irish bar restaurant
| |

Where to Eat in Gili Trawangan: 16 Best Restaurants We Loved (2026)

One of the things that surprised us most about Gili Trawangan was just how good the food was! 

We originally planned to spend just a few days on the island as part of our two months in Bali, but we ended up extending our stay more than once and spent nearly two weeks there in total! 

Between lazy brunches, sunset dinners and plenty of evenings spent trying somewhere new, we ate our way around a large chunk of the island.

From authentic Indonesian warungs and Italian pizzerias to beachfront restaurants, Mexican tacos and even Jamaican cuisine, Gili Trawangan has far more variety than we ever expected. We found ourselves returning to some places multiple times, and one restaurant was so good that we visited three times and even took our friends there when they arrived on the island.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up all of our favourite restaurants in Gili Trawangan, along with a few other popular spots we’d happily recommend.

Map of the Best Restaurants in Gili Trawangan

To help you decide where to eat, we’ve marked every restaurant featured in this guide on the map below.

Although Gili Trawangan is a relatively small island, the restaurants are spread out around the coastline. We found that hiring a bike made it incredibly easy to explore different areas and discover somewhere new for lunch or dinner each day.

Where to eat in Gili Trawangan – Our Favourite 16 Places! 

1. Jali Kitchen

Best for: Overall dining experience
Vibe: Relaxed garden restaurant
Best dish: Butter Chicken or Beef Jali Pasta
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Couples, groups and anyone looking for one of the best restaurants on Gili Trawangan.

Jali Gili T

If we could only recommend one restaurant on Gili Trawangan, it would be Jali Kitchen.

It was hands down our favourite place to eat on the island, and that’s saying something considering how many great restaurants we tried during our two-week stay. In fact, we loved it so much that we came back three separate times and even brought our friends along after raving about it.

Despite being located towards the quieter northern part of the island, it’s only around a 15-minute walk or a short bike ride from the main harbour area, so don’t let the location put you off.

The menu is incredibly varied, but our standout dishes were the Butter Chicken, Apple Cider and Cream Pork Stew, and the Beef Jali Pasta. If you’re ordering a starter, don’t skip the Vietnamese Spring Rolls; we’d happily go back just for those! 

The cocktails were also some of the best we had on Gili Trawangan. Leah couldn’t get enough of the Caipirinhas, and every meal we had here felt like incredible value for money. Even with a main course and drink each, we rarely spent more than 250,000 IDR (£13/$16) between us.

2. Hello Capitano Lifestyle Café

Best for: Brunch and speciality coffee
Vibe: Modern, stylish café
Best dish: Smoothie bowls and brunch plates
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Digital nomads, couples and anyone looking for a slower start to the day.

hello capatino salad

If you’re searching for a stylish brunch spot, Hello Capitano Lifestyle Café is well worth adding to your list.

Located close to the island’s main strip, it’s a popular place to escape the heat with an iced coffee, enjoy a healthy breakfast or catch up on a bit of work using the café’s Wi-Fi. If you are coming to Gili T from Bali, it may be one of the first places you see!

The menu focuses on fresh brunch dishes, smoothie bowls, good coffee and lighter lunch options, making it a great choice if you’ve had one too many indulgent dinners at the night market!

We stopped by during our stay and loved the relaxed atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where it’s easy to lose an hour or two before heading back out to explore the island.

3. Regina Pizzeria

Best for: Pizza and Italian food
Vibe: Busy, casual restaurant
Best dish: Prosciutto e Funghi Pizza or Carbonara
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Families, couples and anyone craving authentic Italian food.

Italian restaurant

When you’re travelling for a while, sometimes all you want is a really good pizza, and Regina Pizzeria absolutely delivers.

Located just one street back from the busy eastern coastline, we found ourselves eating here several times during our stay because it was only around the corner from My Gili Paradise, where we were staying.

Despite always seeming to be full, the service was impressively quick, and the restaurant is much bigger than it looks from the outside.

If you’re after consistently good Italian food at reasonable prices, Regina Pizzeria is one of the safest bets on the island.

