Miri, the vibrant northern gateway to Sarawak, is known for its rich mix of cultures and cuisines. While North Indian and Malaysian-Indian eateries dominate the scene, Tamil cuisine—famous for its dosas, idlis, banana leaf rice, and spicy Chettinad-style curries—is gradually finding its place in this coastal city. Whether you’re craving a comforting thosai breakfast or a flavorful banana leaf feast, these top Tamil and Tamil-influenced restaurants in Miri are worth a visit.
Here is a list of the top 10 Tamil Restaurants in Miri
Banyo Indian Cuisine
Location: Senadin, Miri
Opening Hours: Morning till late afternoon (exact hours vary)
Highlights: Authentic South Indian breakfast dishes including dosa, idli, vadai, sambar, masala tea, biryani
Facilities: Casual café-style, family-friendly
Price Range: Budget-friendly (RM 5 – RM 15)
Google Rating: Not listed
Why Visit: One of the few outlets in Miri serving genuine Tamil-style breakfast and snacks—a must-visit for dosa and idli lovers.Banana Leaf Rice (வாழை இலை சாப்பாடு)
Location: Central Miri
Opening Hours: Lunch & dinner (hours may vary)
Highlights: Banana leaf meals, thosai, chicken briyani, fish curry
Facilities: Clean, cozy dining space
Price Range: Mid-range (RM 15 – RM 25 per person)
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0/5)
Why Visit: Experience the classic Tamil-style banana leaf rice meal with a variety of flavorful curries and side dishes.Zaika Restaurant
Location: 2512, 1st Floor, Boulevard Commercial Centre, Miri
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Highlights: Famous for biryani, mutton curries, garlic naan, paneer dishes
Facilities: Air-conditioned, family/group dining, takeaway available
Price Range: Around RM 35 per person
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Why Visit: Ideal for those who love a mix of Tamil-inspired biryanis and North Indian classics with a cozy atmosphere.Khan’s Islamic Restaurant
Location: Behind Mega Hotel, Miri
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Highlights: Roti canai, cheese naan, chicken/mutton biryani, teh tarik
Facilities: Halal-friendly, casual dining, quick service
Price Range: Affordable (RM 8 – RM 20)
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5)
Why Visit: Perfect for roti and biryani lovers looking for hearty, halal Tamil-Muslim meals in the city center.Sri Ananda Bahwan (Pop-up Tamil Dishes)
Location: Various Indian stalls in Miri’s city center
Opening Hours: Lunch and dinner service
Highlights: Occasionally offers Tamil staples like thosai, vadai, and chicken chettinad
Facilities: Casual food court setup
Price Range: Budget to mid-range
Google Rating: N/A
Why Visit: A good alternative if you’re craving Tamil classics in a more street-food style setting.Biryani Art
Location: Pelita Commercial Centre, Miri
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Highlights: Dum biryani, vegetarian meals, South Indian curries
Facilities: Modern interior, group dining
Price Range: RM 20 – RM 30 per person
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
Why Visit: Known for biryani but also serves Tamil-style sides—great for family dining.Banana Leaf Curry House
Location: Boulevard Commercial Centre, Miri
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Highlights: Banana leaf rice set, fried chicken, spicy fish curry, papadum
Facilities: Family-friendly, takeaway available
Price Range: Mid-range (RM 15 – RM 25)
Google Rating: ★★★★☆
Why Visit: Brings the authentic banana leaf dining tradition to Miri.Curry House Miri
Location: Jalan Pelita Commercial Centre
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Highlights: South Indian-style chicken curry, thosai, parotta, idiyappam
Facilities: Casual dining, clean interior
Price Range: Affordable (RM 10 – RM 20)
Google Rating: ★★★★☆
Why Visit: A hidden gem for Tamil-inspired comfort food in Miri.Spice of India
Location: Miri Waterfront
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Highlights: Chettinad chicken curry, vegetarian thali, masala tea
Facilities: Waterfront view, indoor dining, vegetarian-friendly
Price Range: RM 20 – RM 35 per person
Google Rating: ★★★★☆
Why Visit: Enjoy authentic Tamil-style curries with a scenic dining experience.Little India Café
Location: Marina Bay, Miri
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Highlights: Tamil breakfast items (idli, dosa, appam), banana leaf rice, filter coffee
Facilities: Modern café setup, good for casual hangouts
Price Range: Budget-friendly (RM 8 – RM 18)
Google Rating: ★★★★☆
Why Visit: A café-style restaurant bringing Tamil flavors to younger crowds with a casual dining vibe.
While Miri is better known for its seafood and Sarawakian delights, these Tamil and South Indian-inspired restaurants are a great way to explore another layer of the city’s food culture. From banana leaf meals to crispy dosas and spiced curries, these eateries ensure that Tamil cuisine has a flavorful presence in Sarawak’s oil town.
