Bali isn’t just about sun-kissed beaches and lush rice terraces — it’s a paradise for food lovers too. The island’s street food scene offers a bold, flavorful journey through Balinese culture. If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia’s most visited island, don’t miss these top 5 street foods to try in Bali, each offering a genuine taste of the island’s culinary soul.
1. Babi Guling Bali – Traditional Balinese Suckling Pig Served at Street Stalls
Babi Guling, or Balinese suckling pig, is the island’s most iconic dish, traditionally served during ceremonies but now widely available at local warungs (street-side eateries). The pig is marinated with a rich mix of turmeric, lemongrass, galangal, and coriander, then spit-roasted for hours over an open fire.
You’ll find the most authentic Babi Guling at roadside stalls in Ubud and Gianyar, where locals queue for plates filled with crispy pork skin, spiced meat, rice, lawar (minced vegetables and coconut), and sambal matah. For travelers looking to explore Bali’s traditional cuisine through its street food, Babi Guling is an essential experience.
Where to Try: Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka in Ubud or any night market in Gianyar.
2. Sate Lilit Bali – Balinese Skewered Minced Meat with Aromatic Spices
Sate Lilit, a uniquely Balinese version of Indonesian satay, stands out with its use of minced meat (usually fish, chicken, or pork) mixed with grated coconut, lime leaves, and a blend of local spices. Unlike the common satay, it’s wrapped around lemongrass sticks or bamboo and grilled over charcoal, releasing an irresistible smoky aroma.
You can easily spot Sate Lilit at night markets or roadside grills, especially in places like Sanur or Jimbaran. It’s served with rice or lontong (rice cakes), and a dollop of sambal for a spicy kick.
Why It’s a Must-Try: Sate Lilit is a delicious entry point into Balinese street food for those hesitant to try heavier dishes like Babi Guling.
3. Nasi Jinggo – Bali’s Spicy Street Food in Banana Leaf Packets
If you’re wandering through Denpasar or passing by local temples in the evening, you’re likely to come across vendors selling Nasi Jinggo — a complete meal wrapped in banana leaves, typically sold for less than $1.
Each packet contains a small portion of rice, shredded chicken or beef, sambal goreng tempeh, fried noodles, and spicy sambal. Originally popular among night-shift workers and students, this compact and affordable street food has become a cult favorite for anyone on the go.
Pro Tip: Buy multiple packets — locals often eat two or three in one sitting!
4. Bakso Bali – Indonesian Meatball Soup with a Balinese Twist
Though Bakso (meatball soup) is available throughout Indonesia, Bali offers its own twist. Balinese-style Bakso is infused with island spices and often served with hard-boiled eggs, fried tofu, or noodles in a rich, savory broth.
Sold from mobile carts or roadside warungs, Bakso is a common street food in areas like Kuta and Seminyak, especially during the rainy season. The meatballs are typically made from beef or chicken and are incredibly filling.
What Makes It Unique in Bali: Local sambal, fried shallots, and kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) elevate the soup with layers of heat and sweetness.
5. Pisang Rai – Balinese Banana Snack Found in Traditional Markets
For something sweet, Pisang Rai is a delightful street snack that reflects Bali’s tropical roots. It consists of bananas wrapped in rice flour dough, steamed, and then rolled in freshly grated coconut. Often served with palm sugar syrup, it’s a chewy, mildly sweet dessert that locals enjoy for breakfast or afternoon tea.
Pisang Rai is commonly sold in morning markets like Pasar Badung in Denpasar or Pasar Ubud. It’s best eaten fresh and warm, making it a perfect start to a day of exploring.
Why It Stands Out: It’s a vegetarian-friendly street food option that highlights Bali’s traditional sweets.
From spicy suckling pig to sweet banana dumplings, the top 5 street foods in Bali offer more than just a quick bite — they provide an unforgettable cultural and culinary immersion. Whether you’re backpacking through the island or indulging in a luxury retreat, make time to hit the streets and taste Bali the way the locals do.