Malaysian Borneo Sarawak, Malaysia
Rice serves as a staple in almost every meal. Fresh seafood, various meats, and local vegetables frequently appear.
Spices like chilies, ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal form aromatic bases. Belacan (shrimp paste) imparts deep umami, and coconut milk adds richness.
Sarawakian cuisine distinctively features dishes like Sarawak Laksa, Kolo Mee, and Midin, defining the regional culinary identity.
Breakfast typically light, lunch substantial between 12-2 PM, and dinner from 6 PM onwards, with hawker centers open late.
N/A
This complex noodle soup features a rich, coconut milk-based broth, topped with prawns, shredded chicken, and omelet strips.
Find it in most kopitiams and hawker centers across Miri.
Dry noodles tossed in a light sauce, often with pork lard or char siu sauce, topped with minced pork and char siu slices.
Many local coffee shops specialize in this dish.
A popular local jungle fern stir-fried with shrimp paste, garlic, and chilies; a tasty side dish.
Look for it at local restaurants.
Try Teh C Peng (3-layer tea), Kopi O (black coffee), and freshly squeezed fruit juices from local fruits like pineapple and watermelon.
Sarawak Layer Cake (Kek Lapis Sarawak), Pisang Goreng (fried bananas), and Cendol (shaved ice dessert) are widely enjoyed.
Miri presents a range of dining experiences, from high-end establishments to street food markets. Your choice aligns with your budget and desire for local flavor.
Limited fine dining spots, mainly in upscale hotels like Pullman Miri Waterfront. International and modern local dishes in formal settings.
Many options citywide offering local Sarawakian, Malaysian, Chinese, and Western cuisine. Comfortable dining environments.
Authentic and affordable local food. Best places are hawker centers and local markets for eating.
While mainly a fresh produce market, it also has a food court section with local snacks and ready-to-eat items.
N/A
Locations vary by day of the week; excellent for experiencing local life and trying diverse snacks.
N/A
Restaurants offering Korean cuisine are growing.
Options include pizza, burgers, and pasta dishes.
Sushi and other Japanese dishes are available.
Various other Asian culinary choices also exist.
Miri has dining options for various dietary requirements, though clear communication greatly assists.
Finding strictly gluten-free food can be challenging. Many Malaysian dishes use soy sauce, typically wheat-based.
Noodles and some fried items also contain wheat.
Learning phrases like "tiada gandum" (no wheat) or "tiada kicap soya" (no soy sauce) proves useful.
For severe allergies, carry an allergy card translated into Bahasa Malaysia.
If you have severe allergies to nuts, seafood, or other ingredients, be very clear when ordering food.
Online forums and local expat groups often share recommendations for restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs.
Beyond simply eating, Miri presents opportunities to engage more deeply with its culinary traditions and understand local culture.
Some local operators or cultural organizations may offer workshops on traditional crafts.
Some local operators might offer cooking classes focused on Sarawakian or Malaysian cuisine.
Miri has fewer formally structured food tours, but local guides can arrange personalized tours.
Miri occasionally hosts food festivals, often coinciding with public holidays, offering diverse local dishes.
Check local event listings for schedules.
Several restaurants specialize in fresh seafood; choose live items and have chefs prepare them to your preference.
This presents a fresh and personalized dining experience.
Join a personalized food tour if available. A local guide assists in discovering hidden gems and authentic flavors.
If traveling during Gawai Dayak (early June), seek opportunities to witness celebrations and special festive foods.
Palm oil or pepper farm visits offer insight into Sarawak’s agricultural economy and culinary landscape.
Check local event listings or the Sarawak Tourism Board website for any scheduled food events.
Visiting a pasar malam (night market) presents a quintessential Malaysian dining experience with diverse flavors.
