The quaint and quirky Kota Kinabalu
With its laid-back vibe, clear blue ocean, excellent seafood and craft markets, a retreat in Kota Kinabalu has always been a beautiful experience. All that — plus the warm and welcoming locals — makes it a nice destination to unwind after months of staying in.
There’s plenty to keep you occupied in KK, but it won’t hurt to begin your journey by checking out these young businesses in Kota Kinabalu. Jom?
Read more about these places below!
Nook Cafe
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About Nook Cafe - Ask the locals where to hangout for coffee in KK and they’ll point you to the many quirky cafes along Lorong Dewan, or also known as Australia Lane. Owned by a lovely couple, Anas Amdan and his wife Zarifah Fowzi, Nook Cafe stands out in this prime location as it is loved by many for its cozy ambience, wide menu selection and Instagrammable interiors.
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What to order? - Their variety of sandwiches seems to be a crowd favorite. On top of coffee, tea, desserts (must try their waffles!) and all-day breakfast selections, the cafe offers vegan-friendly options too!
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Address: 19, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
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Opening hours*: Monday – Sunday, 8.00 a.m – 10.00 p.m.
Tao Art Studio
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About Tao Art Studio - If you’re ready to get messy, take up a pottery class at Tao Art Studio! Formerly known as Sabah Pottery Studio, it was founded by a ceramics master, Hu Shun Cheng. Being born in Jingdezhen, China — which is known as the ‘Porcelain Capital’, Master Hu has taught ceramic art all his life. In Kota Kinabalu, Tao Art Studio is the only one of its kind to offer affordable ceramic art classes for people of all ages.
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What to do here? - Apart from the basic pottery class, you can sign up for various workshops such as DIY handmade ceramics, pottery wheel throwing and mug illustration.
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Address: Lot No. 7, House No.2, Taman Foh Sang, Lorong Mawas 3, Off Jalan Penampang Road, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
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Opening hours*: Monday – Saturday, 10.00 a.m – 6.00 p.m.
Toojou
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About Toojou - Combining accommodation, cafe, a co-working space and a funky rooftop bar, Toojou is one of the newest social hotspots in Kota Kinabalu. Even if you’re not planning to stay here, you can drop by their Tamaha Cafe and Tamu Bar, or check out the Opis, a 24-hour co-working space made available for rent (it’s free for hotel guests!).
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Why should you stay here? - If you wish to disconnect and meet new people, this is the place to be. Suitable for solo, young or couple travelers, the accommodation types include capsules in shared rooms and private rooms.
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Address: 12, Jalan Masjid Lama, Bandaran Berjaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
*Opening hours subjected to change during RMCO.
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