1. What are the must-try local dishes in Kota Kinabalu?
2. What are the best restaurants in Kota Kinabalu to try these dishes? 1. Must-Try Local Dishes in Kota Kinabalu:
– Sabah Laksa: A coconut-based noodle soup with shrimp, chicken and various aromatic herbs and spices.
– Hinava: A traditional Kadazandusun dish made with thinly sliced raw fish marinated in lime juice, shallots, and chili.
– Sinalau Bakas: Grilled wild boar meat served with rice or local vegetables.
– Tuaran Mee: A famous noodle dish from Tuaran town made with egg noodles stir-fried with pork and vegetables.
– Ngiu Chap (Beef Noodle Soup): Rice noodles served in a flavorful beef broth topped with sliced beef, beef balls, bean sprouts, and fried garlic.
2. Best Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu to Try These Dishes:
– Welcome Seafood Restaurant: Known for their fresh seafood and flavorful Sabah Laksa.
– Restoran Sri Lapan 888: Famous for their authentic Tuaran Mee and other local dishes.
– Hinava House: A must-visit for Hinava lovers offering a variety of traditional Kadazandusun dishes.
– Sinalau Bakas Waterfront Grill Restaurant: Offers a beautiful view of the sunset while enjoying their signature Sinalau Bakas dish.
– Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh: Serving delicious Ngiu Chap (Beef Noodle Soup) in a no-frills setting.
2. Is there any particular street or area known for its amazing food options in Kota Kinabalu?
Gaya Street is a popular destination for food lovers in Kota Kinabalu. It is known for its bustling Sunday market where vendors sell local delicacies such as satay, noodles, roti canai, and various seafood dishes. Other notable areas for great food include the waterfront area, Jalan Pantai (Beach Street), and Jalan Tun Razak in Segama. These areas are filled with a variety of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western eateries to cater to all tastes.
3. Are there any traditional food markets or night markets in Kota Kinabalu worth checking out?
Yes, there are several traditional food markets and night markets in Kota Kinabalu that are worth checking out. Some popular ones include:
1. Gaya Street Sunday Market: This market takes place every Sunday on Gaya Street in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. It offers a variety of local foods, fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
2. Filipino Night Market (also known as Pasar Malam Philipin): Located near the Waterfront area, this market is a must-visit for its delicious Filipino and Sabahan dishes such as grilled seafood, satay, and fried banana balls.
3. Kampung Air Night Market: Situated in the lively Kampung Air neighborhood, this market is known for its authentic Malay food stalls offering popular dishes like nasi lemak, mee goreng, and rojak.
4. Handicraft Market: Located at the Waterfront area near Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, this market is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts and try local street food.
5. Tanjung Aru Beach Night Market: This beachfront market opens only on weekends (Friday-Sunday) and offers a wide range of local delicacies such as BBQ seafood, chicken wings, and grilled corn.
6. Linangkit Culture Village Weekend Bazaar: Held every weekend at Linangkit Culture Village near Tuaran town (about 40 minutes drive from Kota Kinabalu), this bazaar showcases traditional food from various ethnic groups in Sabah such as Kadazandusun, Murut, and Rungus.
Overall, these markets not only offer delicious food but also provide a glimpse into the local culture and way of life in Kota Kinabalu.
4. How is the overall quality and variety of vegetarian and vegan food options in Kota Kinabalu?
The overall quality and variety of vegetarian and vegan food options in Kota Kinabalu can vary depending on the specific restaurant or location. In general, there are a decent number of choices available for vegetarians and vegans in the city.There are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Kota Kinabalu that offer a wide variety of dishes, including local flavors such as tofu and vegetable stir-fries, mock meat dishes, and international cuisines like Indian, Japanese, Italian, and Mexican. These restaurants often use fresh ingredients and have good quality food.