4. Villa Unggul Restaurant

Best for: Poolside dining
Vibe: Peaceful boutique hotel restaurant
Best dish: Indonesian favourites and fresh seafood
Price range: $$-$$$
Who’s it for? Couples looking for a quieter meal away from the crowds.

resort in gili trawangan

If you’re looking to escape the busy harbour area, Villa Unggul Restaurant is a lovely place to enjoy a relaxed lunch or dinner.

Set within a boutique hotel, the restaurant overlooks the swimming pool and has a much quieter atmosphere than many of the busier beachfront restaurants. It’s the perfect place to slow down after a morning of snorkelling or cycling around the island.

The menu offers a mix of Indonesian classics and international dishes, with plenty of fresh seafood and vegetarian options available.

5. Kayu Café

Best for: Breakfast and brunch
Vibe: Relaxed café with sea views
Best dish: Ham and cheese baguette or the burgers
Price range: $-$$
Who’s it for? Anyone looking for breakfast, brunch or somewhere to escape the midday heat.

kayu cafe brunch omlette

If we had to choose one place we visited the most during our stay, it would probably be Kayu Café.

We genuinely came here every single day, and that’s no exaggeration. It quickly became part of our morning routine, mainly because it was just around the corner from My Gili Paradise, but also because the food was consistently excellent.

Alex’s go-to order was the full ham and cheese baguette, which cost just 60,000 IDR and was the perfect breakfast before heading out to explore the island. The café caters for all tastes, with everything from healthy smoothie bowls and brunch dishes to sandwiches, burgers and excellent coffee.

6. Lazy Coconut

Best for: Healthy brunch and relaxed lunches
Vibe: Tropical café by the beach
Best dish: Smoothie bowls and fresh salads
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Couples, backpackers and anyone after fresh, healthy food.

If you’re craving something a little lighter after a few days of Indonesian food, Lazy Coconut is a great option.

With its tropical décor, laid-back atmosphere and menu full of smoothie bowls, fresh juices, salads and sandwiches, it’s easy to see why it’s become such a popular brunch spot on the island.

It’s also a lovely place to escape the heat for an hour or two with an iced coffee before heading back to the beach.

7. Casa Vintage Beach

Best for: Caribbean flavours and hidden gems
Vibe: Small, family-run beachfront restaurant
Best dish: Jerk Chicken or Fish Curry
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Foodies looking to try something a little different.

jamaican restaurant gili t

Casa Vintage Beach was one of those restaurants we discovered completely by accident.

After spending the afternoon relaxing on the loungers next door at Gili Teak, we spotted this tiny Jamaican restaurant and decided to give it a try. We’re so glad we did.

The menu is intentionally small and changes depending on what fresh ingredients are available that day, but that’s all part of its charm. We ordered the Jerk Chicken and Fish Curry, and both were absolutely delicious.

The portions were generous, the food was packed with flavour and the owner was incredibly friendly, taking the time to chat with us about life on the island while we waited for our meals.

One thing to bear in mind is that Casa Vintage only accepts cash, so make sure you’ve visited an ATM before heading over.

If you’re spending the day on the quieter southern side of Gili Trawangan, we’d definitely recommend stopping here for lunch or dinner.

8. Amsterdam Restaurant

Best for: Casual lunches and international food
Vibe: Relaxed beachfront restaurant
Best dish: Indonesian and Western favourites
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Travellers looking for a varied menu in a central location.

smoothie bowl

Conveniently located close to the harbour, Amsterdam Restaurant is another popular choice if you’re looking for a relaxed meal in the heart of Gili Trawangan.

The menu offers a mix of Indonesian dishes alongside familiar Western favourites, making it a good option if you’re travelling with friends or family who all fancy something different.

With its central location and generous portions, it’s an easy restaurant to stop at while exploring the island, whether you’re grabbing lunch between activities or sitting down for a casual dinner before heading out for the evening.

9. Tiki Grove

Best for: Mexican food and cocktails
Vibe: Relaxed, open-air restaurant
Best dish: Tacos
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Couples, groups and anyone craving something different.

If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Tiki Grove should be right at the top of your list.

Located just around the corner from Jali Kitchen, this colourful restaurant serves some of the best tacos we found on Gili Trawangan. One of the things we loved most was the open kitchen, where you can watch the chefs preparing everything fresh in front of you while you wait.

The staff were also incredibly friendly and always happy to chat, which made the whole experience feel even more welcoming.

