6 Must-try Mouthwatering Indonesian Street Food in Bali for the Ultimate Malaysian Foodie

So, you’ve heard about Bali’s gorgeous beaches, iconic temples, and buzzing nightlife. So much so, that you’ve promised yourself you’ll visit the beautiful destination at least once in your life — if you haven’t already that is. Well, if you’ve already made plans to do just that, one thing you should also know is that Bali boasts plenty of mouthwatering street foods! From flavourful martabak to chargrilled sate babi, here are six must-try foods in Bali that’ll leave you salivating!

 

1. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Djambow Martabak

Any self-respecting Malaysian foodie would probably have tried murtabak, a stuffed pancake commonly sold at mamak restaurants or pasar malams in Malaysia. Well, if you love murtabaks — and have a sweet tooth — Indonesia’s terang bulan or martabak manis at Djambow Martabak should be at the top of your list.

What to expect:

• There are two versions of murtabak in Indonesia: martabak telur (similar to the Malaysian version) and terang bulan which is more of a dessert pancake usually topped with condensed milk, chocolate sprinkles, and various other toppings.
• Unlike other martabak stalls,  there are a variety of unique martabak flavours at Djambow to choose from such as red velvet, avocado, and even luwak coffee based ones! If you didn’t know already, luwak or civet coffee is also the world’s most expensive coffee. 
• You can even customise your order the way you like it by combining a variety of toppings such as KitKat bars, Toblerone chocolate, crushed Oreos, Nutella chocolate, and several other sugary treats.
• The pancake is perfect for sharing as well as sizes are pretty large. However, you can even order personal sized ones if you want one for yourself.

Address: Dewi Sri Street No.18E, Legian, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali 80361, Indonesia.

 

2. Deep fried crispy duck at Bebek Bengil 

Duck is a popular local delicacy in Indonesia and is simply a must-try while you’re in Bali. Thankfully for you, we know just the place to recommend.

What to expect:

• Literally meaning “Dirty Duck Diner” in English, this popular restaurant in Ubud offers traditional Balinese dishes in a unique ambiance.
• There are a variety of options for you to choose from including crispy fried duck, duck satay, and the signature smoked duck which has to be ordered a day in advance.
• If you’re travelling in a large group, we recommend reserving one of the pondoks for a more authentic experience.
• Dine cross-legged at long tables offering beautiful views of the paddy fields below.

Address: Padang Tegal, Jl. Hanoman, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia.

3. Fried tilapia in aromatic spices at RM Pak Bagong 

Located in Bangli, RM Pak Bagong is a popular restaurant offering traditional Balinese cuisine. If you’re visiting the area, take the opportunity to stop by and give the Mujair Nyat-Nyat (fried tilapia in spices) a try which is a crowd favourite.

What to expect:

• The fish is fried first and then braised in spices giving the dish a slightly spicy kick.
• It’s served with sambal matah (spicy sauce), jukut undis (black bean soup), plecing kangkung (spicy water spinach).
• RM Pak Bangong is also well-known for its loloh cemcem which is a popular herbal drink in Bali made out of various crushed medicinal leaves, palm sugar, cinnamon, and coconut slices.

4. Be spoilt for choice as you savour delicious Padang food at Puteri Minang

If you didn’t know already, there are two methods of serving in a traditional Padang restaurant: Pesan (ordering) and hidang (serving). While the former is usually practiced in smaller Padang establishments, the latter is used in bigger establishments where customers are seated at tables while waiters place various dishes for customers to pick and choose from. One thing is for sure though, whichever the method, Nasi Padang makes for a hearty lunch due to its array of dishes and flavourful sambals and curries.

What to expect:

• A wide selection of dishes including beef rendang, tempe, crispy fried chicken, fish sambal, an assortment of fresh vegetables, and many others.
• The place is also suitable for vegetarians as there’s a whole section dedicated to vegetarian food.

Address: Jl. Raya Ubud 77, Ubud, Indonesia.

 

5. Succulent roasted pig at Ibu Oka

Babi Guling is an iconic Balinese street food commonly found at various roadside stalls or warungs throughout the day. While you’re bound to find many stalls serving the iconic street food, none is sure to be as popular as the famed Warung Ibu Oka in Ubud.

What to expect:

• First opened in 2000, the stall was even featured in an episode of the late Anthony Bourdain’s TV show.
• In fact, the family-owned business has a long history as the previous generation of owners were once approached by the King of Ubud to prepare suckling pig for the palace.
• The dish is served along with steamed white rice, lawar (a mixture of shredded vegetables, coconut, and hot chillies), pork sausages, and topped with crackling pork skin.

Address: Jalan Tegal Sari 2, Ubud, Bali.

6. Chargrilled pork skewers at Sate Babi Bawah Pohon

Located just under 10 kilometres away from Ngurah Rai International Airport, visiting this stall to sample its delicious satay is simply a must while you’re in Bali.

What to expect:

• Freshly grilled, tender pork skewers served with rice for under RM10.
• The pork is well-marinated and has the right balance of sweetness and spiciness making it the perfect lunchtime treat.
• This humble food spot is well-known among tourists and locals alike so expect a crowd.

Address: Jalan Campuhan I – Dewi Sri IV, Legian, Kuta.

How amazing are these restaurants and food stalls! And the best part is, these are just a FEW of many other mouthwatering treats Bali has to offer.

Well, if you’re already planning your next vacay in Bali, be sure you check out other attractions Bali has to offer!

More information on Bali and other beautiful Indonesian destinations can be found here.

Safe travels everyone!