A Food Lover’s Guide to Nusa Penida – Best Restaurants and Local Warungs

A Food Lover’s Guide to Nusa Penida – Best Restaurants and Local Warungs
Waruna Darma Express
13 March 2025
News & Blogs

Nusa Penida is famous for its stunning cliffs, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life, but did you know that it’s also home to some incredible food spots? From authentic Balinese warungs to stylish beachfront cafes, the island offers a diverse culinary experience for travelers looking to indulge in delicious meals after a day of adventure.

Whether you're craving fresh seafood, traditional Indonesian dishes, or healthy plant-based options, this guide will take you through the best places to eat in Nusa Penida, ensuring you never go hungry during your island escape.

1. Best Beachfront Restaurants for Dining with a View

Nothing beats a delicious meal with an ocean breeze and sunset views. Here are the best beachfront restaurants in Nusa Penida where you can enjoy great food with an unforgettable ambiance.

Secret Penida Beach Club

  • Why Visit? This trendy beach club offers stunning ocean views, fresh seafood, and tropical cocktails. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed lunch or romantic sunset dinner.
  • What to Try? Grilled snapper, seafood pasta, coconut mojito.
  • Best Time to Go: Late afternoon for sunset dining.

Penida Colada Beach Bar

  • Why Visit? A laid-back beach bar serving fresh tropical drinks and delicious fusion dishes. Located near Toyapakeh Beach, this spot is great for chilling after snorkeling.
  • What to Try? Mango daiquiri, grilled mahi-mahi, vegan tacos.
  • Best Time to Go: Evening for sunset cocktails.

Green Kubu Café

  • Why Visit? A stylish café with breathtaking hilltop views overlooking the ocean. This is a great spot for brunch or sunset drinks.
  • What to Try? Indonesian-style BBQ chicken, fresh juices, avocado toast.
  • Best Time to Go: Sunset for the best panoramic views.

2. Best Local Warungs for Authentic Indonesian Food

If you’re looking for authentic Indonesian cuisine at budget-friendly prices, visiting a local warung (small family-owned restaurant) is a must.

Warung NG

  • Why Visit? One of the best spots for home-cooked Balinese food with a cozy, local atmosphere.
  • What to Try? Nasi campur, ayam betutu, and tempeh curry.
  • Best Time to Go: Lunch or dinner for a traditional dining experience.

Warung Batan Sabo

  • Why Visit? This hidden gem serves delicious Indonesian dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
  • What to Try? Nasi goreng special, mie goreng, grilled tuna steak.
  • Best Time to Go: Lunch after visiting Crystal Bay or Kelingking Beach.

Warung Tu Pande

  • Why Visit? A highly rated local spot offering affordable and generous portions of Balinese specialties.
  • What to Try? Babi guling (Balinese suckling pig), ayam lalapan (spicy fried chicken), soto ayam.
  • Best Time to Go: Evening for a traditional dinner experience.

3. Best Cafés and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants

For those who love healthy meals, smoothie bowls, and plant-based options, Nusa Penida has several cafés that cater to vegan and vegetarian diets.

The Chill Penida

  • Why Visit? A relaxing café with great coffee, healthy bowls, and smoothie options. Ideal for digital nomads or those looking for a cozy breakfast spot.
  • What to Try? Dragon fruit smoothie bowl, vegan burger, iced matcha latte.
  • Best Time to Go: Morning or late afternoon.

Vegan Soul Kitchen

  • Why Visit? The best vegan restaurant in Nusa Penida, offering delicious plant-based and organic dishes.
  • What to Try? Tempeh satay, jackfruit rendang, tropical smoothie.
  • Best Time to Go: Lunch or early dinner for a nutritious meal.

Next Level Café

  • Why Visit? A great spot for brunch, offering organic coffee and homemade pastries.
  • What to Try? Avocado toast, coconut pancakes, turmeric latte.
  • Best Time to Go: Morning before heading out to explore the island.

4. Best Seafood Restaurants in Nusa Penida

Being an island, Nusa Penida is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood, prepared using traditional Balinese spices.

Fish Market at Toyapakeh

  • Why Visit? Local fishermen sell freshly caught fish that you can have grilled on-site.
  • What to Try? Grilled red snapper, prawn skewers, spicy sambal matah.
  • Best Time to Go: Late afternoon for fresh catches of the day.

Coco Penida Restaurant

  • Why Visit? A seafood-focused restaurant known for its delicious grilled fish platters.
  • What to Try? Seafood platter for two, grilled calamari, garlic butter shrimp.
  • Best Time to Go: Dinner for a seafood feast.

5. Essential Food Safety Tips for Travelers

While Nusa Penida has amazing food options, it's always good to follow a few food safety tips to avoid getting sick during your trip.

How to Stay Safe While Eating in Nusa Penida

  • Drink bottled or filtered water – Avoid tap water.
  • Eat at busy restaurants – High turnover usually means fresh ingredients.
  • Try street food, but check cleanliness – If a stall looks well-maintained, it's usually safe.
  • Be cautious with spicy food – Some dishes can be very spicy, so ask for mild options if needed.

6. Book Your Fast Boat with Waruna Darma Express

For a smooth and reliable journey to Nusa Penida, book your fast boat with Waruna Darma Express.

  • Fast boat transfers from Sanur to Nusa Penida.
  • Multiple departure times for convenience.
  • Safe and comfortable boats with easy online booking.

Secure your seat now: Waruna Darma Express Booking

Enjoy Nusa Penida’s Best Food Spots

Whether you’re a fan of authentic Balinese dishes, fresh seafood, or healthy plant-based meals, Nusa Penida has something for every food lover. From beachfront dining with ocean views to hidden local warungs serving traditional flavors, this island is a paradise for culinary explorers.

Plan your trip wisely, explore the best dining spots, and enjoy every bite of your Nusa Penida adventure.