Welcome to Kuching, the "City of Cats" and a proud UNESCO City of Gastronomy. If you are a tourist landing at Kuching International Airport (KIA) or a local resident driving through the bustling streets of Matang or Petrajaya, you know that food is not just a daily staple but over here, it is a way of life.
Mee Kolok Or Laksa Sarawak? The Ultimate Kuching Food Guide for Locals and Tourists
In the heart of every Sarawakian lies a friendly but fierce debate, Mee Kolok or Laksa Sarawak? Which one deserves the crown for the ultimate breakfast? While the answer is usually both choosing where to eat can be an overwhelming task.
In this guide, we take you through the legendary spots for both dishes and explore other iconic Kuching eateries. Plus, because a food hunt is only as good as your ride, we’ll show you where to find Bateriku’s Pitstop across the city to ensure your car or motor stays as energized as your appetite.
The Contender: Mee Kolok (The Comfort King)
Mee Kolok is the soul of Sarawak. It consists of dry-tossed springy egg noodles, flavored with oil, fried shallots, and often served with a bowl of light soup. The magic is in the texture. Springy noodles. Balanced seasoning. Clean flavors. It’s the kind of breakfast you grow up with in Kuching. Whether you like it putih (plain), merah (with char siew oil), or hitam (with soy sauce), these spots are legendary:
1. Mee Kolok Haji Salleh
Located at the famous Sepinang Sari Cafe, this is a rite of passage for any visitor. The beef broth is rich, and the noodles have the perfect "QQ" texture. One of the Google Review are:
"This shop is well-known and you should expect a 30–40 minute wait for a table, I promise you it is absolutely worth it. In my personal opinion, this is the best Mee Sapi in all of Kuching🤭🤭🤭. The noodles are perfectly cooked, achieving that elusive balance of being stringy yet soft. The soup kosong is well-crafted and complements the beefy flavors of the noodles perfectly. To top it off, their sambal cili has the perfect kick; it’s spicy with just a hint of sourness to cut through the richness. A must-visit for any noodle lover! by Tangut polo
- Location: Lot 206 section II Ground FLR, Jalan Satok, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak
2. Mee Kolok Kak Bedah
A hidden gem for those who want authentic, home-cooked flavors. Kak Bedah’s version is simple, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying. And it comes with a very affordable price too.
- Location: Ground Floor Lot 2344, Block 10, Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce, Bormill Commercial Centre, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak
If your car feels sluggish after a heavy breakfast, Bateriku Pitstop Matang (near Petrajaya) is just around the corner to check your battery health!
3. Mee Kolok Dockyard
Tucked away in the heritage area of old Kuching, Mee Kolok Dockyard offers a vibe that matches its history. It’s a favorite for the working crowd and tourists exploring the waterfront. Based on one of the google review:
"Affordable, fast, and tastes like tradition. Love the atmosphere here."
- Location: Jalan Haji Taha, Kuching.
4. Mee Kolok Mangkuk Merah Stall 43
Known for its iconic "Red Bowl" branding, this spot has modernized the Mee Kolok experience without losing the traditional taste. It’s clean, classic, and consistently delicious. Located conveniently near Bateriku Pitstop Matang, making it a perfect stop-and-service point.
- Location: Pasar Satok Food Court, Medan Niaga Satok, Matang/ Metrocity, 14 Blok E, Q309, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak
The Challenger: Laksa Sarawak (The Breakfast of Gods)
Anthony Bourdain famously called it the "Breakfast of Gods." Unlike its Peninsular cousins, Laksa Sarawak features a complex, spiced broth made from shrimp paste and a secret blend of herbs, topped with omelet strips, prawns, and chicken.
Laksa Sarawak is bold. It’s creamy, spicy, aromatic, and unforgettable. Tourists often compare it to Penang Laksa. Locals will tell you they are completely different.
5. Awin Laksa
Awin Laksa is a powerhouse in the local Malay-style Laksa scene. The broth is thick and creamy, hitting all the right notes of spice and savory. Google Review by Azrulsani Hussaini:
"It's true as they say. If you want to taste it, you can come by yourself. I ordered the Laksa Special Pattaya. It can be eaten by 2 people."
- Location: Lot 8681-8682, Jalan Pending, Pending Commercial Centre, 93450 Kuching, Sarawak
6. Laksa 126
If you want a bowl that feels "just like home," Laksa 126 is the place. It’s balanced, not too spicy, but packed with aromatics. This spot is a stone's throw away from Bateriku Pitstop Kuching Taman BDC. Perfect for a quick check-up while you wait for your noodles.
- Location: Jalan Chan Chin Ann, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak.
This crowded place Google Review are as below:
"It was our first time here. The food was good, and the service was friendly. The place can be quite crowded, so finding a seat may be a bit challenging during peak hours. Highly recommended for those visiting Kuching and looking for a good breakfast spot!" by Rusdy Abdullah
"Viral Laksa place which we had the chance to try recently on a Saturday morning (10.30am ish). One of us queued for to order, while the other scout for empty seats/table. Once you order, you have to mention your table number. Anyways, luckily we got our seats. We had the Normal Laksa Pattaya (RM 12/bowl) and super enjoyed it. The broth is so good that we both finished everything in the bowl. Btw, you can add in any other items (e.g. Chicken Feet, squid, abalone, prawns, etc) for additional fee. Definitely one of the most enjoyable Laksa experience so far." by Emily Chng
7. Mom’s Laksa
Perhaps the most famous brand in Kuching, Mom’s Laksa has expanded across the city. It’s reliable, consistent, and always hits the spot.
