“Bali’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering a delightful blend of traditional Indonesian flavors and global influences without breaking the bank.”
When you think of Bali, pristine beaches, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes might come to mind. But what about its food? For travelers who love exploring a destination through its cuisine, Bali offers an exciting range of affordable, authentic restaurants and warungs (small, local eateries) that serve delicious meals without the five-star price tag. Let’s dive into some of the best places to eat in Bali, where you can enjoy hearty dishes and experience local flavors without feeling like you need to be in a tuxedo or evening gown!
Restaurants
Warung Sopa – Ubud
For vegetarian travelers or those looking to take a break from Bali’s meat-heavy dishes, Warung Sopa in Ubud is a hidden gem. This cozy warung is perfect for those who want to try plant-based versions of Balinese and Indonesian food. The menu features delicious nasi campur (a traditional rice dish served with an array of side dishes) with plenty of vegetable-based options. Don’t miss their pumpkin soup or the veggie spring rolls that are crunchy and light. The prices are budget-friendly, and the open-air atmosphere makes it a peaceful spot for lunch or dinner.
Tip: Warung Sopa is also famous for its refreshing selection of herbal teas and fresh juices, perfect for a mid-afternoon break in Ubud.
Biah Biah – Ubud
Another popular spot in Ubud, Biah Biah, offers authentic Balinese food at an incredibly reasonable price. The ambiance is laid-back, and the menu is perfect for sampling many local delicacies in smaller portions (think tapas-style). Try the sate lilit (minced fish satay on lemongrass skewers) or the lawar (a traditional Balinese salad made with coconut, green beans, and sometimes meat). If you’re traveling with friends, sharing different dishes will give you a chance to try more flavors. The best part? A hearty meal here won’t leave a dent in your wallet.
Warung Wardani – Denpasar
For an authentic Balinese experience, head to Warung Wardani in Denpasar, a local favorite known for its nasi campur. This is one of those places where you can eat like the locals do. Nasi campur here typically comes with a variety of side dishes like satay, sambal (a spicy chili paste), vegetables, and fried chicken. Everything is perfectly seasoned, and the portions are generous. Whether you’re heading to the airport or exploring the local markets, Warung Wardani is a great stop for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Nook – Kerobokan
Overlooking green rice paddies, Nook in Kerobokan is a must-visit for those who want a mix of Indonesian and Western food. The relaxed atmosphere and picturesque view make it a popular spot for brunch or lunch. Though it’s not a typical warung, the menu includes both affordable local and international options. Try their gado-gado, a traditional Indonesian salad with a rich peanut sauce, or go for a healthier option with one of their smoothie bowls. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the beautiful setting.
Warung Nikmat – Kuta
Kuta is known for its busy streets and vibrant nightlife, but tucked away from the hustle and bustle is Warung Nikmat, a local favorite for traditional Javanese food. Their nasi kuning (yellow turmeric rice) is a crowd-pleaser, served with a variety of side dishes such as fried chicken, tempeh, and spicy sambal. This place is often packed with locals, which is always a good sign. Warung Nikmat is perfect for those looking for a quick and flavorful meal while exploring Kuta.
Made’s Warung – Seminyak
A legend in Bali’s dining scene, Made’s Warung in Seminyak has been serving delicious local and international dishes for decades. Though it has expanded over the years, it remains a great spot for traditional Balinese food. The babi guling (Balinese roasted suckling pig) here is a favorite, but if you’re not into pork, you can also try their nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles). The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great place for families or groups of friends.
Sate Babi Bawah Pohon – Legian
If you’re a fan of satay, Sate Babi Bawah Pohon in Legian is a must-visit. This roadside stall serves some of the best pork satay in Bali. The skewers are grilled over a charcoal fire, giving them that delicious smokiness. The satay is served with a spicy sambal and rice, making it a filling yet affordable meal. The simplicity of this place, with plastic chairs and tables under a tree, adds to its charm. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll find locals grabbing a quick bite before heading to the beach.
Betelnut Café – Canggu
For something a bit more modern yet still laid-back, head to Betelnut Café in Canggu. This café has a great selection of healthy food, from smoothie bowls to tacos and wraps. It’s a great place to recharge after a morning surf or yoga session. The menu offers both local and Western-inspired dishes, so you can have a bit of everything. The nasi goreng here is a must-try, and for something lighter, their quinoa bowls are perfect.
Tip: Betelnut Café’s upstairs seating offers lovely views of the rice paddies—perfect for enjoying a quiet meal.
Warung Krishna – Jimbaran
If you’re exploring Jimbaran, don’t miss Warung Krishna. It’s a go-to spot for fresh seafood at affordable prices. Unlike the more expensive beachfront seafood restaurants, Warung Krishna offers grilled fish, prawns, and squid that are perfectly cooked and served with traditional sambal and rice. It’s simple, delicious, and a great way to enjoy the famous Jimbaran seafood without the tourist mark-up.
Angelo’s Pizza – Jimbaran
Located in the heart of Jimbaran, Angelo’s Pizza is a beloved spot for anyone craving a simple, delicious pizza without the frills. Known for its welcoming and casual atmosphere, this pizzeria serves up authentic, wood-fired pizzas with thin, crispy crusts and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Locals and visitors alike frequent Angelo’s for its straightforward, classic pizzas, like margherita, pepperoni, and quattro formaggi (four cheese).
Angelo’s keeps the focus on doing the basics right, with no unnecessary extras. The pizzas are reasonably priced, with most options falling between $5 and $9, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. The laid-back vibe of the restaurant is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner after a day of exploring Jimbaran’s beaches.
Tip: Angelo’s Pizza is popular for both dine-in and takeaway, so if you’re heading to the beach, grab a pizza to go and enjoy it while watching the sunset!
Summary of Key Details
- Warung Sopa (Ubud): Vegetarian-friendly; must-try dishes include pumpkin soup and veggie nasi campur.
- Budget: $3-6 per meal.
- Biah Biah (Ubud): Authentic Balinese tapas; highlights include sate lilit and lawar.
- Budget: $2-5 per dish.
- Warung Wardani (Denpasar): Famous for nasi campur with satay, vegetables, and sambal.
- Budget: $4-7 per meal.
- Nook (Kerobokan): Indonesian and Western fusion with rice paddy views.
- Budget: $5-10 per meal.
- Warung Nikmat (Kuta): Traditional Javanese dishes like nasi kuning and sambal.
- Budget: $2-4 per meal.
- Made’s Warung (Seminyak): Iconic spot for babi guling and nasi goreng.
- Budget: $5-8 per meal.
- Sate Babi Bawah Pohon (Legian): Best pork satay in a roadside setting.
- Budget: $1-3 per meal.
- Betelnut Café (Canggu): Healthy and fusion food; known for smoothie bowls and nasi goreng.
- Budget: $4-8 per meal.
- Warung Krishna (Jimbaran): Affordable grilled seafood.
- Budget: $5-9 per meal.
These spots offer a great way to experience Bali’s vibrant food scene without splurging on fancy restaurants. Whether you’re craving local Balinese specialties, healthy eats, or a good old satay skewer, these warungs and cafés have got you covered!
