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Best Restaurants in the Gili Islands 🌴

  • Writer: Jayne Keating
    Jayne Keating
  • Apr 27
  • 3 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

Luxury Dining, Beachfront Gems & Hidden Favourites (2026 Guide)

The Gili Islands may be small, but when it comes to food, they deliver in a big way. From barefoot beachfront dinners under the stars to trendy cafés and hidden local gems, dining here is all part of the island experience.

If you’re staying in a private pool villa, eating out becomes one of the highlights of your trip — and trust me, there are some truly unforgettable spots.

This guide covers the best places to eat across Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno, with a focus on beautiful settings, great food, and memorable experiences.


Gili Trawangan – Best Restaurants 🍽️

This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend stays and experiences that suit the style of travel shared on Island Escapes Bali & Gili.


🌅 Romantic Beachfront Dining

Gili T is the best island for variety and atmosphere.

Top picks:

  • Mediterraneo Ristorante and Pizzeria - Authentic traditional Italian, beautiful beach setting

  • Sapori Nusantara - Authentic Italian with beautiful beach front setting

  • La Carla Beach Club – chic bohemian atmosphere, beautiful BBQ meat & seafood

  • Pearl Beach Lounge – one of the most romantic settings on the island

  • Ko-Ko-Mo Restaurant – upscale dining, ideal for a special night

  • Lazy Coconut - Beachfront cafe and Bar (not luxury but amazing food with beautiful sunsets)

👉 Perfect for couples staying in private villas looking for a luxe night out - see my Guide for:


🌮 Gili T Night Market (Must Do)

If you want something more local and authentic, the night market is a must.

  • Fresh seafood grilled in front of you

  • Satay, nasi goreng, corn, and local dishes

  • Very affordable and full of atmosphere

👉 Not luxury — but an experience you shouldn’t miss.


☕ Best Cafés & Brunch Spots

  • Kayu Café – amazing coffee, smoothie bowls, healthy options

  • Coffee & Thyme – modern, aesthetic, great breakfasts

  • The Banyan Tree – plant-based, fresh and vibrant

  • Carpe Diem - beautiful breakfast and all day dining

👉 Perfect for slow mornings before heading back to your villa pool.


Gili Air – Best Restaurants 🌿

Gili Air has a slightly more relaxed, boutique feel — and the food scene reflects that.


🌅 Sunset & Beachfront Dining

  • Italy– Authentic traditional Italian (personal favourite, not on beachfront but food is amazing)

  • Mowie’s – laid-back luxury with amazing food and cocktails

  • PinkCoco Beach Club – stylish and perfect for couples with great entertainment

  • Mama Pizza - Authentic Italian - need to book as always busy

  • Santorini - Authentic Greek with an amazing setting

👉 This is where Gili Air really shines — relaxed, romantic, and beautiful.

👉 Perfect for couples staying in private villas looking for a luxe night out - see my Guide for:


🥗 Hidden Gems & Casual Favourites

  • Pachamama Organic Café – fresh, healthy, and full of flavour

  • Breadelicious – great for breakfast and baked goods

  • Gili Tiki - Amazing street food & cocktails


Gili Meno – Quiet & Romantic Dining🌺


Gili Meno is all about peace, privacy, and simplicity.


💫 Where to Eat

  • Bask Beach Club and Restaurant - luxury beachfront dining to intimate late-night cocktails (amazing)

  • Mahamaya - Seafood and international cuisine

  • Jizzy Warung - Asian, Indonesian

Top tip:👉 Book a beachfront table at sunset — this is where Meno becomes magical.

👉 Perfect for couples staying in private villas looking for a luxe night out - see my Guide for: Best Villas in Gili Meno (Peaceful Island Escapes and Boutique Stays)


Our Personal Tip (Don’t Skip This)🥂

One of the best things about the Gili Islands is that you don’t need a plan every night.

Some of our favourite meals have come from:

  • Walking along the beach

  • Finding a place with a great vibe

  • Sitting down for a spontaneous sunset dinner

👉 Those are the moments you remember most.


Where to Stay (Private Pool Villas)🏝️

If you’re planning your stay, we’ve put together our favourite guides:


✨ Final Thoughts

The Gili Islands aren’t just about beaches and snorkelling — the food scene is a huge part of the experience.

See my Snorkelling Guide: Best Snorkelling in the Gilli Islands

Whether you’re:

  • enjoying a luxury beachfront dinner,

  • grabbing a healthy brunch, or

  • wandering the night markets,

👉 every meal adds to the magic of island life.


Happy Eating🥰

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