Best Places to Eat in Ubud

Its best to start off your journey by gently easing into Balinese culture and the delightfully wide spectrum of food associated with it. One of the earliest eateries to build a reputation with tourists and backpackers is Cafe Lotus. It has recently become a small chain of restaurants, but the company got its name because of the original outlet being located next to a large pond filled with lotuses. The original establishment is located past the Pura Saraswati temple, and is best visited at night if you'd like to witness the incredible Balinese cultural dance performances that take place.

For an experience that fuses a whole variety of culinary influences, this is definitely one of the best places to visit. The restaurant had dabbled in various culinary concepts throughout its inception, which has led to dynamic present day offerings. Their delectable specials include items such as large prawns glazed with ginger and honey that have been sautéed in garlic. The serene ambience of the restaurant, featuring flowering plants and antique statues, is perfectly crafted for a romantic rendezvous with a significant someone.

This establishment is quite reputed and was even praised by celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain for its cocktails and alcoholic beverages. It is one of the popular hangouts in Bali where expats are concerned, and the food isn't authentic Thai but the influences are definitely present. When it comes to barbeques, this eatery is one of the champions of the region, and renowned to serve some of the most reputed lamb/pork chops, spare ribs and grilled tuna in Bali. The eatery is also known to be very affordable since a plate of ribs would cost less than four pounds.

If you're looking for award winning restaurants in Ubud this is definitely the place you should visit since Ibu Oka has become somewhat legendary after being recommended by Anthony Bourdain. It is known for its 'Babi Guling', which is a Balinese take on roasted suckling pig. It is a highly cultural and indulgent dish that would be available in various forms from restaurants to hotels such as COMO Uma Ubud. Before being spit roasted, the pig is stuffed with a delicious mix of garlic, lemongrass, black pepper, turmeric and coriander seeds. Once the meat is falling-off-the-bone tender, it is served on a bed of rice with a variety of condiments topped with their special sauce.

The name of this restaurant roughly translates into the 'Dirty Duck Diner' and many refer to it by the English term now. The first thing you will notice about Bebek Bengil is the atmosphere, which is blissful and revitalising, making it an ideal place to indulge in one of Bali's most iconic dishes, smoked duck, which is locally known as bebek tutu. This dish should be ordered 24 hours in advanced since an entire duck is coated in spices, wrapped in betel leaves, and slowly smoked for an entire day.