1. What are the popular local dishes to try while in Miri?
Some popular local dishes to try while in Miri include:
1. Sarawak Laksa – This is a traditional noodle dish that is popular in Miri and other parts of Sarawak. It consists of rice vermicelli noodles in a spicy coconut-based broth with prawns, chicken, and various herbs and spices.
2. Kolo Mee – Another iconic dish in Miri, kolo mee is a simple yet delicious noodle dish made with thin egg noodles tossed in pork lard, shallot oil, and soy sauce and served with sliced cha siu (roast pork) on top.
3. Ayam Pansuh – This traditional Iban dish features chicken cooked in bamboo tubes with ginger, lemongrass, tapioca leaves, and other herbs and spices. The slow cooking method gives the chicken a tender and unique flavor.
4. Nasi Lemak – A popular breakfast or snack option in Miri, nasi lemak is coconut milk-infused rice served with sambal (spicy chili paste), fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber slices, and boiled eggs.
5. Midin Belacan – Midin are wild fern shoots that are commonly found in Sarawak. When cooked with belacan (shrimp paste), it makes for a tasty side dish to go with your meal.
6. Udang Galah Asam Pedas – This spicy and sour freshwater prawn dish is a delicacy in Miri. The prawns are cooked with tamarind juice, turmeric, chili paste, and other herbs and spices to create a flavorful gravy.
7. Rojak Buah – A fruit salad commonly found on street food stalls in Miri, rojak buah features a mix of tropical fruits such as guava, papaya, pineapple, mangoes tossed in shrimp paste dressing topped with crushed peanuts for added crunch.
8. ABC (Ais Batu Campur) – A popular Malaysian dessert, ABC is a shaved ice dish topped with various toppings such as red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly, and syrup.
9. Terung Dayak – Terung Dayak is a type of wild eggplant that is commonly found in Sarawak. It is usually cooked with prawns or chicken in a spicy sauce and makes for a delicious vegetable dish.
10. Nasi Aruk – Nasi aruk is a traditional Bidayuh rice dish cooked with onions, ginger, chili paste, and anchovies. It is often served with grilled or fried meat on the side.
2. Are there any famous seafood restaurants in Miri?
Yes, there are several famous seafood restaurants in Miri. Some popular ones include Ming Cafe Seafood Restaurant, Ocean White Seafood Restaurant, Ah Ming Shrimp Specialist, and Harbor View Seafood Village. These restaurants are known for their fresh seafood dishes and authentic flavors.
3. How is the street food scene in Miri? Any must-try stalls or dishes?
The street food scene in Miri is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of local and international cuisines. Some must-try stalls and dishes include:
1. Laksa Sarawak – a spicy noodle soup dish that is a popular breakfast option.
2. BBQ Stingray – grilled stingray marinated in sambal sauce, often served with rice or noodles.
3. Nasi Lemak – fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with anchovies, peanuts, and sambal sauce.
4. Satay – skewered and grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) served with peanut sauce.
5. Kolo Mee – a type of tossed noodles that can be served dry or with soup, topped with minced pork and vegetables.
6. Roti Canai – flaky flatbread usually served with curry dipping sauce.
7. Rojak – a fruit salad made with a mix of local fruits, tofu, and shrimp paste dressing.
Some popular spots for street food in Miri include the night markets at Saberkas Commercial Center and Ta Kiong Supermarket, as well as Padang Merdeka for laksa sarawak.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at local restaurants in Miri?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options available at local restaurants in Miri. Some popular options include:
1. Isa Thiam Vegetarian Restaurant – a Chinese style vegetarian restaurant that offers a variety of dishes including mock meat dishes.
2. Sugar Bun – a fast food chain that offers vegetarian meals including their signature bean curd burger.
3. Ming Chai Vegetarian Cafe – serves a range of vegetarian dishes including noodles, rice dishes and snacks.
4. J’s Bakery & Cafe – offers a selection of vegan baked goods, as well as vegan sandwiches and burgers.
5. Simple Life Healthy Vegetarian Cuisine – specializes in organic and healthy vegetarian dishes with no added MSG or preservatives.
6. Planet Borneo Lodge Cafe & Restaurant – serves delicious plant-based dishes using mostly locally sourced ingredients.
7. Nasi Kandar Muara Cafe – has an extensive vegetarian menu featuring Malaysian, Indian and Chinese inspired dishes.
8. The Seed Cafe – offers vegan versions of local favourites such as laksa, kolo mee and nasi lemak.
9. Banh Mi Phuong Nam – serves tasty Vietnamese-style banh mi sandwiches with vegetarian options available.
10. Helen’s Kitchen – offers various vegetarian options on their menu, including homemade pizzas and pasta dishes.
5. What is the average price range for a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Miri?
The average price range for a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Miri is between RM20 to RM40 per person.
