Canggu has grown from a quiet surf village into one of Bali’s most exciting food neighborhoods. Now, here, you can enjoy beachfront dining, modern cafes, and authentic warungs, so there’s delicious food to be had at all price points.
Start With a Classic Nasi Goreng at a Local Warung
A properly made nasi goreng is the first bite that isn’t missed in Canggu. Fried rice is cooked in a wok and slow-cooked in water until just tender and crisp with kecap manis, shallots, egg, and sambal, side-served in small family-run warungs throughout Batu Bolong and Berawa. Go to Varuna Warung or Warung Dandelion, and order their inexpensive plates that taste like home cooking. If you want a broader list of trusted spots and what to order, a current Canggu dining guide can help you pick the right place for your mood and budget.
Enjoy a Big Brunch at a Surf-Friendly Cafe
Café culture is what slow mornings are made of in Canggu. Order a smoothie bowl, sourdough toast, or breakfast burrito at places like Crate Cafe, Milk and Madu, or Gigi Susu. Everything here is served in big portions, with hot coffee and good snacks that will satisfy you till the evening! Do arrive early at many cafes, as many will be open until midday and keep busy.
Eat Fresh Seafood on Echo Beach
For a simple and scenic lunch, stop by at the seafood warungs along Echo Beach. The fish, prawns and squids are roasted on coals directly on the sand. Wait to eat until after the waves have passed, and enjoy the sound of waves while eating. This is one of the most laid-back dining local experiences that doesn’t require a traditional restaurant scene.
Try Modern Indonesian at a Garden Restaurant
For those who prefer designer-style garden venues, there are some in Canggu that will enhance the usual concoctions. Uma Garden & Kong, bistro inspired with Indonesian and European flair, cook up wagyu sirloin, lamb ragu pasta and innovative cocktails. These are perfect for a date night or if you’re looking to throw a special event where you’d like to have a fantastic meal and some breathtaking scenery. Reservations are suggested for dinner – particularly during weekends.
Sample Japanese Omakase or Sushi
In Canggu, Japanese restaurants are now a thing to be highlighted, featuring a Japanese omakase counter and a smooth sushi bar. At Shun Omakase, you will enjoy tasting menus prepared by the chef, with each item cooked in front of you. It’s best to confirm opening days before visiting, but all imaginable Japanese classics are served with high quality ingredients. This is also an option for those who want to eat a more sophisticated meal after days of eating on the beach.
Share Small Plates at a Beach Club Restaurant
Beach clubs in Berawa offer great food. With ocean views, FINNS Beach Party Restaurant and Monsoon offer Indonesian and international small plates. Swim, soak up some sun and then head to the bar to enjoy the grill-fed prawns, satay or fusion main courses. This configuration is ideal for parties and potlucks that require food, beverages and a party atmosphere to be in the same location.
Taste Vegan Bowls and Raw Desserts
In Canggu, there are even special vegan cafes and plenty of vegetarian menus are clearly indicated. Serving Buddha Bowls, raw cakes and kombucha in laid back areas, The Shady Shack and I Am Vegan Babe are healthy food vendors. This is a favourite destination for those that work remotely and are looking for substantial meals without meat and dairy, and also for travellers who are health conscious.
End the Day With Sunset Cocktails and Dinner
It’s the best time of day in Canggu when the sun sets, and there are some spots that combine great food with fantastic views. La Brisa, The Lawn, and Echo Beach Club offer seafood, grilled meats, and signature cocktails as the sky turns orange. If you plan to be at the front seat in the sunset, make your bookings in advance as these are the first ones to fill in during the high season.
Grab Late-Night Satay and Bintang
After party hour, warungs remain open for late night bites. There’s low price Nasi Campur, Satay and cold Bintang in Warung Heboh and Warung Liku. This is an ideal way to kick off a long day without a lot of expense or time.
Conclusion
Whether it’s a simple warung or a restaurant perched atop a cliff, Canggu has a food culture for which there is no real formula of discovery. Begin with nasi goreng, then venture to the cafes and seafood shacks, or to a modern Indonesian meal or Japanese omakase. This combination of experiences is bound to give you a taste of the real Canggu and have you with a shopping list of favourites in the end.
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Photo Credit: James Oliver
