Lombok may be famous for its postcard-perfect beaches and lush green hills, but the real treasure lies in its bold, flavorful food scene. This island doesn’t hold back when it comes to spice, richness, and unforgettable taste. Think smoky grilled chicken cooked over hot coals, satay drenched in thick peanut sauce, and aromatic soups that warm you from the inside out.

For those who crave authenticity on a plate, Lombok’s legendary dishes are not just meals — they’re experiences. These are the local flavours that define the island and deserve a spot on your must-try list. Here’s where to find the best of them.

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Taliwang Khas Pak Udin – The Icon of Grilled Chicken

One of Lombok’s most iconic dishes is Ayam Taliwang, and there’s no better place to try it than at Taliwang Khas Pak Udin. Located on Jalan Gelatik No. 2B, Cakranegara, Mataram, this humble eatery specializes in spicy grilled chicken that’s been marinated in a signature blend of local spices.

The menu is more than just ayam taliwang—you’ll also find grilled baronang fish, langoan, and ayam pelecingan, a version of grilled chicken with an extra spicy kick. The cozy, no-frills setting makes it perfect for an authentic local dining experience. The restaurant opens daily from 4:30 PM to 11:00 PM WITA.

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Rumah Makan Rarang Inaq Dellah – The Original Spicy Chicken

For fans of fiery flavors, Ayam Rarang is another must-try. This dish features fried kampung chicken (free-range chicken) drenched in a spicy chili sauce, typically served with clear soup vegetables and sambal beberuk, a spicy eggplant relish.

The place to go for the original recipe is Rumah Makan Rarang Inaq Dellah, located on Jl. Raya Rarang, Terara, Selong, East Lombok. This family-run restaurant has been around since 1976 and was the first to serve ayam rarang. Prices start at Rp40,000, and it’s open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

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Sate Rembiga Ibu Hj. Sinnaseh – Sweet, Spicy, and Comforting

While Madura is famous for satay, Lombok has its own take: Sate Rembiga, a flavorful skewered beef dish made with chili, tamarind, shrimp paste, shallots, and brown sugar. The result? A perfectly balanced sweet and spicy flavor that warms you from the inside out.

Sate Rembiga Ibu Hj. Sinnaseh, located at Jl. Dr. Wahidin No. 11B, Rembiga, Mataram, is the go-to spot for this dish. Aside from the famous beef skewers, visitors can try sate hati (liver), sate pusut (coconut minced meat satay), bebalung soup, and pepes kepala ikan (steamed fish head).

It’s open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and a portion of sate rembiga is just Rp25,000—great taste, great value.

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Nasi Balap Puyung Inaq Esun – A Legendary Mixed Rice Dish

For something truly traditional, Nasi Balap Puyung is a must-try. This dish looks simple but packs a punch with its mix of fried eels, dried shrimp, soybeans, shredded chicken, spicy potatoes, and seasoned grated coconut—all served over warm rice.

The most well-known place to try it is Nasi Balap Puyung Inaq Esun, a family-run food stall that’s been serving this hearty meal since the 1970s. Originally started at Pasar Kebon Roek Mataram, it now has a dedicated shop in Lingkung Daye, Puyung, Praya, Lombok. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, it’s a budget-friendly option at just Rp25,000 per plate.

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Sate Bulayak Suranadi – A Twist on the Classic Satay

Love satay? You’ll enjoy Sate Bulayak, a traditional Lombok satay served with bulayak—a unique type of lontong (rice cake) wrapped in palm leaves. This adds a fragrant aroma and a slightly chewy texture that pairs perfectly with skewers of chicken, beef, or offal.

Head over to Sate Bulayak Suranadi in Narmada, West Lombok, for a taste. This place is popular among both locals and tourists, especially during weekends. It’s open from morning until around sunset. Prices start from just Rp1,000 per skewer, making it a fun and affordable culinary adventure.

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Sate Pencok – Budget-Friendly Local Favorite

Looking for a snack that’s both unique and affordable? Sate Pencok is the answer. This local delicacy is made from kikil (cow skin) boiled until tender, then grilled and topped with spicy pelalah sauce, sweet soy sauce, and crispy fried shallots.

Street vendors across Lombok sell this dish, and some even use tapioca-based substitutes for a cheaper version. It’s chewy, flavorful, and perfect as a quick bite while walking around town. It may be humble street food, but its taste and texture leave a lasting impression.

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Warung Bebalung Kelebet – A Bowl of Strength

If you’re looking for something warm and comforting, don’t miss Bebalung Soup, a traditional Sasak dish made from beef ribs simmered in a spicy broth with turmeric, chili, ginger, and tamarind. The name bebalung literally means “strength” in the Sasak language, as locals believe this dish boosts your energy.

Visit Warung Bebalung Kelebet, located on Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto, Mataram, to enjoy this local favorite. It’s especially popular on cool evenings or after a long day exploring Lombok. The tender meat and rich broth will leave you feeling both full and refreshed.

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Rumah Makan Dua EM Bersaudara – A One-Stop Culinary Tour

If you want to sample a variety of Lombok’s traditional foods all in one place, make sure to stop by Rumah Makan Dua EM Bersaudara. Located at Jl. Transmigrasi No. 99, Karang Taliwang, Mataram, this restaurant is a local legend and often featured on food TV shows.

Here, you can try ayam taliwang, ayam julad (fried chicken with sambal), sate sumsum (bone marrow satay), sop kikil (cow skin soup), plecing kangkung (water spinach with chili sambal), and more. The setting is casual and welcoming, and it’s perfect for group meals. Open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

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Wrap-Up on Best Local Food in Lombok

Exploring Lombok’s natural wonders is a feast for the eyes, but tasting its traditional dishes is a journey for the soul. These legendary food spots offer more than just delicious meals—they tell the story of the island’s culture, traditions, and passion for bold flavors.

Whether you’re wandering the streets of Mataram or heading out to the countryside, make time to experience Lombok through its food. Each bite is a taste of history, hospitality, and heart.

Craving one of these dishes already? Which one would you try first?

Read also: The Unique Art of Sasak Weaving in Lombok