Sapori Nusantara Gili Trawangan

Nestled on Gili Trawangan’s beach strip, Italian eatery Sapori Nusantara definitely stands out from the crowd. There is no shortage of Mediterranean culinary options, and Italian in particular, but few can match the uncompromising passion for authenticity on display here.

You get traditional Italian recipes that have been passed down through generations. The restaurant looks and feels like a real trattoria but with all the practicalities of a Gili beachside restaurant that makes full use of the breezy beach and sea views.

The origins can be traced back to a first time visit to the island 30 years ago by the founder. Sapori represents this personal connection to the Gilis, and aims to be a way to connect people through authentic food.

The name takes its cue from Italian roots and Indonesia’s vast archipelago, and the restaurant’s philosophy is a harmonious blend of authentic Italian food and the hospitality and vision of local Indonesians.

It takes great pains to be an inclusive eatery not just for discerning travellers but for the local community, both through the food and its unique social atmosphere. A meeting place for a drink, a relaxed chat with the waiter over a coffee, or to celebrate a special occasion.

Sapori Nusantara takes a departure from the usual restaurant playbook in that it serves up a menu that 100% focuses on authentic Italian flavours. Concentrating on its core strengths, it sources ingredients from reputable Italian suppliers and doesn’t compromise on quality or authenticity. This is its sincere approach to what Italian cuisine is really all about.

Virtually everything is made inhouse from the grissini to the focaccia, and is the only eatery with a long fermentation pizza that is made with sourdough. It serves durum wheat pasta from Gragnano and even the tableware is unique to the restaurant. The food is served on handmade ceramic plates from Kevala in Bali, and just like SAPORI itself, each collection is unique.

The Beach Day menu is filled with timeless bites like classic bruschetta, Focaccia Mortadella, Neapolitan fried pizza and a shareable seafood platter. The main menu features traditional spaghetti, rigatoni, lasagna and more, along with octopus, grilled meats and a hearty Italian beef stew.

Save room for a sweet ending of classic Tiramisu or sorbet. The beverage options are extensive too. Like a Campari or Negroni aperitif and premium wine by the bottle or glass.

While the food speaks for itself, the restaurant says its main goal is to become a reference point for Gili Trawangan’s diverse community – a place for locals, expats and visiting travellers to come together in a convivial atmosphere to enjoy the hospitality and an authentic taste of Italy found no where else on the island.