Sandakan has always been synonymous with lush greenery and biodiversity, hence its moniker ‘Nature City’. But, did you know that this second largest city in Malaysia’s Sabah state is also known as ‘Little Hong Kong’?
The nickname originally came about due to the large-scale migration of ethnic Chinese people from Hong Kong (mainly Cantonese and Hakka), but locals sometimes joke that it’s because Sandakan has such delicious food.
Not many people know about the city’s mouth-watering delights, but if you get bored of looking at orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants, consider Sandakan your next stop for a completely satisfying foodie trip.
1. UFO tarts
Arguably the most famous snack in Sandakan, these pastries were originally known as ‘cow dung tarts’ due to their shape.
Rest assured, despite the unsavoury name, these vanilla-flavoured tarts topped with creamy custard are nothing but delicious.
Where to try: San Da Gen Kopitiam
Address: Lebuh Dua, Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Contact: +608 9238 988
2. Seafood bak kut teh
Sandakan is a port city (historically, one of the most famous in the region), a fact reflected in its seafood-heavy cuisine.
Combine the fresh bounty from the sea with the earthy, medicinal broth of bak kut teh – usually made with pork – and you have the best of both worlds.
Where to try: Nam Chai Bah Kut Teh
Address: Lot 1, Ground Floor, Block D Bandar Nam Tung, Jalan Leila, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Contact: +6011 6561 2603
3. Roti kahwin
People often say, “It’s just bread,” until they try this toasted bread, butter, kaya, crushed peanuts, and sugar concoction!
We bet you won’t say anything negative about this magnificent snack.
Where to try: Kedai Kopi Baru Bar Lok Yuen
Address: Pasir Putih, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Contact: +608 9611 249
4. Ikan bakar
Be sure to stop by and sample fresh ikan bakar (grilled fish) at least once.
Doused with a generous topping of their special sauce and served with rice, this is a simple yet sinful delight.
Where to try: Ikan Bakar Buli Sim-Sim (Ikan Bakar Mama Resepi)
Address: Jalan Sim-Sim, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
5. Nasi kuning
We’ll admit that this entry has more to do with aesthetics than taste.
Locals love their nasi kuning (yellow rice) – made gold with turmeric – which pairs wonderfully with sambal and fried chicken or fish.
Where to try: Restoran Big Man Corner
Address: Bandar Indah, Sandakan, Sabah
Contact: +6017 898 6917
6. Fried pork noodles
You haven’t had fried pork noodles or kon lou mein until you’ve tried the Sandakan one.
Slices of pork deep-fried to golden perfection are paired with chewy egg noodles. Trust us, it’s the best!
Where to try: H84 Kon Lo Mee
Address: 84 Jetty 7, Kampung Buli Sim Sim, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
7. Sea prawn crispy noodles
Large, succulent sea prawns? Check. Crispy yee mee noodles? Check.
What makes this dish is the indulgent, eggy sauce that coats the prawns and softens the noodles while retaining enough bite.
Where to try: Empire Seafood Restaurant
Address: Lot 174, Lorong Avenue 5, Bandar Utama, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Contact: +6089 278 359
8. Bird’s nest soup
Bird’s nest is a Chinese delicacy believed to relieve fatigue, boost immunity, enhance complexion, and promote healing.
These edible swiftlet nests are harvested in the nearby Gomantong Cave, guarded around the clock to protect this prized ingredient.
9. Fish paste noodles
The combination of soup and seafood is total bliss, especially here in Sandakan.
If you’re in the mood for something different, these noodles made from fish paste are sure to hit the spot.
Where to try: Kedai Makan Kong Teck
Address: Jalan Pak Tak, Mile 7, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Contact: +6016 819 7396
10. Prawn crackers
You’ll find people coming from far and wide just to take home Sandakan prawn crackers in bulk.
Head over to the fishing village and follow the crowd, and you’re all set for Chinese New Year (or snack time).
Where to try: Tanah Merah
Address: Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
11. Salted fish
Another local favourite is mui hiong, or salted fish, straight from the fishing village.
Add it to practically anything – rice, soup, meats, or simply eat it on its own!
Where to try: Kampung Pukat Fishermen’s Village
Address: Pusat Bandar Sandakan, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
12. Char kuih kahwin
We’ll end this list on a sweet note, with a special offering only found in Sandakan’s Mile 4 Market.
Here, a certain stall sells deep-fried yau char kwai or Chinese crullers smothered in butter and kaya. Absolutely addictive!
Where to try: Pasar Kim Fung
Address: 92, Jalan Pasaraya, Bandar Pasaraya, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
This story by Kathlyn D’Souza was originally published on AirAsia. Zafigo republished this story in full with permission from the publisher, simply because good stories should be read by as many people as possible! If you have stories that will be of interest and useful to women travellers, especially in Asia, please get in touch with us at [email protected].