6. Is it easy to find international cuisine options in Miri, such as Italian or Japanese restaurants?
Yes, it is easy to find international cuisine options in Miri. There are several Italian and Japanese restaurants in the city, such as PastaMania and Sushi King, which offer a variety of dishes from these cuisines. Additionally, many hotels and malls in Miri also have international restaurants that serve a wide range of dishes from different countries.
7. Are there any halal-certified restaurants in Miri for Muslim travelers?
Yes, there are several halal-certified restaurants in Miri that cater to Muslim travelers. Some popular ones include:
1. AL FAROH RESTAURANT – serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine such as shawarma, hummus, and kebabs.
2. CHOICE CORNER CAFETERIA – offers a variety of local Malaysian dishes that are halal-certified.
3. GULAI HOUSE AT IMPERIAL PALACE HOTEL – serves traditional Malay dishes and seafood in a halal-certified setting.
4. KTS FOOD CENTRE – offers a wide range of dishes from different cuisines, including Chinese and Indian food, all certified halal.
5. MAMAKSPECIAL RESTAURANT – specializes in North Indian and Pakistani cuisine in a halal-certified environment.
6. PAVILION YUAN TUNG HALAL DIM SUM – has an array of dim sum dishes that are certified halal for Muslim travelers.
7. ZEN GARDEN VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT – known for its vegetarian Chinese cuisine, this restaurant is also certified halal for Muslim diners.
8. Can you recommend a good place for a traditional Thai breakfast in Miri?
Unfortunately, I am not familiar with Miri and do not have a personal recommendation for a traditional Thai breakfast there. However, you can try searching for local restaurants or street food stalls that specialize in Thai cuisine and ask them if they offer any traditional Thai breakfast dishes. You can also check online reviews to see which places are highly recommended by locals or travelers.
9. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with a view of the city skyline in Miri?
Yes, there are a few rooftop bars and restaurants with a view of the city skyline in Miri. Some options include:
1. Sky Garden Rooftop Lounge – located on the 6th floor of Mega Hotel, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and serves alcoholic drinks and light bites.
2. Roofino Skydining & Bar – situated on the 18th floor of Merdeka Palace Hotel, this rooftop restaurant offers a panoramic view of Miri city while serving a variety of Western and Asian cuisines.
3. The Rooftop – located on the top floor of Imperial Hotel, this bar and lounge offers a great view of Miri city as well as a wide selection of cocktails, wine, and snacks.
4. Poolside Bar & Grill – situated on the rooftop of ParkCity Everly Hotel, this dining spot offers an impressive view of the South China Sea and serves grilled dishes, seafood platters, and cocktails.
5. Wharf Bar & Grill – located on the top floor of Bintang Megamall’s car park building, this rooftop establishment provides an excellent vantage point for enjoying sunset views over Miri town while indulging in Western dishes and beverages.
10. Is it possible to take food tours or cooking classes in Miri to learn more about the local cuisine?
Yes, it is possible to take food tours or cooking classes in Miri to learn more about the local cuisine. Some popular options include:
1. Food Tour with Borneo Trekkers: This tour company offers a half-day food tour, where you can sample various types of Sarawakian cuisine and learn about the local ingredients and cooking techniques.
2. Kampung Satay Cooking Class: Learn how to make authentic Malaysian satay at this cooking class taught by a local chef.
3. Borneo Tropical Safari’s Cooking Class: This cooking class takes you to a traditional village where you’ll learn how to cook traditional dishes over an open fire.
4. Street Food Tour with Urban Adventures: Join this guided tour through Miri’s streets and markets, tasting various street food along the way and learning about their origins and preparation methods.
5. Bario Highlands Cooking Experience: Take a trip to the highlands of Bario and learn how to cook traditional Iban meals from local villagers.
6. Sarawak Cultural Village Cooking Workshop: Visit the award-winning Sarawak Cultural Village and participate in a hands-on cooking workshop where you’ll prepare authentic indigenous dishes.
7. Taste of Miri Culinary Workshop: This workshop combines a visit to the local market with a cooking class, teaching participants how to make Sarawakian classics like mee kolok and umai salad.
8. Local Traditional Noodle-Making Class: Learn how to make popular Sarawakian noodles such as kolo mee or kon lo mee at this interactive class.
9. Lighthouse Homestay & Cooking Demo: Combine cultural immersion with cooking instruction at this homestay experience, where you can observe or participate in preparing local dishes for dinner.
10. Authentic Malay Home-Cooking Class: Learn the secrets of Malay cuisine from a resident of Miri who will teach you how to make popular dishes like nasi lemak and rendang.
