1. What are some popular local restaurants near Tanjung Aru Beach that serve authentic Thai cuisine?
Some popular local restaurants near Tanjung Aru Beach that serve authentic Thai cuisine are:
1. Bangkok House Restaurant
2. Temple Village Kitchen
3. Nasi Kandar Sumatera Utara
4. Padi House
5. DeeLicious Seafood Restaurant & Cafe
6. Basil Garden Thai Restaurant
7. Suraya Seafood
8. Thai Odyssey Restaurant & Gallery
9. The Korner Street Food Market
10. Sabah Bah Muara Thai Restaurant
2. Can you recommend any outdoor dining options with a view of the beach in Tanjung Aru, Sabah?
1. Sunset Bar & Grill at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa – This restaurant offers a stunning view of Tanjung Aru Beach, along with a variety of grilled seafood and meat dishes.
2. Beach House Restaurant at Borneo Beach Villas – Located right on the beach, this restaurant serves up delicious Western and Asian dishes while guests enjoy the ocean breeze and panoramic views of the South China Sea.
3. Coco Joe’s Bar & Grill at Sutera Harbour Resort – Enjoy a unique dining experience on a floating platform over the water, overlooking the beautiful sunset over Tanjung Aru Beach.
4. Peppino at The Magellan Sutera Resort – Dine al fresco at this Italian restaurant, where you can feast on wood-fired pizzas and fresh seafood while taking in the picturesque beachfront view.
5. 7th Heaven Bar and Restaurant – Situated on a hilltop with unobstructed views of Tanjung Aru Beach, this restaurant offers tasty international cuisine along with an extensive cocktail menu.
6. Ocean Seafood Village at Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai – Indulge in fresh local seafood while enjoying ocean views at this open-air restaurant located within a beautiful resort setting.
7. Twilight Bar & Grill at Pantai Inn – This casual outdoor dining spot serves up delicious grilled dishes and cocktails alongside serene views of the beach and nearby islands.
8. Tides Cafe & Pool Bar at Avangio Hotel Kota Kinabalu – With a poolside location and ocean views, this cafe is the perfect spot for a relaxed meal or grab-and-go snacks by the beach.
9. Black Angus Steakhouse Kota Kinabalu – Not only does this restaurant serve up juicy steaks and other Western favorites, but it also offers an outdoor seating area with scenic views of Tanjung Aru Beach.
10. Chilli Vanilla at Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa – Take a short boat ride to this island resort and enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach, surrounded by beautiful views and twinkling lights.
3. Are there any street food vendors or stalls near the beach that offer budget-friendly options?
Yes, there are plenty of street food vendors and stalls near the beach that offer budget-friendly options. Some popular options include grilled seafood skewers, corn on the cob, fresh fruit cups, tacos and burritos, and various types of sandwiches and wraps. Most of these vendors also offer vegetarian/vegan options at affordable prices. Just walk along the beach or nearby streets and you will come across several options to choose from.
4. Is it safe to eat seafood from the beachfront restaurants in Tanjung Aru, Sabah?
Generally, it is safe to eat seafood from the beachfront restaurants in Tanjung Aru, Sabah. These restaurants are regulated by health authorities and are required to maintain hygiene standards in food preparation and storage. However, it is always advisable to use caution and observe the quality of the seafood before consuming it. If a restaurant looks dirty or if the food served does not appear fresh, it is best to avoid eating there. It is also recommended to check for any reviews or recommendations from locals or other tourists before choosing a specific restaurant.
5. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants near Tanjung Aru Beach?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants near Tanjung Aru Beach. Some options include:1. Seven Seas Cafe – This cafe offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including tofu burgers, vegetable stir-fry, and tofu noodles.
2. La Famiglia Restaurant – This Italian restaurant has a separate vegetarian menu with options like mushroom risotto, vegetable lasagna, and handmade gnocchi.
3. The Red Beanbag – Located inside the Jesselton Hotel, this cafe serves delicious breakfast and brunch options that cater to vegetarians and vegans.
4. Green Vegetarian Cafe – As the name suggests, this cozy cafe specializes in vegan and vegetarian dishes, using fresh local ingredients.
5. Pause Cafe Bistro – This bistro offers a mix of western and Asian cuisine with many vegetarian and vegan options available on their menu.
