Tamar Rindu is a restaurant dedicated to serving authentic Borneon food, crafted to be enjoyed by everyone who visits Sabah. Our goal is to showcase the richness of Sabah’s ingredients and recipes, from our signature Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan (Sabah-style fish head curry) to a wide selection of seafood, lamb, beef, and chicken dishes. More than just a local eatery, Tamar Rindu represents the taste of Borneo that we hope to one day bring beyond Sabah for the world to enjoy. The restaurant is located at Sabico Square, Inanam, Kota Kinabalu, just about 20 minutes from the city center. With a comfortable dining setting and flavors that reflect the heart of Borneo, Tamar Rindu is a welcoming stop for locals, travelers, and families alike.
Tamar Rindu operates daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, making it suitable for both lunch and dinner. Our buffet sessions usually run on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, with prices starting at RM10 for kids and senior citizens, and RM49.90 for adults. We stay open throughout the week, including weekends and public holidays, so families and travelers can dine without worrying about closures. If you are planning an event, do check our catering and private function FAQs for special arrangements. We recommend following our social media or calling ahead during festive seasons (Hari Raya, Christmas, or Chinese New Year) to confirm special menus and promotions.
Yes, Tamar Rindu is fully Halal certified to give peace of mind to our Muslim customers. The certification is issued by Jabatan Hal Ehwal Agama Islam Negeri Sabah (JHEAINS), ensuring that all our ingredients, preparation methods, and kitchen processes strictly follow Islamic dietary laws. Our seafood and meats are sourced only from Halal suppliers. This commitment means you can enjoy every dish from our signature Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan to our Sabahan-style prawns and lamb with confidence. For families and groups with diverse backgrounds, this makes Tamar Rindu a trusted choice.
Yes, we encourage reservations, especially during weekends and buffet nights, as tables fill up quickly. You can book a table by calling our restaurant directly, sending us a WhatsApp message, or booking via our Facebook page. For larger gatherings or private events, advance booking of at least 3–5 days is recommended to secure the best seating, including our VIP Room. Walk-ins are always welcome, but to avoid waiting times, especially during peak hours (7:00 PM–9:00 PM), reservations are highly recommended.
Tamar Rindu does not have a strict dress code, we welcome guests who come for both casual meals and special occasions. Most of our customers dress in smart casual attire, which keeps the dining experience comfortable yet presentable. Because we also host events such as weddings, engagements, birthdays, and company dinners, many guests choose to wear traditional outfits like baju kurung, or batik, or formal wear for celebrations. For everyday dining, simple and neat clothing is perfectly fine. Our focus is on making Tamar Rindu a place where everyone feels welcome to enjoy authentic Borneon food in a relaxed yet elegant setting.
Yes, Tamar Rindu guests have access to ample open-air parking at Sabico Square, Inanam. The parking area is spacious and located close to the restaurant, making it convenient for families, groups, and event guests. During peak hours such as weekends or buffet nights, we recommend arriving a little earlier, around 6:00 PM, to secure a spot nearer to the entrance. For large gatherings like weddings or company dinners, our team can provide guidance on the best parking areas within Sabico Square. The easy parking access is one of the reasons Tamar Rindu is a popular choice for both casual dining and special events.
Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan is our signature fish head curry, inspired by traditional Sabah-style kampung cooking but elevated with Tamar Rindu’s unique spice blend. Unlike Indian-style curries that are heavy with masala, our version uses local Sabah ingredients like asam jawa (tamarind), and fresh coconut milk, creating a balanced flavor, rich, tangy, and slightly creamy. The dish highlights the natural sweetness of the fish head, often red snapper or grouper, sourced daily from local fishermen. It has become our signature because it perfectly embodies Tamar Rindu’s philosophy: authentic Sabahan flavors with a refined presentation. For first-time visitors, it is the most recommended dish.
At Tamar Rindu, we serve fresh local seafood prepared in a variety of signature Sabahan styles. Our main selections include sunoh, ikan merah, kerapu, siakap, red tilapia, udang (prawns), and sotong (squid). Each is cooked in carefully crafted flavors from our signature Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan to sweet, spicy, and savory sauces that bring out the natural freshness of the catch. Rather than offering generic grilled dishes, Tamar Rindu focuses on authentic kampung-inspired recipes that highlight Sabah’s unique taste profile. This way, every dish tells a story of tradition, freshness, and homegrown flavor.
