For expats and travellers seeking a more refined dining experience beyond the typical beachside fare of Indonesia's Gili Islands, a new destination has arrived. Pomona, a South American-inspired Mexican joint, has opened its doors on Gili Meno, the smallest and least developed of the three islands nestled between Bali and Lombok.
A Sophisticated Escape in a Tropical Paradise
The Gili Islands are famed for their idyllic, sugar-white beaches dotted with casual restaurants and bars. While this setting is a perennial favourite for tourists, long-term residents often crave a more sophisticated night out. This demand is typically met by Bask, a small luxury hotel and beach club on Gili Meno's apex, helmed by executive chef Bastian Marcel and owned by Australian Greg Meyer.
Bask established itself as the adult-oriented venue on the islands, offering dry-aged steaks, a serious wine cellar, and even an underground jazz bar. Now, the same team has launched a second venture. Pomona promises a vibrant, 100 per cent gluten-free take on Mexican and Tex-Mex flavours, prompting a dedicated visit for a first-hand review.
The Vibe and The Menu at Pomona
Stepping into Pomona, the aesthetic is immediately striking. With pink-washed walls, baby-blue picnic tables, and custom dishware, the decor evokes the breezy, ultra-tropical feel of Mexico's Caribbean coast. Diners can choose between three distinct areas: an inner courtyard with a hacienda feel, a comfortable interior with deep booths, or an al fresco section right on the beach, perfectly positioned for epic sunsets.
The menu, crafted by Chilean chef Bastian Marcel, leans heavily into Tex-Mex rather than his native cuisine. Standout dishes include loaded fries with chorizo, Baja fish tacos, spicy chipotle wings, and exceptional beef "anticuchos" – Peruvian-style skewers that were hailed as some of the best "meat on a stick" ever tasted.
While the food was consistently good, the review noted a deliberate lack of spicy "heat," likely tailored to the predominantly Western clientele. The chef's skill was particularly evident in the gluten-free nachos and taco shells, which achieved a satisfying crunch. However, the gluten-free churros were marked as needing improvement.
A Colourful Addition to Island Dining
Pomona successfully fills a gap in the Gili Islands' culinary scene. It offers a novel, colourful, and much-needed option for those seeking a lively atmosphere and reliable, gluten-free dining beyond the daily catch. It provides the sophistication that expats and discerning travellers desire, without losing the essential laid-back, tropical charm of its location.
The restaurant earns a solid four-star rating for its atmosphere, innovative gluten-free approach, and overall execution. Pomona stands as a testament to the evolving, diverse food culture taking root even in the most paradisiacal of settings.
