A chilled beachfront culinary destination and social hangout

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We’ve found our new favourite beachfront hangout on Gili T. La Cala commands a prime spot along Gili Trawangan’s busting east coast beach strip at Turtle Point. Al fresco seating is nestled among shady trees on the sand making it a perfect spot to beat the heat for lunch. It’s a multi-faceted hangout open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is chilled unpretentious restaurant and beach club concept with a rustic, boho island vibe. 

Wooden tables are spread across the sand along with elegant sofa style seating and a row of comfy loungers facing the sea. There is a line of unique hanging lanterns that illuminate evening dinner each night, while a chilled soundtrack of music enhances the chilled ambience. Despite the popularity, service is top-notch.

The menu is both inventive and extensive and pretty much covers all the basics. It is definitely one of the better dining spots for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Breakfast fare includes French croissants or try a healthy vegan poke bowl to start the day. There is a comprehensive array of lunchtime sandwiches, tapas and light bites.  

Like many beachfront restaurants, the nightly fresh seafood and meat BBQ is a highlight. Here at La Cala they do it a little differently. It’s a slick operation with plenty of different options than the norm, like king tiger prawn and beef rib eye skewers, as well as BBQ grilled butterfish. Beyond the BBQ, there are crisp salads and savoury burgers, pasta, plus tapas style combo platters for two. 

La Cala is much more than tasty bites and al fresco dinner on the beach. There is a regular crowd who come to socialize, chat and sip custom cocktails. It has a very chilled island vibe that transforms progressively from day to night. Their motto is simple: “Come for the food and stay for the vibe.”  It has one of the most comprehensive and varied drinks lists, ranging from unique crafted cocktails like pineapple and jalapeño margaritas, a commendable variety of premium whiskies and bourbon, along with wines by the glass or bottle. 

La Cala is a Gili T rarity in that you can easily make an advance reservation for a table  at dinner – certainly a worthwhile move in the busy peak season months or for a large group of friends.

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