Best Restaurants in Brunei 2025
Explore the culinary scene of Brunei - from local favorites to fine dining.
Brunei Darussalam, the Abode of Peace, is a small but wealthy sultanate on the island of Borneo. This pristine nation offers a unique blend of opulent Islamic architecture, pristine rainforests, and traditional water villages alongside modern luxury.
Brunei's cuisine is a rich tapestry of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous Bornean influences, shaped by its multicultural population and Islamic tradition. All food in Brunei is halal, and the national dish ambuyat — a glutinous sago starch eaten with savoury condiments — reflects the country's distinctive culinary identity. Street food is vibrant and affordable, with nasi katok (rice and fried chicken for BND 1) being Brunei's most iconic everyday meal. Indian and Chinese cuisines are well-represented by the Bruneian-Indian and Chinese communities.
Must-Try Dishes
These iconic dishes define the culinary identity of Brunei.
Ambuyat
Brunei's national dish made from sago starch — a glutinous, sticky paste eaten by wrapping it around a bamboo chandas fork and dipping into various sauces including belacan (shrimp paste), binjai (mango) sauce, or tempoyak (fermented durian). An acquired taste and unmissable cultural experience.
Nasi Katok
Brunei's most beloved everyday meal — steamed rice, a piece of crispy fried chicken, and fiery sambal chilli served in a paper parcel for just BND 1. The name comes from the Malay word for 'knock,' as customers would knock on sellers' doors to order.
Kelupis
Glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and wrapped in nyirik leaves, creating a distinctive cylindrical shape with a fragrant, slightly sweet flavour. A traditional Bruneian snack eaten for breakfast or as a celebration food.
Grilled Stingray (Ikan Pari Bakar)
Fresh stingray grilled over charcoal and smothered in a spicy-sweet sambal sauce — one of the standout dishes at Brunei's night markets. Paired with rice or eaten alone as a snack.
BBC Drink
Brunei's signature refreshment — a layered drink made from Bandung (rosewater milk), Barley water, and Cincau (grass jelly) poured over ice. Visually striking with its layered colours and refreshingly sweet.
Complete Food Guide
100+ restaurants, local recipes, and dining recommendations for Brunei.
Top Restaurants
Our handpicked recommendations for the best dining experiences.
Spaghettini
Elegant Italian restaurant at The Empire Hotel serving authentic pasta, risotto, and wood-fired pizzas. Features an extensive wine selection and romantic ambiance with ocean views.
Aminah Arif Restaurant
Famous local restaurant chain specializing in ambuyat (Brunei's national dish) and traditional Malay cuisine. Multiple locations across Brunei, known for authentic flavors and generous portions.
Gadong Night Market
Brunei's premier night market featuring dozens of stalls selling local favorites including satay, grilled seafood, noodles, and traditional desserts. A must-visit for food lovers.
Piccolo Cafe
Charming Australian-style cafe serving excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and brunch items. Popular with expats and coffee enthusiasts.
Li Gong Restaurant
Upscale Cantonese restaurant at The Empire Hotel renowned for its dim sum, fresh seafood, and traditional dishes. Elegant setting with both indoor dining and outdoor terrace seating.
Excapade Sushi
Contemporary Japanese fusion restaurant offering creative sushi rolls, rice bowls, and Asian-fusion dishes. Trendy atmosphere popular with locals and expats.
Nasi Katok Lily
Famous local eatery specializing in Nasi Katok (Brunei's beloved rice, fried chicken, and sambal dish). Simple, delicious, and incredibly affordable.
Tamu Kianggeh Food Stalls
Morning market with food stalls serving traditional Bruneian breakfast items. Best visited early morning for fresh kuih and local coffee.
Restaurants by Cuisine
Find restaurants that match your taste preferences.
Italian Cuisine
Spaghettini
Fratini's
Bruneian Traditional Cuisine
Aminah Arif Restaurant
Mixed Street Food Cuisine
Gadong Night Market
Jerudong Night Market
Cafe/Bakery Cuisine
Piccolo Cafe
Chinese (Cantonese) Cuisine
Li Gong Restaurant
Japanese Fusion Cuisine
Excapade Sushi
Street Food & Markets
The best local flavors at affordable prices.
Satay
Skewered and grilled meat (chicken, beef, or mutton) served with peanut sauce, rice cakes, and cucumber-onion salad. Brunei's satay is particularly tender and fragrant with lemongrass and turmeric.
Roti Kuning
Bright yellow bread rolls made with egg, coconut milk, and pandan — a uniquely Bruneian breakfast bread eaten with kaya (coconut jam) or curry. Found only in Brunei.
Kuih Mor
Traditional shortbread cookies made from rice flour, butter, and sugar, shaped into flower or shell forms and coated in powdered sugar. A popular celebratory kuih often given as gifts.
Pisang Goreng (Fried Banana)
Whole bananas coated in a spiced batter and deep-fried until golden and crispy. Available from street vendors and market stalls across Brunei.
Food Markets
Tamu Kianggeh
Brunei's most authentic daily market along Jalan Kianggeh selling fresh produce, jungle herbs, river fish, local kuih, and traditional foods. Best before 10am when the market is at its most lively.
Gadong Night Market
The largest and most popular evening food market in Brunei with over 50 stalls selling every type of local street food. The social heart of BSB's evenings with seating and a festive atmosphere.
Tutong Tamu Market
A traditional tamu (farmers' market) in the Tutong District where indigenous Dusun vendors sell jungle produce, wild honey, dried meats, and handicrafts alongside regular fresh produce.
Dining Etiquette & Tips
Navigate the local food scene like a pro.
All food in Brunei is halal — Muslim travellers have no concerns about food certification.
Nasi katok is the best value meal in the country at BND 1 — eat where locals queue.
Ambuyat is an acquired taste — ask for a small portion to try before ordering a full set.
Night markets are cash only — carry small BND notes.
Most restaurants close by 10-11pm; night market stalls wind down by midnight.
Tipping is not expected but appreciated at upscale restaurants (BND 2-5).
Food Budget Guide
What to expect at different price points.
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