15 Best Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah for Top Foods!

Wondering what to eat in Kota Kinabalu? Then go to these top-rated Kota Kinabalu restaurants to try out the best food in KK now!!

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Kota Kinabalu? Get your taste buds ready for a journey through some of the most delicious and unique flavors that this vibrant city has to offer!

Kota Kinabalu, located on the island of Borneo in Malaysia, is a food lover’s paradise. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, spicy curries, aromatic noodles, and sweet desserts.

Whether you are a fan of traditional Malay cuisine or love to try new and exciting fusion dishes, Kota Kinabalu has something for everyone.

One of the must-try dishes in Kota Kinabalu is the seafood. The city is located near the South China Sea, which means that the seafood is always fresh and of the highest quality.

Another favorite in Kota Kinabalu is the local noodle dishes. These come in many varieties, such as laksa, which is a spicy coconut-based soup with noodles and seafood, or dry noodle dish with a savory sauce and meat toppings.

For those with a sweet tooth, Kota Kinabalu also has plenty of dessert options. One popular sweet treat is the coconut pudding, which is made with fresh coconut milk and served in a young coconut shell. Another favorite is the cendol, which is a refreshing shaved ice dessert with sweet syrup, coconut milk, and green jelly noodles.

In short, if you are a food enthusiast, Kota Kinabalu is a must-visit destination!

Top 15 Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu For The Best Kota Kinabalu Food!

Without further ado, here are some of the best restaurants in Kota Kinabalu. Let’s check them out now!

1. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Welcome Seafood Restaurant

Welcome Seafood Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu is a seafood haven that offers fresh, delicious, and generous servings of crab, prawns, fish, and calamari. Whether you are a seafood lover or just craving for some non-seafood options, Welcome Seafood Restaurant has something for everyone. You won’t be disappointed with the variety of options available.

One of the things that stands out about Welcome Seafood Restaurant is its affordability. You will be surprised at how reasonable the prices are, especially for the quality of the seafood you get. You can indulge in your seafood cravings without breaking the bank.

The restaurant is a local favorite, recommended by many tourists and locals alike. The seafood is definitely worth trying as it is fresh and of high quality. You can expect to have a wide variety of seafood options that are not frozen, but rather freshly caught from the sea. You will enjoy the experience of dining in a restaurant that stretches over five shops long, providing a comfortable atmosphere for your meal.

The food at Welcome Seafood Restaurant is overall tasty and worth trying. While the fried rice may be on the bland side and the vegetables a bit expensive, it is the seafood that truly shines. One of the recommended dishes is the crab, which is cooked to perfection and served in generous portions. You will definitely want to try out the seafood options.

Service at Welcome Seafood Restaurant is fast, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. You can expect to be served promptly and efficiently, without having to wait too long for your food to arrive. However, parking can be a bit of a challenge as the spaces are limited along the road.

In summary, if you are in Kota Kinabalu, Welcome Seafood Restaurant is a must-try. You will love the variety of seafood options available, and the prices are more than reasonable. Don’t forget to indulge in the fresh seafood and enjoy the comfortable dining atmosphere. You won’t regret visiting this local favorite!

Address: Lot G18, Komplek Jalan Asia City Phase 2A, Asia City, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

2. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – New WK Restaurant Luyang

New WK Restaurant Luyang in Kota Kinabalu is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious and affordable dim sum. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of delectable dishes, including steamed garoupa that is juicy and fresh. The pork ribs in pumpkin black bean sauce is a must-try and is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

The prices at New WK Restaurant Luyang are very reasonable, especially when you consider the high quality of the food. You’ll find that the portions are generous, and the food is fresh and tasty. The dim sum menu, in particular, is a standout, with the crystal prawn dumplings, char siew cheong fun, beancurd skin prawn rolls, and fried salted egg yolk custard buns being among the most recommended dishes.

Seating capacity is ample, making it a great choice for large groups, and parking is available at the shoplots, although it can be limited during peak hours. It’s recommended that you arrive early to secure a spot, especially during the weekends.

The restaurant’s traditional Chinese setup adds to the overall experience, making it a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal. The service is fast, and the staff are friendly and accommodating, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

In summary, if you’re looking for delicious, affordable dim sum in Kota Kinabalu, New WK Restaurant Luyang is the place to be. The extensive menu, reasonable prices, and generous portions make it a must-visit for foodies in the area. So come early to avoid the crowd, and enjoy a delicious meal at this popular restaurant.

