Top 10 Aesthetic Cafes in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah You Must Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Sabah and you love a good latte, dreamy décor, a relaxing hideout, and aesthetic cafes, then you’re in luck. The capital city of Kota Kinabalu (often abbreviated as KK) is quietly becoming a hotspot for stylish coffee lovers and Instagram-friendly hangouts. Whether you’re after that perfect flat white, exploring the local brew culture or simply looking for a scenic spot to unwind, this blog will take you through ten of the most wonderful aesthetic cafes in the city. From minimalist Scandinavian interiors to tropical jungle-vibes and beach-side lounging, the café scene here in Sabah is ready for you.
We’ll guide you through each café, what makes it special, what to order, and how to pick your spots when doing some proper cafe hopping in KK. If you embrace the idea of leisurely sipping your drink while gazing at well-designed spaces, this is for you. So, grab your travel notebook (or your camera!), let’s explore the world of awesome cafés in Sabah.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is cafe hopping?
Cafe hopping means visiting several cafés in one day to enjoy different drinks, vibes, and interiors. In Kota Kinabalu, it’s a fun way to explore the city’s creative side, from minimalist spaces to tropical-inspired aesthetic cafes perfect for photos and relaxation.
2. What makes Sabah coffee unique?
3. What makes Malaysian cafe culture unique?
Malaysia’s café scene blends Western coffee trends with the classic kopitiam spirit. You’ll find modern aesthetic cafes serving specialty brews alongside traditional charm — creating spaces that feel both stylish and welcoming.
4. What are some popular aesthetic cafes themes?
Top themes include minimalist, industrial-chic, tropical boho, and vintage. The best cafes in Kota Kinabalu often feature natural elements like wood, rattan, and local art for that cozy, photo-ready look.
5. Does Malaysia have coffee beans?
Yes. Malaysia grows coffee in Sabah, Sarawak, and Johor. The most famous is Tenom coffee from Sabah, loved for its balanced aroma and smooth body.
6. How much is a cup of coffee in Malaysia?
Prices range from RM3–RM5 at local kopitiams to RM10–RM18 in modern cafés. Café-hopping in Malaysia is still affordable and a great way to experience its thriving coffee culture.
What makes a café “aesthetic” in Kota Kinabalu?
Before jumping into the list, let’s quickly cover what we mean by aesthetic cafes, especially in the context of the Sabah coffee scene.
An aesthetic cafes typically features:
- Stylish interior design with attention to light, texture, color and photo-friendly corners.
- A sense of mood or theme (boho-chic, industrial, tropical, minimalist) that invites you to stay, relax and take photos.
- Quality coffee and food offerings alongside ambiance (so it’s not just pretty but also tastes good).
- Often some local character or unique twist (which is especially true in KK).
Why Kota Kinabalu’s café scene stands out
Kota Kinabalu’s café culture balances the laid-back island vibes of Sabah with modern design trends. Many cafés are located near Gaya Street and the city center, making it convenient for travelers to plan a mini café-hopping trail. Because local coffee culture is evolving fast, you’ll discover both specialty brews and all-day brunch menus that represent the best of “coffee Sabah.”
How to plan your café-hopping day
Before the top ten list, here are a few tips to make your café adventure smooth:
- Pick a cluster of cafés in the same neighbourhood (for example, Lorong Dewan area) so you can walk between them.
- Visit early or off-peak if you want quieter snaps and space to relax.
- Try one specialty coffee or local blend paired with a light snack—so you can visit multiple spots without feeling full.
- Bring a power bank or check for Wi-Fi if you’ll linger; some cafés cater to digital nomads too.
- Don’t rush the experience. Aim for two or three cafés in one afternoon, then plan another session for the evening or the next day.
Top 10 Aesthetic Cafes in Kota Kinabalu
Here are ten aesthetic cafes in Kota Kinabalu worth your time, each with its own unique ambiance and coffee story. (The list is in no strict ranking order — choose based on vibe, menu or location that suits you.)
Located at Lorong Dewan in the heart of KK, this aesthetic cafes boast a calm, boho-inspired design with rattan chairs, potted plants and soft lighting. The menu features brunch staples, sourdough sandwiches and strong specialty brews.
Why go: Ideal for a slow morning or a relaxed catch-up. The ambiance is cosy and photo-friendly.
What to try: Their sourdough set or smoothie bowl, and a black coffee.
Tip: Visit early (around 8 am) for sunlight streaming in through the windows.
A rustic-wood filled aesthetic cafes on Lorong Dewan, October Coffee House is known for its specialty Australian/Korean-influenced coffee and pastries.
Why go: The mixture of warm wood, greenery and casual chic makes it one of the top picks when you’re hunting for aesthetic cafes in KK.
What to try: A flat white or pour-over brew, and one of the baked treats.
