Whether you’re in Labuan Bajo for just a few hours or a few days, you’ll want to know where to find the best restaurants and authentic places to eat during your stay. After spending several days on a liveaboard boat, you’re going to be craving a delicious meal and maybe even some Western food as a change from nasi and mie goreng.
Luckily, the small town of Labuan Bajo has a variety of dining options to offer for breakfast, lunch and dinner and this complete guide includes the best restaurants and where to find them. Some of our favourite and best restaurants to eat in Labuan Bajo include La Cucina, Lighthouse Bajo and the fish and seafood market.
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Where is Labuan Bajo?
Labuan Bajo is a port town located on the western tip of East Nusa Tenggara. It acts as the main gateway to Komodo National Park and welcomes thousands of tourists visiting the nearby islands every year. It takes a few hours by boat to get from Labuan Bajo to the park which is why most people choose to spend several days on a liveaboard boat taking them to popular places like Padar Island, Rinca Island and Pink Beach.
How to get to Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo is home to a small airport which offers flight connections to places like Bali, Jakarta and Surabaya. Most visitors arrive by plane although there are also boat tour options departing from Lombok and Bali.
Getting to Labuan Bajo is fairly simple but there are several ways to choose from, all of which you can find in our complete guide on how to get to Komodo and Labuan Bajo – a must-read before you plan your trip to Komodo.
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Best things to do in Labuan Bajo
Most visitors only come to Labuan Bajo as a stopover on their way to Komodo National Park. Due to the schedule of boats departing to Komodo, you might find yourself with some extra time in Labuan Bajo though. We did some exploring and came up with the best things to do in Labuan Bajo (and Komodo National Park) in our complete guide. Make sure to read it before you start your trip so you can decide for yourself how long you should stay in town. Some of the best things to do include:
- Heading to a hidden waterfall
- Visiting the unique caves located close to town
- Renting a scooter and watching the sunset from secret lookout points in the nearby hills
And much more! You can find all 24 things to do in Labuan Bajo and Komodo here.
Where to stay in Labuan Bajo
Labuan Bajo has a decent selection of hotels, hostels and resorts suitable for all budgets. Most affordable accommodation options are located in town while more luxurious resorts can be found on surrounding islands. Some of the best places to stay in Labuan Bajo include:
Budget –
Affordable hostel in the heart of town with a social reputation which makes it a great for backpackers. Stay in Labuan Bajo on a budget and get to know likeminded travellers while you’re there.
Price range: 7€ – 30€ per night
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Mid-price –
Glamping resort located on a remote island close to Labuan Bajo. Get to know the real Komodo and spend a few days by the beach with nothing but the waves and white sand surrounding you.
Price range: 40€ – 80€ per night
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Luxury –
Upscale resort located north of Labuan Bajo with luxury amenities, ideal for a special occasion or once-in-a-lifetime trip to Komodo and Indonesia. The views are absolutely breathtaking.
Price range: 230€ – 300€ per night
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Is Labuan Bajo worth it?
Most people go to Labuan Bajo to get to Komodo National Park. While the town is small, there is actually a growing list of things to do you can choose from. Labuan Bajo is located on the island of Flores (part of East Nusa Tenggara) and is a great starting point for a road trip around the surrounding countryside. Explore hidden waterfalls, remote volcanoes and rural villages. There’s definitely more to Labuan Bajo than the national park.
Labuan Bajo itself is small so one or two days here will be more than enough. Most people choose to spend a night or two here before going on a multi-day liveaboard boat tour and another few days when they return. This allows for plenty of time to explore the main sights without wasting any time.
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How long should you stay in Labuan Bajo and Komodo?
Many people only come to Labuan Bajo to see the national park, but there are actually quite a few fun things to do in the area. If you’re not short on time, you could easily spend two or three days in Labuan Bajo before heading to Komodo. A good strategy may be to stay in Labuan Bajo for one or two nights before your boat trip and then again for a few nights after.
