Planning a trip to Sabah? Besides the stunning islands, beautiful sunsets, and mountain views, Sabah is also a paradise for food lovers. From local street food to fresh seafood and hidden cafés, Kota Kinabalu and Kundasang offer some of the best food experiences in Malaysia.
If you’re visiting Sabah, renting a car in Kota Kinabalu makes your food hunting journey much easier, especially if you want the freedom to explore both the city and Kundasang at your own pace.
Here are some of the top food spots you shouldn’t miss:
1. Yee Fung Laksa – Legendary Sabah Laksa
One of the most famous local food spots in Kota Kinabalu, Yee Fung Laksa is known for its rich and flavorful laksa broth. A must-visit for breakfast or lunch.
Must-try dishes:
- Signature Laksa
- Ngiu Chap
- Curry Mee
2. Welcome Seafood Restaurant – Fresh Seafood Heaven
If you love seafood, this is one of the most popular places among tourists and locals. Fresh seafood, affordable prices, and a huge menu make it a top choice.
Perfect for:
✔ Family dinners
✔ Group travelers
✔ Seafood lovers
3. Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant – Famous Butter Chicken Wings
A favorite among locals, Fatt Kee is famous for its butter chicken wings and sang nyuk mee. Great for dinner after a long day exploring Kota Kinabalu.
Recommended:
- Butter Chicken Wings
- Sang Nyuk Mee
- Seafood Claypot
4. Nook Cafe – Hidden Café for Coffee Lovers
For café lovers and content creators, this cozy hidden gem offers good coffee, brunch, and Instagram-worthy vibes.
Best for:
✔ Couples
✔ Coffee lovers
✔ Digital nomads
Best Food Spots in Kundasang
After driving about 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu, Kundasang offers cool weather, mountain views, and unique local food experiences.
5. Desa Dairy Farm Food Area – Fresh Dairy & Snacks
The area around Desa Dairy Farm is filled with cafés and homemade food spots. Perfect for relaxing while enjoying the mountain scenery.
Try:
- Fresh milk
- Gelato
- Pizza
- Waffles
6. Pekan Nabalu – Local Food & Souvenirs
A famous stop before reaching Kundasang, this market offers local fruits, grilled corn, traditional snacks, and Sabah souvenirs.
Best buys:
- Strawberries
- Sabah honey
- Sweet corn
7. Restoran H Benjamin – Dining with Mount Kinabalu View
One of the most recommended restaurants in Kundasang for hot meals and a beautiful mountain view.
Popular dishes:
- Bone Soup
- Fried Rice
- Seafood Tomyam
Why Renting a Car is Best for Food Hunting in Sabah
Exploring all these food spots is much easier when you have your own transport. Choosing a car rental in Kota Kinabalu gives you flexibility, comfort, and saves time.
Benefits of renting a car:
✅ Travel at your own pace
✅ Easy road trip to Kundasang
✅ Stop at multiple food spots
✅ More affordable for families and groups
If you’re looking for cheap car rental in Kota Kinabalu, TOPAZ TRAVEL D’BORNEO SDN BHD offers reliable vehicles for food hunting, island hopping, and Kundasang road trips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How far is Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang?
It’s around 90KM and takes about 2 hours by car.
What is the best seafood spot in Kota Kinabalu?
Most tourists recommend Welcome Seafood and Fatt Kee Seafood.
What food must I try in Sabah?
- Sabah Laksa
- Ngiu Chap
- Tuaran Mee
- Fresh Seafood
- Butter Prawns
- Sang Nyuk Mee



0 Comments