Kota Kinabalu

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Seafood

Sections

Popular Seafood Dishes

  1. Grilled Fish (Ikan Bakar): Freshly caught fish marinated with spices and grilled over charcoal. Common types include snapper and barramundi.
  2. Seafood Laksa: A spicy noodle soup with a coconut milk base, often featuring prawns, fish, and squid.
  3. Sambal Crab: Crabs cooked in a spicy sambal sauce, a local favorite that packs a punch.
  4. Butter Prawns: Prawns cooked in a rich butter sauce, often garnished with curry leaves.
  5. Coconut Prawns: Prawns coated in shredded coconut and deep-fried, offering a sweet and savory flavor.
  6. Sotong (Squid): Often served grilled or fried, squid is a popular choice, sometimes stuffed with spices.

Recommended Restaurants and Markets

  1. Kota Kinabalu Seafood Market: Located at the waterfront, this market allows you to select fresh seafood and have it cooked on-site at nearby stalls. Prices are reasonable, and the experience is authentic.
  2. Welcome Seafood Restaurant: Known for its extensive menu and fresh seafood, this restaurant is popular among locals and tourists alike. Expect to pay around RM 50-100 for a meal for two, depending on your choices.
  3. Ocean Seafood Restaurant: Offers a wide variety of seafood dishes in a comfortable setting. Prices are similar to Welcome Seafood, with a focus on quality and freshness.
  4. Tanjung Aru Beach: While not a restaurant, the beach area has several food stalls and small eateries where you can enjoy grilled seafood with a view of the sunset.
  5. D’Place Kinabalu: For a more cultural experience, this restaurant serves traditional Kadazan-Dusun dishes, including seafood options.

Average Costs

  • Street Food: RM 10-30 per dish.
  • Casual Dining: RM 30-70 for a meal for two.
  • Mid-range Restaurants: RM 70-150 for a meal for two, depending on the selection of seafood.
  • High-end Dining: RM 150 and above for a more upscale experience.

Dining Customs

  • Sharing: It’s common to order several dishes to share among the table, allowing everyone to sample different flavors.
  • Chopsticks and Forks: While chopsticks are often used for seafood, forks and spoons are also common. Be prepared to use your hands for crabs and shellfish.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Preparation Methods

  • Grilling: A popular method that enhances the natural flavors of the seafood.
  • Stir-frying: Common for dishes like butter prawns and squid, often with a mix of vegetables.
  • Steaming: Preserves the freshness and tenderness of the seafood, often used for fish dishes.

Local Tips and Considerations

  • Freshness: Always ask about the catch of the day to ensure you’re getting the freshest seafood.
  • Allergies: If you have seafood allergies, communicate this clearly, as many dishes may contain shellfish or fish.
  • Bargaining: In markets, it’s acceptable to negotiate prices, especially if you’re buying in bulk.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local customs and practices, especially in more traditional settings.

Conclusion

Kota Kinabalu offers a delightful seafood experience that reflects its coastal heritage and cultural diversity. Whether you’re dining at a bustling market or a serene beachside restaurant, the fresh flavors and local dishes will surely enhance your culinary journey. Enjoy your seafood adventure in this beautiful city!