Global Major Cities Guide

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Best Fine Dining Establishments

Nook Restaurant
- Cuisine: Contemporary Malaysian and International
- Price Range: RM 80 - RM 200 per person
- Reservation: Recommended, especially for dinner. Can be made via phone or their website.
- Dress Code: Smart casual
- Highlights: Known for its innovative dishes and a beautiful view of the sunset over the South China Sea.
The Sugar Bun
- Cuisine: Seafood and Local Delicacies
- Price Range: RM 50 - RM 150 per person
- Reservation: Recommended for larger groups; can be made by phone.
- Dress Code: Casual to smart casual
- Highlights: Famous for its fresh seafood and local dishes, with a cozy atmosphere.
D’Place Kinabalu
- Cuisine: Traditional Sabahan and Bornean
- Price Range: RM 60 - RM 120 per person
- Reservation: Recommended, especially on weekends. Reservations can be made online or by phone.
- Dress Code: Smart casual
- Highlights: Offers a unique experience with traditional Sabahan dishes, including wild game and local vegetables.
Kampung Nelayan
- Cuisine: Malay and Seafood
- Price Range: RM 70 - RM 150 per person
- Reservation: Recommended, especially for dinner. Reservations can be made via phone.
- Dress Code: Smart casual
- Highlights: Set on a floating platform, it provides a unique dining experience with a view of the waterfront.
The Olive
- Cuisine: Mediterranean and Western
- Price Range: RM 100 - RM 250 per person
- Reservation: Highly recommended. Reservations can be made online or by phone.
- Dress Code: Smart casual to formal
- Highlights: Known for its extensive wine list and gourmet dishes, perfect for a romantic dinner.

Types of Cuisine Offered

Local Sabahan Cuisine: Dishes featuring fresh seafood, wild game, and local vegetables.
International Cuisine: Options include Italian, Mediterranean, and Western dishes.
Fusion Cuisine: Many restaurants offer a blend of local and international flavors.

Approximate Costs

Fine Dining: Expect to spend between RM 60 to RM 250 per person, depending on the restaurant and the complexity of the dishes.
Wine and Beverages: Wine can add RM 30 to RM 100+ to your bill, depending on the selection.

Reservation Procedures

How to Reserve: Most restaurants accept reservations via phone or their websites. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
Walk-ins: While some restaurants may accommodate walk-ins, it’s best to reserve to avoid disappointment.

Dress Codes

Smart Casual: Generally acceptable in most fine dining establishments. This includes collared shirts, dresses, and nice shoes.
Formal Attire: Some upscale restaurants may require formal attire, especially for evening dining.

Cultural Dining Etiquette

Greetings: A polite greeting is customary. A handshake is common, but be mindful of local customs regarding physical contact, especially with women.
Dining Style: Wait for the host to start the meal. It’s polite to try a bit of everything offered.
Chopsticks: If provided, use them properly. Avoid sticking them upright in rice, as this resembles a funeral custom.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A 10% service charge is often included in the bill.

Unique Local Considerations

Fresh Seafood: Kota Kinabalu is known for its fresh seafood. Don’t miss out on local specialties like grilled fish and prawns.
Cultural Influences: The dining scene reflects a mix of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous cultures, offering a rich variety of flavors and cooking styles.
Local Ingredients: Many fine dining restaurants emphasize the use of local ingredients, so be sure to ask about seasonal specialties.

Conclusion

Kota Kinabalu offers a vibrant fine dining scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for traditional Sabahan cuisine or international flavors, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy. Remember to make reservations, dress appropriately, and embrace the local dining customs for a truly memorable experience. Enjoy your culinary journey in Kota Kinabalu!