7 Must-Try Balinese Dishes
You Can’t Miss When Visiting Ubud
Ubud is a paradise for culture lovers, yogis, and digital nomads. But let’s be honest: the real reason many of us keep coming back to this lush jungle town is the food. The culinary scene here is incredible. However, with so many western cafes popping up, it’s easy to get distracted by smoothie bowls and avocado toast. While those are delicious, leaving Ubud without tasting the local cuisine would be a missed opportunity. If you are looking for an authentic culinary adventure, here are the 7 must-try Balinese dishes that define the flavor of Ubud.
1. Ayam Betutu (Slow-Cooked Spiced Chicken)
You cannot talk about Balinese food without mentioning Ayam Betutu. This is arguably the most famous dish on the island. The chicken is marinated in a rich paste called Basa Gede (a mix of turmeric, ginger, galangal, lemongrass, and chilies), then wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked for hours.
- Taste Profile: Incredibly tender, aromatic, and spicy. The meat separates easily from the bone and is soaked in savory juices.
- Where to find it: Most authentic warungs in Ubud serve this, including our signature version at Natah Ubud.
2. Sate Lilit (Minced Meat Satay)
Unlike the chunk-meat satay you might find in Jakarta or Singapore, Balinese Sate Lilit is unique. The meat (usually fish, chicken, or pork) is minced and mixed with grated coconut, coconut milk, and spices. It is then wrapped around a flat bamboo skewer or a stalk of lemongrass. When grilled over charcoal, the lemongrass releases a citrusy aroma that infuses the meat.
- Fun Fact: “Lilit” means “to wrap” in Balinese.
3. Nasi Campur Bali (Balinese Mixed Rice)
Can’t decide what to order? Nasi Campur is the ultimate sampler platter. It allows you to try small portions of everything in one go. A typical plate includes a scoop of white rice surrounded by Ayam Betutu, Sate Lilit, Lawar (vegetables), crispy fried peanuts, egg, and a dollop of Sambal. Every chef in Ubud has their own version of Nasi Campur, making it a new experience every time you try it.
4. Lawar (Traditional Vegetable Mix)
Lawar might look like a simple salad, but it is a complex mix of textures and flavors. It consists of chopped long beans, young papaya, or jackfruit, mixed with grated coconut, minced meat, and plenty of spices. It adds a crunchy, fresh texture that balances the richness of the meat dishes on your plate.
5. Bebek Goreng / Crispy Duck
Ubud is famous for its duck dishes, particularly the deep-fried crispy duck. The duck is usually simmered in spices first to make it tender, then deep-fried until the skin is incredibly crispy—so crispy you can often eat the small bones!
Served with steaming rice and fresh raw vegetables (lalapan), this is a “must-try” for anyone visiting the rice field areas of Ubud.
6. Sambal Matah (Raw Shallot & Lemongrass Salsa)
Technically this is a condiment, not a main dish, but it deserves its own spot on this list. Sambal Matah is the soul of Balinese dining.
Unlike cooked chili pastes, this is made from raw ingredients: thinly sliced shallots, lemongrass, torch ginger flower (kecombrang), bird’s eye chilies, lime juice, and hot coconut oil. It is fresh, zesty, and spicy. It elevates grilled fish or chicken to a whole new level.
7. Jaje Bali (Traditional Balinese Cakes)
End your meal on a sweet note with Jaje Bali. This is a general term for Balinese traditional cakes, which are mostly made from rice flour, glutinous rice, coconut, and palm sugar.
Look for Laklak (small green pancakes served with grated coconut and liquid palm sugar) or Pisang Rai (boiled banana covered in coconut). They are sweet, chewy, and perfect with a cup of hot Balinese coffee.
Experience the Taste of Home at Natah Ubud
Reading about these dishes is one thing, but tasting them is another experience entirely.
At Natah Ubud, we bring these authentic flavors to your table with a home-cooked touch. We believe that great Balinese food should feel like a warm hug—comforting, delicious, and full of culture.
Whether you are craving the spicy kick of Ayam Betutu or the fresh zest of Sambal Matah, our kitchen is ready to serve you the best of Ubud.
Come visit us! 📍 Location: Near Monkey Forest, Ubud ✨ Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner
