Kuching Food Guide 2025: What to Eat in Kuching

From the moment I arrived in Kuching, I knew I was in for a delightful culinary journey—one that would awaken all my senses. The city’s laid-back charm blends effortlessly with the enticing aromas of sizzling satay, freshly grilled ikan bakar, and sweet kueh lapis, filling the air around me. Kuching isn’t just a charming city—it’s a food lover’s haven where rich traditions meet bold flavors in every dish.

From the smoky depth of Sarawak laksa to the simple comfort of kolo mee, Kuching’s food scene is wonderfully diverse and deeply satisfying. You can enjoy a hearty plate of midin fern stir-fry at a bustling local market, just as easily as you can appreciate the finesse of a traditional artisanal kuih.

In this guide, I’ll share my top 10 must-try dishes in Kuching, where to find them, and how to experience them like a true local. Planning a foodie trip to East Malaysia? Here’s how to savour the authentic flavours of Kuching, one delicious bite at a time.

🍲 My First Taste of Sarawak Laksa in Kuching’s Top Spot

Source: TasteAtlas

I wandered into a modest laksa stall tucked away in a lively corner of Kuching’s Sunday Market, its simple sign barely visible amid the bustling crowd of locals. As soon as I sat down, the fragrant aroma of spicy, tangy broth mixed with fresh herbs filled the air. My first spoonful of Sarawak laksa was served steaming hot, the rich coconut milk broth bursting with layers of flavour—lemongrass, galangal, and a hint of sambal that danced on my tongue. The rice vermicelli and shredded chicken soaked up the broth perfectly, and the fresh lime added a refreshing zest. I closed my eyes and savoured every mouthful. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a true taste of Kuching’s heart and soul.

📖 About Sarawak Laksa

Sarawak laksa is a beloved local dish that blends Chinese, Malay, and indigenous influences into a bowl of rich, aromatic soup. Unlike other laksa varieties in Malaysia, Sarawak laksa’s signature is its creamy, spice-packed broth made from coconut milk, herbs, and prawns. It’s a must-try for any visitor wanting to experience Kuching’s unique culinary identity.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Laksa Atong
Known for its authentic and rich laksa broth, this popular stall in the Sunday Market draws crowds eager for a hearty bowl.
📍 Location: Kuching Sunday Market (Pasar Minggu)
💰 Cost: Around RM8–RM12

Chong Choon Cafe

A long-standing favourite serving delicious Sarawak laksa alongside other local breakfast treats.
📍 Location: Jalan Padungan
💰 Cost: Around RM7–RM10

💡 Pro Tips

• Visit early in the morning to enjoy laksa at its freshest and avoid long queues.
• Don’t forget to squeeze some fresh lime and add sambal for an extra kick.
• Pair your laksa with a cup of Teh C Peng (iced tea with evaporated milk) for the perfect local experience.
  

🍲 My First Taste of Kolo Mee in Kuching’s Hidden Nook

Source: TasteAtlas

I wandered into a small, unassuming noodle stall tucked along a quiet lane near Kuching’s waterfront, its faded sign barely visible behind a steady stream of locals. As soon as I took a seat on the simple wooden bench, the aroma of spring onions and freshly tossed noodles greeted me warmly. My first bowl of kolo mee arrived, the thin springy noodles glistening with a light coat of fragrant oil, topped with tender slices of char siu and a sprinkle of fried shallots. With the very first bite, the perfectly balanced flavours—slightly sweet, savoury, and a touch of smoky—unfolded on my palate. I closed my eyes to savour the moment. Everything else faded—the lively chatter, the clinking of bowls—and it was just me and that bowl. It wasn’t just a meal. It was a humble tribute to Kuching’s rich culinary heritage.

📖 About Kolo Mee

Kolo mee is a Sarawakian favourite, cherished for its simple yet satisfying taste. This dry tossed noodle dish features springy egg noodles mixed with aromatic oils, accompanied by char siu or minced pork, and often garnished with fresh vegetables or pickled green chilies. It’s a true reflection of Kuching’s multicultural food culture, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Kolo Mee Song
A popular spot loved for its perfectly springy noodles and generous toppings.
📍 Location: Jalan Padungan
💰 Cost: Around RM5–RM8

Top Spot Kolo Mee

Known for its consistent quality and friendly service, this stall is a must-visit for any noodle lover.
📍 Location: Kuching Waterfront Food Court
💰 Cost: Around RM6–RM9

💡 Pro Tips

• Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the queues at popular stalls.
• Try adding a dash of their homemade chili sauce for an extra kick.
• Pair your kolo mee with a cup of freshly brewed kopi or teh tarik for a truly local experience.