We’d definitely recommend ordering a selection of tacos and pairing them with one of the cocktails from their extensive drinks menu. It’s a great spot for a relaxed evening before heading out to enjoy Gili Trawangan’s nightlife.

10. Voodoo Kitchen

Best for: Healthy lunches and colourful plates
Vibe: Trendy café with tropical décor
Best dish: Fresh bowls and burgers
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Brunch lovers and health-conscious travellers.

If you’re looking for somewhere to break up all the pizza, burgers and Indonesian food, Voodoo Kitchen is a great choice.

The menu focuses on fresh, colourful dishes, alongside quality coffee, juices and hearty brunch options. It’s particularly popular with backpackers and digital nomads looking for somewhere to relax for a while before heading back out to the beach.

11. Francesco’s Pizza

Best for: Huge pizzas to share
Vibe: Lively Italian restaurant
Best dish: Family-sized pizzas
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Groups, families and anyone with a big appetite.

If one pizza isn’t enough, Francesco’s Pizza has you covered.

Located directly opposite the Gili Trawangan Night Market, this busy Italian restaurant is famous for its enormous family-sized pizzas, which are easily big enough for two people to share.

Every time we walked past, the restaurant was packed, which is always a good sign. Despite its popularity, the prices are surprisingly reasonable, and the menu has a huge choice of toppings.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, it’s easy to see why Francesco’s remains one of the island’s most popular restaurants.

12. Gili Teak Resort

Best for: Long lunches by the beach
Vibe: Quiet beachfront resort
Best dish: Small plates
Price range: $$-$$$
Who’s it for? Couples and anyone looking to escape the crowds.

small places gili t

Although many people visit Gili Teak Resort for its accommodation, its beachfront restaurant is well worth visiting too.

We actually spent an afternoon relaxing on the sun loungers here before wandering next door to Casa Vintage Beach for dinner, and it quickly became one of our favourite spots on the quieter side of the island.

The setting is hard to beat, with tables overlooking the beach and a much more peaceful atmosphere than you’ll find around the harbour.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch, a cold drink after cycling around the island or simply relax with a sea view before continuing your day.

13. Warung Jaman Now

Best for: Affordable Indonesian food
Vibe: Casual local warung
Best dish: Nasi goreng and Indonesian classics
Price range: $
Who’s it for? Budget travellers and anyone wanting authentic local food.

If you’re looking for some of the best local food in Gili Trawangan, make sure you add a traditional warung to your list.

Warung Jaman Now is a great option for travellers wanting to try authentic Indonesian dishes without spending much money. You’ll find favourites such as nasi goreng, mie goreng, satay and other local specialities at much cheaper prices than many of the more tourist-focused restaurants.

One of our favourite things about travelling around Indonesia was discovering small local restaurants like this. They might not have the beachfront views or fancy décor, but the food is often some of the most memorable.

For a cheap and delicious meal on Gili T, this is definitely worth checking out.

14. Pearl Beach Lounge

Best for: A special occasion or romantic dinner
Vibe: Upscale beachfront dining
Best dish: Prawn risotto
Price range: $$$
Who’s it for? Couples, celebrations and anyone looking for a memorable meal.

risotto in gili trawangan

If you’re looking for somewhere a little more special, Pearl Beach Lounge is one of the best places to enjoy a more luxurious dining experience on Gili Trawangan.

Located on the southeastern side of the island, this restaurant is part of a luxury resort and immediately stands out thanks to its impressive wooden structure and beautiful beachfront setting.

While there are plenty of tables further inland, we’d definitely recommend trying to get a spot closer to the beach. Watching the waves while enjoying dinner creates a completely different atmosphere compared to the busier restaurants around the harbour.

During our visit, we ordered the gluten-free prawn risotto and creamy salmon pasta, and both dishes were fantastic. The quality of the food was noticeably higher than many of the more casual restaurants on the island, making it a great choice if you’re celebrating something special or simply want to treat yourself.

15. Gili Trawangan Night Market

Best for: Cheap local food
Vibe: Busy and authentic evening market
Best dish: Fresh seafood, nasi goreng and satay
Price range: $
Who’s it for? Backpackers, foodies and anyone travelling on a budget.

No guide on where to eat in Gili Trawangan would be complete without mentioning the Gili Trawangan Night Market.

