Join us as we explore the best lunch in Kota Kinabalu. From iconic seafood restaurants to charming cafes, experience a diverse array of flavors in Malaysia’s coastal city.
Kota Kinabalu, a bustling city set against the backdrop of the South China Sea, is not only a gateway to some of Malaysia’s most stunning natural attractions but also a hotspot for culinary delights.
The city’s diverse food scene, influenced by a rich blend of cultures, offers an array of dining experiences that cater to all tastes.
If you’re on the hunt for the best lunch in Kota Kinabalu, you’re in for a treat. Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey through some of the city’s most beloved lunch spots.
1. Best Lunch in Kota Kinabalu Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant Kota Kinabalu
- Address: Lorong Hilltop, Taman Far East, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 016-824 8414
- Opening hours: Daily, 7 AM – 11 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant Kota Kinabalu is renowned for its exceptional seafood dishes, combining fresh ingredients with local flavors.
Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Known for its innovative dishes like the Sabah-style steamed fish and butter prawns, the restaurant offers a true taste of the sea.
The bustling atmosphere and the view of the lively streets add to the dining experience, making it a top contender for the best lunch in Kota Kinabalu for seafood enthusiasts.
2. Best Lunch in Kota Kinabalu Fook Yuen Cafe & Bakery-Gaya Street Kota Kinabalu
- Address: 69, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 016-832 9847
- Opening hours: Daily, 6 AM – 11 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Fook Yuen Cafe & Bakery-Gaya Street Kota Kinabalu is a popular café known for its fusion of traditional and contemporary offerings.
Fook Yuen on Gaya Street is a delightful café that seamlessly blends the old with the new.
Famous for its Roti Kahwin (a traditional bread and butter combo) and a variety of local coffee, this café also serves modern baked goods and pastries.
The relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a casual best lunch in Kota Kinabalu.
3. Best Lunch in Kota Kinabalu New WK Restaurant Luyang Kota Kinabalu
- Address: Lot 4, 5, 6 Wisma HCS, Jalan Kolam, Taman Luyang Phase 1, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 016-710 1728
- Opening hours: Daily, 6.30 AM – 4.30 PM | 5 PM – 9 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
New WK Restaurant Luyang Kota Kinabalu is a go-to place for those craving authentic Chinese cuisine.
New WK Restaurant offers a wide array of Chinese dishes, from dim sum to Cantonese-style seafood.
The restaurant’s emphasis on fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods ensures that each dish is full of flavor.
The spacious and welcoming environment makes it a great option for families and large groups looking for the best lunch in Kota Kinabalu.
4. Shoney’s Dining & Bar Kota Kinabalu
- Address: Lot 52, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 016-886 8786
- Opening hours: Daily, 11 AM – 10 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Shoney’s Dining & Bar Kota Kinabalu stands out for its creative fusion dishes and elegant setting.
Shoney’s Dining & Bar offers an eclectic menu that combines Western and Asian influences. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty burger or a local-inspired dish, Shoney’s has something to satisfy your palate.
The restaurant’s modern and chic decor, paired with its inventive cuisine, makes it a trendy choice for the best lunch in Kota Kinabalu.
5. Nook Cafe Kota Kinabalu
- Address: 19, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 012-866 3900
- Opening hours: Daily, 8 AM – 7 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Nook Cafe Kota Kinabalu is a quaint and cozy café offering a variety of light meals and great coffee.
Nook Cafe is a hidden gem in Kota Kinabalu, perfect for those seeking a quiet spot to enjoy a light lunch.
Known for its excellent coffee, homemade cakes, and sandwiches, this café provides a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The intimate and artsy atmosphere adds to the charm of what could be the best lunch in Kota Kinabalu for café lovers.
6. Little Italy Kota Kinabalu
- Address: Ground Floor, Hotel Capital, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 088-232 231
- Opening hours: Daily, 12 PM – 10 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Little Italy Kota Kinabalu is renowned for its authentic Italian dishes, bringing a slice of Italy to Malaysia.
Little Italy is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its genuine Italian fare. From freshly made pasta to wood-fired pizzas, the restaurant offers a taste of Italy in every bite.
The warm and inviting ambiance, combined with the delicious food, makes it an ideal spot for an Italian best lunch in Kota Kinabalu.
7. Sri Latha Curry House Kota Kinabalu
- Address: G/F, No. 28, Jalan Berjaya, Bandaran Berjaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 088-253 669
- Opening hours: Daily, 6.30 AM – 5 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
The Best of South Indian Cuisine
Sri Latha Curry House Kota Kinabalu specializes in South Indian cuisine, offering a range of flavorful vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
Sri Latha Curry House is a haven for those who love South Indian food. Famous for its Banana Leaf Rice and a variety of curries, the restaurant provides an authentic dining experience.
The vibrant atmosphere and the rich flavors make it a strong contender for the best lunch in Kota Kinabalu, especially for Indian cuisine enthusiasts.
8. Yee Fung Laksa Kota Kinabalu
- Address: 127, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 088-312 042
- Opening hours: Thursday – Monday, 6.30 AM – 5 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Yee Fung Laksa Kota Kinabalu is a local institution, known for its signature Laksa and other Malaysian specialties.
Yee Fung offers some of the best Laksa in town, a must-try for anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. The restaurant’s version of this iconic Malaysian dish is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.
The casual and bustling setting adds to the authentic experience, making it a favorite for a best lunch in Kota Kinabalu.
9. Borenos Fried Chicken (Asia City) Kota Kinabalu
- Address: Kompleks, Lot G23, Ground Floor, Jalan Asia City, Asia City, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 018-963 2280
- Opening hours: Daily, 24 Hours
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Borenos Fried Chicken (Asia City) Kota Kinabalu serves up crispy and juicy fried chicken with a unique local twist.
Borenos Fried Chicken offers a delicious alternative to the usual fast-food chains. Their fried chicken, known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, is a hit among locals.
The fast and friendly service makes it a great option for a quick and satisfying best lunch in Kota Kinabalu.
10. Kampung Nelayan Floating Seafood Market Restaurant (Silverado Corporation Sdn Bhd) Kota Kinabalu
- Address: Kampung Nelayan Floating Seafood Market Restaurant, Jalan Bukit Padang Luyang, Taman Tun Fuad Stephen, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Phone: 088-231 003
- Opening hours: Daily, 11 AM – 2 PM | 6 PM – 11 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Kampung Nelayan Floating Seafood Market Restaurant provides a unique dining experience with its floating restaurant concept.
Kampung Nelayan is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. Dining on the water, guests can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes while surrounded by the serene beauty of the floating market.
The restaurant’s ambiance, combined with the delicious seafood, makes it an excellent choice for a memorable best lunch in Kota Kinabalu.
When exploring lunch options in Kota Kinabalu, remember these tips:
- Local Seafood: Take advantage of Kota Kinabalu’s coastal location to enjoy fresh seafood.
- Cultural Fusion: The city’s diverse culinary scene reflects its melting pot of cultures. Don’t hesitate to try a variety of cuisines.
- Busy Eateries: Popular spots can get crowded, so consider arriving early or making reservations.
- Explore the Streets: Sometimes the best food can be found in unassuming street-side eateries and local markets.
In conclusion, Kota Kinabalu offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, with each restaurant providing a unique dining experience.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the best lunch in Kota Kinabalu awaits to tantalize your taste buds with a blend of traditional flavors and modern culinary innovations. Happy dining in this beautiful coastal city!
