An Evening at Little Sulap Home of Kota Kinabalu’s Finest Original Sabahan “Linopot” - The Best Local Native Signature Menu

Nestled along Jalan Dewan, famously known as the nostalgic “Memory Lane” of old Jesselton, Little Sulap continues to preserve the soul of Sabah through food, culture, and heritage. The name “Sulap,” derived from the Dusun language meaning “hut” or “little hut,” reflects the restaurant’s humble roots and authentic native spirit. Surrounded by rows of buildings that still stand untouched since the British colonial era, the setting itself feels like stepping into a living postcard of old Kota Kinabalu.

Little Sulap located at Jalan Dewan

The evening’s special food judging session gathered an esteemed panel of respected personalities and culinary enthusiasts led by Head Judge Datuk Gordon Leong alongside Adjunct Prof. Jessie Jong Chun Jin (A.S.D.K), Permanent Judge Rory Richardson, Mr Jimmy Boon Adelphi Collective, Omar Willie MY KKCity, Belinda Faith Sabah KOL Media Alliance ,Hello Sabah, writer on-the-go Lorena Binisol, as well as Ben Liew.

Chris group photo with the esteem judges 

session with the judges

Throughout the judging session, guests were treated to an unforgettable showcase of authentic Sabahan delicacies, with the spotlight firmly placed on the restaurant’s signature Linopot. In recent years, Kota Kinabalu has seen a rising wave of eateries introducing their own versions of the beloved traditional dish. Yet according to the judges, nothing quite compares to the original Sabahan Linopot presented by Little Sulap.

Festival Chairman Mr Alfred Allen Ginsos group photo at the front entrance of Little Sulap.
together with Writer On-The-Go Lorena Binisol, Permanent Judge Rory Richardson and Ben Liew 

Every element, from the quality and aroma to the rich native flavor's, reflected authenticity in its purest form. Wrapped traditionally and prepared with deep respect for Sabahan heritage, the dish delivered not only taste but a cultural experience that resonated strongly with the panel.

During the session, Chris, the Managing Director and also a chef himself, shared the philosophy behind the restaurant’s enduring reputation as one of the top destinations for native Sabahan cuisine. According to him, the secret lies in maintaining 100% authentic preparation methods and preserving the original flavours of local indigenous cooking without compromise.

Today, Little Sulap continues to attract visitors from Kuala Lumpur, Brunei, and even as far as South Korea. Many discover the restaurant through social media platforms and travel recommendations, making it a must-visit culinary destination whenever they arrive in Kota Kinabalu.

Chris group photo with Ben, Belinda, Omar and Lorena.

As the evening concluded, the judging session ended on a warm and memorable note with a celebratory group photograph, capturing yet another meaningful moment in Sabah’s ever-growing culinary story.