1. What are the popular local dishes in Kinarut?
Some popular local dishes in Kinarut include:
1. Hinava – raw fish marinated in lime juice, chili, and ginger.
2. Nasi Lemak – fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and served with various sides such as spicy sambal, fried chicken, and boiled eggs.
3. Tuaran Mee – a type of noodle dish made with yellow egg noodles and served with pork or seafood.
4. Coconut Pudding – a creamy dessert made with coconut milk, palm sugar, and pandan leaves.
5. Ambuyat – a traditional dish made from sago starch served with various sides such as fish, beef, or vegetables in curry sauce.
6. Sinalau Bakas – smoked wild boar meat often served as an appetizer or snack.
7. Sayur Kampung – a mix of local vegetables cooked in coconut milk and spices.
8. Borneo-style Curry Noodles – thick noodle soup cooked in a spicy coconut broth with chicken, shrimp, or beef.
9. Bubur Cha-Cha – a sweet dessert soup made with tapioca pearls, yam cubes, sweet potato, and coconut milk.
10. Serunding Kelapa – shredded coconut seasoned with spices and herbs often used as a condiment for dishes like rice or curry.
2. Are there any recommended restaurants or eateries in Kinarut for tourists?
Yes, some popular restaurants and eateries in Kinarut that are recommended for tourists include:1. Tung Fong Seafood Restaurant – known for its fresh seafood dishes
2. D’Ling Fish Village – offers a variety of local and international dishes
3. Little Italy Borneo – serves authentic Italian cuisine
4. Yum Yum Seafood Restaurant – specializes in barbequed seafood dishes
5. Nan Yang Cafe – famous for its delicious roti canai and other Malaysian dishes
6. Sabah Pork Noodle Shop – renowned for its flavorful pork noodle soup
7. Sky Blu Bakery Cafe – offers delectable pastries, cakes, and sandwiches.
3. Can you suggest some must-try street food spots in and around Kinarut?
1. Kedai Kopi Fatt Choy – This popular food stall in Kinarut serves delicious and authentic Sabahan dishes such as Hinava (a local raw fish dish), Ngiu Chap (beef noodles), and Tuaran Mee (fried noodles).
2. Pasar Besar Papar – Just a short drive from Kinarut, this bustling market offers a variety of cheap and tasty street food options, including local specialties like Sinalau Bakas (smoked wild boar) and coconut pudding.
3. Warung Tepian Sungai Mengkabong – Located by the river in nearby Mengkabong village, this seafood restaurant is known for its fresh catch and fiery sambal (spicy chili sauce). Must-try dishes include grilled fish, butter prawns, and seafood tom yam.
4. Restoran Wayang Yong Tau Foo – A popular spot for locals, this restaurant specializes in Yong Tau Foo – a famous Chinese Hakka dish consisting of stuffed tofu and vegetables served in a clear broth.
5. Giant Fried Oyster at Kota Kinabalu Open Market – If you’re feeling adventurous, head to KK’s open market to try the giant fried oyster from one of the stalls there. This unique dish is made with a large whole oyster dipped in batter and deep-fried until crispy on the outside.
6. Uncle Tan’s BBQ Meat at Kimanis Station Food Court – This food court in nearby Kimanis is known for its grilled meats cooked over charcoal, including pork belly, chicken wings, and lamb skewers. Don’t forget to try their signature sweet potato fries!
7. Gaya Street Sunday Market – Every Sunday morning, Gaya Street transforms into a bustling market filled with vendors selling all sorts of street food from local favorites like Nasi Lemak (coconut rice) to international delights like Korean Bibimbap.
8. Kinarut Wet Market – For an authentic local experience, head to the wet market in Kinarut where you can find fresh produce and seafood, as well as stalls serving delicious cooked food like curries, fried noodles, and grilled fish.
9. Tuaran Sunrise Food Court – Located just outside of Kinarut, this food court is known for its famous dish called Sang Nyuk Mian (pork noodles), as well as other tasty local dishes such as Curry Laksa and Chicken Rice.
