There are numerous cafés in Kota Kinabalu, and the number grows every year. The selection of coffee shops, each with its own distinct design concept, never fails to impress the locals and entice them to visit these cafés. Each café in Sabah offers a variety of coffee, non-coffee drinks, and signature dishes, allowing both locals and tourists (too) to experience a new type of café each time. Here are the top 10 cafés in Kota Kinabalu for you to visit and enjoy a coffee.
The order/number on the list does not indicate rating or ranking; all are equivalently ranked as best cafe in Kota Kinabalu
15 Cafés in Kota Kinabalu
- 1. Nook Cafe
- 2. October Coffee Gaya
- 3. Woo!
- 4. Biru Biru Cafe & Bar
- 5. The Bean café
- 6. One Roof Cafe - LUYANG PERDANA
- 7. Tamaha Kitchen
- 8. Haru Cafe (Hilltop Branch)
- 9. LUPA CAFÉ LOUNGE
- 10. Cafe On Fifty5
- 11. Hello Stranger
- 12. Coastal Coffee Club
- 13. Brown Fox Cafe
- 14. The Moment Cafe
- 15. Le Phi Cafe
1. Nook Cafe
Credit : google maps
The bright and inviting interior of Nook Café creates a feel-good atmosphere. The predominantly neutral and understated decor contributes to the café’s relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. Menu items include Fruity French Toast, Ayam Percik, and a Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
Address: 19, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 8 am to 9 pm
2. October Coffee Gaya
Credit : google maps
October Coffee House specialises in handcrafted brews ranging from espressos to lattes prepared by their skilled baristas. They also serve delectable cake selections to go with your favourite coffee. If that isn’t enough, October Coffee House’s overall rustic interior exudes a sense of cosiness, making this café ideal for some me-time or hanging out with friends.
Address: 13, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 9 am to 11 pm
3. Woo!
Credit : google maps
Woo! stands out with its welcoming interior, which features an open space concept and white walls for a minimalist, airy aesthetic. Tall windows provide a beautiful view of the greenery and foliage in the back while allowing plenty of sunlight. Thanks to the fast and reliable WiFi available, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a good meal.
Address: 21, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 9 am to 5 pm
4. Biru Biru Cafe & Bar
Credit : google maps
This place is difficult to miss, with its bright blue walls owning up to its name, and it should not be overlooked. Biru Biru Café (also known as Sharikat Biru Biru, as seen from its main entrance) exudes nostalgic backpacker vibes and a cosy charm that makes perfect sense given its location beneath a backpacker lodge.
Address: 24, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 12 pm to 12 am
5. The Bean café
Credit : google maps
The BEAN (an acronym for “Be Elegant and Natural”) Café Lounge provides customers with a cosy atmosphere and feel-good foods all under one roof. It’s a perfect hangout for catching up with friends or simply getting some work done. They primarily serve caffeinated beverages and a few light bites, including all-day breakfast meals and sandwiches.
Address: Lot 8-1, Lido Plaza, Jalan Kobusak, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 10 am to 11 pm
6. One Roof Cafe - LUYANG PERDANA
Credit : google maps
One Roof Cafe serves fusion cuisine ranging from Teriyaki Chicken Kimchi Fried Rice to Spaghetti Bolognese and Mee Mamak. If you prefer a lighter bite, don’t miss out on their signature croissant varieties — a hearty combination of freshly baked croissants mixed with ingredients such as ham and cheese or scrambled egg.
Address: Jalan Tasik, Luyang Perdana, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 9 am to 9 pm
7. Tamaha Kitchen
Credit : google maps
Tamaha’s fashionably chic interior is difficult not to be impressed by, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural sunlight to help brighten the café. In other words, this is undeniably an Instagram-worthy location. There is also a spiral slide that connects to Opis, which is a co-working space, which is located upstairs.
Address: 12, Jalan Masjid Lama, Bandaran Berjaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 8 am to 10 pm
8. Haru Cafe (Hilltop Branch)
Credit : google maps
Indulge in the delightful oasis of Haru Cafe, nestled in the serene Hilltop Branch. Immerse yourself in its inviting ambiance while savoring impeccable service and a tantalizing array of culinary delights. Treat your taste buds to the unique experience of a yam latte, reminiscent of creamy yam ice cream, complemented by expertly crafted latte art. Delight in the buttery, flaky goodness of their croissants. With offerings like tantalizing cheesecakes and appetizing bulgogi sets, Haru Cafe promises a culinary adventure worth savoring.
