Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, Malaysia, is a paradise not only for nature lovers but also for food enthusiasts. With its rich Chinese heritage, the city is home to a wide variety of authentic Chinese restaurants serving everything from mouth-watering dim sum and roasted duck to sizzling seafood and hearty noodles.
If you’re craving Chinese food in Kota Kinabalu, look no further. Here’s your ultimate guide to the top 10 Chinese restaurants in Kota Kinabalu — beloved by locals and visitors alike.
1. Sui Heng Restaurant
Best for: Classic Chinese dishes, overall taste and quality
Location: Jalan Penampang, Kota Kinabalu
Why Visit: Widely regarded as the go-to spot for authentic Chinese flavors, Sui Heng is famous for its zi-char menu featuring perfectly stir-fried dishes, hearty soups, and generous portions. It’s a top choice among locals.
2. Phongmun Restaurant
Best for: Dim Sum (non-halal)
Location: Jalan Gaya, Kota Kinabalu
Why Visit: Early risers flock to Phongmun for its freshly made dim sum, including har gao, siu mai, steamed buns, and congee. The food is made with skill and consistency — a top pick for breakfast or brunch.
3. Golden Leaf Restaurant
Best for: Roasted duck and char siu
Location: Lintas Plaza, Kota Kinabalu
Why Visit: If you love crispy-skinned roast duck or caramelized char siu (BBQ pork), Golden Leaf will satisfy your cravings. Their meats are roasted to perfection and served with house-made sauces.
4. Thien Thien Restaurant (Halal)
Best for: Chicken rice and laksa
Location: Inanam, Kota Kinabalu
Why Visit: A halal-certified Chinese eatery, Thien Thien is popular for its silky Hainanese chicken rice and spicy Sabah-style laksa. Great for Muslim travelers seeking authentic yet halal Chinese flavors.
5. Big Mama Restaurant
Best for: Homestyle Chinese cooking
Location: Lido Plaza, Kota Kinabalu
Why Visit: A family-friendly spot with homely flavors and a relaxed ambiance. Locals recommend their steamed fish, tofu dishes, and crispy pork knuckle.
6. Tai Ka Lok Restaurant
Best for: Traditional Chinese dishes
Location: Bundusan Commercial Centre
Why Visit: Known for their steamed and claypot dishes, Tai Ka Lok brings out traditional Cantonese flavors. Try their herbal soups, sizzling hot plates, and stir-fried veggies.
7. Red Leaf Restaurant
Best for: Local-style zi char
Location: Hilltop area, Kota Kinabalu
Why Visit: This neighborhood favorite serves all your classic Chinese comfort foods. Their butter prawns and kung pao chicken are especially popular.
8. Shi Wei Tian
Best for: Private dining and large groups
Location: Kolombong, Kota Kinabalu
Why Visit: Known for banquet-style Chinese cuisine and seafood specialties, Shi Wei Tian is a go-to for celebrations and gatherings. Signature dishes include deep-fried soft-shell crab and sweet-and-sour pork.
9. Gu Xiang Yuan Restaurant
Best for: Value-for-money Chinese meals
Location: Taman Dixon, Kota Kinabalu
Why Visit: Delicious food at affordable prices — ideal for lunch or casual dinners. A popular choice for students, workers, and foodies on a budget.
10. Ho Chak Restaurant
Best for: Chinese-Malaysian fusion
Location: Kingfisher Park
Why Visit: Offers an inventive mix of Chinese and local Sabah flavors. Try their salted egg dishes, butter chicken, and tangy tom yum seafood hotpot.
Bonus: Seafood Lovers’ Tip
Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant is another honorable mention, renowned for its wok-fried seafood, fresh fish dishes, and classic Chinese soups. Ideal for seafood fans looking for Chinese-style cooking.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, exploring Chinese food in Kota Kinabalu is a flavorful adventure. From roast duck and dim sum to halal Chinese meals and seafood, these top 10 restaurants offer something for everyone. Bookmark this list and start your culinary journey through the best Chinese restaurants in KK today.
