Hatolia Town, located in the Ermera district, is known for its coffee plantations and traditional Timorese cuisine. The food history in Hatolia is closely tied to the agricultural practices and the cultural influences present throughout Timor-Leste's history, including Portuguese colonization and Indonesian occupation. The cuisine often features fresh, locally-grown ingredients, and makes use of the country's abundant seafood, root vegetables, and exotic fruits. Due to religious customs, certain meats such as pork are more prevalent, whereas beef is less common.
While there might not be a wide range of restaurants in Hatolia Town due to its small size and rural location, visitors can enjoy Timorese cuisine in local eateries or ventures a bit further to the district center for more options.
Address: Main Rd, Hatolia, Ermera
Famous for: Ikan Sabuko (Non-Veg)
Address: Rua Mercado Municipal, Ermera
Famous for: Local coffee and Katemak (Veg)
Address: Rua Governador, Ermera
Famous for: Caril (Non-Veg) and Batar Da'an (Veg)
Note: Due to the typically small, local nature of businesses in Hatolia Town and the Ermera district, visitors are encouraged to try local markets and street food vendors for an authentic taste of Timorese cuisine and fresh, seasonal ingredients.