Located close to the harbour, the night market is one of the best places on the island to experience local Indonesian food at affordable prices. Every evening, the area comes alive with food stalls selling everything from grilled seafood and chicken satay to nasi goreng, noodles and sweet treats. Going to the night market actually turned out to be one of our favourite things to do in Gili T!

The seafood stalls are particularly popular, with fresh fish and prawns cooked right in front of you. If you’re travelling around the Gili Islands on a budget, the night market is one place you’ll want to return to more than once.

16. Fat Cats Bar and Restaurant

Best for: Casual drinks and evening meals
Vibe: Lively beachfront bar
Best dish: Burgers, seafood and cocktails
Price range: $$
Who’s it for? Groups, couples and travellers looking for a relaxed evening.

asian food gili t

Fat Cats Bar and Restaurant is another popular option if you’re looking for somewhere relaxed to enjoy dinner and drinks.

With its beachfront location and laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great place to stop after a day of exploring the island. The menu offers a mixture of Indonesian favourites and Western dishes, making it an easy choice if you’re travelling with a group and everyone wants something different.

It’s also a nice spot to enjoy a drink in the evening before heading elsewhere, especially if you want somewhere with a good atmosphere without the full party scene.

Must-Try Indonesian Foods in Gili Trawangan

Although Gili Trawangan has an amazing variety of international restaurants, we’d definitely recommend trying some traditional Indonesian food during your stay.

Here are a few dishes we think you shouldn’t leave Gili Trawangan without trying:

Nasi Goreng – a delicious fried rice dish usually served with vegetables, egg, chicken, seafood or prawns.

Mie Goreng – Similar to nasi goreng, mie goreng is the noodle version. The noodles are stir-fried with vegetables, meat or seafood and usually topped with egg. 

Satay –  consists of grilled meat skewers served with a rich peanut sauce and is one of our favourite Indonesian street foods.

Fresh Seafood – Considering Gili Trawangan is surrounded by beautiful ocean, it would be rude not to try some fresh seafood while you’re here.

gili trawangan beach

Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Eat in Gili Trawangan

What are the best restaurants in Gili Trawangan?

In our opinion, the best restaurants in Gili Trawangan are Jali Kitchen, Kayu Café, Regina Pizzeria, Tiki Grove and Pearl Beach Lounge.

Where is the best local food in Gili Trawangan?

For the best local food in Gili Trawangan, we’d recommend visiting the night market or one of the island’s traditional warungs.

Is food expensive in Gili Trawangan?

Food prices in Gili T vary depending on where you eat. Local warungs and the night market are very affordable, with meals often costing just a few pounds. Western restaurants, beach clubs and beachfront dining spots are more expensive.

Where should I eat dinner in Gili T?

For dinner in Gili Trawangan, we’d recommend choosing based on the type of evening you want. For a special meal with a view, Pearl Beach Lounge is a great option. If you are after incredible food at a reasonable price, Jali Kitchen is hard to beat.

Are there vegetarian options in Gili Trawangan?

Yes, you’ll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options in Gili Trawangan. Places like Kayu Café are particularly good if you’re looking for healthy options.

Do restaurants in Gili Trawangan accept credit cards?

Many restaurants in the main tourist areas accept cards, especially larger restaurants and resorts. However, we’d recommend carrying some cash with you, especially for smaller warungs, local restaurants and the night market.

Final Thoughts on Where to Eat in Gili Trawangan

After spending nearly two weeks on Gili Trawangan, we were genuinely surprised by how much we loved the food scene.

Before arriving, we expected the island to be mostly about beaches and nightlife, but we quickly discovered a huge variety of incredible restaurants, cafés and local food spots. From returning to Jali Kitchen three times to grabbing daily breakfasts at Kayu Café, food became a big part of our experience on the island.

Whether you’re travelling on a budget and eating at the night market, looking for the best pizza, or planning a romantic beachfront dinner, Gili Trawangan has something for everyone.

For us, the combination of incredible food, beautiful beaches and relaxed island atmosphere is exactly what made Gili T such a memorable part of our Bali trip, and we’d happily return just to eat our way around the island again, definitely one to add to your Bali bucket list!

Follow Us!

restaurants in gili trawangan
where to eat gili t

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *