About Siniawan Night Market
Siniawan Night Market is a cultural gem tucked away in Siniawan Old Town, a heritage Hakka settlement near Kuching, Sarawak. Every weekend, this sleepy colonial street transforms into a vibrant night market filled with glowing red lanterns, sizzling street food, nostalgic wooden shophouses, and an atmosphere that blends old-world charm with modern Malaysian street life. Known as one of the most unique food streets in Malaysia, Siniawan offers an immersive experience for food lovers, photographers, and heritage seekers.
Location
- Where: Siniawan Old Town, Bau District, Sarawak
- Distance from Kuching: ~25–30 km | 30-minute drive
- Operating Hours:
- Friday to Sunday: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Best Time to Arrive: 5:30 PM
How to Get There
- By Car/Grab: ~30 minutes from Kuching
- By Bus: Take Bus No.2 to Bau, then walk ~5 mins
- Tip: Limited parking – arrive early or use ride-hailing apps
Food Street Experience
The Siniawan Night Market is more than a place to eat – it’s an iconic street food experience set on a single-lane heritage street, surrounded by 100-year-old wooden buildings and lanterns overhead. The market becomes a pedestrian-only zone filled with local food stalls, smoke from BBQ grills, traditional music, and a lively community vibe.
Highlights:
- Lantern-lit food street with wooden shophouses
- Dozens of stalls selling authentic Sarawakian and Bidayuh dishes
- Street karaoke, cultural performances, and festive ambiance
- Extremely photogenic at dusk – perfect for social media
What to Eat at Siniawan Night Market
Siniawan’s food scene is a must-try for Sarawak food lovers. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
- Lemang Periuk Kera – Glutinous rice steamed inside pitcher plants
- Sarawak Laksa – Tangy, spicy noodle soup with prawns and egg
- Kolo Mee – Springy noodles with minced pork, shallots, and soy
- Ngoh Hiang – Fried meat rolls wrapped in tofu skin
- Kompia Buns – Traditional Hakka buns stuffed with pork or chicken
- Grilled Satay & Wings – Smoky and tender
- Char Kueh, Rojak, Bamboo Chicken, Kuih-muih and Ice-blended Milo
Why is Siniawan Night Market So Popular?
- Cultural Vibe: Combines Chinese, Malay, and Bidayuh traditions
- Instagrammable Atmosphere: Red lanterns, heritage buildings, lively streets
- Foodie Paradise: Taste rare and local Sarawakian delicacies
- Live Entertainment: Karaoke booths, local bands, and festive spirit
- Family & Tourist Friendly: Safe, clean, and welcoming
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive before sunset for photos and shorter queues
- Bring cash – most stalls do not accept e-wallets or cards
- Apply mosquito repellent
- Stay hydrated; weather can be humid
- Wear comfortable shoes – expect to walk and stand a lot
Nearby Attractions
- Fairy Cave & Wind Cave – Natural wonders in nearby Bau
- Shui Yue Gong Temple – Chinese temple near the market
- St. Dominic’s Church – Historic wooden church
- Kuching Waterfront – ~30 minutes away, great for day trips
- Bau Town – Known for limestone hills and adventure parks
Famous Restaurants at the Market
| Restaurant Name | What to Try | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Ah Mu Stall | Grilled wings, kompia | Inside market |
| Laksa Siniawan | Sarawak laksa | Food street stall |
| Kolo Mee Corner | Kolo Mee with char siu | Food street stall |
| Ngoh Hiang Master | 5-spice meat rolls | Food street stall |
| Restoran Siniawan BBQ | Satay & grilled seafood | Street corner |
Local Favorites
- Lemang Periuk Kera (Pitcher Plant Rice)
- Bamboo Chicken
- Kompia Buns
- Sarawak Laksa
- Ice Blended Local Drinks
- Traditional Kuih and Cakes
MyTrip Review
“We stumbled upon Siniawan Night Market and were blown away by the atmosphere. The lanterns, the food variety, and the warm locals made it unforgettable. A must-visit if you’re in Kuching!”
— 4.7/5 | Best for families, foodies, and cultural explorers
