Top 10 Chinese Restaurants in Sandakan You Must Try (2025 Guide)
Introduction: A Foodie’s Paradise in Sabah
Sandakan, located on the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia, is not only known for its natural wonders and wildlife but also for its rich culinary scene. One of the standout cuisines here is Chinese food, deeply rooted in the city’s heritage. Whether you’re craving steamed dim sum, seafood delights, or hearty Cantonese dishes, this list of the Top 10 Chinese Restaurants in Sandakan will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.
1. Heng Loong Restaurant – Best for Classic Cantonese Dishes
Location: Jalan Leila, Sandakan
Specialties: Sweet and sour fish, roasted pork, tiger prawns, stuffed duck
Why Visit: This popular family-style restaurant is known for serving up authentic Cantonese cuisine with generous portions and bold flavors. Perfect for group dining.
Must-try dish: Crispy tiger prawns with soy glaze.
2. Palm Garden Chinese Restaurant – Best Dim Sum in Sandakan
Location: IJM Town, Sandakan
Specialties: Dim sum, steamed buns, har gow, siu mai
Why Visit: Widely praised for its cheap and delicious dim sum, this spot is a favorite among locals for breakfast or brunch.
Must-try dish: Steamed pork ribs with black bean sauce.
3. Momo Oriental Kitchen – Chinese with a Twist
Location: Mile 4, Sandakan
Specialties: Hainanese chicken rice, egg tarts, Thai tom yum
Why Visit: A trendy eatery serving a mix of Chinese, Thai, and local Malaysian dishes in a nostalgic setting. Great value for money.
Must-try dish: Hainanese chicken rice with ginger chilli sauce.
4. Nam Chai Restaurant – Seafood Bak Kut Teh Heaven
Location: Jalan Leila, Sandakan
Specialties: Fish-based bak kut teh, herbal soups
Why Visit: This place redefines bak kut teh with a seafood twist. The broth is aromatic and light—perfect for a comforting meal.
Must-try dish: Fish maw bak kut teh.
5. Pusat Makan Ga Lok – Hawker-style Variety
Location: Bandar Ramai Ramai, Sandakan
Specialties: Mix of over 40 Chinese and Asian dishes
Why Visit: If you want variety, Ga Lok offers a food court experience with dozens of Chinese food options. Affordable and fast.
Must-try dish: Claypot chicken rice.
6. Uncle’s Pau Cafe – Authentic Hakka Breakfast
Location: Taman Indah, Sandakan
Specialties: Steamed buns (pau), yong tau fu, herbal teas
Why Visit: A great morning stop for those who love Hakka-style Chinese cuisine and homemade buns.
Must-try dish: Yong tau fu with chili sauce.
7. San Da Gen Kopitiam – Heritage Café with a Twist
Location: Heritage Building, Sandakan Old Town
Specialties: Chinese fusion snacks, milk tea, kaya toast
Why Visit: A nostalgic café blending Chinese tradition with modern café culture. Perfect for Instagram photos and light bites.
Must-try dish: Pandan kaya butter toast.
8. Mei Le Yuan Restaurant – Chinese-Style Seafood Feast
Location: Taman Kenari, Sandakan
Specialties: Butter prawns, steamed fish, salted egg squid
Why Visit: A go-to for fresh seafood with Chinese sauces and spice profiles. Ideal for dinner gatherings and special occasions.
Must-try dish: Steamed garoupa with soy sauce and ginger.
9. Ocean King Seafood Restaurant – By the Sea Dining
Location: Jalan Buli Sim Sim, Sandakan
Specialties: Grilled fish, deep-fried soft shell crab, chili prawns
Why Visit: Famous for its seaside dining experience and seafood prepared in Chinese-style sauces.
Must-try dish: Deep-fried soft shell crab with garlic.
10. New King City Seafood Restaurant – Local Favorite
Location: Taman Tyng, Sandakan
Specialties: Chinese-style noodles, seafood soup, stir-fried vegetables
Why Visit: Casual yet consistent, this place is popular for affordable and tasty Chinese dishes served hot and fast.
Must-try dish: Fried Hokkien noodles with seafood.
Tips for Dining in Sandakan’s Chinese Restaurants
- Most restaurants are halal-friendly, but double-check if you have dietary concerns.
- Peak hours are lunch (12–2pm) and dinner (6–8pm)—arrive early or make a reservation for larger groups.
- Cash is still commonly used, though some accept e-wallets like GrabPay or Touch ‘n Go.
Final Thoughts: Where to Eat Chinese Food in Sandakan (2025 Edition)
Whether you’re visiting for the wildlife or the heritage, don’t miss out on Sandakan’s incredible Chinese food. From street-style pau to Cantonese seafood banquets, this city is a hidden gem for food lovers. Bookmark this Top 10 Chinese Restaurants in Sandakan list and enjoy a culinary experience that’s truly Sabah-style.
