Penang is a vibrant island brimming with cultural heritage, whilst also famously doubling as a foodie’s paradise. To say the food culture in Penang is diverse is an understatement. It has enough options to satiate every craving, preference, and taste buds of every discerning foodie at heart. From historic dessert stalls to Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded eateries, here is a casual yet informative guide to some of Penang’s must-visit food destinations.
Penang is renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, and one of its most cherished traditions is the making of Nyonya Koay (or kuih), a variety of local cakes, dumplings, puddings, and pastries that reflect the island’s rich Peranakan heritage. At the heart of this tradition is Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay, a celebrated establishment that has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 1933.
Featuring freshly made Nyonya kuih such as kuih lapis, kuih talam, ang koo, and more, this 1933 establishment also earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand status in 2023, and continues to be one of Penang’s oldest and most cherished Nyonya kuih makers. The sheer variety of colors and textures of the Nyonya Kuih alone are sure to grab your attention.
How to get to Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay
Being situated within Georgetown means Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay is fairly accessible for most. It is located closer to Restoran Kapitan than the others, making it an eight-minute walk away. Here are a few ways to get there.
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One of many Penang classics is the Assam Laksa, which is a unique dish unlike anything you may find elsewhere. Essentially a rice noodle dish, the noodles are served in a robust and flavorful sardine broth, garnished with cucumber, mint leaf, pineapple, onion, chillies, ginger flower, shrimp paste, turmeric, lemon grass, herbs, and tamarind. In short, it is a flavourful dish featuring a mesmerizing blend of textures and rich flavors, with hints of tangy and spicy notes.
If that sounds enticing, then Penang Road Famous Laksa is where you will want to go. This third-generation family business has preserved authentic tastes since 1970, allowing them to stand out, so much so that their Assam Laksa has earned the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand status in 2023 and 2024. Despite the grand recognition, a delicious bowl of Laska remains at an affordable price of RM 7 only, so definitely drop by if you get the chance!
How to get to Penang Road Famous Laksa
Likewise, Penang Road Famous Laksa, is also easily accessible as it is conveniently located in Georgetown’s Lebuh Keng Kwee. Here are a few ways to get there.
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Nasi Lemak is widely considered Malaysia’s national dish, with fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with a variety of accompaniments. It is affordable, delicious, and most importantly, it is a quick and deliciously humble meal. When you are in Penang and craving for nasi lemak, you will want to visit Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang, a simple grab-and-go stall that is well-known for their unique take on the dish.
Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang’s nasi lemak features the titular coconut milk rice, wrapped in banana leaves, and then topped with spicy sambal and hard boiled egg. You can also add-on other accompaniments like anchovies, sambal squid, prawn, fish, chicken and even salted fish. Each pack costs RM 3.00, which is a real bargain considering the value it offers.
While the stall may seem small and unassuming, never judge a book by its cover! This stall has earned the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand status as well, so stop by if you’d like a fast yet quality meal.
How to get to Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang
Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang is located in the Sri Weld Food Court, close to Fort Cornwallis and the Esplanade. If you are already in Georgetown, it is still possible to get here on foot, although it may be a little further than the previous options.
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Phone: +6016 407 0717
Photo Credit : @jonnyboyeats (Instagram)
Duck Kway Chap is truly a hearty and homely meal for many Penangites. This warm and satisfying noodle soup dish features rolled flat rice noodles in a light broth, which is spiced to perfection and seasoned with soy sauce. If you are feeling adventurous, try having it with a variation of exotic toppings including braised duck meat, pork intestines, and pig’s ears, best enjoyed with a chili dipping sauce.
Kimberley Street Duck Kway Chap has been making the most famous iteration of this dish. Preserving the same recipe for over 30 years, they are known for the deep, complex flavors of their broth that is achieved from slowly simmering the duck and pork. A medium bowl is priced at RM 7.50, making it relatively inexpensive for locals and tourists alike.
How to get to Kimberley Street Duck Kway Chap
Another Georgetown resident, Kimberley Street Duck Kway Chap is also quite close in proximity to the earlier food destinations on this list. Here are a few ways to get there.
