Published: 25 February 2020

Last Updated: 30 March 2026

Done with Kota Kinabalu and now, planning a trip to Sandakan, and wondering: what should you eat first?

You might not expect it, but this small coastal town in Sabah is actually a hidden food paradise, especially for seafood lovers.

On my trip, I went in with zero expectations and left completely surprised. From fresh seafood to unique local dishes you won't easily find elsewhere, here are 10 must-eat foods in Sandakan you shouldn't miss.

And trust me, this food guide is worth your time, as I have personally tried them during my trip. And this food guide includes local favorites (not just tourist spots), and it focuses on dishes you can still find today. 

1. Century Egg Dumplings and Springy Noodles @ Sim Sim Water Village (No.84)

Breakfast

A must-try breakfast spot, in particular Sim Sim No.84, where it sells very good century egg dumplings. Filled with meat and prawns while paring with springy noodles, this is indeed a simple but incredibly satisfying breakfast. Go early around 7.30am before it sells out. 

Nudge, nudge – as we walked around the village, my eyes were caught by a plate of soy sauce squid. Imagine having a plate of fresh squid in the morning and I must say, voila! Syioknya.

Sim Sim Water Village

No. 84 (for dumplings) and No. 88 (for seafood)

Lorong H, Jalam Sim Sim

2. Freshly Made Fish Noodles @ Kedai Makan Kong Teck

Breakfast

Yes, you see this right! This is one of Sandakan's signature dishes. Made from fish paste, the noodles has slightly chewy texture. Often cooked in light but flavorful broth, and it is very different from your typical noodles in West Malaysia. 

Noodles made from fish meat

Kedai Makan Kong Teck,

Jalan Pak Tak, Mile 7,

90000 Sandakan.

3. Fish Noodles @ Bak Seng Lau

Breakfast

Another variation worth trying. In Bak Seng Lau, you get to customize your own bowl of noodles and soup, from fish slices, pork balls, and various other ingredients where you can choose from. This is a very local-style breakfast experience.

Not the typical yellow noodle

Bak Seng Lau

Jalan Labuk,

90000 Sandakan.

4. Seafood Bah Kut Teh @ Good Taste Bah Kut Teh

7. Seafood galore @ Persatuan Perikanan Sandakan (Sandakan Fisherman’s Association)

Dinner

Legendary as it is, we had a seafood feast at Sandakan Fisherman’s Association. Sandakan is famous for its seafood, and it is for good reason. Forget about getting a menu as the dishes are all fixed. Serving only the freshest seafood available on the day, all you need to do is to say ‘yes’ to all of them. Usually, there are only about 5-6 dishes, but trust me, all their dishes are absolutely delicious! Best quality ever, and you will be sure to want to visit this place again. Just remember to make a booking before visiting.

Dark soy sauce tiger prawns are to die for!

Pork innards

Signature soup is a must-to-have

Persatuan Perikanan Sandakan,

Pusat Bandar Sandakan,

90000 Sandakan.

8. Sang Har Mee (Fresh Prawn Noodles) @Empire Seafood

Dinner

A must-try if you love prawns. This plate of Sang Har Mee at Empire Seafood comes wth rich broth and fresh prawns, which satisfy our tummy (despite that we were so FULL).

Empire Seafood Restaurant,

Lot 174 & 175, Block CC & DD,

Lorong Avenue 5, Bandar Utama,

Batu 6, Jalan Utara,

90000 Sandakan

Bonus: Rooftop Dining Experience at Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar

While the food is decent, the real highlight is the sea view and relaxed atmosphere. It is worth visiting for the experience, but not for the food. 

Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar,

8^th Floor, Nak Hotel,

Jalan Pelabuhan Lama,Pusat Bandar Sandakan,

90000 Sandakan, Sabah.

All in all, Sandakan may not be as famous as Penang or KL for food.. but that's exactly why it is special.

Less commercial, more authentic, and full of surprises.

If you are visiting Sabah, this is one food destination you shouldn't skip.

FAQ

1. What food is famous in Sandakan?

Seafood, fish noodles, seafood bak kut teh, and local desserts like UFO tarts.

2. Is Sandakan good for food?

Yes, it is a hidden food destination known for fresh seafood and unique local dishes.

3. What should I eat first in Sandakan?

Start with fish noodles or seafood bak kut teh for an authentic experience.

Regards,

Foodiestravel