In our last article, we uncovered some of the finest steamboat spots in the bustling heart of Kuala Lumpur. This trend isn't just exclusive to the Peninsula, as steamboat has also become a favorite amongst the people of Kota Kinabalu.

The charm of steamboat, also known as hotpot, lies in its simplicity and the joy it brings to sharing a meal with loved ones. Picture a bubbling cauldron of savory broth, accompanied by an array of fresh ingredients waiting to be dunked and devoured. It's a culinary adventure that sparks lively conversations and leaves bellies contented.

In this article, we're set to guide you through a steamy gastronomic journey in Kota Kinabalu. We'll unveil five of the most recommended steamboat spots, each distinguished by its own distinctive style and offerings. Whether you're a local or a visitor eager to indulge in a truly Sabahan culinary experience, our curated list has something special in store for everyone.

Shu Tian Xia Old Steamboat (蜀天下老火锅)

Nestled opposite the Bundusan McDonald's, right within the G building, is a dining gem that offers a unique culinary experience – Shu Tian Xia Old Steamboat, also known as 蜀天下老火锅. This restaurant has an intriguing twist to its daily operation. In the morning, it serves up delectable Cantonese dim sum, and from the late afternoon onwards, it transforms into a vibrant hub for steamboat aficionados.

Shu Tian Xia Old Steamboat has a strong reputation for its dim sum, which can be traced back to its roots as a branch of the well-loved Fu Ding Xuan in Inanam. Delights like Siew Mai (烧麦) and Crystal Prawn Dumplings (沙律明虾饺) have been celebrated by locals and visitors alike. However, it's the Crispy Spring Rolls (炸春卷) that stand out as an absolute must-try. These rolls boast a delightful crunchiness that's bound to tantalize your taste buds.

When it's time for the main event – the steamboat, Shu Tian Xia offers a range of soup bases to cater to different preferences. For those who can't handle the heat, the clear broth or tomato base are excellent choices. But if you're ready to spice things up, their signature spicy Sichuan hotpot is the way to go, and you can even customize the level of spiciness to suit your taste.

While this premium steamboat experience might be on the upper mid-range in terms of pricing, the quality of the food and the inviting ambiance make it well worth the visit. So, if you're in the mood for a fusion of dim sum delights and a sizzling steamboat feast, Shu Tian Xia Old Steamboat is an excellent destination to consider in Kota Kinabalu.

ErShiXiong Hotpot Restaurant 二师兄火锅客栈

ErShiXiong Hotpot is a standout, especially when the sun sets. Its bright and eye-catching signboard along the main road is hard to miss, setting the stage for a delightful culinary adventure.

ErShiXiong Hotpot Restaurant offers a diverse range of hotpot options, from the traditional spicy Sichuan style to the novel and zesty fish head hotpot. Every bite is a tantalizing journey for your palate, and it's no wonder patrons find it difficult to resist. One of their signature dishes is the Fish Head Sour and Spicy Soup (鱼头酸辣汤), which is a must-try. This dish perfectly balances the tangy and spicy flavors, creating a broth that's both comforting and invigorating. Two items that come highly recommended are the Bursting Pork Meatballs (爆浆猪肉丸) and Cheese Pork Meatballs (奶酪猪肉丸). These delectable meatballs are a delightful surprise, and their rich flavors will leave you wanting more.

Unlike many hotpot places that follow a self-service model, ErShiXiong Hotpot Restaurant takes a different approach. While it's not all-you-can-eat, they are generous with the portions, ensuring you get your money's worth. The restaurant's staff members are not only friendly but also knowledgeable about the menu, taking the time to explain the offerings clearly. The broths are rich and flavorful, and the ingredients are always fresh.

To add a personal touch to your dining experience, ErShiXiong Hotpot Restaurant provides a variety of condiments and sauces that you can mix and match according to your taste preferences, allowing you to create your own dipping sauce masterpiece.

