Sasa Seafood Restaurant Lunch

Lunch at Sasa Seafood was an exploration of the seafood scene in Kota Kinabalu. A pork-free establishment, it attracts a diverse crowd, popular with locals of all races.

We started with the fried chicken wings, and the aroma of the Nam Yue—a fermented bean curd—hit us as soon as they arrived. The wings were flavorful, with the distinct umami punch of the Nam Yue elevating them beyond the usual fried chicken.

Next came the steamed prawns, which were incredibly fresh and naturally sweet. The prawns were served with a side of Sambal Belacan, a spicy shrimp paste condiment that perfectly complemented the prawns' sweetness.

The Sayur Manis with egg was our next dish. Sayur Manis, also known as 'sweet leaf' or 'star gooseberry leaf,' is a popular vegetable in Southeast Asian cuisine. It has a slightly sweet taste and a crunchy texture when cooked properly. This dish was tasty and crunchy, providing a nice contrast to the other seafood dishes.

The stir-fried Yau Mak, or romaine lettuce, was also good, with a simple yet satisfying flavor profile.

We then had the fried sotong coated in salted egg. While the taste was rich and savory, the sotong (squid) was a bit too chewy for my liking, which detracted slightly from the overall experience.

The highlight of our lunch was the butter milk crab. The sauce was a thinner version of what some might be used to, but it was still delicious. The crab, while not the meatiest, was fresh and the flavors melded together nicely, making for a satisfying end to our meal.

The kopi was also good.

Sasa Seafood provided a delightful lunch experience, showcasing the freshness and quality of Kota Kinabalu's seafood offerings. While there were minor quibbles with the texture of the sotong and the thinness of the crab sauce, the overall quality and taste of the dishes made for an enjoyable meal.