What’s not to love about eating out in the Gili Islands? It’s mostly great value tucker, there is tons of variety and nearly everywhere offers a sun-kissed ocean view. That said, sometimes it can feel a little same-same, with similar western-influenced menus serving up the usual mix of seafood, burgers and pasta. Even if you crave the familiar, there are a few spots that stand out above the rest. In GiliAir, The Waterfront Restaurant is one such place that delivers on a promise of top quality western influenced fare.

It’s aptly named as the restaurant nestles between not one but two bodies of water. To the rear is the hotel swimming pool and out front lays the wide expanse of ocean. There is al fresco dining under the stars with tables spread out or the sand and stylish rattan style loungers to sink into facing the ebb and flow of the water’s edge. It’s an inviting spot for an evening sundowner.

Set at the front of the hotel is the main restaurant and bar housed in an elegant period style joglo building complete with quintessential soaring roof and intricately carved timber beams. There is a stylish contrast of dark wood, mosaic stonework and contemporary blue furnishings.

The Waterfront menu emphases fresh locally sourced ingredients created with a western flair for presentation. The menu is peppered with innovative flavours, hearty and healthy breakfasts, great desserts and a wide array of international favourites. In true Gili Island style, the fresh seafood barbecue is an enduring culinary highlight each night.

It all kicks off with breakfast, which is surprisingly varied. Anyone used to the rather limited brekkie options in the Gilis is in for a treat. It’s the most important meal of the day, so why compromise? There is the classic American or Indonesian Breakfast, tropical smoothie bowls, pancakes, avocado sourdough with poached eggs and breakfast burritos.

The main menu is filled with familiar pasta faves, burgers, sandwiches and wraps such as the Philly Cheese Steak Bagel, and a host of chef specials like Chicken Parmigiana and Quesadillas. There is also a dedicated kids menu for mini-sized appetites. The usual local favourites are all here too; mie and nasi goreng, beef rending and wok-fried chicken and cashew. Fancy a classic sweet ending? Finish off with a smooth and fluffy chocolate mousse or carrot cake. There is also a decent selection of wine and cocktails alongside the ubiquitous ice cold Bintang and fruity smoothies.

The vibe is low key and convivial at The Waterfront, and it’s a good spot to socialise with a regular crowd of expats, especially divers (it is under the management of Manta Dive Gili Air).There are also regular hosted events such as pub quizzes.

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