RM Batu Garuda

RM Batu Garuda sits right on the beach at Tanjung Kelayang, the departure point for most island-hopping boats, and takes its name from the bird-shaped granite outcrop just offshore. The open-air dining area under a large timber roof leads straight onto clear, shallow water, with swings strung from the trees, so it is an easy lunch after a morning on the boats.

Seafood is the focus. Recommended dishes include grilled ikan ilak with sweet soy and spices, steamed fish, swimmer crab in Padang sauce, grilled smoked prawns, fried squid and prawns in batter, and stir-fried genjer greens. Many reviewers rate the food and value highly, although service can be slow when the restaurant is busy, and a few diners have been disappointed by the cooking and the bill, so confirm prices when ordering by weight.

It opens daily from 10:00 to 21:00 (to 20:00 on Saturdays). Beer is available. In the evening, bring insect repellent, as the open-air setting attracts bugs. There is free parking by the beach.