Best Restaurants in Bali: Where to Eat (and Where to Avoid)

Bali's food scene has undergone a quiet revolution. A decade ago, the island was known for cheap warungs and tourist-trap beach restaurants. Today, it is home to some of the most exciting cooking in Asia — a world-class fine dining scene built on extraordinary Indonesian ingredients, a thriving mid-range restaurant culture, and street food that remains among the best and cheapest in Southeast Asia.

This is the honest guide to where to eat in Bali, from the €1 nasi goreng to the €120 tasting menu.

Fine Dining: The Best Restaurants in Bali

Locavore, Ubud — The best restaurant in Bali, and one of the best in Asia. Chef Ray Adriansyah's tasting menu uses exclusively Indonesian ingredients — many foraged or grown within 50km of the restaurant — in preparations of extraordinary sophistication and creativity. The 8-course menu costs €80-100pp; the 10-course extended menu is €100-120pp. The wine pairing (€60-80) is excellent, with a strong focus on natural wines.

Book three weeks ahead minimum — Locavore is consistently full. The bar next door, Locavore To Go, serves excellent cocktails and small plates without a reservation.

What to order: The full tasting menu. There is no à la carte.

Mozaic, Ubud — Chef Chris Salans has been cooking French-Indonesian fusion in Ubud for over 20 years, and Mozaic represents the mature expression of that vision. The tasting menu (€90-130pp) moves through a series of courses that combine classical French technique with Indonesian spices and ingredients in ways that feel both surprising and inevitable. The garden setting — candlelit tables among tropical plants — is one of the most romantic in Bali.

What to order: The Chef's Tasting Menu with wine pairing.

Merah Putih, Seminyak — The best restaurant in Seminyak, housed in a stunning double-height bamboo and glass pavilion that is one of the most beautiful dining rooms in Bali. The menu celebrates Indonesian cuisine from across the archipelago — dishes from Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and Bali itself, presented with modern precision. Budget €50-80pp.

What to order: The beef rendang, the grilled barramundi, the Balinese duck.

Sarong, Seminyak — A long-standing Seminyak institution serving Asian cuisine with a strong Indonesian core. The room is beautiful — dark wood, candlelight, and an open kitchen. Budget €60-90pp. The cocktail list is excellent.

What to order: The slow-cooked lamb shoulder, the prawn laksa.

Mid-Range: The Best Value Restaurants in Bali

Naughty Nuri's, Ubud — An Ubud institution that has been serving the same pork ribs for 30 years. The ribs (€12) are marinated overnight and grilled over charcoal — smoky, sticky, and extraordinary. The martinis are dangerously good. Expect a queue; it's worth it.

What to order: The pork ribs. Nothing else matters.

Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka, Ubud — The most famous suckling pig warung in Bali. The dish (€8-12) is served with rice, spicy sambal, and a side of vegetables, embodying the essence of Balinese cuisine. Expect to see locals and tourists alike, creating a lively atmosphere.

What to order: The babi guling (suckling pig).

La Baracca, Seminyak — A charming Italian warung that has become a favorite among locals. The wood-fired pizzas (€8-15) are a standout, with homemade dough and fresh toppings, offering a comforting escape from local flavors.

What to order: The Margherita pizza and a side of arancini.

Best Time to Visit

January to March

April to June

July to September

October to December

Where to Stay

Budget (€50-100/night)

Mid-Range (€100-250/night)

Luxury (€250+)

Getting There & Around

Flights

Local Transport

What to Eat & Drink

Bali’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse. Here are essential dishes and drinks to try:

1. Nasi Goreng (€1-3) - Fried rice, often served with chicken or shrimp, available at warungs across the island.

2. Sate Lilit (€5-10) - Minced meat satay wrapped around lemongrass sticks, found at local food stalls.

3. Gado-Gado (€3-6) - A mixed vegetable salad with peanut sauce, available at many casual eateries.

4. Bebek Betutu (€15-25) - Slow-cooked duck with spices, usually served at warungs in Ubud.

5. Rendang (€10-15) - A rich and spicy beef curry, found at many fine dining and mid-range restaurants.

6. Bali Coffee (€2-4) - Try Kopi Luwak, made from civet cat beans, available at local cafes.

7. Bali Arak (€3-8) - A traditional spirit made from rice or palm sap, often served as shots at local bars.

Insider Tips

1. Visit Local Markets: Ubud’s traditional market opens early and is a treasure trove of spices, snacks, and handicrafts. Arrive at dawn for the best experience.

2. Dine During Off-Peak Hours: For a more relaxed dining experience, opt for late lunches or early dinners to avoid crowds.

3. Learn Basic Bahasa Indonesia: A few simple phrases can go a long way in enhancing your interactions with locals.

4. Embrace the Street Food: Don't shy away from street vendors; some of the best local flavors are found in humble stalls. Look for crowds to find the best options.

5. Check for Special Events: Many restaurants host special evenings or tasting menus. Keep an eye on social media for announcements.

Bali’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas, waiting to be explored. Whether you’re indulging in a multi-course tasting menu or savoring a humble bowl of street food, the island promises a gastronomic adventure that will linger long after you’ve returned home.