Looking for the best restaurants in Bali? I’ve spent years eating my way across this island, and trust me, knowing where to go makes all the difference.
Bali’s food scene is wild—you’ve got everything from 20k warung nasi campur to fancy clifftop dining.
The tricky part? Separating the real gems from Instagram traps that look pretty but taste meh. So here’s a list of places I actually take my friends when they visit.
Quick Tips for Dining in Bali
- Reservations: Weekend dinner at popular places? Book ahead. Weekday lunch? Just show up.
- Timing: Hit restaurants at 5:30 PM before the rush or 8:30 PM after. Lunch crowds disappear by 2 PM.
- Ordering Smart: Get nasi campur at Indonesian spots. One plate, multiple dishes, best introduction to Balinese food.
- Payment: Warungs are cash-only (have 50k notes ready). Fancy places take cards. ATMs everywhere but fees add up.
- Photo Ops: Rice terrace restaurants look insane during golden hour. THIS IS BALI’s white interior pops on camera any time of the day.
- Transport: Scooters are 60k/day and solve all your problems. Grab works fine but surge pricing during dinner rush will hurt the budget.
Favorite Tourist Areas in Bali
Before we dive into the best restaurants in each area, let’s talk about what makes these spots special. Each area has its own vibe and attracts different types of travelers.
With thousands of dining options, finding the best restaurants in Bali can be overwhelming – we’ve done the hard work for you.
Ubud
Ubud is Bali’s cultural soul—the place everyone pictures when they think “real Bali.” It’s green, spiritual, and packed with things that’ll end up on your Instagram.
- Cultural heart with ancient temples and emerald rice terraces everywhere you look
- Art galleries, traditional markets, and craft workshops on every corner
- Yoga retreats and wellness centers that’ll have you saying “namaste” daily
- Most authentic Balinese atmosphere with locals still doing daily offerings
Canggu
Canggu used to be rice fields, now it’s where digital nomads and surfers hang out. The vibe is young, relaxed, and seriously addictive.
- Epic surf beaches and beach clubs where you can drink cocktails watching sunset
- Digital nomad central with fast wifi and coworking spaces in every cafe
- Trendy cafes serving everything from smoothie bowls to gourmet burgers
- Laid-back bohemian vibe that makes you want to extend your stay
Seminyak
Seminyak is where Bali does luxury. Think champagne instead of Bintang, boutique hotels instead of hostels.
- Upscale shopping with designer boutiques and chic concept stores
- Fancy beach clubs where sunset views come with premium price tags
- Fine dining scene featuring celebrity chefs and fusion cuisine
- Luxury resorts and day spas for when you want to feel fancy
Denpasar
Denpasar is the capital and most locals’ home base. Tourists skip it, which means you get real Balinese life without the markup.
- Bustling local markets where you’ll find the cheapest and most authentic food
- Cultural museums and monuments showing Bali’s real history
- Main transport hub making it easy to explore the whole island
- Best prices for everything from clothes to electronics
Uluwatu
Uluwatu sits on dramatic cliffs in south Bali. It’s stunning, romantic, and worth every rupiah you’ll spend on those clifftop restaurants.
- Dramatic clifftop views that’ll fill your camera roll instantly
- World-class surf breaks attracting pros from around the globe
- Famous Uluwatu Temple perched on cliffs with monkey guardians
- Romantic sunset dining spots perfect for proposals or anniversaries
Sanur
Sanur is Bali’s quiet corner—families love it, party people avoid it. If you want old-school Bali vibes, this is your spot.
- Calm beaches ideal for families with small kids or anyone avoiding big waves
- Stunning sunrise views (while everyone else chases sunsets in Seminyak)
- Relaxed pace feeling like Bali from 20 years ago
- Traditional Balinese village atmosphere with fewer tourists
Best Restaurants in Ubud
Ubud has some of the Best Restaurants in Ubud for authentic Indonesian food. The cultural vibe here means restaurants focus on traditional recipes and local ingredients.
Stop wandering aimlessly and discover the top 3 restaurants in your area of Ubud whether you’re in Penestanan, Campuhan, or central Ubud.
THIS IS BALI
I’ve brought every visiting friend here, and they all say the same thing why isn’t this concept everywhere? The stamp card system turns ordering into an experience. You walk to different stations, see the actual food, and stamp what catches your eye. No menu confusion, no disappointing surprises.