10. Dalit Bay Golf and Country Club – This high-end golf club also has a beachfront restaurant that serves tasty Malay and Western cuisine. Try their signature Ayam Penyet (smashed chicken) with sambal or their refreshing coconut shake.
4. How is the seafood in Kinarut? Any specific dish I should try?
The seafood in Kinarut is fresh and delicious, as the town is located on the coast of Sabah. Some popular dishes to try include grilled fish, crab curry, and prawn noodles. Additionally, Kinarut is famous for its “ikan bakar”, or grilled fish served with a spicy sambal sauce. Make sure to also try the local specialty of “s” (stingray) cooked in coconut milk.
5. Are there vegetarian or vegan options available in the local restaurants?
Yes, many local restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus. Some may even have specific vegetarian or vegan dishes or items that can be made vegan upon request. It’s always a good idea to ask the server for recommendations or options when dining out as a vegetarian or vegan.
6. What is the price range of food in Kinarut? Is it expensive for tourists?
The price range of food in Kinarut is generally affordable, with local dishes and street food starting at around RM5-10. International or western cuisine can range from RM15-30 per dish. Overall, it is not considered expensive for tourists.
7. How is the hygiene and cleanliness of the local food outlets in Kinarut?
The hygiene and cleanliness of the local food outlets in Kinarut vary. Generally, most of the food outlets adhere to basic cleanliness standards such as having proper waste disposal methods and clean cooking utensils.However, some smaller or roadside stalls may not prioritize hygiene as much. It is important for visitors to observe the condition of the surroundings and the food preparation area before deciding to dine at these establishments.
It is also recommended to choose reputable and popular food outlets with a good track record of maintaining cleanliness and serving quality food. Overall, visitors should use their best judgment and take necessary precautions when dining at local food outlets in Kinarut.
8. Is there a local market or food festival where I can try different dishes from around Thailand?
Yes, the annual Thai Food Festival is held in Bangkok and features a vast array of dishes from all regions of Thailand. Additionally, many local markets across Thailand offer a variety of affordable and delicious street food options from different regions of the country.
9. Are there any fusion cuisines unique to Kinarut that I should try?
Unfortunately, I am not aware of any specific fusion cuisines that are unique to Kinarut. However, the area does have a mix of different cultural influences, so you may find some interesting dishes that blend Chinese, Malay, Kadazan-Dusun, and other cuisines together. It is worth exploring the local food scene and trying out different dishes to see what unique flavors and combinations you can discover in Kinarut.
10. Can you recommend a good place for a romantic dinner with a view in or near Kinarut?
One option for a romantic dinner with a view in Kinarut is The Peppermint Restaurant at Borneo Paradise Beach Hotel. The restaurant overlooks the South China Sea and offers a beautiful sunset view while enjoying a delicious meal. Other options include Panorama Bar & Restaurant at Avangio Hotel Kota Kinabalu or Bella Vista Waterfront Restaurant at The Pacific Sutera Hotel, both of which offer stunning views of the water and city skyline. If you are open to venturing slightly further from Kinarut, Horizon Grill at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa also offers a romantic dining experience with panoramic views of the ocean and Mount Kinabalu.
11. Are there any cooking classes or food tours available in Kinarut for tourists to learn more about the local cuisine?
Yes, there are several cooking classes and food tours available in Kinarut for tourists to learn more about the local cuisine. Some popular options include:
1. Borneo Cooking Class: This class is held at a traditional village in Kinarut and teaches participants how to cook traditional Kadazan-Dusun dishes using fresh ingredients from the farm.
2. Serengeti Food Safari: This food tour takes visitors around Kinarut to taste various local foods, including bamboo-cooked meat dishes.
3. Traditional Malay Home-Cooking Experience: This cooking class takes place in a local home where guests will learn how to cook authentic Sabahan dishes with a Malay twist.
4. Sabah Heritage Food Trail Tour: This guided tour takes visitors on a culinary adventure through the streets of Kinarut, sampling traditional dishes from different cultures and learning about their origins.
5. Fishermen’s Village Cooking Class: Held at a local fishermen’s village, this cooking class teaches participants how to prepare seafood dishes using traditional techniques.
