While the live music and cultural parades are fantastic, let’s be honest: the true, beating heart of the Sanur Village Festival is the food. As the sun begins to set, the festival grounds transform into Bali’s most exciting and delicious food bazaar, with the fragrant smoke of dozens of sizzling grills filling the air. For any food lover, this is a can’t-miss culinary adventure.
Navigating the sheer number of stalls can be a delicious challenge. To help you on your quest, we’ve created a foodie’s guide to the five must-try dishes and experiences that capture the incredible flavors of the festival. So, grab your friends, come with an empty stomach, and get ready for a feast!
Festival Details at a Glance
Before you go, here is the essential information for the Sanur Village Festival 2025:
- Dates: Wednesday, August 21st to Sunday, August 25th, 2025.
- Hours: The food bazaar and main festival area typically open from 4:00 PM until 11:00 PM daily.
- Location: Maisonette Area, Segara Ayu Beach, Sanur.
The Vibe of the Food Bazaar
This isn’t a quiet, formal dinner. It’s a vibrant, bustling, and wonderfully social experience. You’ll find a fantastic mix of local families and curious travelers all exploring the endless culinary options. The sound of sizzling satay, the rhythm of the nearby music stage, and the gentle sea breeze all combine to create a truly magical dining atmosphere.
Who’s Cooking? Confirmed Food Vendors
Warung Nasi Ayam Ibu Oki
This year’s food bazaar features a fantastic mix of local legends and top resort kitchens. While the full list is extensive, you can look forward to seeing beloved local names like Warung Nasi Ayam Ibu Oki and Sate Plecing Arjuna, alongside special pop-up stalls from some of Sanur’s best hotels, including the Hyatt Regency Bali and Andaz Bali.
The 5 Must-Try Dishes
- Fresh Grilled Seafood (Ikan Bakar) You’re right on the beach, so this is a must! Look for the stalls with impressive displays of fresh red snapper, prawns, and squid on ice. The smoky flavor from the coconut husk grill combined with a fresh, spicy sambal matah is the taste of a perfect Bali evening.
- Suckling Pig (Babi Guling) A true Balinese delicacy and a festival favorite! Many famous Babi Guling vendors set up stalls at the festival, offering you a chance to try this ceremonial dish by the plate, complete with unbelievably crispy, crackling skin.
- Meatball Soup (Bakso) The ultimate Indonesian comfort food! You’ll see vendors serving this from their iconic pushcarts (kaki lima) all over the festival. A steaming bowl of savory broth filled with bouncy beef meatballs, noodles, and tofu is warm, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.
Traditional Balinese snacks
- Assorted Balinese Sweets (Jaje Bali) Don’t forget to save room for dessert! Look for the stalls with colorful trays of traditional Balinese cakes. A plate of Jaje Bali is a delightful mix of treats like laklak (small green pancakes) and klepon (chewy balls filled with liquid palm sugar), all topped with grated coconut.
- Mixed Rice (Nasi Campur) When you can’t decide what to have, have a little bit of everything! Nasi Campur allows you to create your own personalized tasting platter of Balinese cuisine, choosing from dozens of small dishes like spicy chicken, tempeh, and vegetable salads to go with your rice.
Sounds of the Festival: Music Highlights
While you eat, you’ll be treated to performances on the main stage. This year’s lineup features some of Indonesia’s most popular artists, including performances from local Balinese rock icon Joni Agung and nationally acclaimed pop star Andien.
Pro Tips for Your Culinary Adventure
- Bring Cash: Many smaller vendors and stalls will only accept cash (Indonesian Rupiah).
- Go with a Group: The best strategy is to go with friends, order different things, and share everything.
- Arrive Early: The most popular stalls can get very busy, especially on the weekend evenings.
This festival is a true celebration of community and cuisine. Enjoy the adventure!
