Indian food tips from a local

If you want my honest advice, skip the spots right on the tourist strips and ask locals for their favorite Indian places instead. For example, Spice India in Seminyak isn’t flashy but their lamb rogan josh is consistently good and not insanely pricey. Also, if you’re in Ubud, there’s a tiny dosa place near the market that’s a hit among expats. It’s easy to miss but nails the crispy crepes every time.

Another insider tip: try visiting these restaurants during lunch rather than dinner. The midday rush feels more laid-back and the cooks usually make fresher batches of things like biryani or thalis. Plus, lunch menus sometimes have dishes not offered after dark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about Indian food in Bali? Here are some answers from someone who’s been there.

It really depends on the place. Some restaurants tone down the heat for tourists, but if you ask, many will ramp up the spice for you. I always tell the waiter I like my food spicy, and they’re happy to accommodate.
For sure. Indian cuisine naturally has tons of vegetarian dishes, and many spots in Bali cater well to vegans too. Dosas, chana masala, aloo gobi – you name it. Just check if they use ghee or cream if you’re strict vegan.
Most mid-range to upscale Indian restaurants take cards, especially in places like Seminyak or Ubud. But smaller, local joints usually prefer cash. Always handy to carry some cash around just in case.
Late-night Indian food is a bit rare on the island , most close by 10pm or earlier. But some places in Kuta and Seminyak stay open later, especially on weekends. Just double-check their closing times before planning a midnight craving trip.
Yes, some Indian spots sell sweets like gulab jamun and jalebi. I had a surprisingly good ras malai once in Ubud. If you have a sweet tooth, keep an eye out near the bigger Indian restaurants or specialty grocery stores.

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