
Ubud is a dream destination for foodies, offering a stunning mix of world-class dining and vibrant Balinese flavours. But let’s be reaL; for many travellers, trying new foods comes with a lingering fear of the dreaded “Bali Belly.”
Getting sick is the absolute last thing you want on your vacation. The good news? It is entirely avoidable. By knowing what to look for and choosing restaurants that prioritise hygiene, you can explore the incredible gastronomy of Ubud and Sanur with total peace of mind. Here is the lowdown on staying healthy while eating your way through Bali.
What Exactly Is “Bali Belly”?
“Bali Belly” is just a local nickname for traveller’s diarrhoea. It usually happens when your digestive system meets bacteria it’s not used to, often due to unhygienic sanitation or contaminated water. While it can happen in any country, a few simple rules in Bali will keep you safe.
Rules for Eating Safely in Ubud
Staying safe doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your culinary itinerary. Just keep these four “mindful eating” tips in mind:
Be Water Wise
Tap water in Indonesia is not for drinking. Always stick to bottled mineral water or purified “gallon” water from reputable brands. For an extra boost of hydration in the heat, look for high-pH brands like Pristine, Total 8+, or Vit 8+ at the local supermarket-and always grab a cold one from the fridge!
Chose the Ice Wisely
We all want a frozen drink when it’s humid, but not all ice is created equal. Only trust ice made from advanced filtration systems, which are standard in established, professional restaurants like Golden Monkey.
The Power of the Wok
One of the safest ways to eat in Bali is choosing dishes cooked at high temperatures. The “Wok Hei” (breath of the wok) in Chinese cuisine ensures that food is flash-cooked at intense heat, naturally eliminating most bacteria.
Hygiene Over FOMO
It’s tempting to try every street stall you see, but if you have a sensitive stomach, don’t let “fear of missing out” dictate your dinner. Stick to clean, certified venues with visible hygiene standards.
The Gold Standard for Clean Dining | Golden Monkey Bali
If you want to skip the stress entirely, Golden Monkey Chinese Restaurant (in both Ubud and Sanur) is designed to be a sanctuary of cleanliness. Here, authentic Cantonese flavours meet international safety protocols.
An Internationally Certified Kitchen Team
Our kitchen is helmed by experts who operate under rigorous health and safety protocols. Whether it’s our handmade dim sum or our famous BBQ meats, every ingredient is stored, handled, and prepared at precise temperatures to eliminate risk.
Sourcing with Integrity
With years of experience in the Bali food scene, our team hand-selects ingredients from trusted, certified suppliers. We oversee the quality of our produce from the moment it arrives at our doors to the moment it hits your table.
100% Purified Water & Ice Systems
At Golden Monkey, we use state-of-the-art purification systems for everything. Whether you are enjoying a chilled cocktail in Sanur or a hot tea in Ubud, you can rest assured that every drop of water and every cube of ice is 100% purified and safe.
Impeccable Kitchen Standards
Our kitchens utilise commercial-grade sanitation to sterilise all cutlery, glassware, and equipment. We maintain a level of cleanliness that rivals international standards, ensuring that our casual family-style atmosphere is backed by professional-grade safety.
Skip the Stress and Enjoy the Clean Food in Bali
Vacations are for making memories, not worrying about every bite. While “Bali Belly” is an unwanted accident, you can minimise the risk by making smart, well-informed choices.
Bring your family and loved ones to Golden Monkey for an authentic Chinese feast. Enjoy the best BBQ pork, Peking duck, and handcrafted dim sum in Bali with the absolute peace of mind that comes from a clean, professional, and transparent kitchen.
Visit Golden Monkey Bali
Ready to enjoy a worry-free meal? Whether you are exploring the cultural heart of Ubud or enjoying the coastal breeze in Sanur, a safe and delicious table is waiting for you.
Golden Monkey Ubud
Located in the centre of Ubud, it’s perfect for a family lunch or a cosy dinner after exploring the Monkey Forest.
- View Ubud Menu
- WhatsApp / Bookings: +62 811 3818 161
- Website: www.goldenmonkeyubud.com
Golden Monkey Sanur
Find us on the vibrant Jalan Danau Tamblingan for the best Chinese soul food by the sea.
- View Sanur Menu
- WhatsApp / Bookings:+62 811 3821 0190
- Website: www.goldenmonkeysanur.com
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to have ice in my drinks at Golden Monkey?
Yes, absolutely. All ice at our Ubud and Sanur locations is made using heavily filtered, 100% purified water. You can enjoy your iced teas and cocktails with total confidence.
Can I safely eat fresh vegetables at your restaurant?
Yes. We wash all produce in purified water to eliminate waterborne bacteria. Furthermore, many of our vegetable dishes are wok-fried at high heat, making them a very safe and healthy choice.
Is your menu safe for young children?
Definitely. We are a family-friendly restaurant and take extra care with meals for the little ones. We maintain strict control over food temperatures and ingredient freshness, making our food exceptionally safe for sensitive stomachs.
What if I am already recovering from Bali Belly? Do you have mild options?
If you are feeling under the weather, let our staff know. We have many gentle options, such as our comforting congee (rice porridge) or clear ginger-based broths, which are perfect for soothing a recovering stomach.
How does your kitchen handle food allergies?
We maintain immaculate kitchen standards and strict preparation protocols. Simply mention your allergies to your server, and our chefs will ensure your meal is prepared safely and separately to avoid cross-contamination.