You could choose to do a day trip to Komodo National Park but since there is so much to see you’ll be able to enjoy a multi-day liveaboard boat tour a lot more. Plan between one to three nights in the park or maybe even four to five if you’re not concerned about time and budget.
When added together, this means you should plan to spend at least four to five days on your trip to Labuan Bajo and Komodo, or even a week if possible.
How to visit and eat in Labuan Bajo on a budget
Labuan Bajo isn’t necessarily an expensive place but if you’re travelling on a budget, what you’re spending can really add up. Here are some tips to keep your trip to Komodo budget-friendly.
- Stay in a hostel dorm to save money on accommodation in Labuan Bajo. You’ll get to meet other travellers while you are there and maybe plan a boat trip to Komodo together if you haven’t already booked one.
- Eat at a local warung in Labuan Bajo which won’t be marked on Google Maps. You’ll find a meal for only around IDR 20,000 (~ €1.35) or even less.
- Close to the harbour, you’ll find a row of vendors selling snacks and affordable food. They don’t have a lot of seating options but this is a great place to grab lunch or dinner on the go.
- Avoid the Labuan Bajo fish and seafood market if you’re on a budget. While the seafood here is always fresh and high-quality, it’s not exactly cheap. Unless you’re happy to spend a bit more on a delicious seafood dinner you might want to skip this one
- Walk instead of taking a taxi. Labuan Bajo is generally very walkable and you’ll get to see fun things along the way. While taxis aren’t necessarily expensive, these expenses can add up so why not spend your money on exciting experiences instead?
- Drink local arak (sugarcane or coconut liquor) instead of imported spirits or beer. Labuan Bajo is actually known for its high-quality arak, which is meant to be much better than in Bali. It’s the cheapest alcohol around and can be mixed with soft drinks or juice.
- Eat at local places in Labuan Bajo and save the nicer rooftop bars for having drinks. That way you can save money on food and still enjoy a fantastic view afterward.
- Book a hotel in Labuan Bajo which provides complimentary breakfast. This will save you from having to find a place every morning.
- Many restaurants in Labuan Bajo add 10% to 15% tax and service to every order. Make sure to double-check the menu to find out whether this charge is already included in the listed prices.
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Labuan Bajo restaurants map and how to get around
Here is a map of the best restaurants and places to eat in Labuan Bajo, which also includes some cafes, breakfast and dessert options. The best way to get around in town is to walk from one place to another. The distances are generally short and many parts of Labuan Bajo have sidewalks. If you’re not keen on walking you could also take a local taxi or grab which shouldn’t cost more than IDR 40,000 (~ €2.70) for short distances.
Top tip: Click the icon in the top right corner to add this map to your own Google Maps so it will always be with you on the go.
Tips for picking restaurants in Labuan Bajo
Since there aren’t too many restaurants to choose from in Labuan Bajo, you’ll have to pick carefully if you’re looking for a place to eat. Those on a budget will find a variety of small affordable warungs serving seafood dishes and classic Indonesian food along the main street. Some may not look like much from the outside but the food is always delicious and authentic.
If you’re not the sort of person that enjoys eating at a warung every day, you’ll be pleased to find a good selection of Western restaurants in Labuan Bajo, as well as more upscale Indonesian places. Keep in mind that those with a rooftop terrace will automatically be considerably more expensive though, so you’ll pay the price for good views.
Many of the best restaurants in Labuan Bajo are also open for breakfast if you don’t have something at your accommodation.
OUR TIP
The seafood and fish market is probably the most famous place to eat in Labuan Bajo. However, it’s definitely a very touristy location and you won’t be able to haggle much. Prices are steep but for the quality of seafood available, it’s definitely worth it if you enjoy fresh fish, lobster or crab. If you’re not a seafood connoisseur it might be better to skip this one.
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How expensive are restaurants in Labuan Bajo?
Going out to eat in Labuan Bajo is generally affordable, although prices will depend on whether you’re eating at a local warung or a nicer rooftop restaurant with a view. Expect to spend around IDR 40,000 to IDR 80,000 (~ €2.70 – €5.40) for a meal.