Tip: Opens later than some cafés (around 11 am), so plan accordingly if heading early.
At 21 Lorong Dewan, Woo! stands out with its modern, slightly industrial vibe — large windows, an eye-catching granite counter and quirky décor elements.
Why go: Perfect for brunch lovers and photo-seekers who want something a little unconventional.
What to try: Their “Happy-O” dish (similar to shakshuka) or any of their specialty lattes.
Tip: It can get busy on weekends — arrive before lunch for the best table options.
With its vibrant blue walls and relaxed backpacker-friendly vibe, Biru Biru Café & Bar is a colourful and comfortable pick for those who want café hopping with a twist.
Why go: A fun ambience that’s less formal and more playful — great for group visits or casual drinks.
What to try: A signature coffee or iced brew paired with a light snack or dessert.
Tip: As it doubles as a bar, late afternoon visits bring a different mood.
- Ampersand Specialty Coffee & Co-Workplace
This aesthetic cafes doubles as a co-working space in Jalan Berjaya, making it ideal for coffee lovers who combine work and leisure.
Why go: If you’re doing remote work while in Sabah or need a stable Wi-Fi spot, this is it.
What to try: A single-origin pour-over and a pastry, or their cold brew.
Tip: Choose a table near the charging points for the best experience.
- Café on Fifty5
Though slightly off the beaten path, Café on Fifty5 has earned mentions among the best cafés in Kota Kinabalu for its stylish décor and quality fare.
Why go: A quieter spot that balances good looks and good food — perfect for a leisurely visit.
What to try: Their brunch set or the signature iced coffee.
Tip: Check the opening hours in advance as lesser-known cafés sometimes close earlier.
This café fascinates with its minimalist Japanese design, two-level layout and a menu that fuses East with West.
Why go: For fans of clean lines, subtle décor and a more refined café experience.
What to try: Matcha dessert or their inari-pocket savoury, plus a latte.
Tip: If you’re a minimalist photography fan, this café offers great framing opportunities.
- Tamaha Cafe – Toojou Hostel
Located inside Toojou Hostel, Tamaha Cafe offers a chill, design-forward café space with a youthful vibe.
Why go: The combination of café and hostel means you’ll find travellers, locals and a friendly shared atmosphere.
What to try: Brunch items (savoury and sweet) plus their house blend coffee.
Tip: Ideal for a mid-afternoon break or adding variety to your café-hopping list.
Though newer and less covered in major guides, Anomaly Cafe is a hidden gem popular among local café-hoppers.
Why go: If you’re exploring beyond the main spots, this gives you a fresh, less-crowded vibe.
What to try: A specialty dessert and an iced latte — just to soak in the aesthetic.
Tip: Use it as a “bonus stop” between two more popular cafés for a calmer experience.
Located slightly outside the city centre, Meet Coffee Cafe is worth the detour if you’re planning a full-day café adventure.
Why go: A bit offbeat, so you’ll enjoy the calm and still find strong “aesthetic cafes” credentials.
What to try: Cold brew and a savoury brunch plate.
Tip: Plan transport accordingly — if you’re staying in the city centre, allocate extra time.
Tips for maximizing your café experience
- Mix morning and afternoon slots. Try one café for early brunch, one for mid-day chill and one for sunset coffee if the café has a sea view or big windows.
- Use the walkable corridor. Many cafés listed (Nook, Woo!, October, Biru Biru) lie in the Lorong Dewan or Gaya Street area, making it convenient for a cluster café-hopping experience.
- Capture the light. For aesthetic cafes, natural light is gold. Aim for morning (8–10 am) or afternoon (3–5 pm) when possible.
- Enjoy the local coffee culture. While interior aesthetics matter, don’t skip sampling quality coffee — this is part of the “coffee Sabah” scene.
- Budget smart. Café prices in KK are often reasonable, but doing many stops means you might prefer smaller bites and shared drinks.
- Respect the space. Many cafés owners value ambiance and community feel — use headphones if you work, avoid loud calls, and tip modestly.
Local Café Culture & Trends in Kota Kinabalu
One of the most delightful surprises about café-hopping in Sabah is how diverse and community-driven the scene feels. The café movement in Kota Kinabalu isn’t just about having coffee — it’s about creating spaces that feel personal, meaningful, and deeply local. These aren’t chains or generic coffee spots; they’re creative expressions of the people behind them.
The rise of Sabah’s independent café movement
A decade ago, Kota Kinabalu had only a handful of casual coffee shops. Today, there are dozens of aesthetic cafes that blend design, coffee, and storytelling. Many owners are young entrepreneurs who studied or worked abroad, returning to Sabah with fresh ideas about café culture and hospitality. You’ll see influences from Melbourne, Seoul, Tokyo, and Copenhagen, but with a distinctly Sabahan twist.
