Brunei
Rice is a staple food, often with curries, grilled meats, and fresh vegetables. Islamic dietary laws (Halal) are strictly observed throughout the country. No pork is sold or served, and alcohol is not publicly available.
Common ingredients include rice, coconut milk, chili, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, galangal, and belacan (shrimp paste). Dishes balance spicy, savory, and sometimes sweet notes.
All public restaurants are Halal. Pork and alcohol are not served publicly. Respect this practice.
Some traditional Malay dishes are eaten with the right hand. Always use your right hand if eating by hand. Dishes are commonly shared.
Casual attire is generally acceptable. Modest dress is respectful, especially in local eateries. Avoid overly revealing clothing.
Brunei's national dish. A starchy, sago-based bland paste eaten with 'cacah' sauces and side dishes.
Find in local restaurants and food courts.
Plain rice with fried chicken and sambal. A simple, popular, and affordable dish.
Widely available, especially at roadside stalls and small eateries.
Traditional Bruneian cookies, often made with sago flour, coconut milk, and sugar. A sweet snack.
Commonly found in markets or specialty snack shops.
Glutinous rice steamed in long palm leaves, a soft and chewy snack.
A spicy noodle soup, differing from Malaysian or Singaporean laksa, with a richer broth.
Mainly found within luxury hotels like The Empire Brunei (Atrium Cafe, Pantai Restaurant) and The Rizqun International Hotel. International cuisine and elevated local dishes are available for special occasions.
Numerous options across Bandar Seri Begawan, especially in Gadong, Kiulap, and around the city center. A mix of local Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western cuisines are available.
Gadong Night Market is essential for affordable street food. Food courts in malls (The Mall, Yayasan Complex) offer various options. Small "Kedai Makan" serve inexpensive local dishes.
Operates daily in the evenings. Place for prepared food, fresh produce, and household goods.
Authentic and affordable street food experience.
A daytime market selling fresh produce, fish, and some prepared food stalls.
Offers a glimpse into local commerce.
Widely available.
Also commonly found.
Available in malls and mid to fine dining.
Plenty of options if you desire different tastes.
Always confirm ingredients for vegetarian adaptation, as shrimp paste (belacan) is common.
Clearly communicate your needs.
Kosher food is not readily available. Travelers requiring Kosher should bring their own sealed foods.
Rice-based dishes are generally gluten-free, but sauces may hide gluten.
Penyaram: Traditional donut-like snack. Kek Lapis: Layered cakes, rich and colorful, for special occasions.
During Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr), special dishes and cakes are prepared.
Always carry small denominations of Bruneian dollars (BND) for local markets and small eateries.