11. Are there any famous night markets or food markets in Miri where one can sample various delicacies and snacks?
Yes, Miri has several famous night markets and food markets where one can sample a variety of delicacies and snacks. Some popular options include the Miri Night Market (also known as Tamu Muhibah) which is located at Bulatan Commercial Center, Pasar Lambir in Lutong, and Pasar Minggu Taman Awam in Pujut. These markets offer a wide range of local street food such as satay, grilled fish and seafood, noodle dishes, BBQ chicken wings, and more. There are also stalls selling local fruits, vegetables, and various snacks like fried bananas and corn on the cob. Additionally, there are also smaller food markets located within shopping malls such as Bintang Mega Mall and Permaisuri Imperial City Mall.
12. Can you suggest some hidden gems or lesser-known restaurants that serve delicious local food in Miri?
There are a lot of hidden gems and lesser-known restaurants in Miri that serve delicious local food. Here are just a few suggestions:1. Berkarau Seafood Restaurant – This restaurant serves mouth-watering seafood dishes in a traditional kampung-style setting. Some must-try dishes include the butter prawns, grilled fish, and black pepper crab.
2. Native Combo – A popular spot for locals, this restaurant specializes in authentic Sarawakian cuisine such as midin (wild fern), ayam pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo), and nasi aruk (a type of fried rice).
3. Top Spot Food Court – This open-air food court is home to several stalls serving up delectable local favorites like sambal stingray, belacan fried rice, and laksa Sarawak.
4. Shahista Curry House – This Indian-Muslim restaurant is known for its flavorful curries and tandoori dishes. The roti canai, chicken biryani, and murtabak are all highly recommended.
5. Warung Ayam Penyet Sedap – Craving some ayam penyet? Look no further than this humble roadside stall where you can get juicy smashed chicken served with an array of spicy sambals.
6. Selasih Cafe – If you want to taste some authentic Orang Ulu specialties like pucuk ubi masak lemak (tapioca shoots cooked in coconut milk) or umai (raw fish salad), head to this cozy cafe.
7. Mee Kolok Special Lane – For a true Miri experience, try the mee kolok (noodle dish) at one of the stalls along Mee Kolok Special Lane. Each stall has their own unique recipe, making for a delicious adventure to find your favorite.
8. Tanjung Lobang Hawker Centre – Located by the beach, this hawker centre offers a wide variety of food options including satay, nasi campur (mixed rice), and fresh seafood.
9. Swee Kang Ice Kacang – Beat the heat with a bowl of ice kacang from this popular spot in Miri. You can customize your shaved ice dessert with toppings like red bean, sweet corn, and grass jelly.
10. Ikan Bakar Balai – If you’re a fan of grilled fish, head to this restaurant for some tasty ikan bakar (grilled fish) served with flavorful chili dipping sauce.
11. Twins Corner Cafe – This charming cafe serves up delicious homemade cakes and pastries as well as local dishes including laksa Sarawak, mee kolok, and nasi lemak.
12. Tasty Food Court – This hidden gem is known for its crispy fried chicken served with rice and signature black pepper sauce. They also have a variety of other Asian dishes on the menu to satisfy any craving.
13. How is the coffee culture like around Miri? Any unique coffee shops worth visiting?
The coffee culture in Miri is growing and evolving, with a mix of traditional kopitiams (coffee shops) and modern cafes. Kopitiams are popular gathering places for locals, serving traditional Malaysian-style coffee and snacks.
There are also many trendy cafes in Miri, catering to the younger crowd with specialty coffee, creative latte art, and unique drink flavors. Some popular local coffee shops worth visiting include Yellow Bean Cafe, Noodle Cafe Borneo, Miri Coffee Factory, and Green Summit Cafe.
Many of these cafes also offer great ambiance and picturesque settings, making them popular spots for social media enthusiasts. Some unique cafes worth checking out in Miri include Yun Loong Café which serves coffee brewed from locally grown beans, Half Baras Cafe which overlooks the scenic Lambir Hills National Park, and Hipster Brew Gourmet Coffee which has a quirky industrial-style interior.
14. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants or fine dining options available in Miri?
Yes, Miri has several Michelin-starred restaurants and fine dining options such as Imperial Palace Restaurant, Dynasty Palace, and Chefs at Ming Cafe. These establishments offer a wide range of high-quality dishes and exquisite ambience for a luxurious dining experience. However, do note that the availability of these restaurants may vary depending on the current COVID-19 situation in the area. It is best to contact the restaurants directly or check their websites for updated information before visiting.
15. What is your favorite Thai dessert and where can I find it in Miri?
My favorite Thai dessert is mango sticky rice and you can find it at Madam X Restaurant in Miri. They have a delicious version with perfectly ripe mangoes and sweet, gooey sticky rice. Definitely worth a try!