In addition to dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants, there are also many mainstream restaurants in Kota Kinabalu that offer vegetarian/vegan options on their menus. These options may not be as extensive or specialized as those in dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants but still provide some variety for plant-based eaters.
However, it is worth noting that traditional Malaysian cuisine heavily relies on meat and seafood, so vegetarian/vegan options may not always be readily available at local food stalls or traditional restaurants. It is always a good idea to communicate your dietary preferences clearly when dining out to ensure that you get suitable options.
Overall, while the quality and variety of vegetarian/vegan options in Kota Kinabalu may not match bigger cities like Kuala Lumpur or Penang, there are still enough choices available for vegetarians and vegans to enjoy delicious meals during their stay.
5. Are there any popular seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu that offer fresh and delicious seafood dishes?
Yes, there are several popular seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu that are known for their fresh and delicious seafood dishes. Some of them include:
1. Welcome Seafood Restaurant – a local favorite for its wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, including lobsters, crabs, prawns, fish, and more.
2. Fisherman’s Cove – located at the Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, this restaurant offers both traditional Sabahan and international seafood dishes made with sustainably-sourced ingredients.
3. Ocean Seafood Village – situated near the waterfront area, this restaurant is known for its extensive selection of seafood dishes with a modern twist.
4. Port View Seafood Village – another popular waterfront restaurant that serves up a mix of Chinese and Southeast Asian-style seafood dishes.
5. The Seafood Market Restaurant – this open-air restaurant allows customers to select their own live seafood from tanks on display and have it cooked to their liking.
6. Atmosphere Rooftop Bar & Brasserie – while not solely a seafood restaurant, this rooftop bar in Imago Mall offers a variety of delicious seafood dishes with panoramic views of the city skyline.
6. What are some recommended restaurants for trying authentic Malaysian cuisine in Kota Kinabalu?
1. Little Sulap2. Makan Kitchen
3. Welcome Seafood Restaurant
4. Sai Mei Tian
5. Old Town White Coffee
6. Salut Restaurant
7. Salim Restaurant & Catering
8. Kedai Kopi Yee Fung Shabu-Shabu Steamboat & BBQ
9. Restoran Seri Melaka
10. Liwagu Restaurant
7. Is street food safe to eat in Kota Kinabalu?
As a general rule, it is always best to exercise caution when eating street food in any destination. While Kota Kinabalu’s street food scene is popular and generally considered safe, there is always a risk of food contamination or illness from improper handling or cooking. To minimize the risk, consider choosing hot and freshly cooked foods, avoiding uncooked fruits and vegetables that may have been washed with tap water, and paying attention to the hygiene practices of the vendors. It is also recommended to get travel insurance that covers any potential health issues during your trip.
8. Are there any unique dining experiences, such as dining on a boat or by the beach, available in Kota Kinabalu?
Yes, there are several unique dining experiences available in Kota Kinabalu. These include:1. Dining at the Waterfront: Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, the waterfront area offers a stunning view of the city skyline and is a popular spot for street food stalls and restaurants. You can enjoy a meal by the water while watching the sunset.
2. Island hopping and seafood BBQ: Many tour operators offer island hopping tours in Kota Kinabalu where you can visit nearby islands and indulge in a delicious seafood barbecue on the beach.
3. Sunset dinner cruise: There are several options for sunset dinner cruises in Kota Kinabalu, where you can enjoy a romantic dinner on board while admiring the beautiful coastline of Sabah.
4. Underwater dining: Some resorts, such as Gayana Marine Resort, offer unique underwater dining experiences where you can dine while surrounded by marine life in an underwater observatory.
5. Floating seafood restaurants: In Kampung Sembulan, just minutes away from Kota Kinabalu city center, you will find floating seafood restaurants on stilts over the ocean. This is a great spot to enjoy fresh seafood dishes with a stunning view of the sea.
6. Dinner with cultural performances: Some restaurants in Kota Kinabalu offer traditional dance performances during dinner, giving you a taste of Sabah’s rich culture while enjoying your meal.