- Location: Lot 276, Jln Haji Taha, Kuching Town Land District, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak
"This place was recommended by my friend, who told me she always eats at Mom’s Laksa. When I finally came and tried it myself, it was really delicious. Even the normal laksa met my expectations, with 3–4 prawns and a rich, satisfying taste." by Wan Nurul
"The taste of the laksa still maintains. As usual, really delicious broth." by Dennessa Daylan
8. Signature Madam Tang’s
For a slightly more premium experience, Madam Tang’s offers a refined take on Laksa. They also serve great beef noodles, but the Laksa remains the star.
"This is like the Madam Kwan of Kuching. You find local food plated prettier here but comes in a higher price. Food is good, portion is huge and I honestly don't mind paying for the experience." by elijah
- Location: 2e, Jalan Song, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak.
There are also other locations that you can check out from its official Facebook page.
Beyond the Battle: Other Must-Visit Food Spots in Kuching, Sarawak
Kuching’s food scene does not end with noodles. Here are the other "mandatory" stops for your culinary itinerary:
9. Mita Cake House
Famous for their legendary Butter Cake and sponge cakes, Mita is a Kuching institution.
- Location: Across Kuching City.
This is the home of Bateriku Pitstop Kota Sentosa (Mita Cake House, 7th Mile). Grab your cakes and get your car's alternator checked simultaneously!
10. Topspot Seafood
An open-air rooftop food court where you can pick fresh seafood and have it cooked to order. Don't miss the Midin (jungle fern) with belacan!
- Location: off, Jln Padungan, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak
11. Siniawan Old Night Market
A short drive from Kuching, this heritage street comes alive on weekends with lanterns and street food like pitcher plant rice (Lemang Periuk Kera).
- Location: Jalan Siniawan, Siniawan, 94000 Bau, Sarawak. (approximately 25 minutes from Kuching)
12. Pasar Minggu Satok (Medan Niaga Satok)
The ultimate weekend market. It’s the best place to find Ikan Terubok Masin and local snacks.
- Location: 185, Q309, Taman Foong Joon, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak
13. Ceylonese Restaurant
For something different, try the authentic Sri Lankan flavors here. Their mutton curry is to die for.
- Location: 22 & 23, Jalan Green Hill, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak
14. Mohd Lim Cafe
Famous for their fusion of Chinese-style cooking served Halal. Their fried rices and stir-fried noodles are top-tier.
- Location: Near the city centre/Satok.
15. Swee Kang Ais Kacang
The best place to cool down. Their ABC and White Lady are legendary.
- Location: Jalan Kulas - Haji Taha Interchange, Kampung Bandarshah, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak
Strategic Pitstops: Keeping Your Food Hunt Smooth
Nothing ruins a food trip like a car that won't start. Whether you are a local commuting to work or a tourist exploring the outskirts, Bateriku has strategically placed Pitstops near Kuching's best food hubs:
- Bateriku Pitstop Kota Sentosa: Perfect for those exploring the 7th Mile area or heading towards Bau/Serian.
- Bateriku Pitstop Kuching Taman BDC: Centrally located near Kuching International Airport: The first line of defense for tourists and those picking up guests
- Bateriku Pitstop Matang: Serving the community in Petrajaya and the growing Matang Metrocity area.
FAQ: Eating Your Way Through Kuching
1. What is the best time to eat Laksa Sarawak?
Traditionally, it’s a breakfast dish. Many famous stalls sell out by 10:00 AM, so start your day early!
2. Is Mee Kolok Halal?
Historically, Mee Kolok used lard, but Kuching has many famous Halal versions (like Haji Salleh and Kak Bedah) that use beef or chicken oil and are equally delicious.
3. How do I get around Kuching for a food tour?
While there are e-hailing services, renting a car is the best way to visit places like Siniawan or Matang. Just ensure your car is in top shape!
4. What should I do if my car battery dies while I'm at a food stall?
Don't panic! Whether you are at Mom's Laksa in Matang or Mita Cake House in 7th Mile, Bateriku offers 24/7 roadside assistance.
If you are a tourist, planning your foodtrip across kuching city:
Start breakfast with Mee Kolok. Lunch with Laksa Sarawak. Have a dessert at Swee Kang. Evening seafood at Topspot and spend your weekend night at Siniawan.
But If you are local:
You already know the drill by exploring different neighbourhoods which makes it more fun.
Just make sure your transport is ready.
Don't Let a Dead Battery Stall Your Hunger!
Is your car struggling to crank up? Don't miss out on your favorite bowl of Laksa!
Bateriku is Malaysia’s number 1 connected roadside assistance provider. We specialize in:
- Battery Replacement: We come to you, wherever you are in Kuching!
- Roadside Assistance: Jumpstarts, tyre changes, and fuel delivery.
- Professional Inspection: Visit our Pitstops for a free battery health check.
Download the Bateriku app, find us in Setel, Touch N Go or just Google us.
Good food deserves a smooth journey.
