Sumbawa Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia Travel Guide
Sumbawan cuisine mirrors the island's history and geography. Its predominantly Muslim population means most food meets halal dietary laws.
Abundant fresh seafood from its coastlines and agricultural products from its fertile plains heavily influence the local diet. Condiments and chilies are employed liberally, giving many dishes a robust and often spicy flavor. Customary food preparation methods, often involving open fires and simple preparations, remain common.
You might find meals with more Sasak (Lombok) cuisine influence here.
Bima's "Mbojo" cuisine contains one-of-a-kind specialties. Sate Susu, grilled cow's udder, is a popular street food here.
Food is often eaten with the right hand. A spoon and fork are also common. Avoid using your left hand for food. Dishes are commonly served family-style for sharing. Most local food preparation follows halal standards. Remove shoes before entering old-style eateries or private homes.
A specialty of Sumbawa. Beef is smoked over an open fire for distinct flavor, then cooked in a spicy sauce with aromatics. Locate it in local warungs, especially near Sumbawa Besar. A rich, hearty taste.
Rich and substantial, a local favorite.
Made with fresh local fish, tamarind, and a blend of chilies, garlic, shallots, and ginger. It is a refreshing and tangy dish, good for hot weather. Look for it in local eateries along the coast.
Refreshing and tangy, perfect for the climate.
Skewers of grilled cow's udder. This unique and popular street food offers a chewy texture and a savory, often spicy, taste from its marinade and accompanying sauce. Mainly found in Bima and eastern Sumbawa.
A unique street food experience.
This category includes tempura-like fried vegetables (sweet potato, cassava), fried tofu (tahu goreng), and fried tempeh (tempe goreng). Perfect for a quick snack.
A universally popular Indonesian street food, consisting of beef meatballs, noodles, and vegetables in a savory broth. Customizable with various sauces and toppings.
Fine dining businesses are extremely limited, if applicable, outside of the higher-end resorts on Moyo Island.
A few mid-range restaurants exist in Sumbawa Besar and Bima, offering a mix of Indonesian dishes and sometimes basic Western food.
Small, informal local eateries (warungs) present the most affordable and authentic Indonesian food. They are ubiquitous across the island.
Excellent places to buy fresh produce, meat, fish, spices, and sometimes pre-prepared local meals.
No formal food halls exist in Sumbawa.
Very few international cuisine choices outside surf camps.
Surf camps may offer pizza, burgers, or simple pasta.
Finding a wide range of international dining outside these spots proves difficult.
No dedicated international restaurants.
As a predominantly Muslim region, almost all local food preparation adheres to halal standards.
Eat with confidence at local warungs.
Kosher meals are virtually non-existent in Sumbawa.
Travelers needing kosher meals may bring their own provisions.
Politeness and clear communication, even with basic Indonesian phrases, clarify your dietary needs.
Self-catering: Purchasing fresh ingredients from local markets and preparing your own meals (if your accommodation permits) offers the best control over your diet.
A major cultural event, especially in Sumbawa Besar and Bima. Jockeys are often young children, and the races are a spectacle of local pride and skill.
Unique to Sumbawa, this traditional buffalo race occurs in wet rice fields. Farmers race their buffaloes, often adorned with traditional decorations.
Occasional royal or cultural ceremonies may happen at the palace in Sumbawa Besar, an unusual glimpse into Sumbawan aristocratic traditions.
This refreshing drink contains fresh young coconut water and tender coconut flesh, sometimes with a touch of sugar syrup. Perfect for cooling down.
A natural, cooling treat.
Kopi Susu: Coffee with condensed milk, a sweet and strong coffee drink. Teh Manis: Sweet tea, a common, simple, and refreshing iced tea.
Local favorites for a quick break.
A traditional Sumbawan cake, often made from rice flour and coconut, with a soft, slightly chewy texture and a sweet flavor. Look for it in local markets.
Fried bananas. Simple, sweet, and comforting, often served as a snack or dessert. A popular street food.
Local culinary events often occur around harvest durations or Holidays in islam. Special dishes may be prepared for these occasions, presenting an unique chance to try traditional festive fare. Inquire locally about any upcoming events.
Embrace the local flavors and be open to new experiences. Sumbawan cuisine is a reflection of its culture.
