Had dinner here with my husband last Saturday and it was a memorable experience. The owner Tuan Haji Awang Jaafar, personally recommended the Bitter Gourd with Salted Egg (Peria Salted Egg), and I’m so glad he did. It was crispy, savoury and unexpectedly delicious. A must-try even if you don’t usually like bitter gourd
Haji Awang is very friendly and down-to-earth. He shared with us the story behind the restaurant’s name, Sandokan; named after a legendary warrior from the indigenous Sungai ethnic group of Sabah. Such a meaningful touch that adds local heritage to the dining experience
He also mentioned that while Sandakan has many seafood places, this is one of the few with proper halal certification. Definitely makes it stand out. Great food, reasonable prices and heartfelt hospitality. Highly recommended if you’re visiting Sandakan
