When it comes to food in Sabah, one thing every traveler must try is dining at a seafood restaurant in Kota Kinabalu. After all, KK is not only the capital of Sabah and a gateway to Borneo, but it is also famous for serving some of the freshest seafood in Malaysia. Since Kota Kinabalu sits right on the coast of the South China Sea, many seafood dishes come directly from the local catch, which in turn helps keep the quality exceptionally high. Furthermore, for many local restaurants and seafood markets, prices in KK are often more affordable than equivalent offerings in Kuala Lumpur, especially when it comes to fresh, live seafood and casual dining spots. On the other hand, for premium seafood options, prices can narrow the gap or even exceed those in major cities. Nevertheless, from chili crabs to butter prawns, and from grilled squid to lobster feasts, there’s truly something for every seafood lover. With this in mind, in this guide we’ll explore the top 10 seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu, including tourist favorites, local hidden gems, seafood buffets, and even luxury dining options by the sea.

Why Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu is a Must-Try

Fresh Sabah Seafood from the South China Sea

Kota Kinabalu sits right on the coast, so seafood is delivered daily by local fishermen. This ensures that crabs, prawns, clams, and lobsters are at their peak freshness when they arrive at your table.

Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu is Affordable Compared to KL & Singapore

Lobster in KK – To begin with, lobsters are commonly priced around RM40–RM80 per kg in markets and mid-range restaurants. However, premium lobsters in upscale spots may cost more.

Mud Crab in KK – In addition, mud crabs are typically priced between RM30–RM60 per kg, depending on their size and type.

Overall Affordability – Moreover, seafood in KK is generally cheaper than in Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, especially when you buy from markets or dine at casual seafood restaurants.

Restaurant Factor – On the other hand, upscale seafood restaurants may charge higher prices. Even so, the cost is still often below what you would expect in bigger cities.

Cooking Styles Every Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

Every seafood restaurant at Kota Kinabalu offers unique Sabah-style dishes, such as:

• Butter prawns (crispy, creamy, and sweet)
• Salted egg yolk crab
• Sabah chili crab with fried mantou buns
• Steamed fish with ginger & soy sauce
• BBQ squid and clams

Top 10 Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu You Must Try

1. Welcome Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu – A Tourist Favorite

> Ask any local or tourist about seafood in KK, and you’ll hear Welcome Seafood Restaurant mentioned again and again. Located in Asia City, this lively restaurant is always buzzing with diners.

Ambience & Dining Experience

This is a casual, no-frills seafood hall with tanks filled with fresh crabs, prawns, lobsters, and fish. You pick your seafood, choose how you’d like it cooked, and enjoy it fresh from the kitchen.

Must-Try Dishes at Welcome Seafood

• Butter prawns – their most famous dish
• Steamed garoupa with soy & ginger
• Salted egg yolk crab
• Sabah chili clams

Price & Value

Meals average RM60–RM120 per person, making it one of the best-value seafood restaurants at Kota Kinabalu.

Insider Tips

• Arrive before 7pm to avoid waiting in line.
• Perfect for families and groups.

2. Gayang Seafood Restaurant – Fresh Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu by the Sea

> Located slightly outside the city, Gayang Seafood Restaurant offers an authentic Sabah seafood dining experience by the water.

Ambience & Dining Experience in Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

This restaurant is open-air and seaside, with rows of live tanks. It’s especially popular at sunset.

Must-Try Dishes at Gayang

• Sabah chili crab with fried mantou buns
• Kam Heong clams (stir-fried with curry leaves)
• Steamed lobster with garlic

Price & Value in every Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

At Gayang Seafood Restaurant (Tuaran / Sulaman), meals typically cost between RM40–RM100 per person depending on how much seafood and premium items you order.

Insider Tips

• Best enjoyed during sunset.
• Great for couples and tour groups.

3. Salut Seafood Restaurant – Hidden Gem for Sabah Seafood Lovers

> For those who want a more local and authentic experience, Salut Seafood Restaurant near Salut Bay is a must-visit.

Ambience & Dining Experience

A rustic restaurant by the mangroves, perfect for escaping tourist crowds.

Must-Try Dishes at Salut

• BBQ prawns with smoky flavors
• Grilled squid with sambal
• Creamy butter crab

Price & Value in every Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

At Salut Seafood Restaurant, a typical seafood meal costs around RM 35-RM 60 per person, depending on the seafood selection. For larger or premium orders, the cost can go above that amount.

Insider Tips

• Best visited for dinner after sightseeing in Tuaran.
• A favorite among locals.

4. Fish Market Seafood Buffet in Kota Kinabalu – Eat All You Can

> For travelers who want variety, Fish Market Restaurant is the go-to seafood buffet at Kota Kinabalu.

Ambience & Dining Experience Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

A modern, spacious restaurant with buffet counters and live cooking stations.