🌶️ My First Taste of Ayam Pansuh in Kuching’s Hidden Riverside Stall

Source: Reddit

I stumbled upon a small riverside stall tucked away near Kuching’s waterfront, its wooden sign weathered but inviting amidst the hum of local chatter. As I stepped closer, the warm, smoky aroma of bamboo-cooked chicken greeted me. Sitting at a simple wooden table, I watched as the vendor carefully opened a freshly cooked bamboo tube to reveal tender, fragrant ayam pansuh—chicken slow-cooked with herbs inside bamboo. The first bite was incredible—the juicy meat infused with the subtle smokiness of the bamboo, mingled with fresh local herbs and spices. I closed my eyes to savour it fully. The lively sounds around me faded away, and for a moment, it was just me and that perfect taste. It wasn’t just a dish. It was a celebration of Sarawak’s rich culinary tradition and respect for nature.

📖 About Ayam Pansuh

Ayam pansuh, also known as bamboo chicken, is a traditional Iban dish from Sarawak where chicken, herbs, and spices are slow-cooked inside a bamboo tube over an open fire. This cooking method imparts a unique smoky flavour and tender texture, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Kuching.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Riverside Bamboo Kitchen
Famous for its authentic ayam pansuh served with local sides, this spot offers a genuine taste of Sarawak.
📍 Location: Kuching Waterfront area
💰 Cost: Around RM15–RM25

Borneo Heritage Cafe

A popular eatery specializing in traditional Sarawakian dishes, including a well-loved version of ayam pansuh.
📍 Location: Jalan Satok
💰 Cost: Around RM20–RM30

💡 Pro Tips

• Visit during lunch hours to enjoy freshly cooked ayam pansuh at its best.
• Pair it with a side of nasi kunyit (turmeric rice) or umbut (bamboo shoots) for a complete experience.
• Don’t forget to try local jungle vegetables like midin to complement your meal.

🌶️ My First Taste of Midin Stir-Fry in Kuching’s Local Hawker Stall

Source: Munch Malaysia

I wandered into a small, bustling hawker stall tucked away along a side street in Kuching’s bustling food market, its simple sign almost hidden behind a crowd of eager locals. As soon as I stepped inside, the inviting aroma of garlic and sambal greeted me warmly. I took a seat on a plastic stool, just close enough to watch the cook expertly toss bright green midin—Sarawak’s famous wild jungle fern—in a hot wok. My first bite was unforgettable: the midin was crisp and fresh, perfectly balanced with the fiery kick of chili and the fragrant aroma of garlic. I closed my eyes to savour the moment. The surrounding noise faded away, leaving just me and that vibrant taste. It wasn’t just a vegetable dish. It was a celebration of Kuching’s unique culinary heritage.

📖 About Midin

Midin is a wild jungle fern native to Sarawak, prized for its crunchy texture and earthy flavour. Often stir-fried with garlic, belacan (shrimp paste), or chili, it’s a beloved local delicacy that highlights the freshness and simplicity of Sarawak’s produce.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Top Spot Midin Stall
Renowned for their perfectly cooked midin with just the right amount of heat and flavour.
📍 Location: Kuching Waterfront Food Court
💰 Cost: Around RM8–RM12

Open Air Food Bazaar

A popular evening spot where you can find a variety of authentic Sarawak dishes including delicious midin stir-fry.
📍 Location: Jalan Padungan
💰 Cost: Around RM6–RM10

💡 Pro Tips

• Visit during dinner hours when the midin is freshest and the atmosphere lively.
• Pair your midin with other local favourites like ayam pansuh or manok pucuk ubi (chicken with tapioca shoots).
• Don’t be shy to ask for less or more chili depending on your spice tolerance.

🔥 My First Taste of Umai in Kuching’s Riverside Food Stall

Source: Reddit

I found myself drawn to a small, humble stall along Kuching’s riverside, its simple wooden sign blending into the lively market scene. As I approached, the fresh, tangy aroma of raw fish marinated in lime juice and spices filled the air. Sitting on a plastic stool, I watched the vendor skillfully prepare umai—thinly sliced fresh fish mixed with onions, chillies, and lime. My first bite was a burst of freshness: zesty, spicy, and slightly sweet, with the delicate texture of the fish melting in my mouth. I closed my eyes to fully savour the flavour. The bustling sounds around me faded away, and it was just me and that extraordinary taste. It wasn’t just a dish; it was Kuching’s vibrant food culture in a bowl.

📖 About Umai

Umai is a traditional Melanau dish from Sarawak, similar to ceviche. It features fresh raw fish thinly sliced and marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, chillies, and sometimes herbs. This refreshing dish showcases the local love for fresh seafood and bold flavours.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Umai King
Famous for its authentic and flavourful umai served fresh daily.
📍 Location: Kuching Waterfront Food Court
💰 Cost: Around RM10–RM15

Riverside Umai Stall

A beloved local spot offering umai alongside other Sarawakian favourites.
📍 Location: Kuching Riverside Market
💰 Cost: Around RM8–RM12

💡 Pro Tips

• Go early to get the freshest catch and avoid running out.
• Pair umai with a side of pulut (glutinous rice) to balance the tangy flavours.
• If you prefer less heat, ask for the chilli on the side.