Yeyeye coconut chicken hot pot

The moment you step inside, you'll be greeted with a cozy ambiance that sets the stage for a delightful meal. The staff here are known for their warm and friendly service, always ready to assist and ensure you have a great dining experience. As you enter the restaurant, you'll catch whiffs of the tantalizing aroma of bamboo shoots, a precursor to the delightful feast that awaits you. While bamboo shoots might not be everyone's favorite, they are prepared in a way that most diners find acceptable and even enjoyable.

If you're not a fan of fiery spiciness, worry not. Just inform the servers, and they can adjust the heat levels to suit your palate. The Luosifen Hot Pot is usually generously portioned, making it ideal for two people. Additionally, they provide a small bowl of vegetables and snail noodles as accompaniments. If you find that your appetite is on the smaller side, you can always wait until the hot pot arrives before deciding whether to add more ingredients.

A unique offering at Yeyeye is their crispy fried eggs, which are a delightful addition to the hot pot experience. These savory bites complement the rich and aromatic flavors of the Coconut Chicken Hot Pot.

For those seeking an alternative to the Luosifen Hot Pot, the Hainan Coconut Chicken Hot Pot is another crowd-pleaser. This variation offers a different flavor profile that is equally delicious and comforting.

Thai Sis Mookata & Dessert

Nestled in T1 Bundusan, Thai Sis Mookata & Dessert is a haven for food enthusiasts looking for a delectable combination of Thai barbecue, authentic Thai flavors, and delightful desserts.

One of the standout features of this restaurant is its unique offering - the Mookata, which combines the joys of hotpot and barbecue in one. The setup is ingenious; a grill is placed on top for barbecuing delectable meats and vegetables, while below, a simmering hotpot awaits, filled with a savory and aromatic broth. It's an interactive dining experience that encourages sharing and camaraderie among diners. What makes Thai Sis Mookata & Dessert even more intriguing is that they use charcoal for their Mookata, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor to the dishes. They offer both large and small Mookata sets, with the recommendation that the larger set is more suitable for groups of two or more.

Beyond the savory delights, the dessert offerings here are a treat for the eyes and taste buds. Take, for instance, the Strawberry Sakura dessert. It features a base made from strawberry shaved ice, providing a refreshing and sweet contrast to the savory Mookata. What truly captivates diners is the artistic presentation, with adorable biscuits adorning the dessert. A layer of taro balls adds a delightful texture and flavor element, and the sweetness is just right, making it a fitting conclusion to your meal.

Sedap BBQ Restaurant

For just RM 48 per person, you can indulge in a gastronomic adventure that's both unlimited and unhurried. That's right, there's no time limit here; you're encouraged to take your time and relish the experience.

What sets Sedap BBQ Restaurant apart is its fusion of both barbecue and hotpot in one delightful spread. The array of raw ingredients is astonishing - from succulent chicken and beef to an abundance of fresh seafood, they have it all. Whether you're a fan of marinated meats, delicate seafood, or a vegetarian who loves fresh produce, Sedap BBQ Restaurant leaves no stone unturned. Even the pickiest eaters will find a multitude of options to delight their taste buds. But the feast doesn't stop there. In addition to the main attractions, Sedap BBQ offers a diverse selection of vegetables, fruits, beverages, and desserts to complement your meal. It's a one-stop-shop for all your culinary desires.

The ready-to-eat options are equally impressive, with a variety of cooked dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. The combination of hotpot and barbecue creates a unique and interactive dining experience that's perfect for sharing with friends and family.

What's equally important is the exceptional service you'll receive at Sedap BBQ Restaurant. The staff is known for their warm and friendly attitude, making you feel right at home as you embark on your buffet adventure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kota Kinabalu is embracing the steamboat and hotpot trend with a wide array of dining options to suit every palate. From traditional flavors to modern twists, there's something for everyone.

For more culinary adventures and to share your own experiences, download Reviewbah today. It's your guide to Kota Kinabalu's diverse food scene. Start exploring and savoring the delights of steamboat and hotpot dining in Kota Kinabalu with Reviewbah by your side.

Exploring the Best Steamboat and Hotpot Restaurants in Kota Kinabalu