Must-Try Buffet Highlights

• Fresh oyster platters
• Grilled tiger prawns
• Sabah-style seafood soup

Price & Value in every Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

At Fish Market Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu, the price per person typically ranges from RM 35-RM 80 for regular seafood orders. For special set menus or premium seafood feasts, expect to spend RM 100-RM 160+ per person.

Insider Tips

• Ideal for big eaters.
• Dinner service offers the best selection.

5. Ocean Seafood Village – Premium Seafood Restaurant in KK

> For upscale dining, Ocean Seafood Village is a stylish option offering premium seafood in Kota Kinabalu.

Ambience & Dining Experience

Elegant interiors with private dining rooms and excellent service.

Must-Try Dishes at Ocean Village

• Abalone specialties
• Baked cheese scallops
• Steamed lobster with XO sauce

Price & Value

• For standard seafood meals at Ocean Seafood Village, expect to spend RM30-RM80 per person.

• If you order premium seafood or large portions, your cost may rise to about RM120-RM150+ per person.

Insider Tips

• Ideal for special occasions and business dinners.
• Reserve in advance.

6. Suang Tain Seafood – Classic Sabah Seafood Experience

> A longstanding favorite, Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant has been serving Sabah seafood for decades.

Ambience & Dining Experience Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

Casual setting with fresh seafood tanks on display.

Must-Try Dishes at Suang Tain

• Sabah butter prawns
• Steamed fish with ginger
• Black pepper crab

Price & Value in every Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

While Suang Tain is generally considered one of the more affordable seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu, the price per person usually ranges between RM30–RM60 for standard meals. However, when diners opt for premium seafood such as lobster, grouper, or crab, the cost can easily rise to RM70–RM120 per person.

Insider Tips

• Known for consistent flavors.
• Great for family dining.

7. Sembulan Seafood Restaurant – Cheap & Fresh Seafood in Kota Kinabalu

> If you want affordable seafood, Sembulan Seafood Restaurant is a local gem.

Ambience & Dining Experience Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

Simple, fuss-free dining with an emphasis on freshness.

Must-Try Dishes at Sembulan

• Grilled fish
• Salted egg squid
• Sabah-style chili prawns

Price & Value in every Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

At Sembulan Lobster Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu, most seafood meals cost about RM25-RM50 per person for regular dishes. If you order premium seafood items or share multiple dishes, the cost can reach RM60 or more per person.

Insider Tips

• Best for budget travelers.
• Go early for the freshest picks.

8. Port View Seafood Village – Seafood with Waterfront Views in KK

> For a romantic dinner by the sea, Port View Seafood Village is a great choice.

Ambience & Dining Experience Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

Located on the waterfront, offering open-air dining with ocean views.

Must-Try Dishes at Port View

• Garlic butter lobster
• BBQ prawns
• Clams with ginger

Price & Value

• Meals average RM100–RM150 per person.

• However, for simpler seafood choices or smaller portions, the cost can be significantly lower.

Insider Tips

• Go at sunset for stunning views.
• Perfect for couples.

9. Kota Kinabalu Night Market – Budget-Friendly Seafood Feast

> For a street food experience, the Kota Kinabalu Night Market is unbeatable.

Ambience & Dining Experience Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

Bustling, smoky, and vibrant, with open grills and seafood stalls.

Must-Try Street Seafood

• Grilled fish with sambal
• BBQ squid skewers
• Tiger prawns

Price & Value in every Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

• At KK Night Market, many seafood meals cost under RM40 per person, especially for simpler dishes like grilled fish, squid, or small mixed seafood sets.

• When ordering larger or premium seafood items, expect to pay more than RM40.

• Night markets offer great value for those who enjoy variety and don’t need large portions or luxury items.

Insider Tips

• Great for backpackers.
• Expect a local, lively atmosphere.

10. Shangri-La’s Sunset Bar – Luxury Seafood Dining in Kota Kinabalu

> For a high-end seafood dinner, head to Shangri-La’s Sunset Bar & Grill.

Ambience & Dining Experience Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu

Luxury dining with a breathtaking ocean sunset view.

Must-Try Dishes at Shangri-La

• Grilled lobster platters
• Seafood and champagne pairing
• Fresh oyster bar

Price & Value

At Sunset Bar at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru, standard food and drinks can cost around RM35 per person, but if you opt for premium packages (good sunset views, cocktails, upscale snacks or seating), the total spend can easily reach RM150-RM250+ per person.

Insider Tips

• Perfect for honeymooners and special occasions.
• Book in advance.

Best Seafood Restaurant at Kota Kinabalu Awaits You

Dining at a seafood restaurant in Kota Kinabalu is undoubtedly one of the highlights of visiting Sabah. To begin with, whether you prefer budget-friendly night markets, classic local favorites, or luxury dining experiences, KK truly has something for everyone. Moreover, from butter prawns to chili crabs, and from steamed lobsters to grilled squid, the choices are endless. As a result, the best seafood restaurants in Kota Kinabalu not only satisfy your appetite but also guarantee a feast you’ll remember forever.