🍽️ My First Taste of Kompia at a Local Bakery in Kuching

Source: Borneo Post Online

I stumbled upon a humble bakery tucked in a quiet street near Kuching’s Chinatown, its sign modest but welcoming amid the morning bustle. As I stepped inside, the warm, freshly baked aroma of kompia—Sarawak’s famous baked buns—enveloped me. Sitting on a small stool, I bit into the kompia, its slightly crispy exterior giving way to a soft, chewy inside. The subtle hint of garlic and light saltiness made each bite addictive. I closed my eyes to savour the moment. The lively chatter faded away, leaving just me and that simple yet satisfying taste. It wasn’t just bread. It was a cherished Sarawakese tradition baked to perfection.

📖 About Kompia

Kompia is a traditional Foochow bun popular in Sarawak, especially Kuching. It’s a round, slightly flattened bun baked until golden, often seasoned with garlic and salt. Sometimes filled with minced meat or simply enjoyed plain, kompia is a beloved snack and breakfast staple in the region.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Kompia House
Known for freshly baked kompia with various fillings and classic garlic flavour.
📍 Location: Kuching Chinatown
💰 Cost: Around RM1.50–RM3 per piece

Sin Joo Heong Bakery

A historic bakery famous for its authentic kompia and other Foochow pastries.
📍 Location: Jalan Carpenter
💰 Cost: Around RM2–RM4 per piece

💡 Pro Tips

• Best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven.
• Pair your kompia with a hot cup of local kopi or teh tarik.
• Try different fillings like minced pork or even sweet red bean for variety.
  

🥥 My First Taste of Tebaloi at a Local Market Stall in Kuching

Source: TasteAtlas

I came across a small stall nestled in Kuching’s bustling weekend market, its modest display filled with neatly stacked, crispy-looking treats. As I approached, the sweet aroma of coconut and palm sugar wafted through the air. Sitting on a nearby bench, I took a bite of tebaloi—a traditional Sarawakian sago cracker topped with grated coconut and gula apong (palm sugar). The cracker was delightfully crunchy, with a perfect balance of sweetness and subtle nuttiness. I closed my eyes to savour the texture and flavours. Around me, the lively market sounds softened, and it was just me and that unique taste—a delicious bite of Sarawak’s heritage.

📖 About Tebaloi

Tebaloi is a traditional Melanau snack from Sarawak made from sago starch, coconut, and palm sugar. These thin, crispy crackers are lightly sweetened and often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. Tebaloi reflects the deep-rooted indigenous culture and local ingredients of the region.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Sibu Tebaloi Stall
Famous for authentic, freshly made tebaloi with just the right sweetness and crunch.
📍 Location: Kuching Weekend Market
💰 Cost: Around RM3–RM5 per pack

Borneo Heritage Souvenir Shop

Offers a variety of traditional Sarawak snacks including tebaloi, perfect for gifts.
📍 Location: Kuching Waterfront
💰 Cost: Around RM5–RM8 per pack

💡 Pro Tips

• Best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness.
• Pair your tebaloi with a cup of local tea or kopi for a perfect snack time.
  

🍲 My First Taste of Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng at a Kuching Hawker Stall

Source: YouTube

I stumbled upon a bustling hawker stall tucked away in one of Kuching’s lively morning markets, its simple sign almost hidden among the crowd of locals grabbing breakfast. As I approached, the fragrant aroma of coconut rice and crispy fried chicken filled the air. Sitting on a plastic stool, I watched as the vendor plated a generous serving of nasi lemak topped with golden, crunchy ayam goreng. My first bite was pure comfort—the fragrant rice, spicy sambal, crunchy peanuts, and perfectly seasoned chicken all came together in perfect harmony. I closed my eyes to fully appreciate the layers of flavour. The lively market sounds faded, and it was just me and that plate. It wasn’t just a meal. It was a heartwarming taste of Malaysian breakfast culture in Kuching.

📖 About Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng

Nasi lemak is Malaysia’s iconic dish, beloved nationwide and especially popular in Kuching. The fragrant coconut milk-infused rice is served with spicy sambal, crunchy peanuts, boiled egg, and often accompanied by crispy fried chicken (ayam goreng). It’s a hearty, flavourful meal enjoyed any time of the day.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Medan Selera Satok
A famous food court known for its variety of local Malaysian dishes including excellent nasi lemak ayam goreng.
📍 Location: Jalan Satok, Kuching
💰 Cost: Around RM6–RM10

Sin Chow Food Centre

Popular among locals for delicious and affordable nasi lemak ayam goreng and other breakfast staples.
📍 Location: Jalan Padungan, Kuching
💰 Cost: Aroun RM5–RM9

💡 Pro Tips

• Come early for the freshest ayam goreng and to beat the breakfast rush.
• Add extra sambal if you like it spicy, but try it first to enjoy the balanced flavours.
• Pair your meal with a cup of kopi or teh tarik for the full Malaysian experience.

