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The Flavors of Bali
Bali
Warungs are small family-owned restaurants that offer cheap and authentic Balinese food. They’re an essential part of Balinese culture, churning out unique and exotic flavors that the island is known for. The next best meal of your life is just right under your nose, so get ready to do a little bit of unearthing! We’ve got you and your appetite covered—from the signature babi guling (stuffed roast suckling pig) to the well-loved sate (skewers)!
Updated 4 years ago
Start your warung adventure at Nasi Bali Made Weti in Sanur. This humble food stall comes highly recommended by locals for its Nasi Campur. It’s a mixed rice dish that consists of shredded chicken, half an egg, fried chicken heart, crispy chicken skin, and fried peanuts. What makes their version special is the addition of roasted coconut flakes and lawar nyawan, a rare Balinese delicacy made of bee larvae. Mix it all up for the perfect spoonful, and don’t forget to add some sambal (chili pepper paste) for that extra kick!
Jalan Segara Ayu, Sanur, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka made an appearance in an episode of Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations” back in 2006. The late American celebrity chef couldn’t stop raving about their babi guling, and even said that it was the best roast pig he’s ever had! The establishment has become extremely popular since then, attracting hundreds of hungry diners every single day. Here, the pig is stuffed with a smorgasbord of spices such as turmeric, garlic, lemongrass, galangal (Thai ginger), and chili. It is then basted in coconut milk and cooked for several hours until the skin becomes crispy and gloriously brown. Ibu Oka is only open for four hours a day and doesn’t close until the last piece of babi guling served. Plan your visit accordingly to get a taste of their famous specialty!
Jalan Suweta Number 3, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Sate Babi Bawah Pohon’s name references its original Legian branch, which is located under a tree. However, they recently moved to a bigger location in Jalan Dewi Sri to accommodate more tables and guests. For just IDR25,000 (USD1.73), you get 10 sticks of pork sate (grilled pork skewers), lontong (rice cakes) and whole green chili peppers. Do as the locals do and drizzle some kecap manis (Indonesian sweet soy sauce) on top. Before you know it, you’re ordering seconds!
- +62 369 36253567
Jalan Dewi Sri 4, Campuhan 1, Legian, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia
Considered to be another top babi guling destination is Babi Guling Pak Dobiel. This beloved warung stands out for its crunchier and spicier take on the classic Balinese fare. Medium-sized pieces of deep-fried pork lard are added on top, and a dollop of sambal goreng (fried chili paste) is placed on the side. Be warned: it’s incredibly spicy, so remember to pace yourself. Not a fan of the heat? Let the vendors know, and they’ll happily give you a sambal-free serving!
Jalan Srikandi Number 9, Nusa Dua, Benoa, Kuta Selatan, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia
Indulge in some Mujair Nyat Nyat (fried freshwater tilapia in curry sauce) at Warung Kintamani! It is presented on a tray, together with a cup of rice, water spinach, peanuts, and some raw sambal. As soon as the spread lands on your table, you’ll notice the fragrant scent of various herbs and spices used in the dish. Pair your meal with the restaurant’s Kelapa Muda (chilled coconut water with coconut flesh and lime juice) to cleanse your palate in between delicious mouthfuls. Take note that there are no utensils here, so prepare to dig in with your hands like a true Bali native!
Jalan Raya Kangetan Number 68, Singapadu Kaler, Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Locals and visitors from all over make their way to Warung Babi Guling Men Lari for some authentic suckling pig. A plate here usually includes small slices of babi guling, one pork sate stick, pork flesh, crispy pork skin, and urap (spiced long bean salad). Try to get a little bit of everything for your first bite to experience an unbelievable explosion of flavors. The best part is that you get to enjoy your food right in front of the vast rice fields! Savor some fresh air while you’re here, and thank the food gods for creating babi guling.
- +62 362 36078860
Br. Denkayu Mengwi, Werdi Bhuwana, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia
- http://www.babigulingmenlari.com/
Established in 1941, Warung Mak Beng is a legendary joint situated near Sanur Beach. Residents and tourists flock here for a bowl of their traditional fish head soup. It is hot and peppery with a refreshing twist—all thanks to the chunks of cucumber that cut through the spice. Their fried fish set is also a hit; it comes with a portion of tuna or mackerel, steamed white rice, and sambal. The place gets pretty packed (especially during lunchtime), so drop by early to snag a seat!
- +62 361 282633
Jalan Hang Tuah Number 45, Sanur Kaja, Kota Denpasar Selatan, Bali, Indonesia
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