Warung Sasak — Restaurant in West Nusa Tenggara

Hidden Gem in the Market: SASAK - Best Ayam Taliwang in Lombok

Found this treasure among the bustling market stalls, and what a discovery! While there are plenty of food options in the area, SASAK stands out for their incredible Ayam Taliwang, a traditional Lombok dish that's worth every minute of the extra wait time.

The secret? They use kampung chicken (village-raised chicken), which might make you wait a bit longer than your typical fast-food grilled chicken spot, but trust me - the difference in flavor is remarkable. These free-range birds might not be as plump as their commercial cousins, but they pack so much more flavor.

After trying numerous restaurants across Lombok, I can confidently say this was the most authentic and delicious meal we had during our entire stay. In a market full of options, SASAK's dedication to traditional cooking methods and authentic local flavors sets them apart.

Watching the chicken being prepared was almost as entertaining as eating it. There's something poetic about seeing a village chicken, that probably spent its life dodging motorcycles and pecking at rice fields, being transformed into the island's most iconic dish.

If you're lucky enough to get a seat, order the Ayam Taliwang and settle in - good things come to those who wait.

P.S. To the kampung chicken that made our meal possible - you lived free and served deliciously....

Waited over two hours this evening for our food order. (They are also on grab).

Measly portion of chips, served chicken bones instead of full chicken.

Flavours were good however the price we paid did not reflect what we received. Avoid at all costs. We won't...

The best Ayam Taliwang in Lombok. For sure we will visit the restaurant next time when we are in...