Address: 7, Lorong Gunung Juo, Taman Far East, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 11 pm
9. LUPA CAFÉ LOUNGE
Credit : google maps
Discover the cozy charm of LUPA CAFÉ LOUNGE. With a welcoming ambiance perfect for relaxing, this spot is ideal for frequent visits. The Soto is a standout, brimming with tender meat and rich flavors. While the chocolate cake could be more chocolaty, the overall experience makes it a delightful hangout. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and enjoy a great time at LUPA CAFÉ LOUNGE.
Address: Lot 2, Ground Floor, Wisma HCS, Jalan Kolam, Luyang, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 9 am to 7 pm
10. Cafe On Fifty5
Credit : google maps
Discover Cafe On Fifty5, a serene haven inside Tong Hing Supermarket. Perfect for business meetups or remote work, with power outlets available. Enjoy the tranquility, especially in the evenings around 8:30 pm. Savor the well-balanced Tsubaki Hojicha, a delightful tea that’s just right, and indulge in the exquisite lemon pound cake. For a quiet and productive retreat, Cafe On Fifty5 is your ideal destination.
Address: 55, Jalan Gaya, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 8 am to 10 pm
11. Hello Stranger
Credit : google maps
Visit Hello Stranger for a delightful lunch catch-up. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, attentive staff, and hearty dishes like Chicken Katsu Curry, Lemongrass Grilled Beef, and a Mushroom and Cheese Sandwich. Sip on expertly crafted Cappuccinos and Lattes. With reasonable prices matching generous portions, it’s a spot you’ll want to return to again and again. Perfect for a pleasant dining experience!
Address: Block B-2, No. B-G-53A & B-G-63, The Walk Riverson, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 9:30 am to 6:45 pm
12. Coastal Coffee Club
Credit : google maps
Rediscover Coastal Coffee Club, now better than ever! Indulge in delightful cakes, including the exquisite Pistachio and Biscoff Cheesecake. Savor refreshing drinks like the Earl Grey Lotus Biscoff, Houjicha Latte, and Chai Latte. Treat yourself to three scoops of true-to-taste Yous Gelato—especially the Black Sesame, a must-try! Despite close tables causing some discomfort, the delicious offerings make it a worthy visit. Enjoy cozy moments near the counter!
Opening Hours: 11 am to 7 pm
13. Brown Fox Cafe
Credit : google maps
Enjoy a delightful visit to Brown Fox Cafe, a charming Japanese-style spot with a cozy mezzanine floor. Indulge in their pastries and coffee, especially the brownie paired with matcha dipping and the refreshing pistachio cake with passion fruit topping. Pastries are reasonably priced between RM12-20. The friendly staff and beautifully designed interior make it perfect for photos and Instagram moments. A must-visit for a pleasant and picturesque experience!
Address: Lot B-G-06, Level G, Lorong Sutera, Sutera Avenue, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 10 am to 10 pm
14. The Moment Cafe
Credit : google maps
Discover The Moment Cafe, a hidden gem on the first floor of FohSang’s famous Kheng Hin Coffee Shop. Expect a chill, soothing atmosphere with a pleasing color scheme. The food is amazing and looks just like the pictures! Enjoy a variety of fusion dishes, perfect for adventurous palates. While prices are on the higher side, portions are generous enough to share. Definitely worth a visit for more delightful surprises!
Address: Lot, Town, S9, Jalan Kolam, Taman Foh Sang, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 10 am to 10 pm
15. Le Phi Cafe
Credit : google maps
Le Phi Cafe is a delightful surprise with its calming and inviting ambiance, perfectly complemented by mood-setting music. The amazing food is served hot and paired with fantastic drinks, all at very reasonable prices for the generous portions. The polite and attentive service adds to the experience. Whether for coffee, tea, or a meal, Le Phi is the perfect place to relax and enjoy. Plus, don’t miss the friendly cat that loves pets!
Address: 12G, Lorong Dewan, Bandaran, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 9 am to 9 pm