Tioman Island restaurants and nightlife guide
Nightlife here is not going to set the world alight
Seafood offers the best quality and value dining on Pulau Tioman and whilst most resorts have an attached restaurant, the very best places to eat are listed below. Pulau Tioman restaurants are generally simple affairs and normally have a range of Malay staples and Western favourites, so there shouldn’t be any problem choosing something delicious to eat. Beach barbecues are the best value for money option with exceptionally fresh produce and a black marlin steak with rice and vegetables normally costs around RM15.
Nightlife on Pulau Tioman is never going to set the world alight although, as a duty free island, alcohol is extremely affordable where it can be found. The vast majority of Pulau Tioman bars are situated in Salang, although there are a few traveller-orientated places in Air Batang (ABC Beach) as well. Don’t head to Juara looking for a party as alcohol is difficult to find in this traditional part of the island.
Pulau Tioman restaurants and bars in Air Batang
Lime Tree Cafe: Great place for sundowners with great happy hour beer promotions between 17:00 and 19:00. Bar lies right on the beach with axe cushions for gazing at the blue ocean. 200m south of jetty, Air Batang, tel: +60 (0)9 419 1148. $
Mawar Beach Chalets: Arguably the most consistent food on ABC Beach which you can enjoy with the sand between your toes. The Seafood barbecues are fabulous so just ask what is especially recommended today. South of beach, Air Batang. $
Happy Bar: With live sports on the TV and a bohemian atmosphere, this is the standout place for late evening drinks and the Indian food is delicious too. A top choice on the island and deservedly popular. At Nazri’s, very north of beach, Air Batang, tel: +60 (0)9 419 1375. $
Pulau Tioman restaurants and bars in Salang
Salang Beach Resort has a dreamy restaurant
Salang Dreams Restaurant: Grilled chicken is the speciality here and it costs only RM18 for half a huge bird with potato and salad on the side. Book early as its always packed. Left from jetty, Salang. $$
Four S Café: Decent Western and Malay food as well as cheap beers makes this a relaxing choice for an evening by the sand. By jetty, Salang. $
Salang Pusaka Restaurant: Above-average Malay dishes including a lovely Tioman Bee Hoon can be found here, although there have been reports of slow service. Tel: +60 (0)9 419 5317. $
BB Café: Atmospheric wooden place perched high up on rocks overlooking the beach. A nice place for a sunset drink with friends. South of beach, Salang. $
Salang Indah: Popular bar and restaurant stays open until the early hours with decent cocktails on offer plus Tiger Beer. North of beach. $
Salang Beach Resort: Sumptuous seafood is served up here with a range of spicy Malay sauces to tantalise the tastebuds. The views of the oceans are tremendous as well. Far north of Beach. $
Price guide
$ – dishes under US$3; beer US$2; local spirit US$2.50;cocktails US$3
$$ – dishes US$3-10; beer US$2.50; local spirit US$3; cocktails US$4.50
$$$ – dishes US$10-20; beer US$4; local spirit US$4.50; cocktails US$6
$$$$ – dishes over US$20; beer US$5; local spirit US$5; cocktails US$8
Pulau Tioman restaurants and bars in Juara
Bushman’s: There’s a lovely relaxed ambience at this well-recommended restaurant which serves up an imaginative selection of local and international favourites. South of beach. $
Paradise Point: Fans of Indian food with love the buttery rotis served here plus there are some classic Malay specialities which are a little more adventurous than the usual rice and noodle dishes. North of beach, Juara, tel: +60 (0)9 419 3145. $$
Santai Bistro: Live music and comfortable sofas makes this a brilliant place to hang out with friends plus the international menu is hearty and delicious. By jetty. $$
