Wonderful Komodo

La Cucina:
Italian Seaside Dining with a Labuan Bajo Breeze

Perched along Labuan Bajo’s picturesque waterfront, La Cucina offers a slice of Italy with a view to match. Known for its handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh Mediterranean flavors, this restaurant blends the charm of Italian dining with the laid-back beauty of Flores.

Ambience & Atmosphere

La Cucina has a breezy, open-air setting that makes the most of its prime seaside location. Soft lighting, rustic wooden furniture, and colorful Mediterranean touches create a warm and inviting space. Daytime visits are bright and cheerful, while evenings transform the restaurant into a romantic spot with the sound of waves in the background and the harbor lights twinkling nearby.

Service

The service is friendly and attentive, with staff who know the menu well and can recommend dishes or wine pairings. There’s an easygoing pace that suits the island atmosphere, but meals still arrive promptly and freshly prepared.

Menu & Food Highlights

La Cucina focuses on classic Italian comfort dishes made with quality ingredients, many of which are locally sourced.

  1. Margherita Pizza – Simple yet satisfying, with a thin, wood-fired crust, fresh basil, and mozzarella.
  2. Seafood Pasta – A generous mix of prawns, squid, and clams tossed in a garlic and olive oil sauce.
  3. Bruschetta al Pomodoro – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil on crisp bread, perfect as a starter.
  4. Tiramisu – A rich, creamy ending to the meal, layered with just the right balance of coffee and sweetness.

The drink menu features wines, cocktails, and Italian-inspired coffee, making it easy to pair your meal with the perfect beverage.

Price & Value

La Cucina is moderately priced for an international restaurant in Labuan Bajo, with pizzas starting around IDR 90,000 and pasta dishes around IDR 100,000–150,000. Given the quality, portions, and location, it offers good value for a leisurely sit-down meal.

Final Verdict

La Cucina is ideal for travelers craving Italian flavors with a stunning ocean backdrop. Whether it’s a casual lunch after exploring town or a romantic dinner at sunset, it’s a place that turns a meal into a memory.

Rating: 4.7/5 – Authentic Italian taste meets Flores seaside charm.