Address: Lot 4, 5, 6 Wisma HCS, Jalan Kolam, Taman Luyang Phase 1, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

3. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Borenos Fried Chicken (Asia City)

Borenos Fried Chicken is a great place to satisfy your craving for crispy and juicy fried chicken, especially if you’re looking for a late-night snack. The location is convenient, and the staff is friendly, kind and helpful, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The premises are also well maintained, so you don’t have to worry about hygiene issues.

One of the must-try dishes here is the fried chicken. Although it was the first time you tried Borenos, you found it to be pretty good. They offer a 24-hour service which is perfect for night owls, tourists or locals who love to hang out late at night and enjoy a good meal.

The combo meals offered are good value for money, and the portion sizes are generous. For example, the 5-person combo meal is enough to satisfy a group of 4 people. Plus, you get free refills of ice-cold Sprite, which is a nice touch. The chicken is freshly fried after being ordered and is piping hot when served. The outer layer is crispy and has a spicy kick to it, while the inside is moist and juicy.

The condiments offered are ketchup and chili sauce, and they are perfect complements to the chicken. The restaurant also provides free Wi-Fi, which is a plus point. The menu is posted outside, so you can take a good look at the options and pricing details before deciding what to order.

The only downside is that the sinks provided for washing hands are limited, and only one of them has a soap dispenser. This can cause waiting times, especially during peak hours. Nonetheless, the overall experience at Borenos Fried Chicken is delightful, and you won’t be disappointed with the quality and taste of the fried chicken. It’s definitely worth a try, even if you’re not a fan of chicken skin.

Address: Kompleks, Lot G23, Ground Floor, Jalan Asia City, Asia City, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

4. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Yee Fung Laksa

If you’re in Kota Kinabalu and looking for a famous restaurant with delicious food, Yee Fung Laksa is a must-visit place. Despite the crowds, the service is quick and friendly, and you won’t have to wait around too much for your food. The open-air dining room is nice and the food is fresh and flavorful.

One of the recommended dishes is the famous laksa, which has a creamy coconut broth and strong curry scent. It comes topped with pulled chicken, dry tofu, and shrimps. If you’re not used to spicy food, be aware that even the Yee Fung Laksa, which is supposed to be not too spicy, might be too spicy for foreigners. However, it’s definitely worth a try.

Another dish worth trying is the claypot chicken rice, which is beautifully burnt at the edges and comes with tender chicken pieces and a soft boiled egg on top. The salted lemon tea with plum is also a must-try and goes perfectly with the food.

If you’re into sour lemon juice, it’s recommended to give it a try too. The veggie dish is also noteworthy, as it has special spices that make it stand out. Even the ngiu chap, a beef dish, is quite good.

Overall, Yee Fung Laksa is a great place to stop by for a tasty and authentic meal in Kota Kinabalu’s China town. The prices are good and the service is quick and attentive, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

Address: 127, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

5. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – CHUBS

Looking for a cozy and relaxing atmosphere with delicious food and drinks? Look no further than CHUBS in Kota Kinabalu. From the perfectly cooked and flavorful signature pork belly to the delicious mushroom soup, this restaurant has it all. Don’t miss out on the cheesy lamb pizza, which comes loaded with generous amounts of cheese and lamb.

Whether you’re there for a business meeting or a family dinner, CHUBS caters to all. The restaurant is well-maintained and offers plenty of seating, including a big long table on the upper floor. It’s also kid-friendly, with high chairs and kids’ cutlery available.

But what really sets CHUBS apart is the service. The staff is well-mannered and helpful, making sure that you have a great dining experience. And with a vast selection of wine and beer, including cool beers and stout, there’s something for everyone.

While the chicken chop and lamb dishes were a bit overcooked and hard to bite, the food is still worth a visit.

So head to CHUBS for a satisfying meal and a cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood or pork, this restaurant won’t disappoint. And don’t forget to try the root beer float or Irish coffee for a refreshing drink. Just be sure to check the menu online beforehand, as it could be better organized.

Address: Plaza Shell, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

6. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Jia Siang Coffee Shop

Jia Siang Coffee Shop is a restaurant in Kota Kinabalu that is highly recommended by locals and the staff. One of the must-try dishes is the kolo mee, which comes in a huge portion and has a slightly oily texture but is still acceptable. The soup noodles are more plain, but the meatballs are delicious with a slightly salty taste. The eggplants are also a popular snack that is worth trying. Overall, the food is delicious, but it can be a little oily, so be prepared to drip the oil away.

