What is the Best Night Market in Bali for Street Food

If you’ve ever asked yourself what is the best night market in Bali for street food, you’re not alone. Every traveler I’ve met who lands on the island eventually starts chasing those smoky food stalls, sizzling satay skewers, and plates piled high with flavors that hit you like a party in your mouth. The truth is, Bali has more than one night market worth checking out, and each one gives you a slightly different vibe. Some are cheap and chaotic, some lean more modern, and a few feel like you’re stepping into a food carnival that never ends.

Read also: Is Sanur Good for Families?

The Buzz of Bali’s Night Markets

The very first time I set foot in a Bali night market, I wasn’t even hungry. I’d just come back from the beach in Sanur, sunburnt and sandy, and figured I’d “just look.” Yeah right. Within five minutes, I had my hands full with grilled corn rubbed with spicy butter, a bag of fried banana drizzled in chocolate, and a bowl of bakso soup I couldn’t even carry properly. That’s the thing with these markets — they’re designed to lure you in, not just with smells but with the energy.

Bali’s night markets aren’t polished, tourist-trap versions of street food. They’re messy, loud, sometimes a bit confusing, but always authentic. Locals shop there for their dinners, kids run around with skewers, and vendors yell over each other trying to get your attention. And honestly, that’s what makes it so much fun.

Sanur Night Market (Pasar Sindhu)

Let’s start with Sanur Night Market, also known as Pasar Sindhu. If you’re staying anywhere near the east coast of Bali, this one’s a must. It’s not as big as some of the others, but it’s packed with classic Indonesian eats.

One night I remember trying nasi campur (basically a plate of rice with a bit of everything). I had spicy chicken, fried tempeh, sambal that nearly blew my head off, and a side of vegetables I couldn’t even name but loved anyway. The plate cost less than $2. That’s the kind of deal you’ll keep bragging about to friends back home.

And the best part? The market doubles as a fresh produce spot in the morning, so everything at night tastes incredibly fresh. According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism, traditional markets like these play a huge role in preserving local culinary heritage — which makes sense, because some of the recipes you’ll taste here have been passed down for generations.

Gianyar Night Market

If you’re more central, Gianyar Night Market is where you’ll find yourself drooling. This place is huge compared to Sanur. The first thing you’ll notice is the smoke — everywhere, smoke rising from satay stands. Chicken satay, goat satay, even rabbit if you’re adventurous. They grill them over coconut husks, so the flavor is rich, slightly sweet, and smoky in a way you just can’t replicate back home.

I once stood in line for twenty minutes at a stall that everyone swore had the best babi guling (suckling pig) in town. And yeah, it was worth every second. Crispy skin, juicy meat, a scoop of spicy sambal matah on the side. You’ll pay a little more here than Sanur, maybe $3-5 a plate, but trust me, you won’t leave hungry.

Another fun thing here is the sweets. Balinese desserts don’t get enough love. Try klepon — little rice flour balls filled with palm sugar that bursts in your mouth when you bite in. Sticky, messy, but addictive.

Badung Market in Denpasar

Now if you want the “big city” version, head to Badung Market in Denpasar. This one’s a beast. It’s open day and night, but after dark is when the food section really comes alive. Unlike the more tourist-friendly markets, this one feels like it’s running on pure local energy.

I once got lost in the maze of stalls here, following the sound of a sizzling wok, and ended up with a plate of mie goreng made fresh in front of me. The noodles were tossed with egg, veggies, and chili so strong I was sweating within two bites. And yeah, I kept eating.

This market is where you’ll see just how much variety Balinese street food actually has. It’s not just satay and rice. There’s lawar (a mix of minced meat, veggies, and spices), seafood cooked over open flames, and soups that smell like heaven.

Kuta Night Market

Kuta isn’t just beach clubs and nightlife. Tucked away, you’ve got the Kuta Night Market, which honestly feels like a mix between a tourist stop and a locals’ hangout. The prices are slightly higher than Gianyar or Sanur, but still dirt cheap compared to restaurants.

