Sandakan: A Sweet Return to Indulgence - Feature in Favstyle Magazine & Essentials By Writer on-the-go | Lorena Binisol

In the golden folds of Sabah’s eastern coastline lies Sandakan, a destination where heritage lingers and every street seems perfumed with the scent of something freshly baked. Once celebrated as the proud capital of North Borneo, Sandakan today continues to charm visitors with a quieter luxury: its deeply rooted culinary soul.

Originally from Sandakan, Ngau Si Tart, one of the famous desserts

For many who grew up here, Sandakan is more than a hometown. It is an emotion wrapped in flavour. Those who venture abroad for studies, careers, or new beginnings often discover that what calls them back is not only family or familiarity, but the irresistible memory of dessert tables filled with local treasures. Distance, somehow, only sweetens the craving.

Returning visitors frequently speak of this experience with almost poetic affection. Their homecoming journeys become culinary pilgrimages, where every slice of cake, every silky pudding, and every traditional delicacy feels like reconnecting with a cherished chapter of life. In Sandakan, desserts are not merely served, they are celebrated.

Tina said, Sandakan has the best tart

From drinks to desserts, nothing beats Sandakan food

Among the district’s beloved culinary landmarks is Bandar Kim Fung at Mile 4, a destination adored by generations of dessert lovers. Here, locally crafted cakes emerge endlessly from warm ovens, filling display counters with creations that reflect the comforting elegance of Sandakan hospitality. Each confection carries a touch of nostalgia, balanced beautifully with timeless craftsmanship.

The best egg tart is to-die-for only in Sandakan

Jeffery a visitor from Lahad Datu having a bite of the tart

Yet perhaps no dessert captures Sandakan’s playful personality quite like the legendary Ngau Si Tart. Its literal translation, “cow dung tart,” often sparks curiosity and laughter among first-time visitors. The nickname comes purely from its rustic rounded shape, a cheeky local expression that has become part of its enduring charm.

Beyond the humorous title lies a delicacy of remarkable indulgence. Richly buttery with a delicate balance of sweetness, the tart has become one of Sandakan’s most iconic treats. Locals also fondly refer to it as the “UFO Tart” or “Flying Saucer Tart,” inspired by its charming disc-like silhouette. Whichever name one prefers, its flavour remains unforgettable.

Another red beans dessert a must-try

Avocado served in a bowl full of yumminess

In many ways, the Ngau Si Tart reflects the very essence of Sandakan itself: warm, unpretentious, rich in character, and impossible to forget.

Visitors may arrive for the history, the coastline, or the stories of old North Borneo, but they often leave remembering the desserts. Because in Sandakan, sweetness is not simply part of the cuisine. It is part of the identity. 

The Tau Fu Fah too, one of the best