The cuisine of Timor-Leste is a fusion of indigenous Austronesian flavors with influences from Portuguese, Indonesian, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. Buibau Beach in Baucau has been influenced culturally and historically by various settlers and colonial powers, which is reflected in its local gastronomy. Root vegetables like cassava and taro, grains such as rice, and a rich variety of seafood define the tastes of the region, owing to its proximity to the sea. The culinary heritage is also marked by the use of spices, with tamarind and chili being particularly prominent, mirroring the nation's diverse and multi-ethnic character.