Here I found the best fried chicken I’ve had in Bali, no exaggeration. It wasn’t fancy — just crispy skin, juicy meat, and a chili dip that made it sing. Sometimes the simplest dishes are the ones you crave days later.

If you’re traveling with picky eaters, Kuta might actually be your best bet. The stalls here often have both Indonesian favorites and a few safer options like grilled corn or fried noodles.

So… Which One’s the Best?

Now, this is the tricky part. Asking me what is the best night market in Bali for street food is like asking a parent to pick their favorite kid. Each market has its own character.

• Sanur (Pasar Sindhu) → Smaller, super authentic, cheap, perfect for your first night market experience.
• Gianyar → The king of satay and babi guling. If you’re a meat lover, this is your spot.
• Badung (Denpasar) → Massive, local-heavy, chaotic but fun if you want the real deal.
• Kuta → Easier for tourists, with a mix of local and comfort food.

If I had to pick one, though? Gianyar Night Market steals the crown for me. The energy, the food variety, and the unbeatable satay make it hard to top. But I’ll be real with you — no matter where you go, you’re not leaving disappointed.

Practical Tips for Hitting Bali’s Night Markets

Alright, before you dash off with visions of satay in your head, a few things I learned the hard way:

• Bring cash, and small bills. Nobody wants to break a 100k note for a $1 snack.
• Go early if you want the freshest picks, but late if you want the party vibe.
• Don’t be shy — point, ask, or just nod when you don’t know what something is. Vendors are used to it.
• Try at least one thing you’ve never seen before. Half the fun is discovering something wild.

And yeah, be prepared for a little chaos. That’s part of the charm.

Ubud Night Market (Sayan Night Market)

People usually think of Ubud as yoga mats, smoothie bowls, and art galleries, but here’s the thing: once the sun drops, Ubud has a surprisingly down-to-earth night market scene. The Sayan Night Market, just a few minutes from central Ubud, is where locals stock up on dinner. Tourists don’t always stumble across it because it doesn’t have neon signs or anything flashy, but that’s exactly why it’s worth the trip.

The first time I came here, a vendor handed me a bowl of tipat cantok — rice cakes tossed with vegetables and peanut sauce. Sounds simple, but wow, it was rich, nutty, and just slightly spicy. For dessert, I grabbed pisang goreng (fried banana) topped with shredded cheese, which sounds weird if you’ve never tried it, but trust me, that sweet-salty combo hits different when you’re walking through a humid Bali night.

Ubud’s market is smaller than Gianyar or Badung, but it’s perfect if you’re staying nearby and want to eat like the locals without the crowds. Bonus: prices here are some of the lowest I’ve seen, because it’s less tourist-driven.

Singaraja Night Market (Buleleng Night Market)

Not many travelers make it up north to Singaraja, but if you do, the Buleleng Night Market is a gem. This one is huge and has a totally different feel than the southern Bali markets. It’s more spread out, with stalls selling everything from satay to rujak buah (a fruit salad drenched in spicy palm sugar sauce).

One evening, I was wandering with a local friend who insisted I try ayam betutu — slow-cooked chicken smothered in spices and wrapped in banana leaves. The flavor was so deep and smoky that I couldn’t believe it came from a market stall. Pair that with a cup of es daluman (a cooling grass jelly drink), and suddenly you’re in food heaven.

Up here, you also get fewer tourists, which means more curious stares from locals — but also warmer smiles and genuine conversations. Vendors sometimes ask where you’re from and then pile extra chili on your food, just to see how much heat you can handle. Spoiler: I couldn’t handle it, but it made for a good laugh.

The Vibe: Why Night Markets Beat Restaurants

Here’s something I noticed after years of visiting Bali — restaurants are great when you’re craving a sit-down meal, but night markets have this energy you just can’t recreate. It’s not only about the food. It’s the smoky air, the buzz of scooters pulling up, the chatter in Balinese and Bahasa Indonesia, the clinking of plates being washed right behind the stall.

