Try to picture this: you’re on an amazing journey — maybe relaxing somewhere in sunny Goa… immersing yourself in the culture of Tanzanian tribes… or perhaps living the digital nomad dream life in spiritual Bali.
You could be staying in a fancy hotel, a cozy Airbnb in the jungle, or a seaside villa in Bali with your best crew — freelancing, surfing, and just enjoying the Indonesian scenery.
Wherever you are, it’s so natural to wander into local restaurants, rooftop bars, and colorful markets — diving deep into the local culture (and yes, the flavors too).
We recommend exploring the area on foot, maybe get a little lost, find those hidden local gems and definitely say “yes” to random adventures. After all, what are you gonna remember when you’re old and gray?
Trust the locals — they know what’s good! Pick a few of their top restaurants and bars and check them out in your first week.
Let’s Get Real for a Second
If you care of your body, you probably already know that food can either boost your energy or totally drain it down. And hey, we’re not here to ruin your fun. We also love having fun. But we do feel like spilling a few secrets about what might be hiding in those dreamy restaurant meals…
Alright, are you ready for a little tough love? Buckle up, here we go!
Restaurant food is usually pretty delicious, especially when it comes to fine dining.
But there’s the thing: all chefs love balance — sweet, salty and spicy flavors — but sometimes, that balance comes from a not-so-obvious source… That’s sugar, baby. Yep, even when you don’t expect it at all!
How Hidden Sugar Sneaks into Your Meals
We’re not talking desserts — those are loud and proud about their sweetness. But sugar often sneaks into unexpected places:
1. Sauces, Dressings and Marinades
Sugar often shows up where we don’t expect it at all: in savory dishes — especially those with sauces, marinades, and dressings. Even if a dish isn’t sweet, it contains more sugar and sodium than your body needs.
Think about barbecue sauce, teriyaki, soy sauce, ketchup, or salad dressings — the majority of them are loaded with added sugars and sweeteners. Marinades for meat and fish often include refined sugar or honey to create a more balanced and caramelized flavor. Honestly, that’s the secret trick that keeps you coming back to the restaurant.
Take a look at a typical menu: duck with orange glaze, sweet-and-sour chicken, honey beef, minty lamb, or medallions with truffle sauce.
Delicious? For sure! But sugar’s working hard behind the scenes for that yummy-factor.
On top of that, to make the taste even more intense, sauces often come loaded with additional sodium from all those spices and seasonings.
2. Soups
Sounds innocent, right? A simple creamy mushroom or rich tomato soup sound like a healthy lunch choice, right?
But between us, they often sneak add some sugar to cut down the acidity, especially in tomato-based soups. So just keep in mind that sneaky sugar might push your daily intake a bit over the limit.
Are you still not scared? Let’s keep going then!
3. French Fries and Fried Sides
First of all, some places serving fries with sweet sauces, the breading often have added sugar to boost not only flavor, but also change a color. When it comes to frying, such oils like sunflower, corn or palm oil are usually used — often refined and, unfortunately, reheated several times.
All that reheating turns the oil into really bad stuff full of trans fats and toxins. At the same time, it packs in the calories, making it super easy to eat too much and gain a few extra kilos — not exactly what your body was hoping for on vacation.
4. Drinks
Whether it’s cocktails, soda, or your take-away coconut cappuccino — sugar’s probably crashing the party.
Want to Make Smarter Swaps Without Killing the Vibe?
- Try dry wine or brut champagne over sugar cocktails.
- Switch soda for a fruit smoothie.
- Craving coffee? Go for an Americano with a natural date + coconut treat on the side.
No Stress, Just Balance!
Okay, maybe we scared you a little. But don’t worry — it’s not about being perfect, just a bit more aware.
Here Are Some Tasty Ideas
- Grilled steaks like ribeye, filet mignon, pork, or lamb — they taste amazing with just lemon or herbs, no sugary marinades or sauces needed.
- Grilled fish and seafood: salmon, dorado, shrimps, oysters — keep the seasonings simple, dress them up with olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs.
- Veggie salads without sweet dressings — use just olive oil, lemon juice, or balsamic vinegar.
- Grilled or steamed veggies like broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower or pepper — just a splash of olive oil and some spices, and you’re all set!
When ordering, ask how the dish is prepared. Choose meals with fewer sauces and minimal dressings. Skip super-sweet drinks and desserts. Go for real, natural ingredients whenever you can.
Cover photo: whitebalance.space
