Savour Sabah: A Mouthwatering Journey Through Borneo’s Culinary Gems
No trip is complete without indulging in local food. And in Sabah, every bite tells a story. Known for its rich cultural diversity and stunning natural landscapes, Sabah also boasts a vibrant food trail that’s just waiting to be explored. From bustling city streets to quiet highland towns, every corner of this Malaysian Borneo state has something delicious to offer.
Here’s a tasty guide to must-try dishes that make Sabah a food lover’s paradise:
1. Ngiu Chap Noodles (Beef Noodle Soup)
Sabah’s signature breakfast dish, Ngiu Chap, is a hearty beef noodle soup that’s both flavourful and comforting. Featuring a rich broth with tender cuts of beef, meatballs, and offal, this dish is beloved across the state. Hot tip: pair it with chilli padi for an extra kick. Try it at Kah Hiong Ngiu Chap, Nyuk Pau Menggatal, or Yii Siang Hainan Ngiu Chap.
2. Fish Noodles
Fresh from Sabah’s coastal waters, fish noodle soup comes either dry (kon lau) or with your choice of broth, ham choy, tomato, asam pedas, or tom yum laksa. The freshness of the fish is unbeatable. Popular spots include Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant, Aliang Fish Noodle, and Big Three Fish Noodles in Sandakan.
3. BBQ Chicken Wings in Kundasang
These aren’t your average wings. Marinated, glazed, and grilled to smoky perfection, Sabahans enjoy them as a main dish, especially in the cool mountain air of Kundasang. Check out Ayam Madu Wak Ali, Grill Chicken Wing Kundasang Café, or Girik BBQ at Restaurant Selera Kebun Soboroong.
4. Jagung Bakar (Grilled Corn)
Driving through the northern districts like Kudat or Kota Marudu? Stop at Kampung Mengaris for sweet or sticky corn grilled over wood fire. Charred, smoky, and irresistible when eaten hot off the grill, this roadside snack is a local gem.
5. Lokan Bakar & Coconut Pudding
In Salut, Tuaran (just 30 minutes from KK), grilled clams (lokan bakar) and chilled coconut pudding steal the show. Freshwater clams are grilled till they open and paired with lime and chilli sauce, while the pudding offers a creamy, refreshing contrast. Don’t miss the roasted coconut drink either!
6. Nasi Kuning (Yellow Rice)
On Sabah’s East Coast, nasi kuning is a quick, tasty meal wrapped in banana leaves. Fragrant turmeric rice served with fried chicken or tuna, a hard-boiled egg, and sambal. It’s simple, affordable, and oh-so-satisfying. Try it at Restaurant Haji Tamrin (Tawau), Sri Rimbawan Restaurant (Sandakan), or Mee Tauhu Corner (KK).
Travel Tip:
Before heading out, always double-check business hours to avoid disappointment. Some of Sabah’s best eats are tucked away in small towns or roadside stalls, but they’re always worth the detour.
Whether you’re a full-fledged foodie or simply a curious traveller, exploring Sabah’s diverse food trail is a delicious adventure in itself.
For more information, visit www.sabahtourism.com
