Best Food In Labuan: A Culinary Journey

Labuan is a small Malaysian island that boasts of beautiful beaches, a rich history, and a vibrant culture. One of the best ways to experience Labuan’s culture is through its food. From street food to fine dining, Labuan offers a unique culinary experience that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we will take you on a gastronomical journey through the best food in Labuan.

Why Labuan’s Cuisine is a Must-Try

Labuan’s cuisine is a combination of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences. The island’s history as a trading post has contributed to the diverse culinary scene. The use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and bold flavors is what makes Labuan’s cuisine unique. Whether you’re a foodie or not, you will surely enjoy the gastronomic adventure that Labuan has to offer.

The Best Time to Visit Labuan

The best time to visit Labuan is between January and August. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, making it the perfect time to explore the island and indulge in its delightful cuisine.

The Best Food in Labuan

If you’re wondering what to eat in Labuan, here are the top dishes you should try:

Nasi Lemak 🍛
Prawn Mee 🍤
Roti Canai 🍞
Laksa 🍜
Satay 🍢
Fish Head Curry 🐟
Grilled Fish 🐠
Claypot Chicken Rice 🍲
Seafood Tom Yam Soup 🍲
Fried Kuey Teow 🍜
Banana Fritters 🍌
Cendol 🍧
Teh Tarik ☕

Nasi Lemak 🍛

Nasi Lemak is a popular Malaysian dish that has become a staple in Labuan’s cuisine. It consists of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, served with sambal, fried anchovies, cucumber, and a boiled egg. It is a perfect breakfast dish that is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Prawn Mee 🍤

Prawn Mee is another must-try dish in Labuan. It is a noodle soup made with prawn stock, yellow noodles, bean sprouts, and slices of pork or chicken. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the prawns add a sweet and savory taste to the dish.

Roti Canai 🍞

Roti Canai is a popular Indian-influenced dish that can be found all over Malaysia, including Labuan. It is a flatbread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, served with a curry dipping sauce. It is a perfect snack or breakfast dish and is often eaten with a side of dhal or chicken curry.

Laksa 🍜

Laksa is a spicy noodle soup that is popular in Malaysia and Singapore. The soup is made with a blend of spices, coconut milk, shrimp paste, and tamarind juice. It is served with noodles, cucumber, mint, and other vegetables, topped with prawns or chicken. The spicy and tangy soup is a perfect dish for those who love bold flavors.

Satay 🍢

Satay is a popular dish in Malaysia that consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually beef or chicken. The meat is marinated in a blend of spices and served with a peanut dipping sauce. It is a perfect snack or appetizer and is often served at street food stalls and night markets.

Fish Head Curry 🐟

Fish Head Curry is a popular dish in Malaysia that originated from the Indian community. The curry is made with fish head, okra, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, served with rice or bread. The dish is known for its spicy and tangy flavor and is a perfect lunch or dinner dish.

Grilled Fish 🐠

Grilled fish is a must-try dish in Labuan, where fresh fish is readily available. The fish is marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, served with a side of rice or vegetables. The dish is simple yet flavorful, and the freshness of the fish is what makes it stand out.

Claypot Chicken Rice 🍲

Claypot Chicken Rice is a popular Chinese-influenced dish that is loved by locals in Labuan. The rice is cooked in a clay pot with chicken, mushrooms, and Chinese sausage, served with a side of vegetables. The dish has a smoky flavor and is often topped with a generous amount of soy sauce.

Seafood Tom Yam Soup 🍲

Tom Yam Soup is a popular soup in Thailand and Malaysia that is known for its spicy and sour flavor. The soup is made with a blend of spices, lemongrass, lime juice, and seafood. It is a perfect dish for those who love bold flavors and is often served with a side of rice.

Fried Kuey Teow 🍜

Fried Kuey Teow is a popular noodle dish in Malaysia that is often found in street food stalls. It is made with flat rice noodles stir-fried with soy sauce, egg, bean sprouts, and seafood or meat. The dish is smoky and flavorful, and the chewy noodles add a nice texture to the dish.

Banana Fritters 🍌

Banana Fritters are a popular snack in Malaysia that is made with ripe bananas coated in batter and deep-fried until crispy. The fritters are sweet and crunchy, and often served with a side of condensed milk or honey.

Cendol 🍧

Cendol is a popular dessert in Malaysia that consists of shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and green jelly noodles made from rice flour. The dessert is sweet and refreshing, and perfect for a hot day in Labuan.

Teh Tarik ☕

Teh Tarik is a popular Malaysian drink that is made with black tea and condensed milk. The tea is poured back and forth between two cups to create a frothy texture and a smooth taste. It is a perfect drink to accompany your meal or to enjoy as a snack.

Top Places to Eat in Labuan

Now that you know what to eat in Labuan, here are the top places to try out:

Labuan Central Market

The Labuan Central Market is the perfect place to try out street food in Labuan. From Nasi Lemak to Roti Canai, you can find a variety of dishes that are affordable and delicious. The market is open daily from morning until evening and is a popular spot for locals and tourists.

Anjung Ketam

Anjung Ketam is a seafood restaurant that is located by the sea, offering a breathtaking view of the ocean. The restaurant serves a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including Grilled Fish and Prawn Mee. It is a perfect place to enjoy a seafood dinner with friends and family.

Ocean Restaurant

Ocean Restaurant is a fine-dining restaurant that offers a unique dining experience in Labuan. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including Claypot Chicken Rice and Seafood Tom Yam Soup. The ambiance of the restaurant is elegant and sophisticated, perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best time to visit Labuan for its food?

A: The best time to visit Labuan for its food is between January and August, when the weather is dry and sunny.

Q: What is the most popular food in Labuan?

A: The most popular food in Labuan is Nasi Lemak, a fragrant rice dish served with sambal, fried anchovies, cucumber, and a boiled egg.

Q: What is the best seafood restaurant in Labuan?

A: Anjung Ketam is the best seafood restaurant in Labuan, offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes by the sea.

Q: What is the best place to try out street food in Labuan?

A: The Labuan Central Market is the best place to try out street food in Labuan, offering a variety of dishes at affordable prices.

Q: What is the best place to enjoy a fine dining experience in Labuan?