🥢 My First Taste of Kueh Chap at a Local Kuching Food Stall

Source: Malay Mall

I stumbled upon a busy food stall tucked inside a lively market in Kuching, its simple sign barely visible behind a crowd of locals lining up for their favourite meal. As I approached, the rich aroma of herbal broth and spices greeted me warmly. I took a seat on a plastic stool, watching the vendor skillfully ladle steaming kueh chap—a comforting bowl of flat rice noodles and assorted pork cuts in a dark, aromatic broth. My first spoonful was a heartwarming blend of flavours—the savoury broth, tender pork, and the subtle hints of star anise and cinnamon. I closed my eyes to truly savour the taste. The noisy market faded away, leaving just me and that bowl of soul-soothing goodness. It wasn’t just food. It was Kuching’s culinary heritage served in a bowl.

📖 About Kueh Chap

Kueh chap is a traditional Teochew dish popular in Sarawak, especially Kuching. It consists of flat rice noodles served in a rich, spiced herbal broth with various pork parts like intestines, skin, and tofu. This hearty dish reflects the multicultural influences and unique flavours of Kuching’s food scene.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Kueh Chap Seng Kee
Famous for its rich broth and generous portions of pork cuts.
📍 Location: Jalan Padungan, Kuching
💰 Cost: Around RM7–RM12

Kuching Food Centre

Popular spot for affordable and authentic kueh chap among locals.
📍 Location: Jalan Satok, Kuching
💰 Cost: Around RM6–RM10

💡 Pro Tips

• Try adding a dash of chilli and some fresh coriander to enhance the flavour.
• Pair your bowl with crispy fried dough sticks (youtiao) for added texture.
• Visit during lunch or dinner hours when the broth is freshest and piping hot.

🍲 My First Taste of Kampua Mee at a Local Kuching Food Stall

Source: Dreamstime.com

I found myself at a modest roadside stall in Kuching, its unassuming sign almost hidden by the morning rush of locals. As I approached, the aroma of freshly boiled noodles and fragrant shallots filled the air. I took a seat on a plastic stool and watched the vendor expertly toss a bowl of kampua mee—simple yet delicious hand-tossed noodles mixed with pork lard, spring onions, and a splash of light soy sauce. My first bite was a perfect balance of savoury and slightly oily goodness, the noodles springy and satisfying. I closed my eyes to truly savour the flavour. The bustling sounds around me softened, leaving just me and that bowl of comfort. It wasn’t just a meal—it was a taste of Kuching’s rich culinary heritage.

📖 About Kampua Mee

Kampua mee is a traditional Foochow noodle dish popular in Sarawak, especially Kuching. It features plain boiled noodles tossed with pork lard, soy sauce, and garnished with chopped spring onions. It’s a simple but beloved comfort food that showcases the region’s cultural roots.

🍴 Best Places to Try It

Kampua Mee Chong Choon
Known for its authentic kampua mee with perfect texture and flavour.
📍 Location: Jalan Padungan, Kuching
💰 Cost: Around RM4–RM7

Kampua Mee Hock Lee

A local favourite for hearty and affordable kampua mee.
📍 Location: Jalan Song, Kuching
💰 Cost: Around RM3.50–RM6

💡 Pro Tips

• Enjoy your kampua mee with a side of homemade chili sauce for a spicy kick.
• Pair it with a cup of traditional kopi or teh tarik for the full experience.
• Try the dry or soup version depending on your preference—both are delicious!

Discover Kuching’s Unforgettable Food Journey

After exploring Kuching’s lively food markets, cosy kopitiams, and beloved hawker stalls, I can confidently say—this city is a true paradise for food lovers. From fragrant Sarawak laksa simmering in rich, spicy broth to the smoky aroma of ayam pansuh cooked slowly in bamboo, every bite in Kuching tells a story of heritage, flavour, and heart.

Whether you’re craving the comforting taste of kampua mee or eager to try unique local treats like midin fern stir-fry, Kuching offers a culinary adventure that’s as diverse as it is delicious. Planning your trip? Find the best places to stay near popular food spots like Satok Market, Kuching Waterfront, or Jalan Padungan. Trip.com has everything you need—from curated guides to insider tips on where to eat like a local.

Ready to dive into the bold, the traditional, and everything in between? Whether it’s your first visit or a return journey, Kuching’s vibrant food scene always promises new flavours to discover. So bring your appetite—and your sense of adventure—and get ready to taste Kuching, one unforgettable dish at a time.

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