OUR TIP
If you’re looking to splurge on a nice meal in a more expensive restaurant in Labuan Bajo I’d recommend doing it after you come back from your boat trip around Komodo National Park. You’ll appreciate it a lot more after spending a few days at sea and it’ll be the perfect way to end your trip.
Are there chain restaurants available in Labuan Bajo?
Labuan Bajo is a sleepy town and dining here used to mostly consist of local warungs. However, in recent years, some international chain restaurants and eateries have appeared and there is now a KFC as well as a Starbucks located close to the harbour. With more and more tourists coming to visit Komodo National Park it can only be expected that there will be more appearing soon.
Best restaurants in Labuan Bajo
If you’re looking for delicious restaurants in Labuan Bajo for all budgets, this is the list for you. Fuel up before starting your trip to Komodo National Park and enjoy local specialties, Western classics or a sweet dessert. Pick your favourites from the list of best restaurants in Labuan Bajo below.
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1. La Cucina Labuan Bajo
La Cucina is always everyone’s favourite when they visit Labuan Bajo. This family-owned restaurant offers authentic Italian dishes right in the heart of Labuan Bajo, all prepared using traditional recipes. The owner is Italian and makes sure you’re served only the best food during your visit. Prices are reasonable and eating at La Cucina at least once during your time in Labuan Bajo is a must-do and the perfect way to celebrate the end of your Komodo trip.
- Address: GV3H+GG Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Suitable for: Breakfast, lunch and dinner in Labuan Bajo
- Price range: IDR 60,000 to IDR 90,000 (~ €4.10 to €6.10) for main dishes
- Cuisine: Italian
- Vegetarian friendly?: Yes
Photos courtesy of La Cuccina
2. Labuan Bajo Fish and Seafood Market
The seafood and fish market is a favourite among tourists visiting Labuan Bajo. This collection of warungs all offer fresh fish, crab, lobster and shellfish which guests can select before they are grilled and prepared (the fish, not the guests). This is most likely the best seafood you’ll have during your time in Indonesia. However, keep in mind that this is a tourist attraction so prices are slightly elevated and calculated by kilogram. Still, when compared to the price of seafood elsewhere this is a steal.
- Address: GV6H+W3V, Kampung Ujung Night Market, Jl. Soekarno Hatta, Labuan Bajo, Kec. Komodo, Kabupaten Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Tim. 86754
- Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM (opening hours may be irregular)
- Suitable for: Dinner
- Price range: IDR 100,000 to IDR 600,000 (~ €6.80 to €40.50) for a fresh seafood dinner
- Cuisine: Indonesian seafood
- Vegetarian friendly?: No (some vegetable sides available)
3. Pondok Mai Ceng’go
Pondok Mai Ceng’go is a traditional Manggarai-themed restaurant serving Indonesian specialties in Labuan Bajo. Manggarai is a region of East Nusa Tenggara, known for its delicious cuisine and this restaurant is the perfect place to try authentic Indonesian food. This is one of the largest restaurants in Labuan Bajo and there is plenty of outdoor seating.
- Address: GV6M+2J Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Suitable for: Lunch or dinner
- Price range: IDR 50,000 to IDR 120,000 (~ €3.40 to €8.15) for main dishes
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Vegetarian friendly?: Some side dishes are vegetarian
4. The Bay at Meruorah Hotel
The Meruorah Hotel is the largest hotel in the area with sweeping harbour views and a waterfront location. The Bay is their rooftop restaurant which offers plenty of seating overlooking Labuan Bajo and delicious meals including both Western and Indonesian options. They also serve breakfast at the Meruorah in Labuan Bajo, although the dining area is located downstairs so you cannot eat on the upstairs terrace.
