The 11 best restaurants and places to eat in Kota Kinabalu

The East Malaysian city of Kota Kinabalu is famously known as the ‚basecamp‘ for conquering the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Standing tall at 4,100 meters, it’s the highest peak in Southern Asia.

To help you make the most delicious choices when you return ravenous to Kota Kinabalu, here are 11 top-notch restaurant recommendations just for you.

Tip #1: Yee Fung Laksa

Instead of 5-star cuisine at 5-star prices, we invite you to try some low-budget street food. You’ll be sitting on plastic chairs with no air conditioning, but the Kedai Kopi Yee Fung Laksa might just hit the spot. It has 630 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor for a reason.

At Yee Fung Laksa, you’ll indulge in authentic Chinese Malaysian dishes like Laksa, Claypot Chicken, and Mee. For the locals, it’s a brilliant value for money. The restaurant opens as early as 6:30 AM, perfect for the early birds ready to catch the worm.

Tip #2: Little Italy @ the Hotel Capital

Although you are in South East Asia, Kota Kinabalu is no exception to the rule. There must be an Italian restaurant somewhere … and here we go: Little Italy Restaurant at the Hotel Capital has been the oldest and most loved Italian eatery in Sabah.

Whenever the locals feel like having delicious pizza or pasta, you’ll meet them right here. All menus are gluten-free, and Muslim-friendly.

Tip #3: Keng Wan Hing

A shop along Gaya street that is famous for it’s buns:Keng Wan Hing. Their BBQ pork baked pastries are mouthwateringly delicious and an absolute delight to eat.

Tip #4: Sunset Bar

For everyone who enjoys dinner accompanied by a great view, the Sunset Bar is the place to be. Perched on its own peninsula, this stylish bar is the ultimate spot to relax and take in the stunning views of the water.

Tip #5: Yii Siang Ngiu Chap

This famous restaurant in Kota Kinabalu sells delicious beef noodle soup. They serve both beef noodle soup and laksa and I assure you their flavours are as authentic as it gets!

The shop has been in operation since 1993 and is going as strong as ever with a loyal customer base frequenting the shop.

Tip #6: Borneo Pan Mee

Pan Mee noodles can be enjoyed both in pork broth soup or dry with sauce. This delicious dish can be enjoyed in various locations in town and Borneo Pan Meeis one of those spots to get authentic Pan Mee.

Tip #7: Teck Kee Restaurant

TheTeck Kee Restaurant Kota Kinabalu is a great restaurant for Chinese food. Because many Chinese people live in Malaysia, the Chinese food served is usually impressive.

This restaurant is a big recommendation for anyone who enjoys Chinese food. In addition to sweet and sour pork and other classic dishes, they also serve dim sum.

Tip #8: MOGINUM Restobar

This cozy and affordable foodie spot in Kota Kinabalu is the perfect place to casually enjoy some great Malaysian food.

Besides great breakfast and lunch, they also occasionally have live music performances and special events.

Tip #9: New WK Restaurant

Dim sum lovers should consider checking out New WK Restaurant*. This restaurant serves fresh per order dim sum and the staff is also very kind and attentive.

The prices are also fair, so there’s nothing stopping you from eating dim sum to your heart’s content!

Tip #10: On22

ON22is located in the Hyatt Centric in Kota Kinabalu. The modern restaurant offers you a menu with upscale dishes and Asian flavors.

We recommend, besides the incredible view, to order and enjoy the Surf n’ Turf. Breakfast is served from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m., and afterwards you can order à la carte until the evening.

Tip #11: Pound

Our selection of restaurants is based, among other things, on the editorial team’s individual preferences and on reviews on the internet. Please contact the respective provider directly for information on reservations and prices. The pictures come from the restaurants listed. All Information is provided without guarantee!