For better restaurant suggestions, allow location access to see nearby places first.
Bistro in Sandakan, Sabah
What should I order at Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar?
What to order
-
🥇
Lamb Ribs
Most frequently recommended dish in the reviews, praised for being a standout item, well worth it, and something multiple diners specifically said to try.
-
🥈
Chocolate Lava Cake
Repeatedly described as delicious, amazing, and phenomenal, with reviewers calling it a must-order dessert and highlighting its rich flavor and generous portion.
-
🥉
Slipper Lobster
Highly recommended for its excellent preparation and value, especially when served with pesto spaghetti or in laksa pesto form; reviewers said it exceeded expectations.
-
4
Pizza
Mentioned several times as great, outstanding, and very enjoyable, with specific praise for the margarita sourdough pizza and pizza in general.
-
5
Cocktails
Frequently praised as excellent, delicious, and beautiful, with specific drinks like the Hugo Spritz and other cocktails standing out in the reviews.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 2 to 11 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 2 to 11 PM |
| Wednesday | 2 to 11 PM |
| Thursday | 2 to 11 PM |
| Friday | 2 to 11 PM |
| Saturday | 2 to 11 PM |
| Sunday | 2 to 11 PM |
About Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar
Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar is a bistro, bar, and restaurant in Sandakan, Sabah with rooftop seating and views over the city, sea, and sunset. The menu spans European and Malaysian dishes, with drinks, desserts, and small plates available across breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert service. Reviewers consistently praise the rooftop setting, friendly and attentive staff, generous portions, and standout items like pizza, lamb ribs, and chocolate lava cake. The place is also noted for being a comfortable spot for solo dining, groups, and tourists.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
- Great wine list
- Rooftop seating
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Happy hour drinks
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked
What is Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar known for?
It is best known for its rooftop dining with sunset and city views over Sandakan, especially from the 8th-floor terrace and rooftop seating. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the lamb ribs, pizza, and chocolate lava cake as the signature items that make the view-and-dinner experience feel worth the price.
What dishes are most recommended at Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar?
The most frequently recommended dishes are the lamb ribs, pizza, chocolate lava cake, and Slipper Lobster with pesto spaghetti. Reviewers also mention generous portions and satisfying flavors, with the lava cake often singled out as a dessert worth sharing because it is large and rich.
What is the atmosphere like at Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar?
The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy, with a breezy rooftop and a lively evening feel. It suits groups, tourists, and solo diners, while many reviews mention it as a good place to chill, catch up with friends, or celebrate a birthday.
Is Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is RM 40 to RM 140, and reviewers often say the portions are generous and the experience is well worth it. Several comments call the drinks and food good value for the rooftop views, especially when ordering dishes like lamb ribs, pizza, or the chocolate lava cake.
When is the best time to visit Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar?
Sunset is the most recommended time, because many reviews mention the rooftop view over Sandakan and the sea being especially impressive as the light changes. Reservations are recommended for lunch, brunch, and dinner, and some reviewers note that the place can be fully booked during busy periods.
Is parking available at Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar?
Yes. Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar have vegetarian options?
Yes, Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar offers vegetarian options.
Is Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar kid-friendly?
Yes, Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar is good for kids.
