BALIN ROOF GARDEN
Read moreOn the roof of the Nak Hotel, this beautiful terrace overlooking the city is the ideal place to enjoy a good pizza or sip a cocktail. The setting is modern and cosy, all in white, barely broken up by chequered tiles and wooden chairs that will remind older diners of school. The menu gives pride of place to fresh, sourced produce: the lamb comes from New Zealand, the mackerel comes from the nets of local fishermen and is accompanied by a pomelo salad. There's also a children's menu, featuring dishes from the menu in mini-portions.
ENGLISH TEA HOUSE
Read moreIf Malaysians have retained a British tradition, it's that of high tea, accompanied by pastries and cookies. The setting, a colonial-style bungalow in the middle of an English garden, lends itself particularly well to a moment of nostalgia. The view over Sandakan Bay is magnificent from here. You can also come for lunch, and sample classic British dishes such as beef stew, fish & chips and scone for dessert.