Unveiling Sibu’s vibrant nightlife: From street food to chic bars

An icon of Sibu - the swan sculpture situated on the banks of the Rajang River.

By Ling Hui

KUCHING, Feb 28: While Sibu may appear as a quaint town where early bedtimes are the norm, the city reveals a different charm as the sun sets, transforming into a bustling nocturnal playground for night owls.

Situated in the central region of Sarawak, Sibu is often overshadowed by its more bustling counterparts such as Kuching, Miri and Bintulu, but its nightlife has quietly blossomed into a vibrant scene in recent years.


Sibu’s nightlife has much to offer, including tantalising street food markets to chic wine bars and cozy coffee spots, whichever you prefer.

Following recommendations by locals, DayakDaily visited the top three places that are usually packed with people when night falls, namely the Muhibah Hawker Centre, The Coffee Code, and DS Home Bistro & Wine Bar.

The 20-year-old Muhibah Hawker Centre, which underwent a facelift a year ago, provides not only a variety of food options from 50 stalls but also new facilities such as dedicated parking bays, a drive-through and drop-off lane with rain covers, cleaner toilets, babycare room for mothers and their infants, and even free Wi-Fi.

Some of the must-try foods there are satay, shaved ice with fruits and fried calamari.

A selection of pastries offered by The Coffee Code, Sibu.

For those who love IG-worthy aesthetics and enjoy house-roasted coffee, bread, cakes, as well as an assortment of unique waffles, The Coffee Code is the place to go for a chill night with family and friends.

Those not big on coffee but prefer some alcohol with soothing jazzed-up versions of popular songs, DS Home Bistro & Wine Bar is said to be one of the latest drinking spots in Sibu.

Some other popular night stops in Sibu include barbecue restaurants, hidden bars, milk tea shops, and night markets; the gastronomic adventure does not end here.

Explore Sibu during the night and who knows, you might stumble upon more hidden gems. — DayakDaily