And the price point? Come on. Where else can you walk in with the equivalent of $10 and roll out stuffed with grilled corn, satay, soup, fried bananas, and still have change for a cold drink? That’s the beauty. You can sample ten different dishes in one night without burning a hole in your pocket.

Another thing — food here is cooked in front of you, usually on tiny grills or woks that look like they’ve been in the family for decades. There’s no “fancy plating” or chef drama, just honest food made fast and fresh.

What Locals Usually Eat at Night Markets

If you’re not sure where to start, just watch what locals order. Balinese people know their food better than any blog or review site. I’ve noticed that bakso (meatball soup) is one of the most popular late-night eats. It’s hearty, warming, and perfect if you’ve been walking around for hours. Kids usually go for skewers or fried snacks like tahu isi (stuffed tofu).

Meanwhile, adults love their sate lilit — minced fish satay wrapped around lemongrass sticks. It’s smoky, herby, and packed with flavor. Then you’ve got nasi jinggo, a tiny portion of rice wrapped in banana leaf with spicy sambal and shredded chicken. It’s basically Bali’s version of fast food, but it hits the spot every time.

And don’t forget the drinks. Es campur (shaved ice with jelly, fruit, and syrup) is refreshing, while teh manis (sweet tea) is the go-to for most adults. Some stalls even have fresh coconuts cracked open right in front of you.

Safety & Comfort Tips That No One Tells You

Okay, let’s be real for a second. Street food is amazing, but if you’re new to Bali, there are a couple of things that’ll save you some discomfort.

First, bring tissues or napkins. Most stalls don’t hand them out, and if you’re eating sambal, trust me, you’ll need them. Second, don’t overdo it on your first night. I know the temptation is there to try everything, but your stomach might not agree if you go too wild too fast.

Also, some stalls can be very spicy. Like, tear-streaming-down-your-face spicy. If you’re not used to heat, ask for “tidak pedas” (not spicy) when ordering. Though, sometimes the vendor will smirk and add a little sambal anyway, just to test you.

And finally — be cool with the seating. Sometimes you’ll get a plastic stool, sometimes just a bench. That’s part of the deal. If you’re expecting linen tablecloths, you’re in the wrong place.

Why Foodies Keep Coming Back to Bali

One last thing worth mentioning: Bali isn’t just about beaches, yoga, or nightlife. For a lot of people, it’s about food. The night markets are a huge part of why foodies love it here. They offer something different every night, and even the same stall might taste a little different depending on the season or who’s cooking that evening.

According to a report by Indonesia’s Central Bureau of Statistics, traditional markets remain one of the primary sources of daily meals for local households. That explains why they’re still thriving in the face of modern supermarkets and online food apps. People just trust what’s cooked right in front of them.

So yeah, if you’re a traveler who cares more about authenticity than shiny Instagram shots, night markets will give you exactly what you’re craving.

Is Sanur Good for Families? Why It’s Bali’s Chill Corner for a Stress-Free Holiday With Kids

So, is Sanur good for families? Straight up—yes. It really is. I’ve been to Bali a few times now, and while places like Canggu and Seminyak have their thing going on, Sanur is the one spot I always recommend when someone asks me where to stay with kids. It’s quieter, easier, and just… makes life less chaotic when you’re traveling with little ones. It’s kinda like Bali’s peaceful aunt—still fun, still warm, but not as wild.

Let me walk you through everything I’ve picked up over multiple visits with my kids (and once with my in-laws—whole other story there). We’ll dig into the beach scene, places to eat, where to stay, and even what the local vibe is like when your toddler’s throwing a tantrum in public. Yeah, it happens.

The Beach in Sanur Is a Total Win for Kids (and Tired Parents)

Alright, first thing's first: the beach. This is usually a deal-breaker when you’ve got small kids in tow, right?

