Dine, rest and recharge along the shores of Miri

Hearty bowls of Kolok Mee with black sauce served at kopitiams in Marina Square, Miri.

By Yvonne T

MIRI, Feb 24: Whether you arrive in Miri for work, a family holiday, a graduation, or simply as a stopover en route to another district, there is one place that quietly gathers travellers and locals alike at almost any hour of the day; Marina Bay.

Built on reclaimed land along Miri’s coastline, the area feels like a newly drawn map. A park opens up to the breeze. There are fresh rows of shoplots, a reshaped river mouth, and long stretches of beach that catch the first and last light of the day.

Further in land, at the Marina Square in Marina ParkCity, rows upon rows of eateries sit shoulder to shoulder with homestays, convenience stores, small inns, wellness spas, bakeries and gyms.

Scenic views at Marina Square, Miri.

Everything is within walking distance of the beach. It is the kind of place where you can check into a room, step outside, and within minutes be seated in front of a steaming bowl of noodles.

Later, when the day slows and the sea breeze calls, you can wander down to the shore, let the sun warm your skin, and watch the tide roll in at your own unhurried pace.

The D’Drift team arrived early this morning and headed straight for breakfast. The sun had barely climbed when the tables were already filling up.

If you fancy a hearty breakfast, Wang Xiang Noodle offers delicious bowls of kolok mee cooked in the unique Northern Sarawak way.

The noodles are springy yet tender, tossed in savoury sauce that clings to every strand. Each serving comes with a bowl of pork soup, light yet comforting.

Steamed dim sum, egg custard, and others sold at Marina Square, Miri.

It is sweet and savoury in equal measure, simple yet deeply satisfying. Almost every table held the same order; a steaming bowl of black-sauce kolok mee, a testament of its taste. For the weary traveller and the early riser alike, it is the kind of breakfast that settles the stomach and steadies the day.

For lighter bites, there are trays of steamed dim sum, egg custard buns and tender pork ribs. Those with heartier appetites can opt for the signature curry rice topped with a double serving of pork and chicken, rich and generous in portion.

A generous portion of pork and chicken curry rice offered at Marina Square, Miri.

Just steps away, cafes offer a slower rhythm. At The Kopitiam, toast arrives golden and crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy within.

For those feeling adventurous, coffee or tea crowned with a layer of cheese foam adds an unexpected twist to a familiar drink.

Enjoy a cup of 3-layer Teh C Peng (left) or Teh Tarik cheese after a long day, at Marina Square, Miri.

As the day stretches into evening, Marina Square shifts gears. Bars begin to glow with bright fluorescent lights. Convenience stores remain open around the clock for late-night cravings.

Bakeries wind down, while gyms welcome those determined to balance indulgence with discipline.

Well toasted bread that retains its soft and fluffy inside, perfect for evening tea at Marina Square, Miri.

Nearby, wellness centres and spas offer tired travellers a different kind of nourishment, easing sore muscles and quieting minds after a long journey.

What makes Marina Square compelling is not just the variety of food, but its setting. A short walk leads to the shoreline where waves fold gently onto the sand.

You can dine and unwind, then wander to the beach without ever moving your car.

Marina Square lights up at night, with eateries and pubs ready to serve.

– DayakDaily