Only a handful of places can make me willingly wake up early while on holiday, and Kedai Makan Kong Teck in Sandakan is definitely one of them. Getting there early means securing a seat in this bustling kopitiam, skipping the long wait, and enjoying a comforting bowl of noodles at my own pace.

And Kedai Makan Kong Teck is clearly a local favourite. In fact, I felt like the only non-Sabahan there, which is always a good sign when you’re searching for authentic food. Despite the crowd, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with friendly faces all around. If you’re searching for the best breakfast in Sandakan, there’s one place that locals will almost always mention: Kedai Makan Kong Teck.

After doing some research and scanning through recommendations, two dishes stood out as absolute must-tries.

1. Fish Paste Noodles (Signature Dish)

The highlight here is undoubtedly the fish paste noodles, a unique creation where the noodles themselves are made from fish paste.

The texture is smooth, slightly bouncy, and packed with a natural sweetness from the fish. It’s unlike any regular noodle dish and truly a signature you won’t easily find elsewhere.

2. Dry Loh Shu Fun

Another crowd favourite is the dry Loh Shu Fun. Simple yet deeply satisfying, this dish is tossed in a savoury sauce and topped with fresh ingredients. It may look unassuming, but the flavour is comforting and addictive, and the kind of dish that keeps you coming back.

In fact, one of the highlights here is the flexibility and variety in choosing your soup base. You can choose from a classic clear broth, a rich prawn soup, or a bold and flavourful curry soup. Naturally, we couldn’t decide, so we went all in and tried everything.

Curry-based broth 

Clear-based broth

So, what really elevates the experience of dining in Kedai Makan Kong Teck? It is no other than the quality and the freshness of the ingredients.

Every component tasted fresh and well-made, from the springy fish balls to the flavourful fish paste and soft fish rolls. You can tell that care goes into every bowl, and it shows in every bite.

Will I return? 

Absolutely.

If you’re wondering where to eat in Sandakan, this spot deserves a place at the top of your list. Between the unique fish paste noodles, comforting Loh Shu Fun, and authentic local vibe, it’s an experience that goes beyond just a meal.

Ambient: 3/5

Price: $$$

Food: Fish noodles

Service: 4/5

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Key Notes

1. What is the recommended dish at Kedai Makan Kong Teck?  

Opt for their fish paste-made noodles, and I suggest trying the prawn-based broth. 

3. Do I need a reservation?

No, walk-ins will do. 

Kedai Makan Kong Teck,

90000 Sandakan.

Opens from 6:30 am to 12.30pm (closed on Monday)  

Written by,

FoodiesTravelblog

Ps: This is based on my personal opinion