The aesthetic hits different at night. Those white walls and pendant lights create this warm glow that makes everything feel special. I’ve seen people spend 30 minutes just taking photos before eating. Can’t blame them the place is stunning.
Food-wise, you’re getting legit Balinese cuisine. The beef rendang is slow-cooked until it falls apart, the tempeh glazed with maple that even my meat-loving husband devours, and the jackfruit curry that tastes like it came from a Balinese grandma’s kitchen.
They source everything locally and organically, something you can taste in every bite. Plus, it’s all halal and MSG-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worry.
- 💰 Average Price: 75k-150k IDR per person
- 📍 Location: Jl. Goutama 2, Ubud
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Daily
- ⭐ Highlights: Stamp card ordering system, halal menu, Instagram-worthy interior, custom nasi campur, traditional Balinese desserts
Best Restaurants in Canggu
Best restaurants in Canggu lean toward trendy cafes and international fusion. The digital nomad crowd here wants variety, so you’ll find everything from vegan bowls to gourmet pizzas.
The Lawn Canggu
Right on the beach with an infinity pool facing the ocean, The Lawn nails that Bali beach club vibe everyone’s chasing. I come here for lazy Sunday brunches when I want to feel like I’m on vacation (even though I live here!).
The menu covers Mediterranean and Asian fusion, with their wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood being standouts. Portions are generous, and the sunset views make everything taste better.
- 💰 Average Price: 150k-300k IDR per person
- 📍 Location: Jl. Pura Dalem, Canggu Beach
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Daily
- ⭐ Highlights: Beachfront location, infinity pool access, wood-fired pizzas, sunset cocktails, live DJ sessions on weekends
Best Restaurants in Seminyak
The best restaurants in Seminyak cater to upscale tastes. You’re paying more here, but the quality and atmosphere justify the price tags.
Mama San
This place is a Seminyak institution. The 1920s Shanghai-inspired interior with dark timber, plush green seats, and chandeliers create serious atmosphere. Chef Will Meyrick’s pan-Asian menu spans Southeast Asia—think Vietnamese pho, Thai curries, and Indonesian satay all done exceptionally well.
Their dim sum is famous for a reason. Go for dinner when the moody lighting makes the whole place feel like a speakeasy.
- 💰 Average Price: 200k-400k IDR per person
- 📍 Location: Jalan Raya Kerobokan No. 135, Seminyak
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Daily
- ⭐ Highlights: Celebrity chef restaurant, 1920s Shanghai decor, pan-Asian cuisine, extensive cocktail menu, upstairs speakeasy bar
Best Restaurants in Denpasar
The best restaurants in Denpasar offer the most authentic local experience. Tourist crowds thin out here, and prices drop significantly while quality stays high.
Warung Wardani
Locals line up here for the best babi guling (suckling pig) in Denpasar. The pork is roasted until the skin crisps perfectly, stuffed with traditional Balinese spices that make every bite aromatic and flavorful. Served with rice, lawar (vegetable mix), and sambal, this is authentic Balinese food at its finest.
The warung looks basic—plastic chairs and simple tables—but the food speaks for itself. Arrive before noon or you’ll wait 30+ minutes.
- 💰 Average Price: 35k-60k IDR per person
- 📍 Location: Jl. Yudistira No. 2, Denpasar
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Daily
- ⭐ Highlights: Famous babi guling, local favorite, authentic Balinese spices, budget-friendly prices, traditional warung experience
Best Restaurants in Uluwatu
The best restaurants in Uluwatu combine stunning clifftop views with quality food. You’re paying for the location, but these sunset views are worth every rupiah.
Single Fin
Perched on cliffs overlooking one of Bali’s best surf breaks, Single Fin is where surfers and sunset chasers converge. The vibe is super casual—think flip-flops and board shorts—but the Mexican-inspired menu surprises with quality tacos, nachos, and burgers. Sunday sessions with live DJs draw massive crowds.
The real star is watching surfers tackle those waves while you sip Bintangs during golden hour.
- 💰 Average Price: 100k-200k IDR per person
- 📍 Location: Jl. Mamo, Pecatu, Uluwatu
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Daily
- ⭐ Highlights: Clifftop location, surf break views, Sunday DJ sessions, Mexican food, sunset cocktails, surfer hangout
Best Restaurants in Sanur
The best restaurants in Sanur offer a more relaxed dining scene. The family-friendly vibe here means restaurants focus on comfort food and reasonable prices.