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Sanur Beach is chill. Like, really chill. The waves are super gentle because there’s a long reef offshore that breaks most of them before they reach the shore. So if you're wondering if it's safe for toddlers or younger kids to splash around—yeah, absolutely. I’ve seen two-year-olds waddling into the water without getting knocked over like in Kuta or even Legian. My six-year-old spent three straight hours building a sand castle while I finally drank my coffee while it was still hot. That’s a win.

Oh, and the sand? It’s not that sharp coral-y stuff you’ll find elsewhere in Bali. It’s softer, a little golden, and doesn’t get scorching hot by midday like some black sand beaches.

One thing to note—there’s a long paved beachfront path that stretches for kilometers. We rented bikes with baby seats and cruised along the water every morning. It was kinda our little ritual: beach play, breakfast, then a bike ride before nap time. That path is underrated. You don’t have to deal with cars or motorbikes zipping past, and the views? Unreal.

Kid-Friendly Eats Without the Drama (Or Food Poisoning)

I get it, food’s a whole thing when you’re traveling with kids. Especially picky eaters, or if you're nervous about street food. Sanur is stacked with options that cater to families. There’s a surprising number of cafes where you’ll see high chairs, babycinos, kids' menus, and even indoor play areas.

Let me throw out a few places that saved my sanity:

Three Monkeys Sanur – This place feels fancy, but they were super chill about my kids being loud. The grilled chicken skewers and rice were a hit with both my 4-year-old and my husband. The cocktails helped me survive dinner.
Massimo – Legendary gelato. This spot is Italian-run, so the pasta’s solid and the kids didn’t complain once. That’s rare.
Soul in a Bowl – Great breakfast spot. Banana pancakes? Yes. Almond milk smoothies? Also yes. They’ve got board games and crayons on standby.

Plus, if you’ve got a sensitive tummy in the group, there are lots of places that focus on clean eating, gluten-free, or organic options. I didn’t have to explain ten times what “no peanuts” meant. Most staff spoke decent English, too, which made ordering way easier.

Is Sanur Safe for Families? I’d Say It’s One of the Safest Spots in Bali

Safety’s huge when you're abroad with kids. I’ve stayed in Sanur during both high and low seasons and never once felt sketched out walking around with my kids—even at night.

The traffic is manageable. Unlike Seminyak or Ubud where scooters are zipping past every second, Sanur is noticeably quieter. We walked to dinner most nights or grabbed a Grab (like 
Bali’s version of Uber) if the kids were too tired to walk. Sidewalks are... decent. Not perfect, but wide enough and less chaotic than Denpasar or Kuta.

Sanur also has a community feel. People know each other. The locals remember you if you’ve stayed for more than a few days. A little warung owner gave my son a free ice cream just because he remembered us from last time. That kind of vibe makes a place feel safer, y’know?

There’s also decent access to medical care. I didn’t need it (thankfully), but friends of mine did when their kid picked up some tropical bug. BIMC Hospital in Kuta is about 30 minutes away. And there are smaller local clinics right in Sanur that are foreigner-friendly.

Where to Stay in Sanur With Kids—Hotels, Villas, and Everything In Between

Okay, accommodation. We’ve done it all in Sanur—resorts, Airbnbs, and even a little homestay.

If you’re going with younger kids or babies, I’d recommend sticking with the family resorts. Some have kiddie pools, babysitting services, and kids' clubs that actually work. We stayed at Maya Sanur Resort & Spa once, and they had a mini splash zone plus babysitting we actually trusted. The spa’s not too shabby either—so I snuck in a massage while the kids were making crafts.

Fairmont Sanur (which recently rebranded but still has that name locally) is on the high end, but wow, the rooms are massive and perfect for families. You can fit a travel cot, stroller, and still have space to breathe.

But here’s the thing—not everyone wants a resort. If you’re more the DIY type, there are plenty of 2- or 3-bedroom villas tucked into quiet lanes. Some even come with private pools and a staff who’ll cook breakfast. That setup’s ideal if your kids are early risers (like mine, ugh) and you don’t wanna deal with dragging them to a buffet at 7 a.m.

