Ubud is not only the cultural heart of Bali but also a paradise for food lovers. From traditional Balinese dishes to unique snacks passed down through generations, exploring food in Ubud is an experience that brings you closer to the island’s rich heritage. The local cuisine is deeply rooted in Balinese traditions, combining spices, fresh ingredients, and time-honored cooking methods.

If you’re planning a trip to Bali, make sure to include a culinary journey in Ubud. Below, we highlight seven must-try dishes that perfectly represent authentic Balinese flavors.

Why Food in Ubud is Special?

Ubud stands out for its close connection to Balinese culture. Surrounded by rice fields, farms, and traditional villages, Ubud has access to fresh and organic ingredients. Many recipes are inspired by temple ceremonies and family traditions, making food in Ubud more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience.

Here are the reasons why food in Ubud is truly special:

• Fresh Ingredients: Most dishes use organic vegetables, herbs, and spices sourced from local farms.

• Deep Cultural Roots: Many recipes come from temple ceremonies and family traditions that have been passed down for generations.

• Unique Cooking Techniques: Slow-cooking, roasting, and the use of banana leaves create distinctive flavors.

• Spice-Rich Flavors: Balinese cuisine blends turmeric, lemongrass, chili, and local herbs for bold tastes.

• Balance of Ritual and Everyday Life: From roasted suckling pig at festivals to herbal drinks enjoyed daily, food represents both celebration and wellness.

Eating in Ubud is not just about satisfying hunger—it’s about tasting the soul of Bali.

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7 Must-Try Food in Ubud

1. Babi Guling (Balinese Suckling Pig)

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Babi guling is perhaps the most famous dish in Bali and a must when visiting Ubud. This dish features a whole pig, seasoned with turmeric, lemongrass, and local spices, then roasted over an open fire until the skin becomes crispy and golden. Traditionally served during ceremonies, it has now become a popular delicacy in restaurants and warungs.

• Where to Go: The most famous spot is Warung Ibu Oka, located near Ubud Palace. Other recommended warungs include Warung Babi Guling Gung Cung and local stalls around Ubud Market.

• Highlight: The crispy golden skin, tender spiced meat, and flavorful lawar (vegetable mix) served on the side make it unforgettable.

• How to Eat: Usually served with rice, fried intestines, spicy sambal, and vegetables on one plate. The best way is to enjoy it fresh and hot, straight from the kitchen.

2. Bebek Betutu (Slow-Cooked Duck)

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Bebek betutu is a ceremonial dish where a whole duck is marinated with Balinese spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked for hours until tender.

• Where to Go: Try it at Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner), one of the most iconic places in Ubud, or local restaurants specializing in traditional Balinese cuisine.

• Highlight: Rich, smoky flavors from the long cooking process, with meat so tender it falls off the bone.

• How to Eat: Usually served with rice, sambal, and vegetables. Best enjoyed with hands for an authentic Balinese experience.

3. Nasi Campur Bali

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Nasi campur is a mixed rice dish featuring a variety of small side dishes like spicy chicken, vegetables, peanuts, sambal matah, and satay.

• Where to Go: Found in almost every warung in Ubud. Popular spots include Warung Bintangbali and local family-owned warungs.

• Highlight: A perfect sampler of Balinese flavors in one plate, from spicy to savory.

• How to Eat: Mix the rice with the side dishes and sambal to enjoy the blend of flavors in every bite.

4. Lawar (Traditional Mixed Salad)

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Lawar is made from finely chopped vegetables, grated coconut, herbs, and minced meat, all mixed with spices.

• Where to Go: Best experienced in small local warungs where it’s freshly prepared, often served alongside babi guling.

• Highlight: A unique texture combination—crunchy vegetables with rich, spicy seasoning.

• How to Eat: Typically eaten with steamed rice and other dishes. Best enjoyed as part of a larger Balinese meal.

5. Satay Lilit (Balinese Minced Satay)

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Satay lilit uses minced fish or meat mixed with coconut, herbs, and spices, wrapped around bamboo or lemongrass sticks before grilling.