6. Borneo Culinary Journey: This food tour combines cultural and culinary experiences, taking visitors to markets and farms to learn about local produce, followed by hands-on cooking lessons with professional chefs.
7. North Borneo Railway Sabah Cultural Tour: This railway tour includes stops at local villages where guests can taste traditional Sabahan snacks and take part in cooking demonstrations.
8. Sabah Flavours Food Tour: This food tour takes visitors on a culinary journey through different districts of Sabah, including Kinarut, where they will sample various local delicacies and learn about their cultural significance.
12. How is the coffee culture in Kinarut? Any recommended cafes or specialty coffee shops?
The coffee culture in Kinarut is quite laid-back and relaxed, reflecting the overall vibe of the small town. Most locals gather at local kopitiams (coffee shops) to chat with friends over a cup of traditional Malaysian-style coffee like kopi-o or kopi-c.Some recommended cafes and specialty coffee shops in Kinarut include Coffee Express, Kinarut Corner Cafe, and YENRB Kopitiam & Cafe. These places offer a variety of locally brewed coffee as well as other drinks and snacks. They also have a cozy ambiance and friendly staff, making them great spots to relax or catch up with friends.
13. Are there any traditional desserts or sweets that are worth trying in Kinarut?
Yes, there are a few traditional desserts and sweets worth trying in Kinarut. These include:
1. Kuih Cincin – a ring-shaped pastry made with flour, sugar and coconut milk.
2. Dodol – a sticky and sweet dessert made from coconut milk, rice flour, and palm sugar.
3. Seri Muka – a layered dessert made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and pandan flavoring.
4. Lepat Pisang – steamed banana cake wrapped in banana leaves.
5. Kuih Tuai – steamed glutinous rice cake topped with grated coconut and gula melaka (palm sugar).
6. Penjaram – fried dough balls drizzled with palm sugar syrup.
7. Pang Susu – cream-filled buns topped with shredded cheese.
8. Puding Diraja – a local version of bread pudding flavored with pandan leaves and served with a creamy topping.
9. Bubur Cha Cha – a sweet dessert soup made with yam, sweet potato, sago pearls, and coconut milk.
10. Pulut Panggang – grilled glutinous rice cakes stuffed with spiced grated coconut filling.
14. Can I find international cuisines like Italian, Japanese, etc., easily available in and around Kinarut?
Yes, there are several restaurants in and around Kinarut that offer international cuisines such as Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Western dishes. Some popular options include Pizza Hut, KFC, Sushi King, and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. There are also smaller local eateries that may offer international dishes or fusion cuisine.
15. Are there any popular rooftop bars or restaurants with a view of the cityscape or sea in Kinarut?
Unfortunately, information regarding popular rooftop bars or restaurants with a view of the cityscape or sea in Kinarut is limited. Most of the dining establishments in Kinarut are smaller local eateries without rooftop areas. Some nearby cities, such as Kota Kinabalu and Papar, may have more options for rooftop dining with views of the city or sea. It is recommended to do further research or ask locals for recommendations in these areas.
16. How is the nightlife and bar scene like in this area? Are there any recommended spots for drinks and live music performances?
The nightlife and bar scene in this area is quite lively and diverse. There are many bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Some recommended spots for drinks and live music performances include:
1. The Brickhouse Bar & Grill – This popular spot offers a laid-back atmosphere with live music performances throughout the week.
2. Redwood Lounge – A cozy pub with a wide selection of beers and cocktails, as well as occasional live music events.
3. The Bourbon Room – This trendy bar features live DJs, karaoke nights, and frequent live music performances by local bands.
4. The Commodore Ballroom – This iconic venue has been hosting live music performances since 1929, featuring a mix of genres ranging from rock to electronic.
5. Guilt & Co – This intimate bar is known for its unique cocktails and regular live jazz performances.
Overall, there are many options for drinks and live music in this area that cater to a variety of tastes.
17. Is there a common etiquette or tradition when it comes to dining out at local restaurants in Kinarut that I should be aware of as a tourist?