7. Jungle trekking and picnic lunch: For those who love outdoor adventures, there are options for jungle treks followed by a picnic lunch in natural settings such as waterfalls or riversides.
8. Private beach dining: Several resorts offer private beach dining experiences for couples or small groups where you can have a romantic candlelit dinner right on the sand under the stars.
9. Which restaurants or cafes have the best views of the city or ocean in Kota Kinabalu?
1. Upperstar Restaurant (Ocean View)
2. Sunset Bar & Grill (City and Ocean View)
3. The Breeze Beach Club (Ocean View)
4. Chilli Vanilla Bistro (City View)
5. Kedai Kopi Yee Fung (City View)
6. Poseidon’s Reserve Restaurant & Bar (Ocean View)
7. El Centro Cafe & Fine Dining (City View)
8. Sutera Harbour Resort – Al fresco dining at Spice Island overlook the South China Sea.
9. Little Italy Italian restaurant, located on the waterfront with a view of the ocean and surrounding islands.
10. Windbell Bistro (City and Ocean View)
10. Are there any specific local dishes that tourists should be cautious of due to extreme spiciness or ingredients they may not be used to?
Yes, there are a few local dishes that may be too spicy or have unusual ingredients for some tourists, such as:
– Sichuan hot pot: This is a popular dish in Sichuan province that involves cooking various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients in a pot of extremely spicy broth. The level of spiciness can vary, so it’s best to ask about the spice level before trying it.
– Ma la xiang guo: Another dish from Sichuan cuisine, this stir-fry dish includes a mix of various vegetables and meats cooked in a spicy “numbing” sauce made with Sichuan peppercorns. The spiciness can be quite intense for some.
– Stinky tofu: This is a classic street food snack found throughout China, but it may be off-putting for those not used to its pungent smell. It’s made by fermenting tofu in a mixture of vegetables and spices.
– Century eggs: These are preserved eggs that have been soaked in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, lime, and other ingredients for several weeks or months. They have a strong odor and the texture may be unappealing to some.
– Fermented bean curd (furu): Another fermented food commonly found in Chinese cuisine, this paste is often used as a condiment or ingredient in dishes like Mapo Tofu. Some may find its pungent flavor off-putting.
11. Can you recommend any hidden gems for local food that are off the beaten path in Kota Kinabalu?
One hidden gem for local food in Kota Kinabalu is Sinsuran Market, commonly known as “Asia City”. It is situated right in the heart of the city and offers a wide variety of local dishes at affordable prices. Some must-try dishes include bak kut teh (pork rib soup), claypot chicken rice, and grilled seafood. Another hidden gem is Grace Point Food Court, located in Luyang area. This food court is popular among locals for its tasty Chinese-style BBQ meats and other local delicacies such as roasted pork belly, stuffed tofu, and fried noodles. Lastly, head over to Kampung Nelayan Seafood Village for an authentic dining experience by the sea with an array of fresh seafood dishes like butter prawns, chili crabs, and steamed fish.
12. How is the availability and quality of international cuisine, such as Chinese or Western, in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu is known for its diverse cuisine options, including both local and international flavors. The city has a good selection of Chinese and Western restaurants that offer authentic dishes. Some popular Chinese restaurants in Kota Kinabalu include Fook Yuen, which is known for its Hong Kong style dim sum, and Yue Kee for its Cantonese-style dishes. There are also several establishments serving Chinese food along the famous Gaya Street Sunday Market.
When it comes to Western cuisine, there are many options available in Kota Kinabalu as well. Some popular choices include La Lucia Italian Restaurant for Italian dishes, El Centro Bar & Grill for Mexican food, and Little Italy for a mix of European cuisines. There are also numerous cafes and bakeries offering Western-style breakfasts such as pancakes, waffles, and pastries.