• Where to Go: Try it at traditional food stalls in Ubud Market or restaurants like Warung D’Atas.

• Highlight: Smoky aroma with a juicy, savory taste that’s different from regular satay.

• How to Eat: Eat it hot off the grill, often paired with rice and sambal for extra flavor.

6. Jaje Bali (Balinese Traditional Cakes)

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Jaje Bali refers to colorful traditional cakes made from rice flour, palm sugar, and grated coconut, commonly served during ceremonies.

• Where to Go: Ubud Traditional Market offers a wide variety of jaje Bali every morning. Some warungs also serve them as snacks.

• Highlight: Varieties like klepon (sweet rice balls) and laklak (Balinese pancakes) showcase the sweet side of Balinese cuisine.

• How to Eat: Best enjoyed with Balinese coffee or tea as an afternoon snack.

7. Balinese Coffee & Jamu

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Balinese coffee is strong and earthy, while jamu is a herbal drink made from turmeric, ginger, and honey.

• Where to Go: Many cafes in Ubud serve Balinese coffee. For jamu, visit health-focused cafes or local markets.

• Highlight: Coffee gives you a rustic, authentic taste of Bali, while jamu provides a refreshing, healthy twist.

• How to Eat/Drink: Sip Balinese coffee slowly to savor its bold flavor. Jamu is best enjoyed cold for a refreshing effect.

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Tips to Eat Best Food in Ubud

Exploring food in Ubud can be even more enjoyable if you know a few insider tips. These suggestions will help you make the most of your culinary journey:

• Visit Local Warungs: Don’t just stick to tourist restaurants—family-run warungs often serve the most authentic dishes at affordable prices.

• Go Early to Markets: Ubud Traditional Market is best visited in the morning when fresh snacks and traditional cakes like jaje Bali are available.

• Try Seasonal Specials: Some dishes, like lawar or ceremonial foods, may only be available during festivals or special occasions.

• Mind the Spice Levels: Balinese food can be quite spicy. Ask for “less spicy” if you’re not used to chili.

• Pair Food with Drinks: Complement your meal with Balinese coffee or jamu to experience the perfect balance of flavors.

• Join a Cooking Class: For a deeper connection, try a Balinese cooking class in Ubud and learn how to prepare traditional recipes yourself.

• Eat Like a Local: Don’t be afraid to use your hands when eating dishes like bebek betutu or babi guling—it’s the authentic Balinese way.

With these tips, your food journey in Ubud will not only be delicious but also culturally enriching.

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Combine Food in Ubud with Cultural Experience

Enjoying food in Ubud becomes even more meaningful when paired with cultural activities. After savoring local dishes, you can explore Ubud’s temples, rice terraces, or even join a creative workshop.

One recommended activity is the Alam Ubud Jewelry Workshop, where you can learn traditional Balinese silver jewelry making. Just like the culinary heritage, jewelry-making reflects Bali’s artistry and traditions. Combining these experiences gives you a deeper understanding of Ubud’s authentic culture.

• Where to Go: The Alamu Jewelry Workshop, located in the heart of Ubud, just a short distance from major landmarks like Ubud Palace and the Monkey Forest.

• What’s Included: Guided jewelry-making session with local artisans, use of professional tools, silver materials, and your finished jewelry piece to take home as a unique souvenir.

• What to Expect: A hands-on, creative experience where you’ll design and craft your own silver ring or pendant. The workshop is beginner-friendly, and you’ll leave with not just a piece of jewelry but also a memorable cultural connection.

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Final Thoughts on Food in Ubud

Exploring food in Ubud is more than just tasting delicious dishes—it’s about connecting with Balinese culture and traditions. From babi guling to jaje Bali, every bite tells a story of history, ritual, and community.

When you visit Ubud, take time to enjoy these iconic foods and pair them with cultural experiences like jewelry workshops or temple visits. This way, your trip will be both flavorful and unforgettable.

👉 After your culinary journey, don’t miss the chance to join the Alam Ubud Jewelry Workshop. Here, you can craft your own silver jewelry guided by local artisans—a perfect cultural experience and a unique souvenir to remember your Ubud trip.