Lombok is not only known for its stunning landscapes and surf-friendly beaches, but also for its bold, spicy cuisine. Lombok cuisines offers a rich taste of Sasak culture, from sizzling grilled chicken to coconut-based stews. If you’re travelling to this Indonesian gem, prepare your taste buds for a flavour-packed journey with these must-try traditional dishes.
1. Ayam Taliwang – Spicy Grilled Chicken
A true Lombok icon, Ayam Taliwang features tender chicken marinated in a spicy blend of garlic, chilli, shrimp paste, and lime, then grilled to smoky perfection. It’s fiery, flavourful, and best enjoyed with warm rice and fresh vegetables.
2. Plecing Kangkung – Spicy Water Spinach Salad
This side dish is a staple on every Sasak table. Plecing Kangkung is made with blanched water spinach topped with a punchy sambal of tomato, chilli, garlic, and lime. It’s often served alongside grilled meats or rice dishes for a refreshing kick.
3. Beberuk Terong – Chilli Eggplant Relish
A simple yet bold dish, Beberuk Terong consists of raw or lightly blanched eggplant tossed with tomatoes, chilli, and lime juice. It’s cool, tangy, and adds an explosion of flavour to any meal.
4. Sate Rembiga – Lombok-Style Satay
Originating from the village of Rembiga near Mataram, this beef satay is marinated in a spicy mix of shallots, garlic, chilli, and palm sugar before being grilled over charcoal. It’s rich, savoury, and slightly sweet—a true crowd-pleaser.
5. Ares – Young Banana Stem Soup
This unique dish is made from banana trunk slices cooked in coconut milk and spices, typically served at ceremonies or family feasts. It’s earthy, creamy, and unlike anything you’ve tasted before.
Where to Try These Dishes
For the most authentic experience, try dining at local warungs (small family-owned eateries) or traditional Sasak restaurants in Mataram, Senggigi, or Kuta Lombok. Some guided culinary tours also offer home-cooked meals with Sasak families for a more immersive cultural experience.
Lombok’s cuisine is a vibrant reflection of its cultural identity—bold, warm, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you’re biting into spicy Ayam Taliwang or savouring a spoonful of creamy Ares, each dish tells a story of the island’s rich culinary heritage. Don’t forget to bring your appetite!
