the skin is crispy and golden brown, while the meat remains tender and juicy.
You’ll find Babi Guling sold at local warungs (small family-run restaurants) and street stalls across Bali. The dish is usually served with steamed rice, spicy sambal (chili sauce), and a variety of vegetables. It’s rich, flavorful, and a true taste of Balinese culture.
2. Sate Lilit (Minced Meat Satay)
Sate Lilit is a Balinese twist on the traditional Indonesian satay. Instead of chunks of meat, Sate Lilit is made from minced fish, chicken, or pork mixed with grated coconut, lime leaves, and a mix of spices. The mixture is wrapped around bamboo sticks or lemongrass stalks and grilled over an open flame.
The result is a juicy, aromatic satay with a slightly smoky flavor. Sate Lilit is often served with a side of peanut sauce or sambal for dipping, adding an extra kick of flavor. You can find this dish at night markets and street food stalls throughout Bali.
3. Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice)
Nasi Goreng is Indonesia’s signature fried rice dish, and the Balinese version comes with its own unique flair. The rice is stir-fried with garlic, shallots, soy sauce, and a mix of vegetables. It’s often topped with a fried egg and served with crispy prawn crackers and pickled vegetables.
You can customize your Nasi Goreng by adding chicken, shrimp, or tofu. For an authentic Balinese touch, try it with sambal matah — a spicy raw chili and shallot relish that adds a burst of flavor. Nasi Goreng is a quick and satisfying street food option that you’ll find at nearly every market and street corner.
4. Mie Goreng (Fried Noodles)
Mie Goreng is the noodle version of Nasi Goreng, and it’s just as delicious. The noodles are stir-fried with garlic, soy sauce, vegetables, and your choice of meat or tofu. It’s often garnished with crispy shallots and served with a fried egg on top.
What makes Balinese Mie Goreng special is the use of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), which gives the dish a rich, slightly sweet flavor. The combination of savory and sweet, along with the crunchy vegetables and soft noodles, makes this dish an irresistible comfort food.
5. Lawar (Minced Meat and Vegetable Salad)
Lawar is a traditional Balinese salad made from minced meat (usually pork or chicken), grated coconut, and a mix of vegetables such as green beans and long beans. The mixture is seasoned with a complex blend of spices, including turmeric, garlic, and galangal.
Lawar can be spicy, depending on the amount of chili used. Some versions also include blood to give the dish a richer flavor. While Lawar might not be for everyone, it’s a highly traditional Balinese dish that offers a unique taste of the island’s culinary culture.
6. Pisang Goreng (Fried Bananas)
For a sweet treat, Pisang Goreng (fried bananas) is a must-try street food in Bali. Slices of ripe bananas are dipped in a light batter and deep-fried until golden and crispy. They’re often served with a drizzle of honey, chocolate sauce, or grated cheese.
Pisang Goreng is crispy on the outside and soft and sweet on the inside. You can find them at street stalls and local markets, where they’re typically served in a paper cone for easy snacking on the go.
7. Bakso (Meatball Soup)
Bakso is a popular Indonesian street food that has found a special place in Balinese cuisine. It’s a comforting soup made from beef or chicken meatballs served in a flavorful broth with noodles, tofu, and vegetables.
Vendors often serve Bakso from mobile carts, where you can customize your bowl with chili sauce, soy sauce, and fried shallots. The meatballs are springy and flavorful, making this dish a hearty and satisfying meal.
8. Martabak (Stuffed Pancake)
Martabak is a thick, stuffed pancake that comes in both sweet and savory versions. The savory version is stuffed with spiced minced meat, eggs, and scallions, while the sweet version is filled with chocolate, condensed milk, and crushed peanuts.
Martabak is cooked on a large griddle until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The sweet version is rich and indulgent, while the savory one is flavorful and satisfying. Both types are popular evening snacks and are widely available at night markets.
9. Tipat Cantok (Rice Cake with Peanut Sauce)
Tipat Cantok is a traditional Balinese dish made from compressed rice cakes (tipat) mixed with blanched vegetables like spinach and bean sprouts. It’s dressed with a rich peanut sauce and garnished with fried shallots and crispy crackers.
The combination of soft rice cakes, crunchy vegetables, and creamy peanut sauce makes Tipat Cantok a flavorful and satisfying street food. It’s a perfect light meal or snack.
10. Es Campur (Mixed Shaved Ice Dessert)
Es Campur is the perfect way to cool down after a day of exploring Bali’s bustling streets. This colorful dessert is made from shaved ice topped with sweet syrups, condensed milk, jelly, fruits, and sweet beans.
Each spoonful is a burst of different textures and flavors — from the creamy condensed milk to the chewy jelly and fresh fruits. It’s refreshing, sweet, and a delightful way to end your street food adventure.
Final Thoughts
Balinese street food is a reflection of the island’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant flavors. From the savory delights of Babi Guling and Sate Lilit to the sweet indulgence of Pisang Goreng and Es Campur, Bali’s street food offers something for every palate. Exploring the local street food scene is not just about satisfying your hunger — it’s about immersing yourself in the island’s culture and connecting with the locals through their culinary traditions. So, next time you’re in Bali, hit the streets and let your taste buds lead the way!