16.Is it safe to eat street food from vendors on the side of the road in Miri?
As a language model AI, I do not have personal opinions but here are some general guidelines that may help:
It is generally safe to eat street food from vendors on the side of the road in Miri, as long as you take certain precautions.
1. Look for clean and hygienic food stalls: Choose vendors who have a clean and tidy stall with proper hygiene practices. This includes wearing gloves while handling food, keeping the cooking area clean, and using clean utensils.
2. Watch for food handling practices: Observe how the vendor handles and prepares the food. Are they using tongs or gloves? Are they touching money or other items before serving food? If you see any questionable practices, it is best to avoid eating there.
3. Opt for freshly cooked food: Try to order dishes that are freshly cooked in front of you rather than pre-made ones that have been sitting out for a while.
4. Pay attention to the ingredients: If you have any food allergies or restrictions, be sure to ask about the ingredients before ordering.
5 . Check customer reviews: Do some research beforehand and check online reviews or ask locals for their recommendations on which street vendors are known for good quality and safe food.
Overall, use your judgment and common sense when choosing a street vendor to eat from. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to err on the side of caution and find another place to eat.
17.How spicy are typical Thai dishes served at local restaurants?
It varies. Some dishes may be mild, while others can be very spicy depending on the individual’s preference and the region where the dish is from. It is recommended to ask for the level of spiciness before ordering, especially if you are sensitive to spicy food.
18.Are there any specialty foods or drinks that are unique to the region of Thailand where Miri is located?
Miri is located in the state of Sarawak, Malaysia, which shares a border with the island of Kalimantan in Indonesia and is also close to Brunei. Therefore, while it is not technically a part of Thailand, there may be some overlap in food and drinks that are also popular in the southern region of Thailand:
1. Belacan- A type of shrimp paste that is commonly used in many Thai and Malaysian dishes, such as Daging Masak Lemak Cili Api (beef cooked in spicy coconut milk).
2. Kuih Lapis- A layered steamed cake made from rice flour and coconut milk. It is similar to Thai snack known as khanom chan.
3. Nasi Lemak- A fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves often served with spicy sambal sauce, anchovies, peanuts and cucumber. This dish is also common in Southern Thailand.
4. Laksa Sarawak- A popular noodle dish with a rich broth made from fish stock and coconut milk, topped with prawns, shredded chicken or beef.
5. Kopi-O (O for ‘black’) – A strong black coffee usually served with ice or condensed milk; on special occasions coffee beans fried with butter or lard called “Ham Tan Bing”
6. Teh Tarik – Black tea blended frothy by pouring repeatedly between two vessels from significant differences till cool enough for public consumption; literally means ‘pulled tea’.
7.Gula Apong – This is palm sugar sourced from the sago palm tree and used widely to sweeten drinks or desserts.
8.Kolo Mee – Egg noodles mixed with meat slices & vegetable usually soaked in vinegar & garnished with friend onions; a staple breakfast among locals all over East Malaysia
9.Ulam – A salad like platter consisting mainly raw vegetables/herbs consumed together mostly accompanied by any sauce made of fermented seafood, or simply eaten on its own.
10.Tapai & Tuak – Tapai is slightly fermented glutinous rice while tuak is flat wine distilled from the sap of various species of palm trees; both are often used in cooking and kept for celebrations.
19.Where can I find authentic, home-cooked meals prepared by locals?
One option is to book a homestay or cultural immersion experience through a reputable company that offers opportunities to stay with local families and participate in meal preparations. Another option is to search for community-based tourism initiatives or cooking classes taught by locals, as these often offer authentic meals prepared by community members. You can also ask for recommendations from locals or travelers who have had positive experiences with home-cooked meals during their travels.
20.If I am on a budget, what are some budget-friendly dining options around Miri that still offer tasty food?
1. Lok Thian Restaurant
2. Parkcity Everly Hotel Miri – Peppers Cafe
3. Uncle Seng Hong Kong Roast
4. Mei Mei Cafe
5. Madeline Cafe & Restaurant
6. Zuki Japanese Cuisine
7. Nasi Lemak Rahman Miri
8. Map’s Bistro & Bar
9. Tea Garden Miri (Dim Sum)
10.Sing Chiong Kee Cafe (Korean food)
11.Mamalade Kitchen (Western and local dishes)
12.Tuscany Italian Restaurant
13.Miri Seafood Centre
14.Cafeine Lifestyle Café
15.Kopi-O Corner
16.Ruan Thai Kitchen
17.Homie Kopitiam
18.Lucky Conner (Chinese fusion cuisine)
19.Tango Crepe (Vietnamese fusion dishes)
20.Da Hot Wok Chinese Muslim Food Court