These cafés often incorporate local ingredients — from Sabah honey and palm sugar to cocoa and handpicked fruits. Some even roast their own beans sourced from Malaysian highlands, giving rise to what many call “coffee Sabah,” a phrase that proudly represents the region’s evolving coffee identity.
Design meets authenticity
What makes these cafés truly stand out isn’t just their decor. It’s how design and personality merge with local culture. At Nook Cafe and Woo! Cafe, for example, the interiors use reclaimed wood, local rattan, and art from Sabahan creators. Others like Brown Fox embrace minimalist architecture while keeping a cozy, grounded feel.
Even the food complements this aesthetic. Expect avocado toasts beside nasi lemak platters, kombucha next to iced lattes — a balance of trendy and traditional. Café-hopping here feels less like ticking off a list and more like exploring the city’s evolving creative pulse.
Hidden Gem Cafes Worth Mentioning
If you’re the kind of traveller who enjoys wandering off the main path, these additional spots might just steal your heart. They may not always appear on big travel lists, but they perfectly embody the idea of aesthetic cafes in a local, authentic way.
- The B.E.A.N. Café
Nestled inside a small complex near the Lintas area, this café is known for its quiet charm. The design combines wood panels, soft jazz music, and delicate latte art that feels crafted just for you. A local favourite for work-from-café types.
- Chapters Café
Chapters take the literary route — literally. Books line the walls, and each table carries a quote from a famous author. It’s perfect for those who love reading or journaling while sipping their brew. Their iced hazelnut latte pairs beautifully with the calm vibe.
- East Bound Coffee
A newer entry into the best aesthetic cafes in Kota Kinabalu, East Bound stands out for its elegant grey tones and clean lines. It’s a visual delight — and their matcha series drinks are among the best in town. Perfect for anyone documenting their cafe hopping journey.
- Print Café
An artist’s favourite. The café doubles as a print and art shop, offering locally made postcards, posters, and prints alongside good coffee. The owners host small exhibitions from time to time, making it a unique cultural stop for visitors.
What Makes Kota Kinabalu’s Coffee Scene Unique
Every great café scene has its signature — for KK, it’s the blend of urban creativity and tropical serenity. There’s something magical about sipping freshly brewed coffee while looking out at green hills or feeling the coastal breeze.
- The coastal calm
KK cafés are often designed with wide-open windows, letting the natural light and ocean air shape the mood. Many visitors mention that the city’s pace gives you permission to slow down — to truly enjoy your drink instead of rushing through it.
- The local connection
Unlike major metropolitan café scenes where service can feel transactional, Kota Kinabalu’s café owners are warm and community oriented. You’ll often see them chatting with regulars, recommending roasts, or personally delivering your plate. That personal touch makes aesthetic cafes here not just beautiful, but heartwarming too.
- Sustainability and local sourcing
More aesthetic cafes are moving toward sustainable operations — using bamboo straws, metal cutlery, and local produce. Some even partner with nearby farms to source milk and fruits. It’s not only eco-friendly but also keeps the local economy thriving.
Tips for Café Hoppers Visiting Kota Kinabalu
Whether you’re here for a few days or weeks, these insider tips will help you make the most of your café-hopping adventures:
- Start with Gaya Street — it’s KK’s café heart. You can easily walk to Nook, Woo!, October Coffee House, and Biru Biru all within an hour.
- Alternate between coffee and light bites. Try a pastry at one stop and a smoothie bowl at another to avoid caffeine overload.
- Ask about seasonal specials. Many cafés offer limited-edition drinks using fruits like mango or pineapple — uniquely “Sabahan.”
- Carry cash. While most accept cards, smaller cafés may prefer cash, especially in local neighbourhoods.
- Plan for photos. If your goal is to capture the design of these aesthetic cafes, visit during off-peak hours (between 9–11 a.m. or 3–5 p.m.).
Conclusion
Kota Kinabalu is more than just beaches and island trips. Its café scene is vibrant, diverse and full of charm. Whether you’re hunting for the most aesthetic cafes in town, doing some serious cafe hopping, or simply savoring a fresh brew in Sabah’s gentle climate, there’s something here for you.
From the rustic warmth of Nook Cafe to the sleek minimalism of Brown Fox Cafe, and from the backpacker-friendly vibe of Biru Biru to the hidden gem of Anomaly, each spot is its own little world of culture, design and flavor. Plan your route, walk with your senses, and allow the coffee to guide you.
If you’re visiting soon, why not pick three spots today and another three tomorrow? Share your photos, find your favorite, and let those moments of calm and beauty become part of your travel story.
Call to action: Bookmark your favorites, check opening times, and get ready to explore the café side of Kota Kinabalu. Let the aroma, design and relaxed pace make your Sabah trip even more memorable!
Posts you might be interested
-
Top 6 Authentic Malaysia Night Markets/0 Comments -
-
