About Tuaran Market Food Street
Located in the charming town of Tuaran in Sabah, Tuaran Market Food Street—also known as Tamu Tuaran—is one of the most authentic and vibrant food markets in East Malaysia. Operating as a traditional Sunday morning market and a daily night market, this hotspot offers visitors a delicious glimpse into the diverse flavors of Sabah’s indigenous, Chinese, and Malay communities.
Location & Timings
Location: Jalan Datuk Dahlan, Tuaran, Sabah, Malaysia
Sunday Market (Tamu Tuaran): 5:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Night Market: Daily from 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Easily accessible by road, this market is a popular stopover for visitors en route to Kundasang or Kota Belud.
Food Street Highlights
The Tuaran Food Street is a lively lane of pop-up food stalls, grill stands, and noodle carts that light up every afternoon and peak on Sundays. With the scent of smoky barbecue and sizzling noodles in the air, it’s an immersive street food experience.
Must-Try Foods at Tuaran Market
| Local Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuaran Mee | Signature wok-fried egg noodles, often served with char siu and egg rolls. |
| Laksa Tuaran | A local version of laksa with unique broth and herbs. |
| Grilled Seafood | Prawns, squid, and fish grilled to perfection. |
| Sup Tulang | Flavorful beef bone soup served with rice. |
| Rojak Buah | Spicy tropical fruit salad. |
| Satay & Chicken Wings | Classic street grilled meats with peanut sauce. |
| Kuih Muih | Traditional snacks like Seri Muka, Kuih Lopes, and Curry Puffs. |
| Bambangan & Tuhau | Pickled wild mango and ginger roots—a Sabahan delicacy. |
Why Tuaran Market is So Popular
- Authentic Sabahan Street Food – Origin of Tuaran Mee
- Local Culture & Community – Blend of Dusun, Bajau, and Chinese heritage
- Affordable Prices – Dishes from RM3–RM10
- Photo-Worthy Market Scenes – Colorful stalls and food displays
- Ideal for Day Trips – Near other Tuaran attractions
Insider Tips for Visitors
- Arrive before 9:00 AM on Sundays to avoid crowds
- Bring cash – many vendors are cash-only
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring
- Great for street food photography and local culture shots
- Try local drinks like Teh C Ping and Milo Ais
Nearby Attractions
| Place | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Rumah Terbalik (Upside Down House) | 10 mins | Fun for families & photos |
| Chanteek Borneo Museum | 15 mins | Costumes & tribal heritage |
| Tuaran Crocodile Farm | 12 mins | Largest croc farm in Sabah |
| Sabandar Cowboy Town | 20 mins | Horse rides & western-themed fun |
Famous Restaurants Near Tuaran Market
| Restaurant | What to Eat | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Borneo Traditional Food Centre (TFC) | Tuaran Mee, wild boar, Sup Tulang | 5 mins |
| Chan’s Restaurant | Chinese-style seafood, dim sum | 6 mins |
| Gerai Macik Tuaran 0.2 | Laksa, rojak, kuih | 3 mins |
| Maimunah Food Court | Mixed local stalls | 2 mins |
Local Favorites & Reviews
“Tuaran Mee is unbeatable here—crispy, smoky, and packed with flavor.” – Nur, KK
“I love the night market’s grilled seafood and friendly vendors.” – Jason, visitor from KL
MyTrip Review Summary
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
Top Pick for Sabah Street Food Lovers
Tuaran Market Food Street is a cultural and culinary gem of Sabah. Whether you visit for the Sunday tamu or the daily food stalls, you’ll walk away full and happy. It’s a must-stop if you’re exploring the west coast of Sabah.
