Bali’s Drinks – A Must Try List Of Bali’s Top Drinks
Not only does Bali boast lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture, but you can also find delicious food and drinks across the island. Whatever your tastes are, there is the perfect thirst quenching drink in Bali waiting for you. This article covers what to drink in Bali and the best drinks to try while you’re here in Bali, so you won’t miss a thing!
What to Drink in Bali
Here are some of the best drinks to try while you’re in Bali:
Pandan Cocktails
If you’ve been in Southeast Asia for a while, you may have come across pandan, a fragrant leaf used in many savoury dishes, desserts, and even cocktails. The sweet, nutty undertones of pandan harmonise with tropical fruits and local spirits perfectly, making a well-balanced cocktail. So, whether you’re at a beachside bar, stylish resort, or bustling night market, you’re sure to find a delicious pandan cocktail. We love the pandan colada made at Ibu Susu Bar in Ubud.
Bintang Beer
You can’t go anywhere in Indonesia without seeing the beloved local brand of beer, Bintang. Its distinctive green bottle adorned with a red star will catch your eye at any bar or restaurant, so you have to try it while you’re in Bali. It’s the perfect refreshment for the balmy, tropical climate.
Bali Wine
You may not know this, but Bali actually produces its own wine, and the wine industry is only growing across the island because the tropical climate and fertile soil provide the perfect conditions for grape cultivation. You can even go on a tour of one of the many vineyards to sample their product and really immerse yourself in the wine-tasting experience.
Most restaurants and bars offer a range of white, red, and sparkling Bali wines, as well as a comprehensive list of international options, so you can easily find one that suits your taste. Belle, a popular wine bar in Bali, offers a large range of International wine as well as locally made Bali wine. If you’re looking for a traditional Indonesian wine, try brem, a ceremonial wine made from fermented glutinous rice. It’s harder to come by than normal wine, but you can typically find it at grocery stores.
Young Coconuts
Bali’s tropical climate is perfect for growing coconuts, so you have to stop at one of the many street vendors for a fresh, young coconut on one of your outings. Young coconuts have more water and jelly-like meat than mature ones, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink and snack at the same time.
Mango Daiquiris
Although strawberry daiquiris are a common choice, while you’re in Bali, you have to try a mango daiquiri, as the mangoes grown on the island are out of this world. Enjoy the harmonious blend of mango purée, zesty lime, and a splash of rum anywhere on the island. Drink them fresh or frozen anywhere that has a view!
Bali Kopi
Bali Kopi, better known as coffee in other parts of the world, is grown in the highlands and is renowned for its robust flavour and distinct aroma. You can enjoy it black, but locals typically prefer kopi tubruk, which is coffee with condensed milk, for a sweet treat.
Another Balinese coffee you may have heard of is kopi luwak, one of the most expensive coffees in the world because it’s made from partially digested coffee beans that civets (a small nocturnal animal) eat, digest, and defecate. Although it might seem exciting to try, we don’t recommend it as it is linked with animal cruelty and unethical animal practices.
Teh Tarik
If coffee isn’t your thing, try a teh tarik instead, a brew of strong black tea mixed combined with condensed milk. You can enjoy this sweet and creamy drink hot or over ice, making it the perfect refreshment.
Arak
Arak is one of Bali’s local spirits. It’s a traditional Balinese spirit that is usually made from rice or palm sap. Bartenders typically mix it with fruit juices or soda to create a refreshing cocktail, so you don’t have to drink it straight.
Kura Kura Beer
Another drink you may be surprised by is Kura Kura Beer, as it’s a craft beer made in Bali. It was named after the Indonesian word for turtle since this beer is brewed slowly, creating a crisp and refreshing taste that complements Bali’s tropical ambiance. Choose from a range of flavours, from light and citrusy to rich and malty, depending on your tastes.
Jamu
Those visiting Bali on a spiritual or wellness escape can enhance their experience with Jamu, a traditional Indonesian herbal elixir. This wellness boost is made from turmeric, ginger, tamarind, and other medicinal herbs, so it’s not known for its taste but more so for its health benefits, as it can be a natural remedy to boost the immune system.
Fresh Fruit Juice
There’s nothing more refreshing than a fresh cup of fruit juice, and Bali is the perfect place to find it. Head to one of the many street vendors, choose from an array of tropical fruits, like dragon fruit or passion fruit, and watch as the drink is made right in front of you.
One specific fruit juice you have to try is called kuwut ice. It’s made from coconut and fresh fruits, typically cantaloupe or melon. Some vendors also add lime juice for a sour kick to balance out the sweetness of the fruit.
Where Can I Get These Drinks in Bali?
If this what to drink in Bali article inspired you to try one (or all) of these drinks, you can find some of them here at Belle Wine and Grazing Bar, nestled close to the iconic Monkey Forest. This stylish and intimate wine bar offers a sophisticated ambiance complemented by a curated selection of wines from around the world.
With both local Bali wine and a wide range of international wines, there is something for everyone. If wine isn’t what you are after, don’t worry; we also have beer, fresh smoothies, and delicious food. Contact us for a reservation or pop in for a visit along Jalan Monkey Forest to get straight to sipping.