- Address: GV5G+V6 Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Suitable for: Lunch and dinner
- Price range: IDR 60,000 to IDR 150,000 (~ €4.10 to €10.20) for main dishes
- Cuisine: Western and Indonesian
- Vegetarian friendly?: Vegetarian appetisers, salads and soups available
5. Blue Marlin Dive Restaurant
If you’re looking for a casual place to get food with a view in Labuan Bajo, the Blue Marlin Dive Restaurant is the place to go. Prices are reasonable and the menu has vegetarian options. This is also a great place to get drinks or celebrate the end of your Komodo trip with friends. Blue Marlin is a renowned dive company with locations all over Indonesia including Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Lombok.
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Blue Marlin Dive is also a hotel with budget-friendly accommodation options. Book your stay here.
- Address: GV3H+MF Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 22:00 PM
- Suitable for: Lunch and dinner
- Price range: IDR 45,000 to IDR 100,000 (~ €3 to €6.80) for main dishes
- Cuisine: Indonesian and Western
- Vegetarian friendly?: Yes
6. Burger Time
If you’re craving fast food after coming back from your liveaboard boat trip to Komodo, Burger Time is a great choice. Come here for a variety of delicious burgers, hotdogs and even a veggie burger option. When Grab Food does work in Labuan Bajo (it can be a bit unreliable) this is a hotspot for ordering late-night food and grabbing a spontaneous bite to eat. Skip the Labuan Bajo KFC and head to Burger Time instead.
- Address: GV3H+4V Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
- Suitable for: Lunch and dinner
- Price range: IDR 60,000 to IDR 150,000 (~ €4.10 to €10.20) for main dishes
- Cuisine: Western
- Vegetarian friendly?: Yes (but limited)
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7. Baccala
Baccala is a very popular Italian restaurant in Labuan Bajo with an Asian twist and many seafood specialties. Make sure to reserve a table, especially if you’re planning on having dinner here on a weekend. This is a great place in Labuan Bajo to go for vegan and vegetarian options and a good alternative to the seafood market if not everyone in your group enjoys fish. Big portions, a cosy atmosphere and fresh seafood – what more could you want during your time in Labuan Bajo?
- Address: GV5H+75 Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Suitable for: Lunch and dinner
- Price range: IDR 60,000 to IDR 120,000 (~ €4.10 to €8.20) for main dishes
- Cuisine: Asian and Italian fusion
- Vegetarian friendly?: Yes
Photos courtesy of Baccala
8. Escape Bajo
This coffee shop meets restaurant, meets hotel is a beautiful spot to grab coffee with a view or enjoy a sunset dinner on their rooftop terrace. The menu is small but both the Western and Indonesian options are absolutely delicious. It’s located very close to the Labuan Bajo fish and seafood market and has some of the best views in town.
- Address: GV7H+96 Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Suitable for: Breakfast, lunch and dinner in Labuan Bajo
- Price range: IDR 45,000 to IDR 75,000 (~ €3 to €5.10) for main dishes
- Cuisine: Indonesian and Western
- Vegetarian friendly?: Limited options
Photo courtesy of Escape Bajo
9. Lighthouse Bajo
This rooftop restaurant has incredible views of Labuan Bajo Harbour and a delicious menu handcrafted by the in-house chefs. Go for a dip in their pool or take your laptop and get some work done while you there. This restaurant is perfect for travellers looking for somewhere special to grab breakfast in Labuan Bajo or to celebrate the end of a successful boat trip.
- Address: GV4H+V2H Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Suitable for: Breakfast, lunch and dinner in Labuan Bajo
- Price range: IDR 50,000 to IDR 120,000 (~ €3.40 to €8.10) for main dishes
- Cuisine: Indonesian and Western
- Vegetarian friendly?: Limited options
Photo courtesy of Lighthouse Bajo
10. Maison Belmont
Treat yourself to a delicious cone of homemade French ice cream, served, of course, with a cute Komodo dragon or manta ray cookie. Maison Belmont makes all of their ice cream without artificial flavours and uses real fruit and authentic ingredients. They even deliver for free in Labuan Bajo.
- Address: GV4H+W2 Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Suitable for: Dessert
- Price range: IDR 36,000 to IDR 55,000 (~ €2.40 to €3.70) per serve
- Cuisine: Ice cream
- Vegetarian friendly?: Yes
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