If you’re craving authentic Japanese cuisine in Sandakan, you’re in luck. This bustling Sabah town is home to a growing number of Japanese restaurants that serve everything from fresh sashimi to sizzling teppanyaki. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visiting traveler, this guide highlights the best Japanese restaurants in Sandakan—all with excellent reviews, delicious dishes, and affordable prices.
Here are the top 3 Japanese restaurants in Sandakan that should be on your must-visit list.
1. Sushi King Sandakan
Location: 211, Lor Prima 4, Bandar Indah, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
Google Rating: 4.3 (700+ reviews)
Cost for 2: RM 60–100
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)
Sushi King is a household name in Malaysia, and its Sandakan branch maintains the brand’s reputation for quality, affordability, and speed. This casual conveyor-belt sushi restaurant is perfect for families, solo diners, or a quick lunch between errands.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Grand Mixed Bento
- Salmon Cheese Roll
- Chuka Idako (baby octopus)
- Unagi Don (grilled eel rice bowl)
Why Go: The restaurant frequently offers promotional sets and value deals like the Sushi King Bonanza. It’s also equipped with a tablet-based ordering system for a hassle-free dining experience.
2. Kyoto Sushi Japanese Restaurant
Location: Lot 132, Block 14, Ground Floor, Prima Square, Lor Prima 3, Jalan Utara, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Google Rating: 4.2 (140+ reviews)
Cost for 2: ~RM 60
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
Tucked inside Prima Square, Kyoto Sushi is a cozy and charming Japanese restaurant popular with Sandakan locals. Known for its generous portion sizes and friendly service, the restaurant also offers a lifetime membership for just RM 10, which gets you 10% off all future meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Tempura Bento Set
- Niku Nabe (beef hotpot)
- Salmon Sashimi
- Tori Katsu Curry Don
Why Go: The variety of affordable bento and donburi options makes it great for budget-conscious diners who don’t want to compromise on quality.
3. Teppan Hiroshi Japanese Cuisine Restaurant
Location: Lot 9G & 10G, Ground Floor, Shopping Arcade, Batu 6, Jalan Utara, Bandar Tyng, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Google Rating: 4.3
Cost for 2: RM 80–120
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)
Teppan Hiroshi brings a more elevated Japanese dining experience to Sandakan. This teppanyaki-style restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients, sizzling hotplates, and generous servings. It’s a pork-free, alcohol-free restaurant, making it an excellent choice for families and Muslim diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Teppanyaki Chicken or Beef Set
- Fresh Sashimi Platter
- Donburi Rice Bowls
- Garlic Fried Rice
Why Go: Ideal for groups or special occasions, thanks to its spacious layout and high-quality teppanyaki experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for affordable sushi, hearty Japanese hotpots, or sizzling teppanyaki, Sandakan has something to satisfy your cravings. These top-rated restaurants offer authentic Japanese flavours, warm service, and great value for money.