6. Do any of the restaurants around the beach offer live entertainment or cultural performances during dinner?
It depends on the specific restaurants around the beach and the season. Some may offer live music or cultural performances during dinner, while others may not. It is best to check with each individual restaurant to see if they have any entertainment options available. Additionally, there may be local events or festivals in the area that offer live entertainment or cultural performances near the beach.
7. Are there any romantic fine dining options for couples in Tanjung Aru, Sabah?
Yes, there are several romantic fine dining options for couples in Tanjung Aru, Sabah. Some suggestions include:
1. Coco-Jo’s Beach Shack: This waterfront restaurant offers a private dinner experience on the beach, complete with candlelit tables and personalized menus.
2. Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa: The resort has multiple fine dining restaurants, including Sunset Bar that offers stunning views of the sunset over dinner.
3. Peppino at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort and Spa: This award-winning Italian restaurant offers intimate indoor and outdoor seating options for couples to enjoy a romantic meal.
4. Borneo Momogun Spice Jar: This restaurant offers a unique dining experience where couples can dine in traditional Kadazandusun huts surrounded by lush greenery.
5. Toscani’s Restaurant: This cozy Italian restaurant is located on the water’s edge and offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner date.
6. Al Fresco at Avangio Hotel Kota Kinabalu: Located on the rooftop of the hotel, this restaurant boasts panoramic views of the city while serving up delicious Western and local cuisine.
7. The Horizon Lounge at The Magellan Sutera Harbour Resort: The lounge offers a quiet and intimate setting for couples to enjoy cocktails and light bites while admiring breathtaking views of the South China Sea.
8. How is the service and hospitality at the local restaurants in this area?
The service and hospitality at local restaurants in this area varies. Some restaurants may have excellent service and friendly staff, while others may be lacking in these areas. It is always a good idea to read reviews or ask for recommendations from locals before choosing a restaurant to dine at. Generally, however, the hospitality in this area is welcoming and friendly.
9. Are there any all-inclusive resorts in Tanjung Aru that offer meals as part of their package?
Yes, there are several all-inclusive resorts in Tanjung Aru that offer meals as part of their package, including:1. Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa
2. Gayana Marine Resort
3. Borneo Beach Villas
4. Sutera Harbour Resort
5. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
6. Manukan Island Resort
7. Coach House Langkawi Hotel – Multiple Dining Options Available Package
8. Four Points by Sheraton Sandakan – All Meals Included Package
9. The Pacific Sutera Hotel – All Meals Included Package
10.Tanjung Ria Villa – Multiple Dining Options Available Package
Please note that the specific package and meal inclusion may vary for each resort, so it is best to check directly with the resort for more details before booking.
10. Do I need to make reservations in advance for popular restaurants near Tanjung Aru Beach?
It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants near Tanjung Aru Beach. This will ensure that you have a table reserved and avoid any waiting time or disappointment if the restaurant is fully booked.
11. What is the average cost of a meal at a restaurant near Tanjung Aru Beach?
We cannot provide a specific answer as there are many restaurants near Tanjung Aru Beach with varying prices. The average cost may also differ depending on the type of restaurant and meal chosen. It is best to research specific restaurants in the area for their menu and prices.
12. Are there any fusion or international cuisine options available near the beach?
Yes, there may be some restaurants near the beach that specialize in fusion cuisine or offer international dishes. It would depend on the specific location of the beach and nearby dining options. Some popular fusion cuisine options include Japanese-Peruvian fusion (Nikkei), Mexican-Korean fusion (MexiKorean), and Hawaiian-Japanese fusion (Hawaiian-Japanese BBQ). There may also be international cuisine restaurants nearby offering dishes from various countries such as Italian, French, Thai, and more.
13. Can you recommend any seafood dishes that are must-try while visiting Tanjung Aru, Sabah?
Some must-try seafood dishes while visiting Tanjung Aru in Sabah include:
1. Grilled Stingray (Ikan Bakar) – Freshly caught stingray grilled over an open fire and served with sambal sauce.
2. Butter Prawns – Fresh prawns cooked in a rich butter sauce and served with steamed rice.
3. Steamed Fish (Ikan Tiga Rasa) – Whole fish steamed with a blend of three different sauces: sweet, sour, and spicy.
4. Seafood Curry (Gulai Ikan or Udang) – A delicious curry made with a mix of local spices and coconut milk, typically cooked with fish or shrimp.
