Bale Udang Mang Engking Ubud: Floor Dining Above the Fish Ponds

On the eastern edge of Ubud, along Jl. Raya Goa Gajah in Peliatan, sits a restaurant that is almost always full of family groups: Bale Udang Mang Engking Ubud. The concept is classic Sundanese — bamboo huts standing above fish ponds, guests seated on the floor, and a rice-field breeze drifting between courses. It belongs to the Mang Engking Group from Yogyakarta, with another branch in Kuta.

The Dishes People Come For

• Giant river prawns — the headliner, served honey-grilled or in padang sauce.
• Fried gurame with a savoury, spicy cobek seasoning.
• Chicken satay, stir-fried water spinach, tofu and tempeh, plus sambal worth a second bowl of rice.
• A handful of vegetarian options for guests who skip seafood.

Budget roughly Rp60,000–150,000 per prawn portion, or Rp100,000–300,000 per person for a full spread. Prices exclude tax & service.

Who It Suits

It is a sensible alternative to a babi guling warung when you travel with a large group or with Muslim guests: the menu revolves around seafood, chicken and vegetables, there is a musholla on site, and several visitor reviews mention a halal certificate displayed at the restaurant — confirm on arrival if this matters to you. Kids stay happy too, thanks to the playground and the fish in the ponds.

Before You Go

• Arrive before noon or after 2pm so you are not competing with tour buses for a hut.
• For groups of ten or more, call ahead so a large bale is set aside.
• Bring mosquito repellent — you are dining over water, after all.

Practical Info & Booking

• Location: Jl. Raya Goa Gajah, Peliatan, Ubud, Gianyar — View on Google Maps
• Opening hours: daily, roughly 10:00–22:00 WITA.
• Booking: walk in, or call the number listed on the official Mang Engking Group website to reserve a hut for a group; delivery is available via GoFood/GrabFood.
• Price range: about Rp60,000–150,000 per prawn portion, excluding tax & service.
• Social: search on Instagram

Staying close to Ubud makes a relaxed dinner like this far easier — check AccessiaPass hotel vouchers for Ubud before you lock in your dates.