The restaurant has a self-service system for taking the sauce and cutlery, which are kept in a temperature-controlled cabinet for hygiene and drying purposes. However, the restaurant is not accessible for wheelchairs and is not halal or vegetarian, as pork is served.

Despite these limitations, Jia Siang Coffee Shop has received rave reviews for its pork noodles. The noodles have a unique and delicious taste that is typical of Malaysian cuisine. The soup is also tasty, and the pork slices are tender and succulent. The restaurant offers a variety of toppings that you can add to your noodles, such as entrails, liver, and mixed pork soup.

Aside from the pork noodles, the restaurant also serves other dishes such as deep-fried wontons and pork balls, which are highly recommended. To finish off your meal, you can choose to have their famous Laici Kang or the special iced tea (which comes in 3 layers).

Although parking can be difficult during peak hours, it is usually available within walking distance. Despite some minor drawbacks, Jia Siang Coffee Shop is a fantastic place to grab a meal and enjoy the local cuisine. You will definitely want to come back for more after trying their delicious food.

Address: Lot 1-0, Lintas Plaza, Lorong 3, Lintas Plaza Ring Road, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah            

7. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – El Centro

El Centro is a great Mexican restaurant that offers affordable and delicious food in Kota Kinabalu. One of the highly recommended dishes is the grilled chicken and black beans burritos which are purely delicious and fulfilling. The portion size is generous, and it’s definitely worth the money.

Another recommended dish is the chicken kebab, which is well-complemented by the smashed potatoes and salad. The dessert called ice cream sandwich, which is homemade, is worth trying and goes well with the latte.

The service at El Centro is efficient and very friendly. The waiter was kind enough to recommend their signature dishes. The restaurant is quite spacious, and the ambiance is great to chill out with cocktails and good food. The portions are a good size, and there are plenty of interesting flavor combinations to try. Whether you’re there for lunch or dinner, El Centro is worth a visit.

The lamb burger is another dish that is highly recommended at El Centro, as it is supposedly delicious. The fajitas and parmigiana were okay, but the apple crumble could have been better if the apple wasn’t so crunchy.

However, the vanilla ice cream was yummy, and the pineapple, lime, mint drink was an interesting option, though a bit sourish. It’s worth making a reservation beforehand as it’s a busy restaurant, and you might have to wait for a table.

El Centro’s thin crust pizza is also a must-try as it’s crispy and delicious. The restaurant offers lots of other dishes and drinks to try, and you’ll definitely find something that suits your taste. Overall, El Centro is an excellent Mexican restaurant that offers delicious food at a reasonable price, and the friendly service makes the dining experience even more enjoyable.

Address: 18, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

8. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant

Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant is a great place to have live seafood dishes at affordable prices. The restaurant is packed with foreign tourists, and you can choose your seafood from their shop next door and eat inside the air-conditioned dining area. One of the recommended dishes is the live seven-star grouper, which used to cost RM70 but now has a higher price due to inflation. Despite the price increase, it is still a good place to drop by for live seafood.

While the food tasted nice, some customers found the dishes to be a little too salty. The waiting time is rather short, and the staff is generally polite and friendly enough to assist, although some were found to be a bit arrogant towards smaller parties.

The restaurant is quite busy, and its interiors are basic but well-maintained. You can choose your catch live from the fish tanks and then choose how you would like your food prepared. If you have a vegetarian in your group, they will also be happy with their meal.

During the Raya holidays, some cooking types for the dish were unavailable due to worker shortages, but overall, the restaurant offers good value for money. While the experience may require some patience, it is worth it to have dinner at Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant. It is a brilliant seafood place that you will surely want to come back to try their other dishes.

Address: No. 16, Block D, Ground Floor, Sedco Complex, Kampung Air, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

9. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Chilli Vanilla

Chilli Vanilla is a restaurant in Kota Kinabalu run by a Hungarian chef that offers delicious Western cuisine. While it may not be the cheapest option, the food is definitely worth the price. The mushroom soup is a must-try, as it is thick and flavorful. The sharing platter is beautifully presented and the hummus is particularly tasty.

For the main course, the goulash is highly recommended. It’s a delicious dish that comes with smooth, buttery mash. If you’re in the mood for a burger, try the homemade burger and fries which are thoroughly enjoyed by many. The chili vanilla platter is also a great choice, as it provides a good assortment of tasters.

The service at Chilli Vanilla is very good, and the atmosphere is cozy, making it a great place to bring your date if you want to impress. The staff is very attentive, and the restaurant even serves wine. If you have vegetarian or dietary restrictions, there are vegan and gluten-free options available.