5. Sambal Squid – Squid stir-fried with homemade sambal paste for a spicy kick.
6. Sabah-style Fish Noodles (Sup Tulang Ikan) – Noodles cooked in a flavorful fish broth and topped with chunks of tender fish meat.
7. Fried Calamari (Goreng Cencaru) – Deep-fried calamari rings coated in crispy batter.
8. Mantanani Island Lobster (Udang Karib) – Sweet and succulent lobsters freshly caught from Mantanani Island, served grilled or buttered.
9. Prawn Tom Yam Soup – Spicy and tangy soup made with prawns, lemongrass, lime juice, and chili peppers.
10. Coconut-Crusted Fish Fillet (Ikan Bakar Madu Kelapa) – Grilled fish fillet coated in a crunchy layer of toasted coconut flakes.
14. Is there a night market nearby where I can try local snacks and dishes?
Yes, there are many night markets in various cities and towns across Asia where you can try local snacks and dishes. Some popular ones include the Shilin Night Market in Taipei, Taiwan; the Donghuamen Night Market in Beijing, China; and the Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, Thailand. These night markets offer a wide variety of street food options at affordable prices. Just be sure to exercise caution when trying unfamiliar foods and make sure they are cooked and prepared properly before consuming.
15. Do any of the restaurants have a dress code or specific attire requirements?
It depends on the restaurant. Some restaurants may have a dress code, such as requiring formal attire for fine dining establishments. Others may have more relaxed dress codes, such as business casual or casual. It is always a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand to see if there are any specific attire requirements.
16. Is it possible to book private dining experiences on the beach for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries?
Yes, it is possible to book private dining experiences on the beach for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. Many resorts and restaurants offer options for private beach dinners where you can enjoy a romantic meal with your loved one in a secluded setting on the beach. These experiences often include a specially curated menu and personalized service to make your occasion extra special. It is best to check with your chosen resort or restaurant in advance for availability and pricing.
17. Are there any cooking classes or workshops available where I can learn how to make traditional Thai dishes from locals?
Yes, there are many cooking classes and workshops available in Thailand where you can learn traditional Thai dishes from locals. Some popular ones include the Blue Elephant Cooking School in Bangkok, the Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School in Chiang Mai, and Let’s Cook in Phuket. These classes typically involve a trip to a local market to select fresh ingredients and then hands-on instruction on how to prepare dishes such as Tom Yum soup, Pad Thai, and Green Curry. Prices and class length may vary, so it is best to research and book in advance.
18. Do any of the hotels near Tanjung Aru Beach have their own on-site restaurants with good reviews?
Yes, many of the hotels near Tanjung Aru Beach have their own on-site restaurants with good reviews. Some examples include Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, which has an array of restaurants with various cuisines; Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa, which offers a romantic dining experience at its on-site restaurant; The Magellan Sutera Harbour Resort, which has several highly-rated restaurants offering international and local flavors; and Hyatt Regency Kinabalu, which also has multiple dining options on-site. It is always recommended to check the specific hotel’s website or review sites for more information and up-to-date reviews.
19. Are there any halal-certified restaurants near the beach for Muslim travelers?
Yes, there are several halal-certified restaurants near the beach for Muslim travelers to enjoy. Some options include:1. Jimbaran Garden Restaurant: Located at InterContinental Bali Resort, this restaurant serves Halal Indonesian and International cuisine with a beachfront view.
2. Semilung Café: This café offers halal-certified local dishes and is located near Kuta Beach.
3. Bamboo Grilled Seafood Jimbaran: Located on Jimbaran Beach, this restaurant serves fresh seafood that is halal-certified.
4. Warung Mak Beng: Situated near Sanur Beach, this traditional warung (small eatery) serves halal Balinese seafood dishes.
5. The Tasting Room at Kayumanis Nusa Dua: Set on the beachfront of Nusa Dua Beach, this restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with a wide selection of halal dishes.
20. Is it recommended to try street food in Tanjung Aru or should I stick to dining at restaurants for safety reasons?
It is generally safe to try street food in Tanjung Aru as long as you exercise caution and choose vendors with good hygiene practices. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are unfamiliar with the local cuisine, it may be safer to stick to dining at restaurants where the food is prepared in a more controlled environment. It is always a good idea to ask for recommendations from locals or do research on popular and reputable street food vendors before trying them.