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Nasi Kandar is a quintessential Malaysian dish with deep roots in Penang’s culinary heritage. Originating from Indian-Muslim hawkers, this meal has evolved into a beloved staple, known for its aromatic flavors and hearty portions. Its name references a method where Indian-Muslim vendors in the 1900s used to carry two baskets of rice and dishes balanced on a pole, an act known as kandar.
The key to its distinctive flavor lies in the way the curry sauces are mixed through and poured over the rice, allowing various flavors to mingle. If you are looking for the authentic flavors of Nasi Kandar, then you may want to make a beeline for Restoran Hameediyah. Established in 1907, this is Penang’s oldest Nasi Kandar spot, run by the sixth generation of the Rawther family, preserving their special masala recipe.
How to get to Restoran Hameediyah
As with the others listed here so far, Restoran Hameediyah sits in the heart of Georgetown, making it easily accessible. Here are a few ways to get there.
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Claypot Briyani is a delicious variation of the traditional Briyani, cooked and served in a clay pot, which infuses the dish with a unique earthy flavor whilst also helping retain moisture, making the rice and meat incredibly tender and flavorful. The dish typically includes fragrant basmati rice, aromatic spices, and a choice of meat such as mutton, chicken, or beef, all layered and cooked to perfection in their titular clay pots.
Restoran Kapitan at Chulia Street is an Indian-Muslim restaurant famous for its Claypot Nasi Briyani. It sits in Penang’s Little India, and has gained widespread acclaim for its exceptional Mutton Claypot Briyani, which is not only delicious but also reasonably priced at RM 12. The portions are also generous; a single order serves two to three people.
This hearty dish is often complemented by other popular menu items like Chicken Milani with Naan Set (RM 12.75) and Chicken Tandoori (RM 10), making Restoran Kapitan a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Family-friendly and vegetarian-friendly, this 24-hour restaurant is a must-visit in Penang’s Little India.
How to get to Restoran Kapitan
Likewise, Restoran Kapitan is located in Georgetown’s Little India, making it easily accessible. Here are a few ways to get there.
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Mee Sotong is a dish derived from the ever-popular Mee Goreng Mamak, and has quickly become one of Penang’s many hallmarks. This dish features fried egg noodles in the style of Mee Goreng Mamak, but with a hearty amount of sambal added as it cooks, giving the noodles a vibrant red hue. The noodles are then topped with spicy squid sambal, which adds a rich, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor.
At Hameed Pata Mee Sotong, a plate of Mee Sotong ranges from RM 6 to RM 8, keeping things affordable. The stall has been around since 1978, and has built up a reputation as one of the best in the business. They feature two variations of the dish, one in the popular fried style, and Mee Sotong Kuah, which sits in a hearty broth made of sweet potato with sambal squid on top.
Hameed Pata Mee Sotong has grown since its inception, and these days, you will also find they have other dishes on offer. If you do visit however, you will be doing yourself a disservice if you don’t try their Mee Sotong!
How to get to Hameed Pata Mee Sotong
Hameed Pata Mee Sotong is located close to Fort Cornwallis and the Esplanade. It is also walkable especially if you are already in Georgetown. Here are some options available:
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If you have been in Malaysia for an extended period of time, then you are definitely more than familiar with Roti Canai, which is a type of flatbread made from flour and ghee, and fondly known for its crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. It is practically an omnipresent breakfast option in Penang, with mamak eateries everywhere offering the famous delicacy. But, the best of them is probably Roti Canai Gemas Road.
Operated by Indian-Muslim (mamak) siblings since 1994, this humble stall has been an absolute favorite among Penangites since its inception. Their chicken, beef and lamb curry options have also enjoyed rave reviews. In addition, they also offer unique options, like Roti Canai with sunny-side-up eggs, cheese and shallots. Roti Canai Gemas Road also keeps prices fairly affordable for all.
How to get to Roti Canai Gemas Road
Roti Canai Gemas Road is located near the City Stadium Penang, which is closer to the city center. As long as you are already in Georgetown, it is still walkable to the stall. Here are some of the options available:
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Although we covered Nasi Kandar earlier with Restoran Hameediyah, it is a slightly upscale version of the cuisine. If you want a taste of the more homely and humble version of Nasi Kandar, then you can’t go wrong with Deens Maju Nasi Kandar, which is one of the most popular Nasi Kandar spots in the entirety of Penang, inspiring more than a few knock-offs in its trail.
