You’re craving fresh seafood in Labuan Bajo, but where should you go? The town’s packed with restaurants claiming they’ve got the best catch. Some sit right on the beach, others perch on hillsides with sunset views. From simple warungs to upscale dining rooms, each spot has its own style. But which ones actually deliver incredible seafood that’s worth your money? Let’s find out where locals and travelers really eat.
Kampung Ujung Beachfront Dining
When you’re craving fresh seafood with your toes in the sand, Kampung Ujung delivers the perfect beachfront experience. You’ll find tables right on the beach. The grilled fish is caught daily by local fishermen. Order the butter garlic prawns – they’re huge and juicy. The lobster comes with rice and vegetables for a complete meal. Prices are reasonable compared to tourist spots. You can watch sunset while eating. The staff speaks basic English. Beer’s cold and cheap. Arrive before 6 PM to get the best seats. Don’t miss their spicy sambal sauce. Cash only, no cards accepted.
La Cucina Italian Seafood Restaurant
Something special happens when Italian cooking meets fresh Indonesian seafood. You’ll find this magic at La Cucina, where the chef transforms local catches into Mediterranean masterpieces. Try their grilled lobster with garlic butter or the seafood risotto packed with prawns and scallops. The pasta marinara bursts with flavor from just-caught fish. You’ll love the waterfront tables and sunset views. Prices aren’t cheap, but you’re paying for quality. The wine list complements every dish perfectly. Book ahead—this place fills up fast. It’s the spot where Italian tradition meets Labuan Bajo’s ocean bounty.
Atlantis Beach Club Restaurant
Three levels of dining await you at Atlantis Beach Club Restaurant, from sand-between-your-toes casual to elegant beachfront tables. You’ll find fresh catches displayed on ice each morning. Pick your fish and tell them how you’d like it cooked. The grilled snapper with garlic butter is outstanding. Sunset views make dinner special here. You can swim before your meal or lounge on daybeds afterward. The upper deck offers the best panoramas. Prices are higher than local spots, but you’re paying for the ambiance too. Book ahead for weekend dinners. The seafood platter feeds two generously.
Made In Italy Ristorante
While Atlantis offers beachfront elegance, Made In Italy brings Mediterranean flair to Labuan Bajo’s seafood scene. You’ll find fresh catches prepared with Italian techniques here. Their grilled fish comes drizzled with olive oil and herbs. The seafood pasta dishes mix local ingredients with traditional recipes. You can’t miss their lobster linguine or calamari fritti. The waterfront location gives you harbor views while dining. Prices are reasonable for the quality you’re getting. The Italian chef guarantees authentic flavors in every dish. It’s the perfect spot when you’re craving seafood with a European twist.
Tree Top Restaurant
Four stories above ground, Tree Top Restaurant serves seafood with stunning sunset views. You’ll climb wooden stairs to reach this unique dining spot. The menu features grilled fish, prawns, and lobster caught daily. Try their signature garlic butter crab—it’s worth the price. Tables fill up fast at sunset, so you’d better book ahead. The breeze keeps you cool while you eat. Prices are higher than street food but reasonable for the location. Service can be slow when they’re busy. Still, you won’t find better views anywhere else in town. It’s perfect for a special dinner.
Bajo Bay Fisherman’s Lodge
Down by the waterfront, Bajo Bay Fisherman’s Lodge sits right on the beach. You’ll smell fresh fish grilling as you walk up. The restaurant’s wooden deck stretches over the sand. You can watch fishing boats come in while you eat.
Order the grilled snapper. It’s caught that morning and seasoned perfectly. The prawns are huge and sweet. They serve them with garlic butter. Rice and vegetables come with every meal.
Prices are fair. A full dinner costs about $15. You’ll get sunset views for free. The staff speaks good English. They’ll help you pick the freshest catch.
Le Pirate Restaurant
When you’re looking for seafood with style, Le Pirate Restaurant delivers both. You’ll find fresh catches grilled to perfection at this beachfront spot. The menu changes daily based on what local fishermen bring in. Try their signature grilled snapper with garlic butter. It’s simple but delicious. The outdoor tables sit right on the sand. You can watch sunset colors paint the sky while you eat. Prices aren’t cheap, but portions are big. The staff speaks good English and knows their menu well. Book ahead for dinner. This place fills up fast during high season.
Fish Market Restaurant Paradise Beach
Just 10 minutes from town, Fish Market Restaurant Paradise Beach offers the freshest seafood you’ll find in Labuan Bajo. You’ll pick your fish straight from ice-filled displays. The staff grills, fries, or steams it exactly how you want. You can’t beat the beachfront setting. Waves crash nearby while you eat grilled snapper or prawns. Prices stay reasonable despite the prime location. You’ll pay by weight, so ask costs first. The garlic butter sauce is a must-try. You won’t find fancy decorations here. It’s simple wooden tables and plastic chairs. But that’s not why you come. You’re here for incredibly fresh seafood.
Warung Mama Local Seafood
For authentic local flavors at unbeatable prices, head to Warung Mama Local Seafood on Jalan Soekarno Hatta. You’ll find fresh catches grilled to perfection with traditional Indonesian spices. Their grilled snapper and prawns are must-tries. The simple wooden tables and plastic chairs might not look fancy, but that’s where locals eat. You’ll pay a fraction of tourist restaurant prices. Order the sambal – it’s spicy but incredible with seafood. They’re open from noon until late. Don’t expect English menus, but pointing at what others are eating works fine. Cash only, no cards accepted.
The Lounge at Plataran Komodo Resort
If you’re looking for upscale dining with ocean views, The Lounge at Plataran Komodo Resort delivers both. You’ll find fresh catches prepared with Indonesian and international techniques. The grilled lobster and pan-seared grouper are standouts. Prices are higher than local warungs, but you’re paying for quality and ambiance. The sunset views from your table are spectacular. You can pair your seafood with wines from their extensive list. Service is attentive without being intrusive. Make reservations, especially during peak season. Dress code is smart casual. It’s perfect when you want to splurge on a special meal.
