RRI.CO.ID, West Lombok - Sate Bulayak, a legendary culinary staple from Narmada, has officially become the "go-to" menu for Muslim communities in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) looking to break their fast this Ramadhan. Known for its distinct savory profile and fiery kick, this traditional dish is drawing crowds from across the island to the culinary hub of Narmada, West Lombok.

For many residents, the quest for the perfect Iftar meal is worth a long commute. Rahman, a resident of Mataram, traveled over a dozen kilometers with his family specifically to experience the authentic taste of Sate Bulayak at its source on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

"The savory seasoning combined with spicy pieces of bird's eye chili makes Sate Bulayak perfect for breaking the fast," said Rahman while dining at the Narmada Sate Bulayak center, as quoted by Antara.

While Sate Bulayak can now be found in tourist hotspots like Udayana Street in Mataram, purists like Rahman believe the atmosphere and tradition in Narmada offer an unmatched experience, especially during the holy month.

The dish earns its name from the Bulayak, a unique, cone-shaped rice cake (lontong) wrapped spirally in young coconut or palm leaves. In the Sasak language, this specific wrapping technique defines the meal.

The Bulayak is served alongside skewers of grilled meat, ranging from chicken and beef to offal, and drenched in a thick, rich sauce made from coconut milk and a secret blend of spices. The interplay of the creamy santan and the sharp heat of local chilies provides the perfect "reset" for the palate after a day of fasting.

According to local vendors, business begins to peak as the fasting month enters its tenth day, a time when families typically start seeking communal dining experiences outside the home.

"Sate Bulayak is priced at IDR 20,000 (USD 1.18) per portion. There are many choices of satay, ranging from chicken, beef, to beef offal," noted Budi, a local vendor who sees queues stretching long before the Maghrib call to prayer.

Operating from late afternoon until 10.00 p.m. local time, these stalls have become vibrant community hubs where the price remains accessible to all levels of society, ensuring that this cultural heritage remains a shared experience. ***