Sakagura Japanese Restaurant, Kota Kinabalu

Overview & Ambience

Sakagura (酒蔵), rooted in Hokkaido, Japan, brings a high-end Japanese dining experience to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Nestled in Oceanus Waterfront Mall (Ground Floor, Units G-23 & G-25) along Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, it combines traditional Japanese styling with fresh sea views and a touch of local warmth.

The décor features elements typical of classic Japanese restaurants — clean lines, wood and natural textures, soft lighting — giving it an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere. Patrons can dine indoor or enjoy views of the South China Sea (depending on the seating) which enhances the dining experience, especially at sunset.

History

Sakagura Japanese Restaurant open its door to Kota Kinabalu residents on 24th March 2015. Sakagura Japanese Restaurant is under FrontierOne group with over 10 Japanese restaurant in Japan. Sakagura Japanese Restaurant at Oceanus Mall Kota Kinabalu is the group’s first restaurant outside of Japan.

Location & Operating Hours

• Address: G-23 & G-25, Ground Floor, Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, 88000
• Phone: +60 88-273 604
• Opening Hours: Typically from ~11:30 AM to mid-afternoon, then re-opening in the evening. Evening closing times stretch a bit later on weekends.

Cuisine & Menu Highlights

Sakagura aims to offer an authentic and premium Japanese menu, with many ingredients imported directly from Japan. Cooking is overseen by chefs trained in Japanese cuisine, ensuring high standards.

Here are some of the standout offerings and features (though I couldn’t find the full itemised menu with every price):

• Specialties include sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki, and wagyu/kobe beef dishes.
• Set meals are available, often presenting a multi-course experience. For example, a Christmas set was offered with options like Wagyu or Kobe main dishes.
• Other menu offerings: Japanese curry, rice bowls (donburi), grilled chicken (yakitori), tempura, small plates and snack-size specialty dishes.
• Drink offerings include sake (Japanese rice wine), sochu, and a variety of spirits. There are also beer choices (draughts) and non-alcoholic beverages.

Best and Must-Try Dishes

Sakagura Japanese Restaurant, located at Oceanus Waterfront Mall in Kota Kinabalu, is known for delivering authentic Japanese flavours with premium ingredients and expert craftsmanship. With its serene waterfront setting and traditional interior, it offers a fine-dining experience that appeals to sushi lovers, sashimi enthusiasts, and fans of Japanese cuisine.

Here are the best and must-try dishes when visiting Sakagura:

🐟 Sashimi Selections

Start your meal with their signature sashimi platters. The salmon belly sashimi is a standout, offering buttery textures and rich flavours. If available, toro (fatty tuna) is highly recommended for its melt-in-the-mouth quality. These dishes highlight the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and top-quality seafood.

🍣 Sushi & Nigiri

Sakagura is renowned for its meticulously prepared sushi and nigiri. The unagi (eel) nigiri is a popular choice, with tender eel glazed in a slightly sweet sauce. Assorted sushi sets are ideal if you want to sample a variety of flavours in one serving.

🍲 Chawan Mushi

This traditional Japanese steamed egg custard is a comforting and delicate dish. Silky-smooth and subtly seasoned, it’s a perfect warm starter to balance out the raw seafood dishes.

🍛 Eel Fried Rice and Donburi

If you’re craving something hearty, the eel fried rice is rich and satisfying, while their donburi bowls offer a combination of rice, protein, and vegetables in one wholesome dish. These are great for those who prefer a warm main course.

🍢 Robatayaki & Grilled Specialties

The robatayaki section features grilled items like mushrooms, vegetables, and premium meats. This is where you can indulge in Japanese-style grilled Wagyu or Kobe beef — one of the restaurant’s most luxurious offerings.

🍶 Sake and Japanese Beverages

Pair your meal with a curated selection of Japanese drinks. Their sake list includes house sake, premium bottles, and fruit-infused varieties such as yuzu or plum. Shochu and Japanese craft beer are also available for those who prefer a different taste.

Pricing & Value

While exact prices for every dish are not publicly listed in some sources, there are indications that Sakagura skews toward the premium segment:

• A minimum spend/person seems to start around RM 40 for some simpler dishes.
• Set dinners with Wagyu or Kobe as main ingredients go significantly higher. One holiday special featured Wagyu Beef at ~RM 278++ and Kobe Beef at ~RM 327++ per pax.
• Because many ingredients are imported and the establishment also emphasizes high quality, authenticity, and skilled preparation, many diners consider the prices justified for special occasions.

Pros & What Makes It Unique

• Authenticity: Japanese chefs, imported ingredients, genuine preparations make the food feel worthy of its heritage.
• Ambience & View: The waterfront mall location gives both sea views and a sophisticated setting.
• Variety: From casual sushi or small plates to indulgent meats and set meals, there’s something for a range of Japanese food lovers.
• Sake & Drinks: For those who appreciate Japanese wine culture (sake, etc.), the drink selection is a plus.

Considerations & Tips

• Because it’s regarded as a premium Japanese restaurant, expect prices to be above what you’d pay at casual sushi bars or local eateries.
• Booking ahead, especially during weekends or holidays, is wise.
• If you have dietary restrictions, or prefer certain cuts (e.g. less fatty meats, or mild flavors), letting staff know helps — some dishes can be customized or adapted.
• Try to go during less busy hours if you prefer a quieter experience.

Summary

SAKAGURA Japanese Restaurant is located in Oceanus Mall, run by a Japanese boss and prepared by Japanese chefs! Highly recommended for any Japanese food lovers.

Sakagura Japanese Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu is a destination for those seeking high-quality Japanese cuisine in a refined, authentic setting. It blends the flavours and techniques of Japan with a beautiful location and good service, making it ideal for special meals, date nights, or when you want something more upscale. Though not the cheapest option, many patrons feel the experience — from ingredients to ambience — is worth the price.