The food history of Atauro Island is tightly linked to the wider culinary traditions of Timor-Leste, which have been influenced by centuries of trade, colonization, and cultural exchange. The island's cuisine reflects a blend of Portuguese, Southeast Asian, and indigenous Timorese flavors, shaped by the natural bounty of the surrounding sea and land. The use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients is a hallmark of Atauro's food culture, with seafood playing a significant role in the island's gastronomy. Community fishing and farming practices contribute to the island's sustainable food system and cultural heritage.