best-places-to-eat-in-Kota Kinabalu (Borneo), Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu’s Best Eats: A Guide to Delicious Street Food

Tucked away on the stunning island of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu (KK) is a culinary gem waiting to be discovered. From mouth-watering street food to fresh seafood and traditional markets, KK has something for every taste bud. Here are our top picks for must-try eats in this beautiful Malaysian city:

1. Ngiang Kee Seafood Restaurant

Located on Jalan Pasar, Ngiang Kee is a local favorite for its mouth-watering street food and seafood. Be sure to try their famous stir-fried prawns, served with a dash of chili sauce that will leave you wanting more.

2. Jalan Gaya Night Market

Every evening, the bustling Jalan Gaya transforms into a vibrant night market offering an array of local delicacies. Don’t miss out on their char kway teow, a stir-fried noodle dish cooked to perfection with prawns and veggies.

3. Kok Kee Seafood Restaurant

This family-run restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood for over two decades. Be sure to try their steamed fish, served with a zesty sauce that will leave you craving more.

4. Jalan Haji Saman Market

Tucked away in the heart of KK, this bustling market is a foodie’s paradise. Try their Hainanese chicken rice, a classic dish made famous by the Hainanese immigrants who settled in Singapore and Malaysia.

5. Pasar Malam KK

Every evening, the Pasar Malam (Night Market) comes alive with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. Be sure to try their fresh fruit, including juicy durians and succulent mangosteens.

Honorable Mention: Shah Rukh Cafe

While not a traditional street food joint, Shah Rukh Cafe is a hidden gem serving up delicious Indian and Pakistani cuisine at affordable prices. Try their famous curry laksa, a flavorful noodle soup that will leave you wanting more.

Insider Tips

  • Be sure to try the local delicacies like sambal belacan (chili paste) and dulcey (a sweet, sticky sauce).
  • Don’t be afraid to haggle prices at the markets.
  • Try the local fruit juices, like mangosteen juice, for a refreshing twist.

Getting There

Kota Kinabalu is easily accessible by air or land. The city has an international airport and is also connected to the rest of Malaysia via bus and train services.

Come and experience the culinary delights of Kota Kinabalu – your taste buds will thank you!