Eating like a local in Kuta

While I've already boasted of the beauty of Kuta Lombok in regards to surf and sun, there is more to life than just riding giants. While the people in Kuta are awesome and the activities are a plenty, travelers need to eat! Though they may offer some of the same food, not all restaurants are created equal. For those looking for fine western dining, this isn't the blog for you. But if you are trying to find good, cheap, amazing local food, you've found the right place. There are only two options in Kuta for the best food: Warung Jawa 2 and Nana's.

Warung Jawa 2 is located off of the main road near the small village of Kuta. Though it is attached to another restaurant, Jawa 2 has much more to offer than its counterpart in close proximity. For under $2 per meal, you can get a taste of any of the Indonesian favorites. From Nasi Gorreng (fried rice) to Soto Ayam (chicken soup) Warung Jawa 2 offers it all. Depending on the catch of the day, Jawa also offers Mahi Mahi for around $3 with all the fixings anyone could ask for. On top of this, you can get all natural fruit juice, ranging from mango to papaya or even avocado, for less than a dollar a glass.

Though you could eat every meal at Warung Jawa 2, you may want to visit other places. Nana's, further up the main road, is owned by the same family and actually offers a different taste for the same price. While Jawa has the best fish dishes, Nana’s Gado Gado (vegetables and peanut sauce) and Nasi Pecel (rice, vegetables, peanut sauce) are absolutely to die for. Along with the peanut sauce, Nana’s curries may be a step above that offered at Warung Jawa 2. Nana’s also offers great fruit juice and more sweets than Jawa. 

With both options being great, the truth of the matter is you are going to leave your meal happy, full, and not with a broken budget. With restaurants, beach and beautiful people, it seems crazy that anyone would ever want to leave Kuta Lombok.

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