Babi Guling Ibu gendut — Restaurant in Bali

🐷 Babi Guling Ibu Gendut (Ubud)

I ate here last night and the food was amazing — hands down the best traditional Indonesian food I’ve had on this trip.

What really stood out to me was how some of the flavors reminded me of Cantonese cooking — especially the sauces. The duck, in particular, was unforgettable. It was crispy in the way a Burger King chicken nugget is crispy (and I really enjoy those nuggets!) but the meat itself was dark, flavorful, and not dry. The sauce on top — sweet, savory, with onions and maybe pineapple — tied everything together beautifully.

We also had a pork leg soup. Normally I don’t love the chewy, gelatinous texture of pork legs, but the broth was so flavorful I really enjoyed it. Interestingly, this dish wasn’t listed on the menu, but I had seen it in Google review photos. When we asked, the staff confirmed they could make it — so yes, they do have off-menu items.

Sadly, the famous crispy pork skin was sold out by the time we arrived (towards closing). They told us it usually sells out in the afternoon, so next time I’ll go earlier to try it fresh.

The pork ribs were another highlight — finger-licking good! The sauce on them had onions and tasted almost Cantonese in style. We loved it so much we asked for extra sauce, which paired perfectly with the fried pork. We ended up ordering extra rice just to keep eating it.

Drinks: The mango juice was fantastic — not too sweet, just fresh blended mangoes (looked and tasted like the small golden ones rather than the big red/green varieties). Refreshing and natural.

The atmosphere is simple and local: wooden benches, some cushions, an eclectic setup that feels casual and authentic rather than Western. If you go past the entrance and the kitchen, there’s more seating in the back. It’s not fancy, but it has character.

👎 Downside: A cockroach did run across my table before the food came out. I know it’s an open-air setup, but it was definitely unpleasant. Hygiene overall I’d rate on the lower side. That said, I appreciated that they had a nail scrubber at the wash station, which turned out to be useful after those saucy ribs!

There were also some mysterious shot glasses and bottles set on tables — looked like coffee or local spirits — but I didn’t ask this time. Maybe on my next visit I’ll find out.

✅ Final Verdict: Food: Excellent (duck & ribs are must-try; go early for crispy pork skin) Drinks: Fresh mango juice highly recommended Service: Warm and inviting Atmosphere: Local, casual, eclectic Hygiene: Could be better, but not a deal-breaker for me

👉 Overall: A true hole-in-the-wall gem — amazing food that I’ll definitely be...

Babi Guling Ibu Gendut, located in the serene town of Ubud, is a true culinary treasure for anyone seeking an authentic Balinese dining experience. Known for its deliciously seasoned and perfectly roasted babi guling (suckling pig), this warung has garnered a reputation for serving up some of the most flavorful and satisfying meals in the region.

The babi guling here is exceptional—crispy, golden skin paired with tender, succulent meat that is infused with aromatic Balinese spices. Every bite delivers a perfect combination of crunch and juiciness, making it a dish you’ll remember long after your visit. The accompaniments, such as the spiced vegetables, lawar, and sambal, complement the pork perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal that’s packed with flavor.

The drinks menu is equally delightful, offering a selection of refreshing beverages to balance the rich flavors of the main dishes. Whether you choose a cool iced tea or a tropical juice, every sip is designed to refresh and elevate your meal.

Beyond the food, the warm hospitality of Ibu Gendut herself adds a special charm to the experience. Her friendly demeanor and welcoming attitude make you feel like a guest in her home, enhancing the already wonderful dining experience.

The restaurant is well-situated in Ubud, with a laid-back and rustic atmosphere that perfectly matches the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, the setting is ideal for enjoying a delicious and authentic Balinese meal.

Key Highlights:

Outstanding babi guling with crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat.

Traditional Balinese sides and sambal that enhance the dish.

Refreshing drinks menu featuring tropical and local options.

Warm and friendly service, led by the ever-charming Ibu Gendut.

Cozy and authentic atmosphere in the heart of Ubud.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Ubud or a local looking for an exceptional meal, Babi Guling Ibu Gendut delivers on all fronts. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone who loves bold flavors and a touch of Balinese...

Babi Guling Ibu Gendut is hands down one of the best places to enjoy the famous Balinese roasted pork dish. From the moment you step inside the restaurant, the aromatic smell of succulent pork being roasted to perfection fills the air, making your mouth water in anticipation.

The ambiance of the place is simply amazing with the traditional Balinese decor and friendly staff. The menu is simple, yet authentic, with the star of the show being the crispy roasted pork served with steamed rice, lawar (a traditional Balinese mixed vegetable dish), and sambal (spicy sauce). The portion sizes are generous and the flavors are out of this world. The pork is cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin that melts in your mouth, and the tender meat seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices that elevate the taste to a whole new level.

The service at Babi Guling Ibu Gendut is exceptional, with the staff being attentive and friendly, making you feel right at home. The prices are affordable and the quality of the food is unbeatable, making it an excellent value for your money.

Overall, I highly recommend Babi Guling Ibu Gendut to anyone who wants to experience the true taste of Balinese cuisine. The flavors, ambiance, and service are all exceptional and make for a truly unforgettable...