Yes, there are a few common etiquettes and traditions to keep in mind when dining out at local restaurants in Kinarut:
1. Greet the staff politely: When you enter a restaurant, it is customary to greet the staff with a smile and a polite “hello” or “good evening”.
2. Remove your shoes: In many local restaurants, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering the dining area. Look for a shoe rack or ask the staff if you’re unsure.
3. Wash your hands: Before dining, it is customary to wash your hands in the provided basin or use hand sanitizer.
4. Share dishes: Local cuisine is often served family-style, with different dishes meant to be shared among everyone at the table. It is considered rude to only order for yourself without sharing.
5. Eat with your right hand: If you are eating with your hands instead of utensils, use only your right hand as the left hand is considered unclean.
6. Leave some food on your plate: It is customary to leave a small amount of food on your plate as a sign that you have had enough and are satisfied.
7. Do not waste food: In Malaysia, wasting food is frowned upon, so try not to order more than what you can finish.
8. Use utensils correctly: If using utensils, hold them in your right hand and use them to push food onto your spoon or fork held in your left hand.
9. Do not stick chopsticks vertically into food: This gesture has negative connotations and is seen as disrespectful.
10. Tip if you are satisfied with the service: Tipping is not expected but appreciated if you are happy with the service provided.
Remember that every culture has its own customs and practices when it comes to dining, so always be mindful and respectful during your experience at local restaurants in Kinarut.
18. Are car rentals easily available for exploring other nearby areas with good dining options from here, such as Kota Kinabalu (KK)?
Yes, car rentals are easily available in Sandakan for exploring nearby areas such as Kota Kinabalu. There are several car rental companies located in Sandakan city center and at the Sandakan airport, offering a variety of vehicles for rent, including sedans, SUVs, and vans. With a rental car, it is easy to explore the nearby towns and rural areas with good dining options such as the popular seafood restaurants in Tawau and Lahad Datu. The journey from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu takes approximately 6 hours by car, passing through scenic coastal roads with plenty of pit stops along the way for food and refreshments.
19.Is it safe to eat street food in Kinarut? Any specific street food stalls that are highly recommended?
It is generally safe to eat street food in Kinarut, as long as you take precautions and choose reputable stalls. Some popular options include the seafood barbecues along the beach, satay skewers, and meat skewers. It is always a good idea to check for cleanliness and hygiene practices of the stall before ordering.
20. What dishes or ingredients should I avoid due to allergies or dietary restrictions while dining out in Kinarut?
When dining out in Kinarut, it is important to be aware of any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have. Some dishes or ingredients that you should avoid include:
1. Seafood: Kinarut is known for its seafood dishes, but if you have a seafood allergy, it is best to avoid these dishes.
2. Gluten: Many Malaysian dishes contain gluten, such as noodles and bread. If you have celiac disease or are following a gluten-free diet, make sure to ask about gluten-free options when dining out.
3. Peanut sauce: Peanut sauce is a popular ingredient in many Malaysian dishes, but if you have a peanut allergy, it is best to avoid this sauce.
4. Fried foods: Many Malaysian dishes are fried in oil, so if you have an intolerance to oily or fried foods, it is best to steer clear of these dishes.
5. Dairy products: Some traditional Malaysian dishes contain dairy products like milk or yogurt. If you are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, be sure to ask about dairy-free options when ordering.
6. Spicy foods: Malaysian cuisine can be very spicy, so if you have a sensitivity or intolerance to spicy food, be cautious when ordering and ask for milder versions of dishes.
7. MSG (monosodium glutamate): This flavor enhancer is commonly used in Asian cooking, including in Malaysian cuisine. If you are sensitive to MSG or prefer not to consume it due to potential health concerns, make sure to specify that your food should be prepared without MSG.
8. Sugar and sweeteners: Some sauces and marinades may contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners. If you are watching your sugar intake for health reasons or following a special diet (such as keto), make sure to request no added sugar when ordering.
It is always best to inform restaurant staff about your specific allergies and dietary restrictions before placing your order so they can accommodate your needs. It can also be helpful to research the menu or check with the staff about specific ingredients or cooking methods used in certain dishes.