Tamar Rindu is primarily a seafood restaurant, but we also understand that some guests prefer vegetarian or vegan meals. While we don’t have a fully dedicated vegan menu, our kitchen can customise certain vegetable dishes to suit your needs. For example, we can prepare simple stir-fried or steamed vegetables without seafood, belacan, or animal-based ingredients upon request. Because our focus is on seafood, the variety is limited, but we are happy to adjust our vege dishes to make them suitable for vegetarian or vegan diners. If you have specific requests, please inform our staff when ordering so we can recommend the best possible options for you.
If you’re visiting Tamar Rindu for the first time, these are the dishes our regulars always recommend:
These dishes represent the heart of Tamar Rindu, traditional kampung flavors presented with a refined touch.
Yes, Tamar Rindu is not only about seafood, we also serve lamb, beef, and chicken dishes to cater to guests who prefer other proteins or have seafood allergies. These options make it easier for families and groups with mixed preferences to dine together comfortably. While our signature focus remains on Sabahan seafood, our non-seafood dishes are prepared with the same dedication and use of local ingredients. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy a satisfying meal, whether they are seafood lovers or not.
Yes, Tamar Rindu offers a buffet dinner on selected days, usually Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. The buffet features around 30 different options of food, drinks, and desserts, giving guests a wide variety to enjoy. Unlike our à la carte menu which highlights prawns and squid, the buffet focuses on fish, chicken, lamb, and beef dishes, paired with seasonal vegetables, rice, and sweet treats. Prices are RM49.90 for adults and RM10 for children and senior citizens, making it very berbaloi (worth it) for families and groups. Many guests choose the buffet as it’s the easiest way to taste Tamar Rindu’s signature Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan along with a rich variety of other Sabahan flavors. We recommend booking in advance as buffet nights fill up quickly.
Sabahan seafood cuisine is all about freshness, simplicity, and balance. Because Sabah has access to some of the richest fishing grounds in Malaysia, seafood is often cooked on the same day it is caught, which preserves its natural sweetness. Unlike other regions that may use heavier spice mixes, Sabahan cooking highlights local ingredients such as asam jawa (tamarind), bunga kantan (torch ginger), fresh lime, and coconut milk. These give dishes a tangy, fragrant, and creamy taste that feels lighter on the palate. Another key difference is the strong influence of kampung-style home cooking, where recipes focus on bringing out the true flavor of the fish or prawns rather than masking it. At Tamar Rindu, this philosophy is reflected in both our à la carte menu and buffet options, offering guests an authentic taste of Sabah.
At Tamar Rindu, our cooking is inspired by traditional Sabah kampung-style methods that highlight freshness and natural flavors. We often use kukus (steaming) to preserve the sweetness of fish and squid, paired with local herbs like bunga kantan and tamarind for fragrance and tang. For richer flavors, we prepare curries and braised dishes with coconut milk and asam jawa, creating the creamy yet sour taste that Sabah cuisine is loved for. We also use goreng (frying) with salted egg or light batter to add crunch without overpowering the seafood. These methods, passed down through generations, emphasize balance and authenticity. By staying close to these roots, Tamar Rindu ensures every dish reflects the true essence of Sabah’s culinary heritage
Tamar Rindu’s flavors come from the use of fresh local Sabah ingredients that give our dishes their unique character. Commonly used are asam jawa (tamarind) for sourness, bunga kantan (torch ginger flower) for fragrance, and santan segar (fresh coconut milk) for creaminess. We also use halia (ginger), kunyit (turmeric), and serai (lemongrass) as the base for many curries and stir-fried dishes. These ingredients are staples in Sabahan kitchens and help balance the natural sweetness of fresh seafood such as sunoh (coral trout), kerapu (grouper), and udang (prawns). By combining them in traditional kampung-style (village-style) methods, we create dishes that are rich in taste yet still light and refreshing. This careful use of local produce is what makes Tamar Rindu’s menu a true reflection of Sabah’s culinary identity.