Just make sure the pool has a fence if your kids are small. Some villas don’t. We had to drag a big rattan sofa in front of the sliding glass door one night just to be sure our toddler didn’t sneak out while we were asleep. So yeah—ask before you book.

What’s the Vibe in Sanur for Families? Low-Key, But Never Boring

Sanur isn’t flashy. You won’t find big beach parties or Instagram-model types posing every five steps like in Canggu. And honestly? That’s a good thing.

There’s a mature vibe in Sanur—not boring, just calmer. It’s popular with older travelers, yes, but also with expat families who live in Bali full-time. You’ll spot a few schools, yoga studios, and community events that are actually worth checking out. One time we stumbled on a Balinese dance performance near the temple by the beach walk—it wasn’t even advertised. Just this beautiful, cultural thing happening for the locals, and they were totally welcoming to us joining in.

There's also a night market (Pasar Sindhu) that’s pretty mellow and fun for kids. Not too overwhelming like some bigger ones in Ubud or Kuta. They’ve got skewers, noodles, fresh juices, and little toys. My son got obsessed with this 10,000 IDR bouncy frog that lit up and honestly, it became the MVP of the trip.

We also hired a local guide for a day trip to Tegenungan Waterfall and Ubud’s Monkey Forest. Sanur’s a great base to explore from. Everything is within reach but without the chaos of staying in the middle of tourist central.

Weather and When to Go—Plus What It’s Really Like With Kids in Tow

Sanur, like the rest of Bali, has two main seasons: wet and dry. Dry season runs from about April to October, and honestly, that’s the sweet spot for family travel. Less rain, lower humidity, and fewer complaints about sticky clothes from the kids.

But we’ve visited in December too. Yes, it rained—but mostly in short bursts. And everything was still green and lovely. Plus, prices drop a bit and it’s less crowded. We brought rain jackets and just leaned into the slower pace. Not the worst tradeoff.

It gets hot, though. Like, sweat-through-your-shirt-before-breakfast kind of hot. So pack light cotton clothes, a good hat for the kids, and sunscreen. Loads of it. We also packed one of those little rechargeable fans. Best $20 I ever spent.

Oh—and don't forget mozzie repellent. Sanur’s not as buggy as some inland spots, but you’ll still want to spray up at dusk, especially with kids.

Stuff You Might Not Expect But Will Totally Appreciate

So here’s some random stuff I didn’t expect to matter—but totally did.

First, there are loads of local spas that are kid-friendly. I booked a massage one afternoon and they had a little play corner. Like, how thoughtful is that? I got 60 minutes of peace while the kids colored and played Duplo blocks.

Second, the WiFi in Sanur is surprisingly decent. I know, weird thing to mention, but if you’ve got to take a Zoom call or the kids want Netflix during a rainy afternoon—it’s nice to not be stuck with dial-up speeds.

And lastly—there’s this weirdly high number of turtles in Sanur. Not in the wild, but at the Turtle Conservation and Education Center on Serangan Island, which is like 20 minutes away. They let kids release baby turtles back into the ocean. My daughter still talks about that experience like it was a religious awakening. So yeah—check that out.

So, Is Sanur Good for Families? Honestly, I’d Go Back Tomorrow

If you’re after wild nights, all-night parties, or high-end fashion stores, Sanur probably isn’t your thing. But if you’ve got kids, especially young ones, and you just want a place that’s safe, walkable, friendly, and relaxing—Sanur ticks all the boxes.

We’ve been three times now. Each time, I’ve left feeling more rested than frazzled. That’s saying something when you’re traveling with kids.

Sure, it’s not perfect. There’s the odd stretch of beach that’s a bit rocky, and some hotels are dated. But nothing major that ruins the vibe. The important stuff—safety, calm beaches, good food, welcoming locals—it’s all there.

So, is Sanur good for families? Heck yeah it is. It's where I actually got to enjoy Bali instead of constantly managing meltdowns and dodging scooters. I’d pick it again in a heartbeat.