What really sets Deens Maju Nasi Kandar apart from its contemporaries are not just their delicious curries, but also affordable pricing. Not only does it offer authentic versions of the dish, but there are also different options available and for locals, it remains a good lunch or dinner option, underscoring its importance as a simple and tasty meal for the people.
How to get to Deens Maju Nasi Kandar
Deens Maju Nasi Kandar is walkable if you are already in Georgetown. You will find that most of the restaurants on this list are quite close in proximity to each other. Here are your options for getting here:
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Safe to say, the concept of ‘street food’ and Penang go hand-in-hand, and the Gurney Drive Hawker Center is a quintessential part of Penang's vibrant street food scene. Known for its extensive array of delicious and affordable dishes, this food hub is a must-visit for both locals and tourists looking to indulge in the rich flavors of Malaysian cuisine.
Gurney Drive Hawker Center is a bustling food court that offers a wide variety of famous Penang street food, and is divided into two sections: one for halal food and another for non-halal food, ensuring that it caters comfortably to a diverse crowd. Its proximity to Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon shopping malls also adds to its appeal, offering a convenient stop for a meal after a shopping spree.
How to get to Gurney Drive Hawker Center
Gurney Drive Hawker Center is close to Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon Shopping Mall, and remains one of the main attractions in Georgetown, making it easy to get to:
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Padang Brown Food Court is nestled in the heart of George Town, Penang, and is a culinary haven known for its diverse selection of local delicacies and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you are a food enthusiast or a casual diner looking for unique experiences, Padang Brown offers a delightful array of flavors that capture the essence of Penang's street food culture.
Padang Brown Food Court stands out for its extensive variety of dishes, catering to both local and international palates. Be spoiled for choice with everything from steamboat to western food or rojak and many of Penang’s classic favorites and other exotic options in one sitting. Do keep in mind however, that Padang Brown Food Court serves non-halal food during the day, and halal food in the evening.
How to get to Padang Brown Food Court
Padang Brown Food Court is located on Jalan Perak, and is easily recognizable by its lively atmosphere and diverse food stalls. Here are ways to get there:
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Misai Mee Jawa offers a delectable plate of yellow egg noodles stir-fried with a special chili paste, chopped onions, potato cubes, beancurd, and homemade crispy crackers. You can enjoy this dish either fried or in a flavorful soup. Each plate costs just RM 5, making it an affordable and delicious choice.
This eatery is cherished for its secret recipe which dates over 20 years, and carefully handed down through generations. The second generation of the family now runs the business, ensuring that the authentic flavors remain intact. Its Michelin Bib Gourmand status highlights the exceptional quality and taste of the Mee Jawa here.
How to get to Misai Mee Jawa
Misai Mee Jawa is conveniently located just nine minutes from Penang Sentral, making it easily accessible. Here are a few ways to get there:
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Chendul, also spelled Cendol, is one of those classic desserts that is synonymous with Penang, and it is not difficult to see why. Juxtaposing the blistering island-heat with the strong flavors of Penang food, Chendul is simply the perfect treat to cool off, and to top-off a delicious meal. This cold treat is sweet yet refreshing, featuring a delicious combination of shaved ice and coconut milk as the perfect pairing to pandan jellies, palm sugar and red bean paste.
At Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul, a bowl of this wonderful dessert is priced at RM 4.50, which is inexpensive relative to its taste and legacy. Established in 1936 by Mr. Tan Teik Fuang, this stall is arguably Penang’s most famous chendul spot. Even until today, its authentic flavors remain consistent, attracting droves of customers to its doorstep.
Not in the market for dessert? Fret not, Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul also serves other classics including Ice Kacang, Laksa Penang, Chee Cheong Fun, and Rojak Buah. This spot is practically a piece of Penang history, and based on that alone, it is already well worth a visit - everything else is a huge, delicious bonus.
How to get to Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul
Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul is located smack dab in the heart of Georgetown, making it relatively easy to get to. Here are a few ways to get there:
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Needless to say, Penang's food scene is a rich tapestry of flavors and history, where each bite tells a story. Whether you are indulging in the famous Teochew Chendul or savoring a bowl of Assam Laksa, these eateries offer a culinary experience that is as authentic as it is unforgettable. Here’s to new memories and an unforgettable gastronomic journey through Penang!
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