Bali is not only famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture but also for its rich and diverse culinary heritage. Each dish tells a story — of family traditions, ceremonies, and centuries-old recipes passed down through generations. The island’s cuisine is a reflection of its people: warm, colorful, and full of life.
Even in the trendy area of Canggu, known for its beach clubs and cafés, you can still find authentic Balinese flavors hidden in local warungs and family-run kitchens. From spicy starters to sweet traditional desserts, let’s take you on a full-course Balinese dining journey — one that captures the true soul of the island through taste.
Appetizers – Light and Flavorful Beginnings
1. Lawar Bali
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| Traditional Balinese dish Lawar a flavorful mix of chopped vegetables, grated coconut, and minced meat, seasoned with Balinese spices and served on a banana leaf. |
A beloved Balinese starter made from finely chopped vegetables, grated coconut, and minced meat or tofu mixed with traditional spices. It represents the balance of flavors — spicy, savory, and fresh. You can find delicious Lawar at Warung Bu Mi (Canggu) or Warung Varuna, both local favorites among expats and travelers.
Average Price: $2–$3 per portion.
2. Sate Lilit
This dish features minced fish or chicken blended with coconut and Balinese herbs, wrapped around lemongrass sticks, and grilled to perfection. It’s aromatic, juicy, and often served with spicy sambal matah. Try it at Warung Dandelion or Warung Varuna (Canggu) for a truly authentic flavor.
Average Price: $3–$5 for five skewers.
3. Urab Sayur
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| Traditional Balinese dish Jukut Urab a vegetable salad made from long beans, spinach, bean sprouts, and grated coconut, served on a banana leaf. |
A light salad made of blanched vegetables tossed with grated coconut, shallots, and lime juice. Simple yet flavorful, it’s a refreshing way to begin your meal. You can taste one of the best Urab Sayur at Warung Bu Mi (Canggu), where locals and visitors share the same table.
Average Price: $1.5–$2 per serving.
Main Courses – The Heart of Balinese Cuisine
1. Babi Guling (Balinese Suckling Pig)
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| Traditional Balinese dish Babi Guling (roasted suckling pig) served with crispy pork skin, lawar vegetables, satay, rice, and crackers on a banana leaf. |
A must-try dish for anyone visiting Bali, Babi Guling is roasted pig marinated with local spices (base genep), creating crispy skin and tender meat. Visit Warung Babi Guling Candra (Kerobokan) or Bu Oki (Seminyak) to taste this local delicacy served with rice and sambal.
Average Price: $4–$6 per plate.
2. Ayam Betutu
Slow-cooked chicken wrapped in banana leaves and infused with turmeric, garlic, and chili. The process can take hours, resulting in rich, aromatic meat that falls off the bone. You can enjoy Ayam Betutu at Warung Local (Canggu) or Warung Goûthé (Pererenan), both known for their cozy, home-style cooking.
Average Price: $3–$5 per portion.
3. Bebek Bengil (Crispy Duck)
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| Traditional Balinese dish Bebek Bengil or crispy duck, served with steamed rice, sambal, vegetables, and fresh tomato on a banana leaf. |
This iconic Balinese dish features crispy fried duck served with rice, sambal, and sautéed vegetables. It’s crunchy on the outside and juicy inside — a true indulgence. Try it at Bebek Tepi Sawah (Kerobokan) or Dandelion (Canggu) for an authentic experience with a beautiful garden atmosphere.
Average Price: $7–$10 per portion.
Desserts – Sweet Endings with Balinese Soul
1. Jaje Injin (Black Sticky Rice Pudding)
A traditional Balinese dessert made from black sticky rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup. It’s rich, creamy, and slightly smoky in flavor — a perfect finish after a spicy meal. You can find it freshly made at Pasar Taman Sari (Kerobokan) or enjoy a modern version at The Shady Shack (Canggu).
Average Price: $2–$3 per bowl.
2. Pisang Rai
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| Traditional Balinese dessert Pisang Rai made from steamed banana coated with grated coconut, served on a banana leaf. |
This simple yet delicious dessert features steamed banana coated in rice flour, then topped with grated coconut and palm sugar syrup. It’s soft, fragrant, and naturally sweet. The Pisang Rai at The Shady Shack (Canggu) offers a tropical twist with mango and coconut cream.
Average Price: $2–$4 per portion.
3. Dadar Gulung
Green pandan pancakes filled with sweet grated coconut and palm sugar. This colorful treat symbolizes joy and is often served during Balinese ceremonies. Find it in the morning at Pasar Taman Sari (Kerobokan) or try a modern dessert version at Crate Café (Canggu).
Average Price: $1.5–$3 per piece.
Signature Drinks – Refreshing Local Favorites
1. Es Daluman (Balinese Herbal Jelly Drink)
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| Traditional Balinese drink Es Daluman with green jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup served in a glass. |
A cooling drink made from natural green jelly leaves, coconut milk, and palm sugar — perfect for Bali’s warm weather. It’s soothing and slightly herbal. Try it at Warung Dandelion (Canggu) after a spicy meal.
Average Price: $1.5–$2 per glass.
2. Kopi Kintamani (Balinese Coffee)
Grown in the volcanic highlands, this coffee has a light citrusy aroma and smooth finish. It’s perfect for coffee lovers seeking something unique. Enjoy a cup at Hungry Bird Coffee Roasters (Berawa), a popular spot among digital nomads.
Average Price: $2–$3 per cup.
3. Arak Bali Premium
A traditional Balinese spirit distilled from coconut or rice, often used in cocktails. Modern bars in Canggu now serve creative Arak-based mixes. Visit Black Sand Brewery or The Slow Bar (Canggu) for a refined experience.
Average Price: $5–$8 per cocktail.
Experience the True Taste of Bali
Exploring Balinese cuisine is more than just tasting food — it’s about connecting with the island’s culture and people. Whether you dine in a humble roadside warung or a stylish restaurant overlooking rice fields, each meal tells a story of devotion, celebration, and community.
From the fiery spices of Babi Guling to the comforting sweetness of Jaje Injin, these dishes are living traditions, welcoming you into the heart of Balinese life. Every bite offers not just flavor, but meaning.
Stay at The Tunjung Boutique Resort – Your Home of Balinese Serenity
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| The Tunjung Boutique Resort at Canggu, Bali |
After a day of culinary exploration, unwind at The Tunjung Boutique Resort, located just minutes away from Canggu’s best local dining spots. Our resort offers a perfect blend of traditional Balinese charm and modern comfort.
Facilities include:
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Spacious private rooms with garden or pool views
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On-site restaurant serving Balinese and international cuisine
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Outdoor swimming pool and spa
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Daily breakfast included