At Tamar Rindu, freshness is our priority, which is why we source our seafood daily from local Sabah suppliers and fishermen. Most of our fish such as sunoh (coral trout), ikan merah (red snapper), kerapu (grouper), siakap (barramundi), and red tilapia come directly from coastal waters around Kota Kinabalu and nearby fishing villages. Our udang (prawns) and sotong (cuttlefish) are also supplied by trusted local markets to ensure quality and halal compliance. By working closely with local suppliers, we maintain both freshness and authenticity, allowing the natural sweetness of Sabah seafood to shine in every dish. This local sourcing also supports the community and ensures that what we serve at Tamar Rindu truly represents the taste of Sabah’s seas and rivers.
The biggest difference lies in the flavor profile and ingredients. Indian fish head curry is usually heavier, with a strong mix of masala spices such as cumin, coriander, and chili powder, resulting in a thicker and more robust taste. In contrast, Sabah-style fish head curry, like our signature Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan, focuses on a lighter, creamier, and more fragrant balance. We use asam jawa (tamarind) for tanginess, bunga kantan (torch ginger flower) for aroma, and santan segar (fresh coconut milk) for creaminess. This creates a curry that is rich yet refreshing, allowing the natural sweetness of the fish head such as sunoh (coral trout) or kerapu (grouper) to stand out. Many guests find Sabah-style curry easier to enjoy, especially for first-timers, because it is flavorful without being overpowering.
Yes, Tamar Rindu provides catering services for events that are hosted at our restaurant in Sabico Square, Inanam. We regularly cater for weddings, engagements, birthdays, company dinners, and family gatherings, offering menus that feature our signature dishes such as Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan, Udang Masak Kelapa & Roti Mantau, Kambing Madu, and Peria Telur Masin, along with side dishes, drinks, and desserts. Our packages can be customised according to group size and budget, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience for all guests. To secure your date, we recommend making reservations at least one week in advance, especially during festive seasons when event bookings are high.
Yes, Tamar Rindu is well-suited for large groups and private functions at our restaurant in Sabico Square, Inanam. With a spacious dining hall and a dedicated private area, we regularly host weddings, engagements, birthdays, company dinners, and family gatherings. Guests can choose from customised menus that highlight our signature dishes such as Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan, Kambing Madu, and Udang Masak Kelapa & Roti Mantau, along with a wide variety of supporting dishes. Our team will assist with seating arrangements and menu planning to ensure your event runs smoothly. For the best experience, we recommend booking your event at least one week in advance.
Yes, Tamar Rindu offers both takeaway and delivery services for customers who want to enjoy our food outside the restaurant. Takeaway orders can be placed directly at our outlet in Sabico Square, Inanam, or by calling us ahead for quicker pickup. For delivery, Tamar Rindu is available on GrabFood, making it convenient for customers in Kota Kinabalu to order their favorite dishes such as Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan, Udang Masak Kelapa & Roti Mantau, and Kambing Madu. Delivery coverage depends on GrabFood’s service area, so availability may vary by location. We recommend checking the GrabFood app to see if Tamar Rindu is available in your area.
Yes, Tamar Rindu is very child-friendly and we provide a dedicated kids’ menu for our younger guests. The kids’ menu is designed with simpler flavors and smaller portions, making it easier for children to enjoy their meals while parents dine comfortably. In addition, our restaurant has a spacious and family-friendly setup that makes dining with children convenient. During our buffet sessions, children also benefit from a wide variety of dishes at a special price of only RM10, which includes food, drinks, and desserts. This makes Tamar Rindu a popular choice for family outings, as both kids and adults can enjoy the best of our Sabahan flavors together.
Yes, Tamar Rindu is wheelchair accessible, making it comfortable for guests with mobility needs. Our restaurant at Sabico Square, Inanam is located on the ground floor, allowing easy access without the need for stairs. The dining area is spacious enough to accommodate wheelchairs, with wide walkways and flexible seating arrangements for families or groups that include elderly guests. Our staff are also ready to assist with seating and arrangements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. We aim to provide an inclusive environment where everyone can comfortably enjoy our signature dishes, from Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan to our buffet selections.
