Sandakan Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Sandakan. Your complete guide to dining in Sandakan.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Sandakan! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Sandakan has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Sandakan's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Sandakan like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Sandakan offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Sandakan.
MOMO Oriental Kitchen
Highly rated Cafe in Sandakan with 4.9 stars from 2735 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Block 14, Lebuh Dua, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Hainan Village Signature ( Sandakan )
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.9 stars from 221 reviews.
📍 Lot 11 & Lot 12, Jaya Phase 7, Mile 4, Jalan Utara, Bandar Indah, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar
Highly rated Bar in Sandakan with 4.4 stars from 1014 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Nak Hote, Jalan Pelabuhan Lama, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
English Tea House & Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.3 stars from 835 reviews.
📍 2002, Jalan Istana, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
UP CASE Cafe Sandakan IJM
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.5 stars from 471 reviews.
📍 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
DOJO NANYANG KOPIHOUSE (IJM SANDAKAN)
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.1 stars from 305 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Lot 190, Blok C, Ground Floor, IJM Bandar Utama , One Avenue 8 Mile 6, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah IJM, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ocean King Seafood Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Sandakan with 4.3 stars from 765 reviews.
📍 Blok V, Lot 34, 35, 36 & 37, Lrg Ave 2, Bandar Utama IJM, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
San Da Gen Kopitiam
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.4 stars from 796 reviews.
📍 Lebuh Dua, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
White House Bistro
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.8 stars from 247 reviews.
📍 Jalan Fabia, Sepilok, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Lynly coffee
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.4 stars from 263 reviews.
📍 JULIANA CAFE ,Lot A3G, Blok A Bandar, Jln Letat Jaya, batu 4, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Bistro 88
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.4 stars from 78 reviews.
📍 Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Hainan Cafe Sandakan Sabah
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.5 stars from 322 reviews.
📍 155 & 156, GROUND FLOOR, ONE AVENUE PHASE 8, MILE 6, Jalan Utara, BANDAR UTAMA, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Sandakan.
Sandakan Central Market
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4.2 stars from 4371 reviews.
📍 Sandakan Central Market, Jalan Pryer, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Pasar Kim Fung
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4.1 stars from 1906 reviews.
📍 Batu 4 92, Jalan Pasaraya, Bandar Pasaraya, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sandakan Fresh Market
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 3.9 stars from 7 reviews.
📍 Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sandakan Sunday Market
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 5 stars from 3 reviews.
📍 Lebuh Dua, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Foodmart (Romn Sdn. Bhd.)
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4.2 stars from 250 reviews.
📍 Lorong Wemin 2, Taman Wemin, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sandakan Wet Market
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4.2 stars from 666 reviews.
📍 Sandakan Central Market, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Pasar Taman Mawar
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4 stars from 878 reviews.
📍 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Suntos Market Sdn. Bhd.
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4 stars from 422 reviews.
📍 No. 54-60 P.O.Box 778, Jalan Tiga, Sabah, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90708 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Sandakan.
Sepilok Tropical Wildlife Adventure Sdn. Bhd.
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4.3 stars from 22 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Kedai Makan Kong Teck
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.3 stars from 358 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Sandakan Central Market
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4.2 stars from 4371 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Crowd99 Sandakan
Highly rated Cafe in Sandakan with 4.3 stars from 807 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Bilit Adventure Lodge
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4.5 stars from 139 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Uncle Tan Wildlife Adventures
Highly rated International in Sandakan with 4.7 stars from 113 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Sandakan.
Daily Coffee Sandakan
Highly rated Cafe in Sandakan with 4.8 stars from 657 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Lot7,8 Block, 12, Lebuh Tiga, Town Centre, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
MOMO Oriental Kitchen
Highly rated Cafe in Sandakan with 4.9 stars from 2735 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Block 14, Lebuh Dua, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
#1 Roastery
Highly rated Cafe in Sandakan with 4.6 stars from 382 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 21, Lebuh Tiga, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Jom Kopi @ IJM Sandakan Sabah
Highly rated Cafe in Sandakan with 4.9 stars from 27 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Ijm Land, Lot 10, Lorong 3, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
UP CASE Cafe Sandakan IJM
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.5 stars from 471 reviews.
📍 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Rock Paper Scissors Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Sandakan with 4.5 stars from 123 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Prima Square, Lot 169, Block 18A, Ground Floor, Lor Prima 6, Batu 4, Jalan Utara, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Crowd99 Sandakan
Highly rated Cafe in Sandakan with 4.3 stars from 807 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Lot 53, Lorong Avenue 3, Bandar utama, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Hainan Cafe Sandakan Sabah
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.5 stars from 322 reviews.
📍 155 & 156, GROUND FLOOR, ONE AVENUE PHASE 8, MILE 6, Jalan Utara, BANDAR UTAMA, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Sandakan.
Signature Dish
A must-try Sandakan specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Sandakan dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Sandakan with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Sandakan specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Sandakan creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Sandakan classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Sandakan specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Sandakan dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Sandakan with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Sandakan specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Sandakan.
Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar
Highly rated Bar in Sandakan with 4.4 stars from 1014 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Nak Hote, Jalan Pelabuhan Lama, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
The fathers' office
Highly rated Bar in Sandakan with 4.7 stars from 20 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Deck Bar & Grill - Sandakan
Highly rated Restaurant in Sandakan with 4.3 stars from 62 reviews.
📍 The Deck Bar & Grill, Eagles Rugby Club, Jalan Bandar Utama, Mile 6, Jalan Utara, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Batcave Winecellar
Highly rated Bar in Sandakan with 4.5 stars from 89 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Lrg Ave 4, Bandar Utama90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
OT Sandakan
Highly rated Bar in Sandakan with 4.2 stars from 33 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Lot 2-11, First Floor, Bandar Tyng, Taman Tyng, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
DX Bistro
Highly rated Bar in Sandakan with 4.4 stars from 33 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Lot 23, Block 9 Lor Prima 1, Prima Square, Batu 4, Jalan Utara, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Sandakan's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Sandakan vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sandakan is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Sandakan offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Sandakan specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
Enjoyed this guide? Share it!