Overall, Chilli Vanilla is an absolutely delicious restaurant with great Western food, making it a nice break from the Asian food commonly found in Kota Kinabalu. The food is of high quality, and the presentation is impressive. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a great meal with good service and atmosphere, definitely give Chilli Vanilla a visit.

Address: 33, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

10. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh

If you’re in the mood for some authentic Bak Kut Teh, then you should definitely give Yu Kee a try. Be prepared to wait for a table though, because it’s always packed with people. The soup is the star of the show, with a nice balance of herbs and spices, and not too thick in consistency. It’s clear that they use quality ingredients and put a lot of effort into making the perfect broth.

One thing to keep in mind is that they only accept cash, so make sure to bring some with you. Also, they operate from 2:30 pm to 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. If you go during off-peak hours, you might be able to avoid the crowds.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the friendly lady boss, who will help you navigate the ordering process. Unlike in KL, they don’t ask you to order for a specific number of people. Each dish you order comes in an individual small bowl, which is just enough for one person. Of course, you can order different dishes to share with your group.

The taste of the soup is slightly different from what you might be used to in Klang, with fewer herbal flavors and a bit of ginger thrown in. However, it’s still delicious, and you’re sure to love it. Keep in mind that they only serve the soup version of Bak Kut Teh, not the gravy one.

Overall, it’s a good place to satisfy your cravings for Bak Kut Teh in Kota Kinabalu. The portion sizes are generous, and the meatballs are a standout dish. Don’t forget to order some tofu and cakoi to go with your soup. If you go during off-peak hours, you’ll avoid the crowds and be able to enjoy the broth at its thickest and most flavorful.

Address: 7, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

11. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Restoran Sri Melaka

Restoran Sri Melaka is a great Malaysian restaurant in Kota Kinabalu with reasonable prices for the quality of food. The staff highly recommends trying the black pepper mutton and fish head curry, which are must-haves. Although the food is not exactly Peranakan style, like those found in Malacca or Penang, the Assam sauce and spicy soup were both delicious.

One of the recommended dishes is the asam pedas fish, which is highly praised for its excellent taste. If you want to eat something sweet, then try cendol!

The wa tan hor (egg hor fun/noodle) and stir-fried vegetables were also excellent. The vegetables were fresh and seasoned well, and the smoky flavor was present. Additionally, the sour and spicy soup was decent and worth a try.

In summary, the restaurant is a great place to bring tourists who want to experience local Malaysian favorites. The atmosphere of the restaurant is also great and adds to the overall dining experience. The restaurant is loved by many due to its delicious food and comfortable ambiance.

Address:  9, Jalan Laiman Diki, Kampung Air, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

12. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Sakagura Japanese Restaurant

Sakagura Japanese Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu is a great place to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine. The restaurant is located on the ground floor of Oceanus Mall and has a clean and cozy ambiance with a very Japanese vibe. You will be pleased with the variety of food offered from their menu, all of which are cooked and served fresh. The staff are helpful and quick to respond to customer requests, making for a pleasant dining experience.

If you’re worried about parking, you’ll be happy to know that the restaurant provides a few parking spots right in front of the establishment for their dine-in customers. The sashimi is fresh and the unagi is tasty, making Sakagura one of the best Japanese restaurants in KK. You can also enjoy a great view of the sunset in the evening.

While the prices are a bit high compared to local standards, the food is of high quality and the ambiance is very good. You’ll find the food to be quite satisfying, with a variety of dishes to choose from. Although the service is just okay, the food more than makes up for it.

Overall, Sakagura Japanese Restaurant is a great option for those seeking authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy and pleasant environment.

Address: G-23A & G-25, Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

13. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Gusto Food & Wine Cucina Italiana

Gusto Food & Wine Cucina Italiana is an excellent restaurant with delicious food and an amazing sunset view. The house pour red and white wines are highly recommended, especially the white wine, which goes well with the seafood black-ink pasta. The chef is very generous with the seafood, which is fresh and delivered spot on.

Despite the strong wind by the sea, the service staff are friendly and would know what to recommend. The candle lights are constantly being changed to ensure a comfortable dining experience. Although the service of food may be slow, it is worth the wait as nothing good comes if there is no waiting. The amazing view is also a great way to appreciate the atmosphere and surroundings.

The price is reasonable and the portions of food are superb. The quality of food is excellent, down to even the house wine. The owner is passionate and friendly and explains the items on the menu. The mushroom and truffle sauce pizza is highly recommended, as well as the spinach lasagna, spicy prawn aglio olio, and tiramisu.