Massimo Il Ristorante
Italian-owned and operated, Massimo serves the most authentic Italian food in Bali. Their homemade pasta and gelato taste like you’ve been teleported to Rome. I’m picky about Italian food, and this place passes every test.
The tiramisu alone is worth the visit. They make their own gelato daily with flavors rotating seasonally. The beachfront location means you can watch sunrise while eating breakfast—a perfect start to any Bali day.
- 💰 Average Price: 120k-250k IDR per person
- 📍 Location: Jl. Danau Tamblingan No. 228, Sanur
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Daily
- ⭐ Highlights: Authentic Italian cuisine, homemade pasta and gelato, beachfront location, sunrise views, Italian-owned, daily fresh gelato
Tips for Dining in Bali
What is the average cost of a meal in Bali restaurants?
Eating in Bali fits any budget. Local warungs serve filling meals for 20k-50k IDR ($1.50-$3.50). Mid-range restaurants like cafes and casual dining spots cost 75k-150k IDR ($5-$10) per person.
Upscale restaurants and beach clubs run 200k-500k IDR ($15-$35) per meal. Fine dining experiences start at 500k IDR and can go much higher. Your daily food budget could be as low as $10 or as high as $100 depending on where you choose to eat.
Do I need reservations at popular Bali restaurants?
Reservations are smart for popular spots, especially during peak season (July-August and December-January).
Beach clubs and fine dining restaurants fill up fast for sunset slots. Mid-range restaurants like THIS IS BALI can get crowded during dinner rush (6-8 PM) on weekends. Warungs and casual cafes typically don’t take reservations—just show up.
If you’re planning to visit a specific restaurant, check their Instagram or call ahead. Many places now accept WhatsApp bookings, making reservations super easy.
Are Bali restaurants safe for tourists to eat at?
Bali restaurants are generally safe, especially established spots with good reviews. The water used for ice and washing vegetables is regulated in tourist areas. I’ve eaten everywhere from fancy restaurants to roadside warungs for years without issues.
Stick to busy places where food turnover is high, and avoid anywhere with flies or questionable hygiene. Most tourists who get sick have drank tap water directly or ate from places with obvious red flags. Trust your instincts—if a place looks sketchy, skip it.
What time do most restaurants in Bali open and close?
Restaurant hours vary by type and location. Warungs open early (7-8 AM) and close by 9 PM. Cafes and brunch spots open around 7-8 AM and stay open until 10-11 PM. Beach clubs and bars often run from 10 AM until midnight or later.
Fine dining restaurants typically open for lunch (11 AM-3 PM) and dinner (6 PM-11 PM). Some places close one day a week, usually Monday or Tuesday. Always check hours before heading out, especially for specific restaurants you really want to try.
Can I find halal food options in Bali restaurants?
Halal food is widely available across Bali, especially in tourist areas. Many Indonesian restaurants serve halal food since the majority of Indonesia is Muslim. Places like THIS IS BALI clearly label their halal status.
Ubud and Canggu have numerous halal-certified cafes and restaurants. Look for “halal” signs displayed at entrances, or ask staff to confirm. Warung food is typically halal unless serving pork (babi guling).
Download the HalalTrip app to find halal restaurants near you. Vegetarian and vegan restaurants are also great safe options for Muslim travelers.
No more guessing games at restaurants – use our comprehensive guide to find halal dining options in Ubud from warungs to fine dining.
Ready to Explore?
Bali’s got food for everyone cheap warungs, fancy restaurants, beach clubs, you name it. Each area’s different: Ubud’s great for real Indonesian food, Canggu’s all trendy cafes, Seminyak’s where you go fancy, Denpasar’s got the cheapest local spots, Uluwatu’s for cliff views, and Sanur’s super chill. Mix it up and try different places that’s how you find the good stuff. In fact, exploring like this is the best way to discover some of the best restaurants in Bali.
THIS IS BALI If you need a safe bet to start, check out THIS IS BALI in Ubud. The stamp card thing is pretty cool, food’s legit, and it actually looks as good as it tastes. But honestly? Some of my best meals were random warungs I just walked into.
Keep an open mind, eat everywhere, and you’ll find your own spots soon enough.
