Kuta, Bali—sun, surf, and a whole lot of tourists. This place is a bustling hub for travelers looking to soak up the sun, party at the beach, or enjoy some of the local cuisine. But if you’re on a keto diet, you might be asking yourself, “Can I still enjoy the food here without blowing my carb count?” Spoiler alert: You totally can! Let’s break down how to navigate the food scene in Kuta while sticking to keto.
Breakfast: Fueling Up for the Day
First things first—breakfast! In a touristy spot like Kuta, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that cater to all tastes. A classic way to start your day is with a hearty plate of eggs. Whether you prefer them scrambled, fried, or as an omelet, you can easily ask for them to come loaded with veggies and cheese. Many places feature avocado on toast, but you’ll want to skip the toast part. Instead, just dig into the avocado—it’s high in healthy fats and low in carbs.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth but want to keep it keto, try fresh coconut. The meat is low in carbs and super satisfying. Just steer clear of any juices or smoothies, as those typically pack in the sugars and carbs.
Lunch: Street Food is Your Friend
When lunchtime rolls around, Kuta’s street food scene is where it’s at. Wandering the streets, you’ll find plenty of local warungs (small restaurants) offering an array of mouthwatering options.
One of the best bets for keto is to feast on grilled meats or seafood. Look for options like sate (grilled skewers) or fish cooked over charcoal. Just be sure to avoid any sweet sauces that usually come with them. You can’t go wrong with a plate of grilled chicken or fish with some fresh veggies on the side.
If you see anyone selling crispy tempeh or tofu, grab a piece or two for a low-carb snack. They’re packed with protein and can help curb hunger without tipping your carb balance.
And while we have said that street food in Indonesia is bad, there is enough good meats to keep the Ketoist, and the diabetic happy enough.
Dinner: Dining in Tourist Central
As the sun sets and the crowds gather, Kuta has a plethora of dining options to choose from. You’ll find everything from fancy restaurants to beachside barbecues. Since Kuta is all about tourism, the menus usually cater to various diets, including keto.
What to Order
For dinner, look for seafood dishes, which are often simply prepared and full of flavor. Many restaurants will offer a “catch of the day”—grilled fish served with a side of mixed vegetables or a fresh salad is a solid, carb-friendly choice.
If you’re in a place with a BBQ scene, definitely take advantage of that! A good local barbecue will serve up freshly grilled meats. Just ask for no rice and go for extra grilled veggies instead.
Fast Food Options: Keep it Simple
Let’s talk about fast food. Kuta has plenty of your usual guilty pleasures—think big chains and local joints. If you find yourself in a pinch, some fast-food spots might actually work in your favor.
Keto in Kuta – Beating the fast food joints
At burger joints, skip the bun and ask for a lettuce wrap instead. Load that burger with avocado, bacon, and your favorite toppings to keep it satisfying. Fast food in a touristy area like Kuta is often geared to quick and customizable meals, so don’t hesitate to ask for what you want.
Great options here include A&W probably the best local fast food joint. I had a treadless Japanese curry burger which was bette than average! Of course there is McDonalds here, which means a fabulous naked Big Mac!
Enjoying Your Keto Journey in Kuta
So, can you do keto in Kuta? Absolutely! With a little effort, it’s easy to find delicious low-carb options throughout this touristy paradise. The key is to focus on grilled meats, seafood, and fresh vegetables while avoiding sugary sauces and heavy carbs.
Remember, Kuta is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, so take the opportunity to try delicious local dishes that fit into your keto lifestyle. Embrace the beach, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and don’t let your diet hold you back from enjoying this fun-filled spot. Happy eating in Bali!
You can check out YPT’s Indonesia tours here – many of which go through Bali.