Must-Try Foods In Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, Gili Meno) (Lombok (Mataram)) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Gili Islands and Lombok (Mataram), Indonesia

The culinary heritage of the Gili Islands and Lombok is heavily influenced by a blend of native Sasak culture, Indonesian staples, and a hint of international influences due to the tourism influx. Lombok's traditional foods often feature fresh seafood, local spices, and coconut, which are abundant in the region. The food is known for its bold and spicy flavors, with dishes often incorporating sambal (a spicy chili paste) and local herbs.

In recent years, as the Gili Islands have become a popular destination for travelers, the local cuisine has also adapted to cater to a wider palate, including a variety of international dishes. The blend of traditional Sasak cooking techniques with international influences has crafted a unique culinary scene on the islands.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Gili Islands and Lombok (Mataram)

1. Ayam Taliwang (Non-Veg) - A spicy grilled chicken dish that is marinated with a mixture of garlic, chili, and other spices.
2. Sate Tanjung (Non-Veg) - Grilled skewered fish served with a flavorful spice blend unique to Lombok.
3. Sayur Nangka (Veg) - A traditional curry made with young jackfruit and coconut milk.
4. Pelecing Kangkung (Veg) - Water spinach served with a spicy sambal sauce, a common side dish to accompany meals.
5. Ikan Bakar (Non-Veg) - Grilled fish with a marinade of spices and served with sambal and rice.
6. Gado-Gado (Veg) - A mixed vegetable salad with peanut sauce dressing, a tasty and healthy option for vegetarians.
7. Beberuk Terong (Veg) - A spicy eggplant salad mixed with tomatoes, chili, and lime juice.
8. Soto Lombok (Non-Veg) - A traditional spicy soup from Lombok made with chicken, noodles, and fresh herbs.
9. Mie Goreng (Veg/Non-Veg) - Stir-fried noodles typically prepared with vegetables and optional seafood or chicken.
10. Nasi Goreng (Veg/Non-Veg) - The famous Indonesian fried rice, which can be made with just vegetables, or with the addition of seafood or chicken for non-vegetarians.

Top Famous Restaurants in Gili Islands and Lombok (Mataram)

• Pituq Café (Gili Trawangan)
  Address: Jalan Ikan Duyung
  Famous Dish: Vegan and Vegetarian dishes (Veg)
• Scallywags Organic Seafood Bar & Grill (Gili Air)
  Address: South Beach of Gili Air
  Famous Dish: Grilled Seafood Platter (Non-Veg)
• Sasak Café (Gili Meno)
  Address: Main pathway around Gili Meno
  Famous Dish: Traditional Sasak cuisine including Grilled Fish (Ikan Bakar) (Non-Veg)
• El Bazar Café & Restaurant (Gili Trawangan)
  Address: Main strip of Gili Trawangan
  Famous Dish: Kebab (Non-Veg/Veg options)
• Asmara Restaurant & Lounge (Gili Trawangan)
  Address: Jalan Gili Trawangan
  Famous Dish: Local and International cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg options)
• Bale Kayu Gili Air (Gili Air)
  Address: East coast of Gili Air
  Famous Dish: Indonesian Rijsttafel (Non-Veg/Veg options)
• Mahamaya Boutique Resort Restaurant (Gili Meno)
  Address: West coast of Gili Meno
  Famous Dish: Western and Indonesian fusion (Veg/Non-Veg options)
• Square Restaurant (Lombok)
  Address: Jalan Raya Senggigi, Mataram
  Famous Dish: Grilled Tuna Steak (Non-Veg)
• Taman Gili (Lombok)
  Address: Mataram City Center
  Famous Dish: Ayam Taliwang (Non-Veg)
• Yessy Café (Lombok)
  Address: Jalan Adisucipto No.10, Ampenan, Mataram
  Famous Dish: Local Sasak cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg options)