Kota Kinabalu

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International Cuisine

Sections

Types of International Cuisines Available

  1. Chinese Cuisine:

    • Description: A significant part of the local food culture, with various regional styles represented, including Cantonese and Hakka.
    • Popular Dishes: Dim sum, roasted duck, and stir-fried noodles.

  2. Indian Cuisine:

    • Description: Reflecting the Indian community in Sabah, you can find both North and South Indian dishes.
    • Popular Dishes: Biryani, roti canai, and various curries.

  3. Western Cuisine:

    • Description: Includes American, Italian, and European influences.
    • Popular Dishes: Burgers, pasta, and steaks.

  4. Japanese Cuisine:

    • Description: Sushi and ramen are popular, with several dedicated restaurants.
    • Popular Dishes: Sushi, sashimi, and ramen.

  5. Middle Eastern Cuisine:

    • Description: Increasingly popular, offering a range of dishes from various Middle Eastern countries.
    • Popular Dishes: Kebabs, hummus, and falafel.

  6. Thai Cuisine:

    • Description: Known for its bold flavors and aromatic dishes.
    • Popular Dishes: Tom Yum soup, Pad Thai, and green curry.

Popular Restaurants and Dining Spots

  1. Kedai Kopi Dan Makanan Yee Fung:

    • Cuisine: Chinese
    • Specialty: Famous for its Sabah-style noodles and chicken rice.
    • Average Cost: RM 10-20 per person.

  2. Sushi Tei:

    • Cuisine: Japanese
    • Specialty: Offers a wide variety of sushi and sashimi.
    • Average Cost: RM 30-60 per person.

  3. Tandoori House:

    • Cuisine: Indian
    • Specialty: Known for its tandoori chicken and naan.
    • Average Cost: RM 20-40 per person.

  4. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf:

    • Cuisine: Western CafΓ©
    • Specialty: Offers a range of coffee, pastries, and light meals.
    • Average Cost: RM 15-30 per person.

  5. Kebab House:

    • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
    • Specialty: Offers a variety of kebabs and Middle Eastern dishes.
    • Average Cost: RM 20-35 per person.

  6. Kota Kinabalu Night Market:

    • Cuisine: Various
    • Specialty: A great place to sample local and international street food.
    • Average Cost: RM 5-15 per dish.

Average Costs

  • Budget: RM 5-20 per meal (street food and local eateries).
  • Mid-range: RM 20-60 per meal (casual dining and some international restaurants).
  • High-end: RM 60 and above (fine dining and upscale international cuisine).

Dining Procedures and Etiquette

  1. Dining Style:

    • Many restaurants in Kota Kinabalu are casual, and it’s common to see families and groups dining together.
    • Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.

  2. Tipping:

    • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A small tip (around 10%) is common in higher-end restaurants.

  3. Dining Hours:

    • Most restaurants open for lunch around 11 AM and close by 3 PM, then reopen for dinner around 6 PM until 10 PM or later.

  4. Food Safety:

    • When trying street food, choose stalls that are busy and have a high turnover of food to ensure freshness.

Local Considerations and Tips

  • Halal Options: Many restaurants in Kota Kinabalu are halal, catering to Muslim diners. Look for halal certification or ask the staff if unsure.
  • Spice Levels: If you’re not accustomed to spicy food, it’s advisable to ask for milder options, especially in Indian and Thai restaurants.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local customs, especially in more traditional dining settings. It’s polite to greet staff and say thank you.
  • Exploring Local Markets: Don’t miss the local markets for fresh produce and unique snacks. The Night Market is particularly vibrant and offers a variety of international and local dishes.

Conclusion

Kota Kinabalu’s international culinary scene is a delightful blend of flavors and cultures. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Indian curry, fresh sushi, or a quick bite from a street vendor, the city has something to satisfy every palate. Enjoy your culinary adventures in this beautiful coastal city!