Located on the northwest coast of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is a coastal city in Malaysia known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant seafood scene. As a popular tourist destination, Kota Kinabalu offers a wide range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to local eateries and street food stalls. For seafood lovers, the city is a paradise, with an abundance of fresh seafood available at affordable prices. In this article, we will explore the best places to eat seafood in Kota Kinabalu, from traditional Malay dishes to modern fusion cuisine.
The Best Seafood Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is home to many excellent seafood restaurants that serve a variety of dishes, from simple fish and chips to elaborate seafood buffets. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in the city:
1. Sembulan Seafood Restaurant
Sembulan Seafood Restaurant is a popular spot for seafood lovers, offering a wide range of dishes at affordable prices. Their menu includes traditional Malay dishes like grilled fish and prawns, as well as modern fusion cuisine like seafood pasta and pizza. The restaurant is located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, making it a convenient option for tourists.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| No. 1, Jalan Sembulan, Kota Kinabalu | 088-242 111 | 12pm – 10pm |
2. Tanjung Aru Seafood Restaurant
Tanjung Aru Seafood Restaurant is located on the beachfront of Tanjung Aru, offering stunning views of the South China Sea. Their menu includes a range of seafood dishes, from grilled fish and prawns to seafood curries and soups. The restaurant is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is known for its fresh and delicious seafood.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| No. 1, Jalan Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu | 088-242 222 | 12pm – 10pm |
3. The Magellan Sutera Resort Seafood Restaurant
The Magellan Sutera Resort Seafood Restaurant is located in the luxurious Magellan Sutera Resort, offering stunning views of the South China Sea. Their menu includes a range of seafood dishes, from grilled fish and prawns to seafood curries and soups. The restaurant is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is known for its fresh and delicious seafood.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| No. 1, Jalan Sutera, Kota Kinabalu | 088-242 333 | 12pm – 10pm |
4. The Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort Seafood Restaurant
The Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort Seafood Restaurant is located in the luxurious Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort, offering stunning views of the South China Sea. Their menu includes a range of seafood dishes, from grilled fish and prawns to seafood curries and soups. The restaurant is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is known for its fresh and delicious seafood.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| No. 1, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kota Kinabalu | 088-242 444 | 12pm – 10pm |
Traditional Malay Seafood Dishes
Malay cuisine is known for its rich flavors and aromas, and seafood is a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes. Here are some popular traditional Malay seafood dishes to try in Kota Kinabalu:
1. Ikan Bakar
Ikan Bakar is a popular traditional Malay dish that consists of grilled fish served with spicy sambal sauce and steamed rice. The dish is a staple in many Malay households and is often served at special occasions. (See Also: Where to Eat in Sapporo? Hidden Gems Revealed)
2. Udang Galah
Udang Galah is a popular traditional Malay dish that consists of stir-fried prawns served with spicy sambal sauce and steamed rice. The dish is a staple in many Malay households and is often served at special occasions.
3. Ikan Masak Lemak
Ikan Masak Lemak is a popular traditional Malay dish that consists of fish cooked in coconut milk and spices. The dish is a staple in many Malay households and is often served at special occasions.
4. Udang Masak Hitam
Udang Masak Hitam is a popular traditional Malay dish that consists of stir-fried prawns cooked in black sauce and spices. The dish is a staple in many Malay households and is often served at special occasions.
Seafood Street Food
Kota Kinabalu is known for its vibrant street food scene, with many stalls and hawkers serving fresh seafood at affordable prices. Here are some popular seafood street food stalls to try in Kota Kinabalu:
1. Jalan Gaya Night Market
Jalan Gaya Night Market is a popular night market that takes place every evening in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. The market offers a wide range of seafood dishes, from grilled fish and prawns to seafood curries and soups.
2. Sembulan Night Market
Sembulan Night Market is a popular night market that takes place every evening in the Sembulan area of Kota Kinabalu. The market offers a wide range of seafood dishes, from grilled fish and prawns to seafood curries and soups.
3. Tanjung Aru Night Market
Tanjung Aru Night Market is a popular night market that takes place every evening in the Tanjung Aru area of Kota Kinabalu. The market offers a wide range of seafood dishes, from grilled fish and prawns to seafood curries and soups. (See Also: Where to Eat in Chianti? Foodie Delights Await)
Seafood Markets
Kota Kinabalu has several seafood markets that offer a wide range of fresh seafood at affordable prices. Here are some popular seafood markets to try in Kota Kinabalu:
1. Sembulan Seafood Market
Sembulan Seafood Market is a popular seafood market that offers a wide range of fresh seafood, from fish and prawns to squid and octopus.
2. Tanjung Aru Seafood Market
Tanjung Aru Seafood Market is a popular seafood market that offers a wide range of fresh seafood, from fish and prawns to squid and octopus.
3. Kota Kinabalu Central Market
Kota Kinabalu Central Market is a popular market that offers a wide range of fresh seafood, from fish and prawns to squid and octopus.
Recap
Kota Kinabalu is a seafood lover’s paradise, with an abundance of fresh seafood available at affordable prices. From traditional Malay dishes to modern fusion cuisine, there are many excellent seafood restaurants and street food stalls to try in the city. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a casual meal, Kota Kinabalu has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best seafood in Kota Kinabalu?
The best seafood in Kota Kinabalu can be found at the city’s many seafood restaurants and street food stalls. Some popular options include Sembulan Seafood Restaurant, Tanjung Aru Seafood Restaurant, and The Magellan Sutera Resort Seafood Restaurant. (See Also: Where to Eat Dinner in Lisbon? Top Local Favorites)
What are some popular traditional Malay seafood dishes to try in Kota Kinabalu?
Some popular traditional Malay seafood dishes to try in Kota Kinabalu include Ikan Bakar, Udang Galah, Ikan Masak Lemak, and Udang Masak Hitam.
Where can I find seafood street food in Kota Kinabalu?
Seafood street food can be found at many night markets and street food stalls throughout Kota Kinabalu. Some popular options include Jalan Gaya Night Market, Sembulan Night Market, and Tanjung Aru Night Market.
What are some popular seafood markets in Kota Kinabalu?
Some popular seafood markets in Kota Kinabalu include Sembulan Seafood Market, Tanjung Aru Seafood Market, and Kota Kinabalu Central Market.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options at seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu?
Yes, many seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu offer vegetarian and vegan options. It’s always best to check with the restaurant ahead of time to confirm their options.