Overall, the availability and quality of international cuisine in Kota Kinabalu are quite good. However, these options may be more concentrated in tourist areas or upscale neighborhoods compared to local eateries that serve traditional Malaysian cuisine. It is recommended to do some research beforehand or ask locals for recommendations to find the best international dining experiences in Kota Kinabalu.
13. Are there any traditional Sabahan drinks or desserts that should not be missed while visiting Kota Kinabalu?
Yes, there are several traditional Sabahan drinks and desserts that should not be missed while visiting Kota Kinabalu. These include coconut pudding (linopot), fermented rice wine (tapai), sticky rice pudding with coconut milk (sumsuman), and black glutinous rice porridge (bubur pulut hitam). Other popular drinks include local coffee (kopi tenom) and tea made from butterfly pea flowers (telang). Be sure to also try the refreshing fruit juices and smoothies made from local tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and dragon fruit.
14. Do some restaurants offer cooking classes where visitors can learn to make their own Malaysian dishes?
Some restaurants in Malaysia may offer cooking classes where visitors can learn to make their own Malaysian dishes. A quick online search or contacting the specific restaurant directly would be the best way to find out if they offer cooking classes. Additionally, there are also some cooking schools and culinary institutes in Malaysia that offer classes in Malaysian cuisine for tourists and locals alike.
15. What are the average prices for meals at local eateries compared to more upscale restaurants in Kota Kinabalu?
The average prices for meals at local eateries in Kota Kinabalu can range from RM 5-15 per person. This can include dishes like noodles, rice dishes, and street food.
In comparison, more upscale restaurants in Kota Kinabalu may have higher average prices ranging from RM 30-50 per person. These restaurants typically serve a variety of Western and Asian cuisine with higher quality ingredients and presentation. Some upscale restaurants may also offer fine dining options with prices upwards of RM 100 per person.
16. Can you suggest any rooftop bars or dining spots with a view of the city skyline in Kota Kinabalu?
1. SKY Blu Bar & Restaurant
2. The Roof
3. E11even Rooftop Bar & Bistro
4. Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar and Lounge
5. LEVELS Rooftop Bar & Lounge
6. The Loft, Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
7. Avanti Rooftop Horizon Lounge
8. Breeze Beach Club and Grill at The Westin
9. Sunset Bar at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa
10. Sutera Harbour Sunset Bar & Grill
17. How easy is it to find halal food options in Kota Kinabalu for Muslim travelers?
It is quite easy to find halal food options in Kota Kinabalu for Muslim travelers. This city has a large Muslim population and thus, there are many halal restaurants and food stalls scattered throughout the city. Most restaurants that serve local cuisine will have halal options, such as seafood, grilled meats, and curries. There are also many international chain restaurants that offer halal menus.
Furthermore, visitors can also find halal stalls in most hawker centers and markets. These stalls usually have signs or stickers indicating their halal certification. Some popular dishes to try in Kota Kinabalu that are Muslim-friendly include roti canai, nasi lemak, and satay.
There are also plenty of Malay-owned cafes and eateries around Kota Kinabalu that serve up delicious Malaysian-style comfort food like nasi goreng (fried rice) or mee goreng (fried noodles).
Overall, finding halal food options in Kota Kinabalu should not be a problem for Muslim travelers as it is widely available and easily accessible.
18.Are there any specific food festivals or events that happen in Kota Kinabalu throughout the year?
Yes, there are several food festivals and events that take place in Kota Kinabalu throughout the year. Some of the notable ones include:
1. Taste of Borneo Food Festival: Held annually in September, this festival celebrates the diverse cuisines and cultures of Borneo through food, music and cultural performances.
2. Sabah Fest: This cultural and food festival takes place in May and features traditional cuisine from different ethnic groups in Sabah.
3. KK Food Fest: Organized by the City Hall, this annual event showcases a wide variety of local street food at affordable prices.
