East Malaysia is home to a rich mix of flavours and stories. From cherished hand-down recipes and heritage dishes to homegrown brands that have grown alongside communities, Sabah and Sarawak are filled with local food gems worth celebrating.
Through the latest phase of its “Wajib Try Ni!” campaign, foodpanda Malaysia is putting the spotlight on these everyday culinary heroes. Here are some of Sabah and Sarawak’s local legends that continue to bring people together through good food, one memorable meal at a time.
A Taste of Sabah’s Local Favourites
SugarBun
For many East Malaysians, SugarBun isn’t just a restaurant — it is part of growing up. Established in 1979, long before many international fast-food chains became commonplace in the region, the brand became a familiar part of family outings, after-school treats and childhood memories.
While its famous Broasted Chicken and Savoury Rice remain favourites across generations, SugarBun continues to celebrate its Borneo roots through localised delicacies such as Laksa Sarawak and Kolo Mee, making it a uniquely East Malaysian dining experience.
Wajib Try: Broasted Chicken and Savoury Rice.
Teck Kee Restaurant
Sometimes, the best meals come from places that quietly become part of everyday life. Inspired by Sabah’s traditional coffee shop culture, Teck Kee has built a loyal following through affordable comfort food, generous portions and dishes packed with signature wok-hei flavours.
Whether it’s a family dinner, a quick lunch with colleagues or a late-night supper with friends, Teck Kee continues to be a staple favourite for locals seeking familiar, satisfying flavours.
Wajib Try: Teck Kee Fried Rice, Hokkien Mee and Tom Yum Soup Noodles.
A1 Chicken Rice
What began as a small business operating from the corner of another retailer’s shop has grown into a homegrown brand with six standalone outlets across Kota Kinabalu. Beyond its signature chicken rice, the brand is also known for dishes like Curry Chicken Rice, Crispy Garlic Roasted Chicken Rice and its distinctive Muslim-friendly Roasted Duck Mee, while its A1 Kids Chicky Meal earned a place in the Malaysia Book of Records.
By combining familiar flavours for local taste buds, A1 Chicken Rice has carved out its own place in Sabah’s food scene, becoming a go-to spot for families and food lovers looking for something a little different.
Wajib Try: A1 Signature Roasted Chicken Rice, Muslim-friendly Roasted Duck Mee and signature chicken rice dishes.
Sarawak’s Food Stories
Pak Amit Cafe
Pak Amit Cafe is a great place to start exploring Sarawak’s most beloved dishes in one place. Known for serving local favourites such as Laksa Sarawak, Mee Kolok, Ayam Penyet and Mee Jawa, the restaurant has become a destination for both visitors and locals seeking authentic Sarawak flavours.
With a menu that celebrates the state’s rich food heritage, Pak Amit Cafe continues to showcase the dishes that have shaped generations of Sarawakian dining traditions.
Wajib Try: Laksa Sarawak, Mee Kolok and Nasi Goreng Ikan Terubok Masin.
Sharing Planet
Since opening its doors in Kuching in 2004, Sharing Planet has been built around a simple belief: good food is best enjoyed together. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and western comfort food, the restaurant has become a favourite venue for family celebrations, catch-ups and everyday meals shared with loved ones.
From a single café to a growing homegrown brand, Sharing Planet continues to live up to its name by creating spaces where memories are made around the dining table.
Wajib Try: Chicken Chop and signature western favourites.
MekDons
When the sun goes down in Miri, MekDons comes alive. Starting as a roadside burger business, MekDons has evolved into one of the city’s most recognisable street-food brands, popular among students, young professionals and late-night supper crowds.
Known for its bold flavours, viral food creations and lively atmosphere, MekDons captures the energy of Miri’s modern food culture, where good food, good company and late-night conversations go hand in hand.
Wajib Try: Signature burgers and crowd-favourite street food creations.
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