If you’re a fan of exciting flavours and tongue-tingling spices, the island of Lombok has plenty of authentic culinary wonders to excite your taste-buds! You’ll find Lombok food offering plenty of fresh seafood, tender meats and fresh veggies, alongside a host of unique ingredients that provide a glimpse into the local indigenous Sasak culture.
Come and join us on an exciting journey through Lombok’s top 10 must-try dishes:
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1. Ayam Taliwang
If you’re keen to try Lombok’s most famous dish, then Ayam Taliwang has to be top of your list! This signature favourite consists of chicken that has been marinated in a mixture of chilli, garlic, shrimp paste and lime, creating a spicy and tangy flavour. Whilst there are options to have your chicken grilled or fried, those looking to experience traditional Lombok flavour should definitely opt for grilled. Served with steamed rice and a side of plecing kangkung (green vegetables), Ayam Taliwang always hits the spot for an authentic finger-licking island taste.
Where to Try:
- Warung Taliwang Khas Pak Udin in Mataram: A popular spot for authentic Ayam Taliwang. JL. Gelatik No. 2B, Cakranegara, Cakranegara Bar., Kec. Mataram, Kota Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83239
2. Plecing Kangkung
Plecing Kangkung is a fresh and spicy vegetable dish made from kangkung (water spinach), which is blanched and served with a fiery sambal made from chilli, shrimp paste, tomatoes and a dash of lime juice. Its refreshing, yet spicy flavour, pairs perfectly with the rich texture of Lombok’s grilled meats and is packed with healthy vitamins and minerals.
Where to Try:
- Plecing Kangkung Warung Bu Ririn in Senggigi: Famous for their delicious and spicy plecing. Jl. Dr. Wahidin No.5, Rembiga, Kec. Selaparang, Kota Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83124
- RM Ramayana in Mataram: Offers a variety of local dishes including a delicious version of Plecing Kangkung. Jl. Saleh Sungkar No.23, Bintaro, Kec. Ampenan, Kota Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83511
3. Sate Rembiga
If you love meat and spices, then Sate Rembiga is going to tick all of your taste-bud boxes! Named after the village of Rembiga in Lombok where the dish originated, Sate Rembiga is a type of satay made from beef which has been marinated in a delicious mixture of chilli, garlic and sweet soy sauce, which is grilled over an open flame. The result is tender, flavourful meat with a perfect balance of sweet, savoury and spicy.
Where to Try:
- Warung Sate Rembiga Ibu Sinnaseh in Rembiga: The original no-frills spot for this Lombok speciality. Jl. Dr. Wahidin No.11B, Rembiga, Kec. Selaparang, Kota Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83124
- Sate Rembiga Utama Bu Ririn in Mataram: A local favourite for enjoying authentic Sate Rembiga. Jl. Dr. Wahidin No.5, Rembiga, Kec. Selaparang, Kota Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83124
4. Sate Ikan Tanjung
Sate Ikan Tanjung is a unique satay made from fish, with the dish originating from the village of Tanjung in North Lombok. This delightful meal utilises the fisherman’s daily catch, such as fresh tuna or snapper, mixing it with grated coconut, mild spices and herbs. The fish is then skewered and grilled over charcoal, giving the dish a hint of smokiness. A real must-try local favourite!
Where to Try:
- Sate Ikan Tanjung Pojok: A top spot in the village of Tanjung for this fish satay. Jl. Lading-Lading, Tanjung, Kec. Tj., Kabupaten Lombok Utara, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83352
- Senggigi Market: Many stalls offer fresh Sate Ikan Tanjung with various sambal options. Jl. Raya Senggigi, Senggigi, Kec. Batu Layar, Kabupaten Lombok Barat, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83355
5. Nasi Balap Puyung
Nasi Balap Puyung is a spicy rice dish that consists of steamed rice served with seasoned shredded chicken, fried peanuts, serundeng (spiced grated coconut), fried soybean cake, and a small portion of sambal (chilli sauce). The dish is known for its bold spiciness and is usually eaten as a quick, tasty snack.
Where to Try:
- Nasi Balap Puyung Inaq Esun in Central Lombok: A popular spot known for serving this iconic dish. Lingkung daye, Puyung, Praya, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara 83553
6. Beberuk Terong
Beberuk Terong is a refreshing side dish made from eggplant and long beans mixed with a fiery sambal sauce. The vegetables are typically served raw or lightly blanched, creating a crunchy texture that complements the heat of the sambal (chilli sauce). This dish is often paired with Ayam Taliwang or grilled fish for a delicious and healthy treat!
Where to Try:
- RM Taliwang Khas Pak Udin in Mataram: Known for its Beberuk Terong served with Ayam Taliwang. JL. Gelatik No. 2B, Cakranegara, Cakranegara Bar., Kec. Mataram, Kota Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83239
- New Menega Restaurant: A seafood restaurant that serves Beberuk Terong as a side dish. Batu Layar, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara
7. Ares
Ares is a unique dish made from the young trunk of the banana tree, which is sliced and cooked in coconut milk alongside a blend of spices, resulting in a creamy, savoury sweet flavour combination. Although it might sound unusual, Ares is often served during traditional Sasak ceremonies making it a must-try for those wanting to experience truly authentic local cuisine.
Where to Try:
- Warung Ares Sasak Tua in Central Lombok: A great place to taste this unique Lombok dish. Jl. Raya Senggigi No.18, Meninting, Kec. Batu Layar, Kabupaten Lombok Barat, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83355
8. Bebalung
Bebalung is a hearty soup made from beef or goat ribs simmered with a concoction of local spices including garlic, ginger and turmeric. The result is a rich and aromatic broth, with a delightfully subtle spicy kick. Bebalung is often served as a main dish, especially during festivals and at large gatherings.
Where to Try:
- Warung Bebalung Sapi in Mataram: Known for its delicious Bebalung. JL Surenadi Narmada, RT. 01, Narmada, Lembuak, Mataram, Kabupaten Lombok Barat, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83371
9. Tunjung Satay (Sate Bulayak)
Also known as Sate Bulayak, Tunjung Satay is another satay variation made from beef or chicken. The meat is marinated in a special blend of spices and served with Bulayak, which is a type of rice cake wrapped in coconut leaves. The juicy, tender meat taste comes into its own when smothered in a generous helping of local peanut sauce.
Where to Try:
- Warung Sate Bulayak Suranadi in Narmada: One of the best places to try this dish. Suranadi, Narmada, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara 83371
10. Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish)
Being an island, Lombok is well-known for its succulent fresh seafood, making grilled fish dishes such as Ikan Bakar, a real must-try whilst you’re visiting. The fish is marinated with turmeric, garlic and chillies, then grilled until crispy on the outside and juicy inside. It’s usually served with rice and sambal, with varieties such as barracuda, snapper or tuna being the most popular.
Where to Try:
- New Menega Restaurant in Senggigi: Famous for its seafood, including delicious grilled fish. Batu Layar, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara
