Traditional Balinese Drinks: What Every Tourist Should Try

Bali is famous for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, ancient temples, and incredible cuisine. While many visitors focus on iconic dishes like Babi Guling, Nasi Campur, and Satay Lilit, the island also offers a fascinating variety of traditional drinks that reflect its rich culinary heritage.

Made with fresh tropical fruits, local spices, herbs, coconut, and natural ingredients, traditional Balinese drinks are refreshing, flavorful, and often inspired by recipes that have been passed down through generations.

Whether you’re visiting Ubud for the first time or returning to explore more of Bali’s food culture, tasting these local beverages is a wonderful way to experience the island beyond its famous attractions.

Why Traditional Balinese Drinks Are Special

Balinese drinks are deeply connected to the island’s tropical climate and agricultural traditions.

Many beverages are prepared using locally grown ingredients such as:

• Coconut
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Lemongrass
• Pandan leaves
• Palm sugar
• Tamarind
• Lime
• Fresh tropical fruits

These natural ingredients create drinks that are not only delicious but also refreshing in Bali’s warm weather.

Many traditional beverages are also inspired by jamu, Indonesia’s centuries-old herbal drink tradition, which combines roots, spices, and herbs into nourishing refreshments.

1. Es Kelapa Muda (Fresh Young Coconut)

One of the simplest yet most refreshing drinks in Bali is fresh young coconut.

Served directly inside the coconut, this drink is naturally sweet and packed with electrolytes, making it perfect after exploring attractions like the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary or Campuhan Ridge Walk.

Many visitors also enjoy eating the soft coconut flesh after finishing the juice.

2. Jamu Kunyit Asam

Although popular throughout Indonesia, Jamu Kunyit Asam is commonly found in Bali.

Made from:

• Turmeric
• Tamarind
• Palm sugar
• Water

It offers a balance of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors.

Many locals enjoy this herbal drink as part of their daily routine because of its refreshing taste.

3. Wedang Jahe

Wedang Jahe is a warm ginger drink that is especially enjoyable during cooler evenings in Ubud.

It usually contains:

• Fresh ginger
• Palm sugar
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Lemongrass

The aromatic spices create a comforting beverage that pairs perfectly with traditional Balinese desserts.

Read more: Ubud’s Must-Try Drink: The Instagrammable Purple Mojito

4. Es Daluman

Es Daluman is one of Bali’s unique traditional drinks.

Made with green grass jelly, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and ice, it offers a refreshing combination of creamy and sweet flavors.

It’s particularly popular during hot afternoons.

5. Es Campur

Photo courtesy of Warung Pondok Madu

Es Campur literally means “mixed ice.”

This colorful dessert drink usually includes:

• Shaved ice
• Tropical fruits
• Grass jelly
• Coconut
• Syrup
• Condensed milk

Every vendor has their own variation, making each glass slightly different.

6. Bali Coffee

Although technically not a traditional drink recipe, Bali coffee deserves a place on every visitor’s list.

Coffee beans grown in the Kintamani Highlands are known for their smooth body, balanced acidity, and subtle citrus notes.

Many cafés in Ubud proudly serve locally roasted Balinese coffee prepared as:

• Espresso
• Cappuccino
• Flat White
• Pour-over
• Cold Brew

Coffee lovers shouldn’t leave Bali without trying a cup made from locally grown beans.

7. Fresh Tropical Fruit Juice

Bali’s abundance of tropical fruit makes fresh juice incredibly popular.

Some favorites include:

• Mango juice
• Watermelon juice
• Pineapple juice
• Dragon fruit juice
• Papaya juice
• Avocado juice

These drinks are widely available in restaurants, cafés, and local warungs throughout Ubud.

8. Tamarind Drink

Tamarind-based drinks combine sweet and sour flavors with a refreshing finish.

Often served chilled, they’re especially enjoyable during sunny afternoons after sightseeing.

9. Lemongrass Tea

Many Balinese restaurants serve freshly brewed lemongrass tea made from locally harvested stalks.

Its light citrus aroma and refreshing taste make it an excellent companion to spicy Indonesian dishes.

10. Herbal Infusions

Some cafés and restaurants create their own herbal drinks using combinations of:

• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon
• Lime
• Honey
• Mint

These beverages showcase Bali’s growing appreciation for natural ingredients and wellness-focused cuisine.

Read more: Virgin Mojito: The Favorite Refreshing Drink in Central Ubud

Pair Traditional Drinks with Authentic Balinese Food

Traditional Balinese drinks taste even better when enjoyed alongside local cuisine.

Popular pairings include:

• Nasi Campur Bali
• Ayam Betutu
• Sate Lilit
• Lawar
• Babi Guling

The refreshing flavors help balance the rich spices commonly found in Balinese cooking.

Visit Warung Pondok Madu for Great Food and Refreshing Drinks

Photo courtesy of Warung Pondok Madu

After exploring Ubud’s cafés and local attractions, many visitors choose Warung Pondok Madu for lunch or dinner.

Known for serving THE BEST BBQ PORK RIBS IN BALI, the restaurant offers much more than outstanding BBQ.

Guests can also enjoy Indonesian favorites, Balinese specialties, fresh seafood, chicken dishes, vegetarian options, homemade desserts, and a variety of refreshing tropical beverages that perfectly complement the restaurant’s signature dishes.

Whether you’re enjoying fresh fruit juice or another refreshing drink, it’s the ideal way to complete a memorable meal.

Tips for Trying Traditional Balinese Drinks

To enjoy the best experience, consider these suggestions.

Choose Fresh Ingredients

Freshly prepared drinks offer the best flavor and aroma.

Explore Local Warungs

Family-owned restaurants often serve authentic beverages prepared using traditional recipes.

Try Something New

Don’t hesitate to order drinks you’ve never heard of before—many become unexpected favorites.

Stay Hydrated

Bali’s tropical climate makes fresh juices, coconut water, and herbal drinks excellent choices throughout the day.

Why Traditional Drinks Are Part of Bali’s Culture

Traditional Balinese drinks represent more than simple refreshments.

They reflect generations of local knowledge, the island’s rich agricultural resources, and a culinary culture that values natural ingredients and balance.

Whether you’re sipping fresh coconut water beneath palm trees or enjoying warm ginger tea after dinner, every drink offers another way to experience Bali’s unique traditions.

Final Thoughts

Exploring traditional Balinese drinks is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to experience the island’s culture. From refreshing young coconut and herbal jamu to fresh tropical juices and locally grown Bali coffee, every beverage tells a story about the island’s natural beauty and culinary heritage.

While discovering Bali’s drinks, don’t forget to explore its incredible food as well. If you’re visiting Ubud, make time for Warung Pondok Madu, home to THE BEST BBQ PORK RIBS IN BALI. Pair your favorite tropical drink with their signature slow-cooked pork ribs or one of their authentic Indonesian dishes, and enjoy a dining experience that perfectly captures the flavors of Bali.

📍 Address: Jalan Jatayu Tebesaya, Peliatan, Ubud, Gianyar
📲 Reservation: Contact Us – Warung Pondok Madu 

Make Warung Pondok Madu your next culinary destination with friends, your partner, or family. With a complete menu selection, cozy ambiance, and friendly service, every visit will feel special and truly unforgettable.