Must-Try Foods In Kuala Belait (Brunei) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Kuala Belait, Brunei

Kuala Belait, situated in Brunei, reflects the culinary traditions of Malay cuisine with influences from Chinese, Indian, and other ethnic foods of the region. Due to Islam being the predominant religion in Brunei, the food is halal, and pork is usually not served. The coastal location of Kuala Belait means that seafood plays a significant role in the diet of the locals. Over the years, the food culture has evolved to become a blend of traditional and modern, with international cuisine also available due to the expatriate population.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Kuala Belait, Brunei

1. Ambuyat - A traditional Bruneian dish made from the interior trunk of the sago palm. It is a starchy, glue-like substance and usually served with a tangy dipping sauce called cacah and side dishes. It is a unique experience and is non-veg when served with sauces made from meats or fishes.
2. Nasi Katok - A simple, yet popular dish featuring steamed rice, fried chicken, and spicy sambal sauce. It's a must-try for its simplicity and flavor, and it is non-veg.
3. Nasi Lemak - Often considered the national dish, it consists of rice cooked in coconut milk accompanied by ingredients such as fried anchovies, peanuts, boiled egg, cucumber, and spicy sauce. Nasi Lemak is non-veg due to its anchovies.
4. Sayur Lodeh - A vegetable curry made with mixed vegetables in a coconut milk-based soup. Sayur Lodeh is vegetarian and can be enjoyed by those who prefer plant-based dishes.
5. Mee Goreng - Stir-fried noodles with spices, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or shrimp. You can ask for a vegetarian version of this typically non-veg dish.
6. Soto Brunei - A fragrant soup usually made with chicken or beef, and rice vermicelli, garnished with herbs and fried shallots. Soto can be found in both non-veg and veg variations.
7. Ulam - A traditional salad made from a selection of fresh local herbs, vegetables, and sometimes served with sambal belacan (shrimp paste). The veg version is available without the sambal belacan.
8. Roti Kuning - This is Bruneian-style bread flavored with turmeric and lemongrass. It's a vegetarian offering and often eaten with curry or dhal.
9. Kuih Melayu - These are traditional Malay cakes and pastries that come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors, mostly sweet, and are vegetarian.
10. Pulut Panggang - Grilled glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves, usually filled with a savory mixture such as fish. There are vegetarian versions available without the fish filling.

Top Famous Restaurants in Kuala Belait, Brunei

• Kaizen Sushi

  Address: Jalan Pretty, Kuala Belait KA1131, Brunei

  Famous Food: Their sushi and sashimi dishes are a hit, especially the Salmon Teriyaki. The restaurant offers both veg and non-veg options.

• Tasek Brasserie

  Address: V Plaza Hotel, Lot 4735 Jalan Jaya Negara, Kuala Belait KA1931, Brunei

  Famous Food: Offers a wide range of international cuisine with options like Chicken Biryani (non-veg) and Vegetarian Pizza (veg).

• Zaika

  Address: G3, Ground floor, Jln Jaya Negara, V Plaza, Kuala Belait, Brunei

  Famous Food: Known for authentic Indian cuisine, their Butter Chicken (non-veg) and Paneer Butter Masala (veg) are must-tries.

• Jollibee

  Address: Shop No 4, Hj Daud Complex, Jalan Jaya Negara, Kuala Belait, Brunei

  Famous Food: While known for its Chickenjoy (non-veg), this fast-food chain also offers options such as Veggie Burgers (veg).

• Excapade Sushi

  Address: Lot 30020, Jalan Maulana, Kuala Belait KA1931, Brunei

  Famous Food: Specializes in Japanese cuisine with dishes like Salmon Avocado Roll (non-veg) and Vegetable Tempura (veg).

Please note that while establishments may provide vegetarian options, it's always best to specify your dietary requirements to ensure that the dish is prepared to your preference, especially in places where seafood or fish sauces are commonly used in dishes.