Tamar Rindu accepts a variety of payment methods to make dining convenient for all our guests. We welcome cash payments as well as major credit and debit cards. For those who prefer digital options, we also accept e-wallets such as GrabPay, Touch ‘n Go eWallet, and Boost, which are commonly used in Sabah. This flexibility ensures that whether you are a local guest or a visitor, you can settle your bill in the way that suits you best. Our goal is to provide not only great Sabahan food but also a smooth and hassle-free dining experience from start to finish.
At Tamar Rindu, we take seafood allergies very seriously. Since seafood is central to our menu, there is always a risk of cross-contact in the kitchen. However, our staff are trained to handle allergy requests with care. If you or someone in your group has an allergy, please inform our team when placing your order so we can recommend the safest options, such as our lamb, beef, or chicken dishes, which are prepared separately from most seafood items. While we cannot guarantee a completely seafood-free environment, we always do our best to minimise cross-contamination by using clean utensils and cookware when handling non-seafood dishes. Guest safety is important to us, and we encourage open communication so we can serve you with confidence and care.
Tamar Rindu does not have a dedicated gluten-free menu, but some of our dishes can naturally be enjoyed by guests who are sensitive to gluten. Many of our fish, lamb, beef, and chicken dishes are prepared with fresh herbs, spices, coconut milk, and tamarind, which are naturally gluten-free. However, certain sauces and fried items may contain ingredients such as soy sauce or flour-based coatings. If you require gluten-free dining, please inform our staff when ordering so we can guide you to the most suitable dishes or adjust where possible. While we take care in preparation, we cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free kitchen environment, but we will always do our best to accommodate your needs.
Yes, Tamar Rindu can adjust the spice levels of many of our dishes to suit your preference. While traditional Sabahan cooking often features a balance of tangy, creamy, and mildly spicy flavors, we understand that some guests may prefer their food less spicy or extra pedas (hot). For example, our Kari Tamar Kepala Ikan can be made milder for families with children, while prawn or cuttlefish dishes can be prepared with an added kick for those who enjoy strong chili flavors. Simply let our staff know your preferred spice level when ordering, and our kitchen will do their best to accommodate. This flexibility makes Tamar Rindu a comfortable choice for both locals who love bold flavors and visitors who prefer something lighter.
At Tamar Rindu, we focus on creating dishes that highlight the natural flavors of fresh seafood and local ingredients. We use minimal to no MSG (monosodium glutamate) in our cooking, as our recipes rely more on asam jawa (tamarind), bunga kantan (torch ginger flower), santan segar (fresh coconut milk), and fresh herbs and spices to bring out authentic Sabahan taste. The goal is to keep our food flavorful yet wholesome, making it suitable for families, children, and health-conscious diners. If you prefer your meal completely MSG-free, you can always inform our staff when ordering, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Tamar Rindu is located at Sabico Square, Inanam, which is about a 20–25 minute drive from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) under normal traffic conditions. The route is straightforward, passing through the main city roads toward Inanam, making it convenient for travelers who want to enjoy a meal either before heading to the airport or right after arriving in Sabah. Many visitors choose Tamar Rindu as their first stop to experience authentic Sabahan seafood without having to go deep into the city center. We recommend using GrabCar or local taxis for the most convenient transport option from the airport.
Tamar Rindu is located in Sabico Square, Inanam, a lively area with plenty to explore before or after dining. Nearby, you’ll find the Inanam Wet Market, famous for its fresh local produce and seafood stalls, giving visitors a glimpse of daily Sabahan life. For shopping, Inanam Mall and various retail outlets are just minutes away. Nature lovers can head towards Mari Mari Cultural Village, about 15 minutes’ drive, where you can experience traditional Sabahan houses and cultural performances. The area is also a convenient stop for those traveling to Kundasang or Mount Kinabalu, as Inanam sits along the main route leading out of Kota Kinabalu. This makes Tamar Rindu a perfect dining spot to include in your itinerary, whether you’re exploring the city or heading into the highlands.
Tamar Rindu offers a delightful seafood buffet experience in Sabah, serving fresh, authentic flavors in a cozy setting. Visit us at Sabico Square, Inanam, for an unforgettable dining experience!
