Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three Gili Islands located near the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. In response to the surge of tourism it has recently experienced, Gil T (as it’s known) now has a large selection of dining choices available. There’s something for every visitor on this small island. In the post below, I’ll show you the best restaurants on Gili Trawagan.
Taco Corner–
If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I’m constantly searching all corners of SE Asia for good Mexican food. Taco Corner definitely satisfies this craving. The small restaurant is an island favorite and can become quite crowded at times.
Le Pirate Beach Club-
Located on the quieter side of the island, Le Pirate Beach Club is the perfect place to spend the day. The club has both a private beach and an infinity pool where you can lounge around all day topping up your tan. When you’re ready to eat, the club has an impressive menu made even more impressive by the fact that the staff will deliver your choices right to your sun bed.
Casa Vintage-
When I started posting pics on social media from Gili T, I had multiple people reach out to tell me that I had to try Casa Vintage during my time on the island. I’m glad I listened to their suggestions–this place seriously did not disappoint. The staff here are incredibly friendly and helpful, and they were happy to go through their entire menu with me while I tried to make selections.
Diversia Restaurant and Lounge-
While you might not expect a restaurant attached to a dive shop to make a list of the best places to eat, Diversia was a pleasant surprise. I passed the Italian style restaurant everyday, and the menu looked intriguing. I finally decided to stop in and I’m glad I did.
Night Market-
No list of where to eat on Gili Trawangan would be complete without mention of the night market. Every evening, vendors arrive and set up stalls where they begin preparing fresh selections of local foods. Here you can find everything from simple noodle and rice dishes to whole lobsters prepared to order–even freshly made cakes and pastries. The night market is also great, because it seems nearly everyone on the island is here every night. So it’s a great chance to catch up with friends or meet other travelers.
The Roast House-
Saving my personal favorite for last, The Roast House was the best meal I had on the island. In fact, it was the best meal I had both times I went! In SE Asia, many times you might get, at best, a decent version of what you’re craving. The Roast House had something I didn’t even know I missed until I had it–gravy. The roast chicken was perfectly cooked, tender and juicy. The vegetables were full of flavor and not overcooked at all. And the gravy was as good as any my mom makes–please don’t tell her I said that!
And for a restaurant known as The Roast House they also make an incredible salad. This seared tuna salad was the perfect light lunch for our beach day:
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Which meal looked best to you? Let me know in the comments section below!
Travel writer and owner of the blog. My work has been featured on Fodors, Eater.com, International Living, and Great Escape Publishing, among many others. My story? Nearly six years ago, I left my job at an Oklahoma City law firm and embarked on a journey around the world. At the time, I thought I would only be gone for 6 months, but the more I traveled, the longer my bucket list became. Flashpacker describes how I travel. Rather than traveling as the normal world wise backpacker and staying in hostel dorms, I prefer a more comfortable experience, and typically stay in private rooms, take Ubers instead of taxis, and now use a suitcase instead of a backpack. Foodie, on the other hand, describes one of the key reasons why I travel. I love to pick a central “base camp” and then explore the surrounding area, really immersing myself in the culture and interacting with the people, and enjoying and exploring the food of an area is an essential part of this experience.
Karla
Thursday 2nd of February 2017
I think my pick would be the night market. I love trying out different things at the same time
Ibazela
Tuesday 31st of January 2017
I know that eating local food from the street night market may be risky in some cases, but I think I'd like to take a chance once or twice. But other than that sometimes I would choose restaurants, even if they don't serve local food, like some you mentioned here, just for safety reasons. Of course all depends on the place. I haven't been to Indonesia (not yet ;) ).
Nathan
Wednesday 1st of February 2017
I eat street food quite often and I've rarely if ever had a problem but I get what you mean for sure! I hope you make it to Indo soon!
Sara | Belly Rumbles
Monday 30th of January 2017
You're right the Le Pirate Beach Club looks like the perfect place to spend the day, relaxing and eating. But wow those night markets are completely calling my name. Love night markets!
Nathan
Wednesday 1st of February 2017
I love night markets also! They're so awesome. Bangkok has some of my favorites!
Vicki Louise
Monday 30th of January 2017
As always your posts make me super hungry and with a list of places to go to try all the amazing food! And night markets are always fun - and generally a place to 'try and see.' There's usually something that looks a little dodgy/interesting - but you seemed to have done well to avoid those things!
Darlene
Sunday 29th of January 2017
Nice! I was in Gili Trawangan a few months ago and we dined in one of the resorts there. But I do remember that there really are a lot of options there. Those food looks scrumptious! a good way to refuel after a day of swimming and snorkeling!