5 Must-Visit Makan Spots in Kuala Terengganu

Terengganu isn't just famous for its beaches, but also for food with an identity all its own. On this trip, we gathered five places to eat around Kuala Terengganu and Kuala Nerus that we think deserve a spot on your list, from breakfast all the way to dinner.

We started the day at Nasi Dagang Jejantas on Jalan Hiliran, Kampung Tok Ku. Its nasi dagang (rice steamed with coconut milk, served with fish curry) comes wrapped in banana leaf, and besides that main dish, the shop also offers a variety of Terengganu-style dishes. Coming to this state without tasting nasi dagang just doesn't feel complete.

For a family dinner, Marshima Tomyam Seafood in Kampung Banggul Tuan Muda serves Thai-style cooked-to-order dishes. We tried the salted egg crab, three-flavour siakap, steamed lime siakap and fresh sea snails. The Bangkok tom yum and eel soup are also among the most-ordered dishes. The dining area is comfortable for big groups, and the shop is open from evening until late at night.

Fans of kampung dishes must stop by Restoran Singgang Budu. As the name suggests, singgang, a fish dish in broth rarely found outside the East Coast, is the main draw, surrounded by more than 30 other dishes, making it hard to choose. The space is large and can fit around 200 people.

Then we headed to Nyiur Pantai Sauh in Kuala Nerus, an open-air café under the coconut trees right by the beach. It's perfect for relaxing in the sea breeze, with local snacks like cucur udang (prawn fritters) and satay, plus heavier meals and western options.

Our final stop was Restoran Pior Ganu on Jalan Bukit Kecil, a traditional-concept restaurant decorated with batik fabric patterns. Its menu is based on kampung cooking such as gulai, sup tulang and ikan bakar, and it's open from morning to afternoon, so it's great for lunch. All five places are not far from each other, so you can finish this list in a day or two.