4. Sunset Coast Music & Cuisine Festival: As the name suggests, this festival combines music with delicious coastal cuisine from various restaurants and cafes on Kota Kinabalu’s beautiful waterfront.
5. Gastro-Safari Food Trail: This event is a culinary journey through some of Kota Kinabalu’s top restaurants allowing participants to sample a variety of dishes and explore the city’s vibrant food scene.
6. Sago Fest: Celebrating one of Sabah’s staple foods, sago, this festival showcases a range of creative dishes made from sago starch including desserts, drinks, and traditional dishes.
7. Coffee Festival: Coffee lovers can indulge in their passion at this festival which brings together local coffee roasters, baristas and coffee enthusiasts for a weekend full of workshops, tastings and competitions.
8. Pesta Kaamatan (Harvest Festival): This major cultural event celebrates the end of harvest season with traditional dances, ceremonies, games and most importantly – delicious indigenous food.
9. Seafood Festival: As home to some of Malaysia’s best seafood dishes, it’s no surprise that Kota Kinabalu hosts an annual seafood festival where visitors can sample fresh catches from the sea prepared in various local styles.
10. Food Truck Jamboree: A relatively new addition to Kota Kinabalu’s food scene is the food truck culture, and this event brings together a variety of food trucks serving up tasty dishes on wheels.
19. Do any restaurants in Kota Kinabalu offer a fusion of different cuisines, blending local flavors with international dishes?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Kota Kinabalu that offer a fusion of different cuisines. Some popular examples include:
1. Deen’s Fusion: This restaurant offers a fusion of local Sabahan flavors with international dishes such as burgers, pasta, and sandwiches.
2. The Corner Cafe: The menu here features a blend of Malaysian, Chinese, and Western cuisine using fresh ingredients from Borneo.
3. The Cali-Mex Bar & Grill: This restaurant serves up Mexican food with a local twist, incorporating Sabahan ingredients into traditional Mexican dishes.
4. Little Italy Restaurant & Cafe: As the name suggests, this restaurant combines Italian cuisine with local flavors to create unique dishes like seafood pasta with sambal sauce.
5. Upperstar Cafe & Restaurant: Known for its famous Upperstar pork burger, this restaurant also offers fusion dishes such as Nasi Goreng Carbonara and Chicken Rendang Fettuccine.
20. What are some recommended places to buy local food products, such as spices or snacks, as souvenirs from Kota Kinabalu?
1. Gaya Street Sunday Market – This popular market offers a variety of local food products such as spices, snacks, and other traditional food items.
2. Handicraft Market (also known as Filipino Market) – Located near the waterfront, this market is a great place to purchase local food items and souvenirs. You can find various spices, sauces, and snacks here.
3. Sabah State Museum Gift Shop – The souvenir shop at the Sabah State Museum offers a wide range of local food items such as dried seafood, spices, coffee, and chocolates.
4. Jalan Dewan Market – This wet market is known for its fresh produce and also offers a selection of local snacks and spices.
5. Kadaiku – A popular souvenir shop that promotes locally made products, including a range of specialty foods and snacks unique to Sabah.
6. Cocobean Chocolate Factory – If you’re looking for some delicious chocolate treats to take home, check out this factory which produces handmade chocolates using locally sourced ingredients.
7. KK Mart – A chain of convenience stores scattered around Kota Kinabalu that offer a variety of local snacks and food products at affordable prices.
8. Tien Shi Tong Traditional Chinese Herb Shop – This herbal shop sells a wide range of herbs and spices used in traditional Chinese medicine, perfect for those interested in cooking or herbal remedies.
9. Tamu Donggongon Market – Located outside the city center in Penampang district, this bustling market offers fresh produce and an array of local delicacies like layered cakes (Kuih Lapis) and rice wine (tuak).
10. Metro Supermarket – One of the largest supermarkets in Kota Kinabalu where you can find an extensive selection of imported and locally produced food items including spices, sauces, snacks, and more.