Despite their small size, the Gili Islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno – have a surprisingly diverse food scene. Travellers can enjoy traditional Indonesian meals at small warungs, freshly grilled seafood at the night market, healthy smoothies at beachfront cafés and lively bars serving cocktails under the stars.
Local Indonesian and Sasak Cuisine
Local food is widely available and usually the most affordable option. Common dishes include:
- Nasi goreng – fried rice with vegetables, chicken, prawns or egg
- Mie goreng – fried noodles with similar toppings
- Nasi campur – rice served with a mix of side dishes like tempeh, tofu, vegetables or meat
- Satay – skewered chicken, beef or seafood with peanut sauce
- Soto ayam – chicken noodle soup
- Gado-gado – steamed vegetables with peanut sauce
Seafood is a highlight across all islands. Fishermen supply fresh fish, prawns and squid that are grilled over charcoal and served with rice and spicy sambal. The Gili Trawangan Night Market, located near the main harbour, is one of the best places to sample grilled seafood and street-food style Indonesian dishes. The market usually opens around 6 PM and runs until late evening, making it popular for dinner before heading out for nightlife.
International and Western-Style Restaurants
The Gilis also offer a wide choice of international food:
- Gili Trawangan has the largest selection with pizzerias, Mediterranean and Mexican restaurants, sushi bars, bakeries, burger joints and fine-dining beachfront venues.
- Gili Air is known for its relaxed café culture, healthy organic restaurants, smoothie bowls and vegetarian or vegan eateries.
- Gili Meno has fewer but charming small restaurants, often part of boutique resorts, usually serving a mix of Indonesian dishes and simple Western comfort food.
Many of these places are open all day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Drinks, Beach Bars and Cafés
The islands are famous for their sunset beach bars. During the day they serve fresh coconuts, tropical fruit juices, smoothies and iced coffee, while at night they turn into lively venues offering cocktails, beer and wine.
On Gili Trawangan, bars such as reggae-themed hangouts and Irish-style pubs are known for live music, DJ nights and themed parties that run late into the night.
Coffee lovers will find many cafés serving specialty coffee, espresso-based drinks, cold brew and fresh bakery items, especially on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air.
Healthy and Special-Diet Options
The Gilis cater well to vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets. Popular choices include smoothie bowls with tropical fruit, fresh salads, organic grain bowls and plant-based versions of Indonesian favourites. These are most commonly found on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air.
Practical Information for Travellers
- Payment: Most small warungs accept cash only, while many mid-range restaurants, cafés and bars on Gili Trawangan and Gili Air accept card payments.
- Prices: Local food at warungs and the night market is cheaper, while imported ingredients and beachfront dining tend to be more expensive.
- Opening Hours: Many cafés open for breakfast from around 7 AM or 8 AM and restaurants usually serve until 10 PM or 11 PM; night-market stalls typically start at 6 PM.
- Peak Times: Popular spots fill quickly at sunset, so it’s a good idea to arrive early or make a reservation during high season.
- Water: Tap water is not drinkable; bottled or filtered water is available everywhere.
The food and drink scene on the Gili Islands is a mix of authentic Indonesian flavours, fresh seafood, global cuisine, healthy cafés and laid-back beach bars. Whether you’re enjoying grilled fish at the night market, sipping a smoothie at a beachfront café or toasting the sunset with a cocktail, dining on the Gilis is an essential part of the island experience.