It is important to note that there are very specific and scheduled dining periods due to the personal chef’s touch, so it is recommended to make a booking for sunset views the day before. Overall, Gusto Food & Wine Cucina Italiana is a place that comes highly recommended for its quality food, friendly service, and breathtaking view.

Address: Lot 17, The Waterfront Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

14. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Sin Kee Bah Kut Teh Restaurant

Sin Kee Bah Kut Teh Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu is a great place to satisfy your cravings for delicious and hearty Bah Kut Teh. This restaurant is known for its fast service and the quality of the food they serve. The soup and dry versions of Bah Kut Teh are both decent, and the soup has a mild herbal taste that is perfect. You can expect to be served piping hot food, and the staff is generous when refilling the soup.

The atmosphere at Sin Kee Bah Kut Teh is cozy, and the old friendly owner makes you feel welcome. You can enjoy your food either inside the restaurant or outside on the street. The staff is also very attentive and friendly, and the uncle who took the orders is especially nice.

While the herbal flavor of the Bah Kut Teh here may be lighter compared to what you might find in Kuala Lumpur, the taste is still delicious. It feels cleaner and healthier, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer milder flavors. The dry Bak Kut Teh is also quite tasty, with the pig stomach being a standout ingredient. The restaurant serves generous portions, making it ideal for those who are very hungry.

Overall, Sin Kee Bah Kut Teh Restaurant is a great place to visit if you are looking for a fast and satisfying meal. The food is of good quality, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy.

Address: 26, Jalan Pantai, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

15. Kota Kinabalu Restaurant – Fook Yuen Cafe & Bakery

Fook Yuen Cafe & Bakery is a popular breakfast spot near Gaya Street that offers a variety of food options. It can be quite busy during weekends, so it’s best to come with another person to take turns grabbing food. You have to walk to the counter to see and grab the food, and you can order your drinks and other food from the cashier.

One of the recommended dishes at this cafe is their Dimsum and bread. The Dimsum is particularly delicious and full of meat (chicken or shrimp), and it pairs well with a mixture of mayo and sambal. They also serve a fusion of traditional Malaysian Chinese and Malay breakfast food, with a vintage feel in the environment.

The outlet is spacious, clean, and busy at peak hours, especially during breakfast time. They have non-meat options available for vegetarians, and the food is kid-friendly. Parking is available on the street along the row of shops, but it could be difficult to find especially on weekends.

Overall, Fook Yuen Cafe & Bakery is a great spot to start your day with some tasty breakfast options.

Address: 69, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Best Seafood Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu

Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu:

• Welcome Seafood Restaurant
• Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant

Best Chinese Foods in Kota Kinabalu

Here are some of the best Chinese foods in Kota Kinabalu:

• New WK Restaurant Luyang
• Yee Fung Laksa
• Jia Siang Coffee Shop
• Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh
• Sin Kee Bah Kut Teh Restaurant

Best Western Foods in Kota Kinabalu

Here are some of the best Western foods in Kota Kinabalu:

• CHUBS
• El Centro
• Borenos Fried Chicken
• Gusto Food & Wine Cucina Italiana

Best Malaysian Foods in Kota Kinabalu

Here are some of the best restaurants for Malaysian food in Kota Kinabalu:

• Restoran Sri Melaka
• Fook Yuen Cafe & Bakery

Is Kota Kinabalu A Good Location For Food Hunting?

Yes, Kota Kinabalu is a great location for food hunting. The city has a diverse food scene that offers a range of traditional Malaysian, Chinese, and international cuisines.

You can find street food, cafes, local restaurants, and fine-dining establishments in Kota Kinabalu that serve a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

Overall, Kota Kinabalu is a great location for food hunting, and it offers a unique blend of traditional and modern cuisine that caters to every taste bud.

FAQ for Kota Kinabalu Food

Enjoy the Best Food in Kota Kinabalu Restaurant Now!

Kota Kinabalu is a foodie’s paradise with an array of local and international dishes to satisfy any craving.

From seafood to noodles, soups, and snacks, KK has it all. The city’s bustling night markets, cafes, and restaurants offer an unforgettable culinary experience that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Don’t miss out on the famous Sabahan dishes like Nasi Lemak, Fish Noodles, Soto, and of course, the delicious seafood.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, KK’s vibrant food scene is sure to impress. So come hungry, leave happy, and discover the best food Kota Kinabalu has to offer!

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• Best Foods in KL
• Best Foods in Penang

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