Ubud is a haven for food lovers. Its narrow streets, lush surroundings, and deep culinary roots make it an ideal place to explore Bali’s flavors through guided food tours. Whether you’re interested in learning to cook traditional dishes vegan style, wandering through bustling night markets, or sampling a variety of local street foods, Ubud offers a diverse range of options. We especially appreciate the Balinese Vegan Cooking Class because it combines hands-on learning with a scenic garden setting, and the Night Market Food Tour for its authentic glimpse into local Balinese life. These experiences aren’t just about eating—they’re about connecting with the culture in a meaningful way.
If you want a taste of everything, several tours on our list hit the mark, from immersive cultural walks to raw plant-based feasts. Read on to find the best food tours in Ubud and discover which one matches your appetite and travel style.
1. Balinese Vegan Cooking Class with Fresh Harvesting & Garden Tour
At number 1, this 3.5-hour plant-to-plate cooking journey offers an intimate look at Balinese cuisine with a vegan twist. You’ll start by harvesting ingredients from a lush organic garden—think leafy herbs, fiery chilies, and fresh vegetables—before cooking with traditional Balinese utensils. The class concludes with a 4-course vegan meal enjoyed in a beautiful plantation setting, making it perfect for those who love hands-on experiences and fresh flavors.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of harvesting, cooking, and eating in one seamless experience. Many reviewers note how helpful and welcoming the staff are, with one learner mentioning they ended up alone in the class but still loved every minute. The price of around $43 per person offers excellent value considering the intimacy and quality of ingredients. It’s perfect for vegans, curious cooks, and anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic culinary lesson.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a relaxing, authentic cooking class that emphasizes fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, this Vegan Cooking Class is a top choice.
2. Bali Food Tour: Savor Street Food and Night Market Adventures
Number 2 is Bali’s lively night food market tour—an energetic 3-9 hour adventure depending on your pace. This tour is designed for those eager to explore local street food with a guide who knows the best spots. You’ll sample everything from Indonesian fried rice and Balinese satay to suckling pig and more, all within the bustling Gianyar night market.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to walk through a real local market and see authentic Balinese food being prepared. The guide, Nata, is highly praised for being accommodating, knowledgeable, and friendly. The tour is also vegetarian-friendly, making it accessible to different diets. The approximate $35 price includes hotel pickup and a variety of food tastings, making it a memorable and affordable way to eat like a local.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for adventurous foodies who want a full sensory experience of Bali’s night market scene and street cuisine.
3. Ubud Food and Cultural Tour
Number 3 combines culinary tasting with cultural insight over about 3 hours. It highlights six stops where you’ll enjoy 10 different dishes, from noodle soup to hidden dessert spots. This tour emphasizes dining in beautiful spaces and includes a tea master ceremony—a local tradition that leaves a lasting impression.
Guided by someone who understands Ubud’s diverse food scene, you’ll visit well-curated restaurants and uncover culinary gems often missed by travelers. Many guests appreciate the balanced mix of food and culture, with the tour ending at Panda Tea Café. The price of $69 is reasonable considering the variety of dishes and cultural experiences included.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a short but rich introduction to Ubud’s flavors and traditions, with a focus on quality and storytelling.
4. Plant Based Food Tour in Ubud
Number 4 offers a 3-hour exploration of plant-based delights in Penestanan, a tranquil part of Ubud. This gourmet vegetarian and vegan tour takes you through lush rice fields and village paths, tasting dishes like jackfruit rendang, vegan lasagna, and plant-based sushi. The tour features stops at Moksa Restaurant, Ubud Pourmoure Coffee, Seeds of Life Raw Food, and Zest Restaurant.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on creative, fresh, plant-based cuisine and the chance to taste local and international flavors. Many reviews highlight the quality of the raw and vegan options, and the inclusion of a coffee tasting adds a nice caffeine kick. The overall value is good, considering the careful selection of restaurants and the chance to see rural Bali.
Bottom Line: Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone interested in healthy, innovative cuisine amidst Ubud’s scenic rice paddies.
5. Ubud Night Traditional Market Food Tour
Number 5 is a 3-hour evening tour that introduces you to Balinese culture through food. Starting with traditional cakes, you’ll walk through a busy market, learning about the history of local foods before sampling dishes like Babi Guling (suckling pig) and Sate skewers. The guide, Wayan, is praised for his storytelling and cultural insights.
This tour offers a deep dive into local flavors and the lively atmosphere of Ubud’s night market. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in cultural context alongside their culinary adventures. The cost of $45 includes sampled foods and market exploration, providing a solid value for a cultural tasting experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to combine food with cultural storytelling in a lively, authentic setting.
6. Balinese Traditional Food Cooking Class with Ubud Monkey Forest and SPA
Number 6 is a full-day experience—about 10 hours—perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive immersion. You’ll visit a market, a farm, then cook traditional Balinese dishes, and afterward relax in the Ubud Monkey Forest followed by a 2-hour spa treatment.
This tour is ideal for culinary enthusiasts who enjoy a leisurely pace and want to combine cooking with sightseeing and relaxation. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of transportation and spa services makes it very convenient. The $135 price point reflects the complete experience, including the luxurious spa.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a luxurious, multi-faceted day combining culinary skills, wildlife, and relaxation.
7. Half-Day Ubud Heritage Food Tour
Number 7 offers a 5-hour small-group tour focusing on Balinese heritage and local ingredients. You’ll visit a local market, explore the countryside, and taste dishes like shredded chicken and stir-fried noodles. The tour emphasizes local farming practices and cultural stories.
With a price of about $70, this tour provides a comprehensive look at both food and rural life. It’s perfect for history-minded foodies who want to understand the origins of their dishes and see Bali’s farming side firsthand.
Bottom Line: A good pick for travelers interested in Balinese culture, farming, and authentic tastes in a relaxed setting.
$69.75 per person
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Ubud
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time availability, dietary preferences, and interest level. For example, if you’re passionate about vegan cuisine, the Vegan Cooking Class offers a hands-on, scenic experience. If you’re eager to absorb local culture and street foods, the Night Market Tour provides an authentic, lively setting.
For those who want a deep dive into Balinese culinary traditions, the Heritage Food Tour combines history with flavors. Vegetarians and vegans should look at the Plant-Based Tour, which emphasizes creative, healthy dishes. And if you prefer a full-day, pampering experience, the Cooking Class with Monkey Forest and Spa offers a luxurious mix of food, wildlife, and relaxation.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot in your preferred experience.
In summary, Ubud offers a wide variety of food tours tailored to different tastes and interests. If you’re seeking immersive hands-on cooking, the Vegan Cooking Class is a top pick. For a true local adventure, the Night Market Tour is hard to beat. And for a mix of culture, history, and flavors, the Heritage Food Tour won’t disappoint. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with a fuller belly and a deeper appreciation for Bali’s culinary soul.