Traditional Sabah Cooking Class and Taste Local Flavors
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Explore the rich culinary heritage of Sabah in this engaging Traditional Cooking Class. With the guidance of warm and experienced hosts, you'll master local dishes like hinava, linopot, and fried chicken tuhau, all crafted from fresh ingredients. As you cook, listen to fascinating cultural stories that reveal the traditions behind each dish. Afterward, savor the delicious meal you've created together, making this an unforgettable culinary journey through Sabah's unique flavors.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
What To Expect
Experience Sabah through its flavors! Join us for a hands-on traditional cooking class in the heart of Penampang, where you’ll learn to prepare authentic Kadazandusun dishes passed down through generations. This immersive culinary experience begins with a warm welcome from your local host. You’ll learn about traditional ingredients and cooking methods before diving into the preparation of iconic Sabahan dishes such as Linopot (rice wrapped in leaf), Hinava (fresh fish salad), Pinasakan Sada (braised fish with takob-akob), and more. Whether you’re a food lover, a curious traveler, or someone looking for a unique cultural activity in Sabah, this class offers a genuine taste of local life. After cooking, sit down together and enjoy the meal you’ve prepared — the Sabahan way. All ingredients provided Suitable for beginners Great for solo travelers, couples & groups Duration: 2.5–3 hours Location: Kampung Kibabaig, Penampang Hosted by Didie, Owner of D'Joy & Jacob's Cafe Come as a guest, leave as a friend — and take home more than just recipes.
Sample Menu
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Linopot
A traditional Sabahan rice wrapped in leaf, often mixed with yam or sweet potato. A portable, flavorful meal enjoyed with various side dishes.
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Hinava
Hinava is a traditional Kadazan-Dusun dish of fresh raw fish cured with lime, ginger, chili, and shallots. A zesty Sabahan delicacy.
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Pinasakan Sada
Pinasakan Sada is a signature Kadazan-Dusun dish of fish simmered with takob-akob fruit, turmeric, and herbs for a rich sour-savory taste
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Chicken Tuhau
Chicken Tuhau is a unique Sabahan dish, stir-fried chicken with wild ginger (tuhau), chili, and spices, giving a fragrant, tangy, and bold flavor.
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Stir-fried Wild Garlic Shoots with Anchovies
A fragrant dish of stir-fried wild garlic shoots with anchovies, chili, and spices—simple yet full of Sabahan homestyle flavor.
Options
Traditional Sabah Cooking Class and Taste Local Flavors
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Lunch
Public transportation
Outside Kota Kinabalu area. (can be arranged with extra charge)
Travel Insurance
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Our family had an amazing...
Tanvi N,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our family had an amazing time at the traditional cooking class in Kota Kinabalu! It was our first cooking class experience and was such a fun and memorable activity for our family. A special thank you to Didie, who was an exceptional host and teacher. She made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived and created such a warm, relaxed, and enjoyable atmosphere. Her instructions were clear and easy to follow, and she shared fascinating insights into Sabahan culture and the stories behind each dish, making the experience so much more meaningful. The class was hands-on, well-organized, and suitable for all ages. The ingredients were fresh, the recipes were authentic, and the food we prepared was absolutely delicious. It felt less like a class and more like being welcomed into a local family’s kitchen. If you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience in Kota Kinabalu, we can’t recommend this enough. Thank you, Didie, for your wonderful hospitality and for giving our family such a memorable experience!
Unusual dishes using ingredients specific to mackerel
yukii2013,Mar 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Diddy the host is very friendly and helpful. You can learn to cook using many ingredients unique to Sabah, Malaysia. There are some ingredients that cannot be purchased in my country, but it was a fun experience because I learned local dishes that tourists can't eat easily. After the lesson, you can also get recipes, which is great.
Excellent day out
Alan B,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fabulous experience. Dedie was a great instructor. Allowed me to do all the prep and cooking. Food was glorious. Would certainly recommend.
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