Location: Sarawak, Malaysia
Category: Travel | Food | Culture
About the Place
Sarawak, nestled on the island of Borneo, is not only famous for its rainforests and cultural heritage but also a paradise for food lovers. From Indigenous Dayak recipes to bold Malay and Chinese flavours, Sarawakian cuisine reflects the state’s diverse ethnic tapestry.
Whether you’re wandering Kuching’s bustling food markets or visiting a remote longhouse village, every bite in Sarawak tells a story of history, culture, and community.
Highlights
- Authentic Dayak dishes such as Ayam Pansuh
- World-famous Sarawak Laksa and Kolo Mee
- Unique ingredients like Dabai fruit, Midin fern, and fresh bamboo clams
- Colourful Kek Lapis Sarawak cakes during festive seasons
- Affordable street food and rustic village cooking
Must-Try Dishes & Where to Eat
1. Kolo Mee
Dry egg noodles mixed with savoury sauces, minced meat, and shallots.
Try at: Laila Inn Cafe, Sainah Cafe (Halal), Bujang Lelang Cafe
2. Sarawak Laksa
Rice vermicelli in spicy coconut broth with prawns and shredded chicken.
Try at: Aunty Goh’s Laksa, 126 Laksa, Mom’s Laksa Cafe
3. Ayam Pansuh (Manok Pansoh)
Chicken marinated and slow-cooked in bamboo over fire.
Try at: Lepau Restaurant, The Lamin, Schatz Kitchen Miri
4. Sago Linut
Sticky sago paste served with sambal and meat gravy.
Try at: My Village Barok Bistro, Tunok Seafood, Roti Mok by Mira Cake House
5. Nasi Aruk
Oil-less, pan-toasted fried rice with anchovies and herbs.
Try at: Wayna Cafe, Rumah Hijau Cafe
6. Nasi Goreng Dabai
Fried rice with black olive-like dabai fruit for a sweet-sour punch.
Try at: Mom’s Laksa Cafe, Kak Bedah Cafe
7. Umai
Melanau-style raw fish salad marinated with lime, chilli, and onions.
Try at: The Lamin, Dapur Melanau, Abu Umai Segar (Kuching & Mukah)
8. Kek Lapis Sarawak
Vibrant layered cake served during Eid, Chinese New Year, and weddings.
Try at: Mira Cake House, Kek Lapis Mama Su
9. Mee Jawa Rabak
Thick tamarind-based noodle dish with beef, eggs, and veggies.
Try at: Fauziah Family Cafe, Makan Kaw Kaw Restaurant
10. Paku & Midin Ferns
Jungle ferns stir-fried with garlic, chilli, and shrimp paste.
Try at: Topspot Food Court, Rock Road Seafood Restaurant
11. Oyster Pancake
Crispy fried oyster omelette served with spicy dipping sauce.
Try at: Topspot Food Court, Restoran ADM Kuching
12. Bamboo Clams (Sipit)
Grilled or stir-fried clams with garlic and soy sauce.
Try at: Tunok Seafood, Sin Soon Lee Seafood
Things to Do While on Your Food Journey
- Visit Kuching Waterfront for food stalls & cultural sights
- Take a Dayak village cooking class
- Explore Satok Market for fresh herbs and local produce
- Sample local food at Topspot Food Court
- Discover local culture at Sarawak Cultural Village
Top Places to Stay for Foodies
- The Waterfront Hotel, Kuching – Near local eateries and cafes
- Pullman Kuching – Walkable to food markets and fine dining
- Damai Beach Resort – Great seafood access
- Miri Marriott Resort – Near northern Sarawak’s top food spots
- Meritz Hotel, Miri – Close to tamu markets and food stalls
How to Get to Sarawak
By Flight:
- Kuching International Airport (KCH) – Main hub
- Miri, Sibu, and Bintulu Airports – Regional options
- Direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, Singapore
Local Travel:
- Grab rides, taxis, car rentals, and river taxis are easily available.
Popular Attractions Nearby
- Semenggoh Wildlife Centre – See orangutans near Kuching
- Bako National Park – Jungle hikes & beach picnics
- Fort Margherita & Brooke Gallery – Sarawak’s colonial past
- Mulu & Niah Caves (UNESCO Sites) – Limestone wonders near Miri
Final Thoughts
Sarawak is more than just a destination; it’s a feast for the senses. From the smoky depths of Ayam Pansuh to the creamy spice of Sarawak Laksa, every dish tells a story of tradition, community, and cultural pride. Whether you’re wandering through Kuching’s vibrant street markets, dining in traditional longhouses, or enjoying fresh seafood by the coast, the food of Sarawak invites you to slow down and savour every bite.
