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5 Unmissable Cafes in Kota Kinabalu

Siaw Ming Zhe
Siaw Ming Zhe
October 18, 2023
5 Unmissable Cafes in Kota Kinabalu

Hey there, cafe enthusiasts and coffee lovers! We know you enjoyed our previous article about five awesome cafes in Kota Kinabalu. Well, here we are again, ready to take you on another cafe-hopping adventure in this wonderful city.

Kota Kinabalu’s cafe scene is buzzing with life. New places have popped up, each with its unique style, delicious food, and, of course, perfect spots for your Instagram feed. We’re here to make sure you don’t miss out on these hotspots.

Whether you’re a hardcore coffee drinker, a dessert fanatic, or just someone who enjoys a cozy cafe, we sure got something for you. These cafes that we going to recommend today don’t just serve good coffee; they also whip up mouthwatering dishes to satisfy your cravings.

What’s even better is that this is only the beginning. There’s always something new around the corner in the world of cafes. We’re on a mission to explore the best that Kota Kinabalu has to offer. So, let’s jump right into our list of five cafes that have everyone talking. These places aren’t just about the coffee; they’ve got unique vibes and delicious food. Stick around as we dive into Kota Kinabalu’s ever-evolving cafe culture.

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Photo Credit: Bibi Lu

Let’s kick off our cafe tour with a place that’s making waves among coffee aficionados. We’re talking about The Well. This unassuming gem has been creating quite a buzz, and it’s not just because of its coffee – it’s because of the special touches they put into every cup.

When it comes to coffee, The Well has perfected the art. Their Cappuccino with orange zest is a testament to their creativity. It’s not your usual coffee experience; it’s a delightful journey for your taste buds. If you prefer something more straightforward, their Americano is perfectly balanced, steering clear of the extremes of acidity or bitterness.

While coffee is their mainstay, The Well also takes care of your food cravings. Their menu seamlessly blends Eastern and Western cuisine, offering dishes like Penang Laksa and a variety of Western dishes.

The atmosphere is clean and neat, with dimmed lighting that creates a cozy ambiance. This makes it an ideal spot for both meetups with friends and catching up on work with free Wi-Fi. If you’re in Kota Kinabalu, The Well is a place you don’t want to miss – a coffee haven with a menu that caters to all tastes.

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Photo Credit: Daniel Murugan

The Moment Cafe is the place where you’ll find not only generous servings but a delightful variety of dishes to satisfy your cravings. The food might lean on the slightly pricey side, but rest assured, you’re getting more than your money’s worth. The portions are massive, and even the heartiest eaters among us might find themselves challenged to finish. For those with smaller appetites, consider sharing with a friend to make the most of your visit.

The Moment Cafe’s menu is a tantalizing fusion of Asian and Western cuisine, with a strong inclination toward Japanese flavors. From hearty rice bowls to delectable small bites, the array of options is guaranteed to leave you spoiled for choice. What makes The Moment Cafe even more special is its inviting atmosphere. You can opt for a beverage or snack and sit on the balcony, taking in the lively street views.

A must-try dish here is the Ultimate Chicken Karage Rice Bowl 2.0. The chicken is fried to crispy perfection, and the portion is so generous that it will leave you seriously impressed. The eel sauce and other ingredients come together beautifully to create a truly satisfying dish.

If you’re a senior, you’re in for a treat – free coffee or tea comes with any main course purchase. Students also get to enjoy discounts. At The Moment Cafe, they’ve found the perfect recipe for both satisfying your appetite and saving a little extra.

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Photo Credit: David Lo

Owned by the same folks as Hyphen downstairs, Whitebird takes the café experience to the sweeter side of life. Seating might be a bit of a challenge, especially on weekends when folks flock in, but the wait is absolutely worth it. White Bird is a café that falls slightly on the higher end when it comes to pricing, but they truly deliver in terms of atmosphere. The ambient lighting and overall decor make it an ideal spot for that perfect Instagram snap. Indeed, every corner here is Instagrammable!

Where Whitebird truly shines is in their desserts. Their array of sweet creations, including cakes and petite gateaux, is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Each dessert is a work of art, showcasing their dedication to creativity and quality.

But here’s the fun part: Whitebird may be the name upstairs, but you can also order from the menu at Hyphen downstairs. So if you’re looking for something heartier to go along with your sweet indulgence, they’ve got you covered.

In a nutshell, Whitebird is where sweet dreams meet culinary artistry, creating an experience you’ll cherish. So, get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave with a memory worth savoring!

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Once located in Foh Sang, Eulogeo Cafe moved to a fresh spot a few months ago. Now, you’ll find it nestled close to Shern En Methodist Church. This relocation has given Eulogeo a larger, brighter, and more spacious vibe, with fantastic natural light pouring in, making it an excellent setting for gathering with friends or getting some work done.

If you’re a fan of beef, you’re in for a treat here. The Shaky Beef is a must-order, showcasing their prowess in beefy creations. The portion sizes here are just right – not too small and not overwhelmingly large. It’s all about that Goldilocks zone.

When it comes to pricing, Eulogeo Cafe strikes a balance. You’ll find the average cost per person to be around RM20, which, considering the quality and taste, is more than reasonable. After your meal, consider strolling over to the adjacent bookstore to discover your next literary adventure.

Eulogeo Cafe brings together a pleasant atmosphere, great food, and an inviting space to catch up with friends or focus on your tasks. It’s another gem in the city’s burgeoning café scene, perfect for those who seek a little extra space and light in their café experience.

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Photo Credit: Olumis Life

NANA DESSERT CAFE is a sweet haven for fans of Korean-style desserts, especially their renowned Bingsu treats. This spot is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth looking for a delightful, icy indulgence.

When it comes to Bingsu, their Classic Injeolmi Bingsu and Matcha Injeolmi Pat Bingsu are absolute winners. The flavors are intense and delightful, but remember that the sweetness might catch up with you. Sharing is caring, so consider indulging with friends, or if you have a sweet tooth, go ahead and enjoy it all by yourself.

Beyond Bingsu, NANA offers mouthwatering toasts and a scrumptious Matcha Pistachio cake that’s worth exploring. Their minimalist interior design and the neat and tidy ambiance provide the ideal backdrop for your sweet escapades. It’s a picturesque spot, both indoors and outdoors, making it a fantastic place to capture memories on your camera.

Keep in mind that like many popular places, weekends tend to get a bit crowded. So, if you plan to drop by on a weekend afternoon, be prepared for a slight wait. NANA DESSERT CAFE offers a delicious journey into Korean-style sweets, and it’s another excellent addition to Kota Kinabalu’s vibrant café scene.

Conclusion

These five cafes provide a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of coffee, delectable pastries, or Korean desserts, Kota Kinabalu has a café to suit your desires. These are just a handful of the many unique and inviting cafes you can explore in this beautiful city.

As you embark on your café-hopping adventure in Kota Kinabalu, don’t forget to bring your friends and family along to share these delightful moments. And, of course, keep your camera ready to capture the remarkable memories you’ll create.

So, venture out and explore these cozy cafés. Each one has something special to offer, ensuring that your time in Kota Kinabalu is not only about great food and drinks but also unforgettable experiences.

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