CHAR KOAY TEOW

In Penang's version, thick rice noodles are stir-fried in a blazing hot wok with succulent prawns, plump cockles, juicy Chinese sausage, fishcake, crisp bean sprouts, and fresh chives. The dish is infused with a blend of soy sauce and chili paste. What sets Penang's Char Kway Teow apart is the "wok hei," a smoky and charred aroma imparted by the high heat of the wok.

Recommended

Siam Road Char Koay Teow (Jalan Siam)
Ah Leng Char Koay Teow (Restoran Tong Hooi, Jalan Dato Keramat)
Hillside Ah Soon Cafe (Jalan Sungai Kelian)

LOR MEE

Loh Mee features thick yellow noodles immersed in a thick, starchy gravy that is packed with umami flavors. The gravy is made from a combination of ingredients such as soy sauce, garlic, cornstarch, and sometimes added with spices and herbs. It is typically cooked with pork and sometimes includes other ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, chicken feet and garnished with chopped garlic, vinegar, chili paste, and crispy fried shallots

Recommended

Restoran Joo Huat, ‘Kim Leng Loh Mee’ (Jalan Perak)
Stall in front Kedai Kopi Thor Peng Cheng (Taman Jelutong)
Stall in Mount Erskine Market (Morning Market)

CURRY MEE

Curry Mee from Penang features a fragrant and spicy broth infused with a medley of aromatic spices and coconut milk, giving it a rich and creamy texture. Served with yellow noodles, bean sprouts, tofu puffs, and your choice of toppings like prawns or cockles and some with pigs blood.

Recommended

Curry Mee at 55, Lorong Seratus Tahun
Kafe Mandarin (Island Glades)
Curry Mee at Roadside Mount Erskine Hawker (Morning)

ASSAM LAKSA

Laksa from Penang is a tantalizing noodle soup that represents the bold flavors of the island's culinary scene. This iconic dish features a tangy and aromatic broth made from a harmonious blend of spices, tamarind, and coconut milk. Served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, shredded fish, prawns, and a spoonful of shrimp paste.

Recommended

Kim Seng Kopitiam Laksa Shop, Balik Pulau (Jalan Sungai Air Putih)
Air Itam Market Assam Laksa (Jalan Pasar, Paya Terubong ONLY OPENS WEEKENDS)
Peng Hwa Laksa, Restaurant Taman Emas (Jalan Gottlieb)

SATAY

Satay from Penang is a tantalizing and flavorful grilled meat skewer that represents the vibrant street food culture of the region. Marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and grilled over an open flame, the tender and juicy meat, whether chicken, beef, or lamb, is served with a delectable peanut sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Recommended

Satay Stall at JJ Garden Food Court (Tanjung Bungah)
Satay Stall at Newlane Night Street Market

NASI KANDAR

Nasi Kandar from Penang is a culinary gem that reflects the diverse cultural influences of the island. This iconic dish consists of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, meats, vegetables, and condiments. Known for its rich and robust flavors, Nasi Kandar Penang offers a gastronomic experience that combines aromatic spices, tender meats, and a tantalizing array of curries, creating a satisfying meal.

Recommended

Hameediyah Restaurant (Lebuh Campbell)
Yasmeen Restaurant (Jalan Penang)

NASI LEMAK

Nasi Lemak features coconut rice as its centerpiece, accompanied by an array of delectable side dishes such as spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, cucumber slices, and hard-boiled eggs. The combination of these elements creates a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, making Nasi Lemak Penang a true delight for the taste buds.

Recommended

Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang (Sri Weld Food Court)
Jin Hoe Cafe Nonya Nasi Lemak (Jalan Cantonment)
Uncle Lanz Nasi Lemak (Jalan Mahsuri)

AIS KACANG AND CENDOL

Ice Kacang from Penang is a refreshing and vibrant dessert that offers a delightful respite from the tropical heat. This popular Malaysian treat features a colorful mound of shaved ice topped with a medley of sweet syrups, jellies, corn, red beans, and sometimes even durian, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures that captivate the senses.

Recommended

Ais Kacang Stall (inside Kedai Kopi Kek Sen, ,Jalan Penang)
Jalil Special Ais Kacang AND Coconut Shake (Esplanade Park)

Cendol from Penang is a beloved dessert that provides a cool and creamy escape from the tropical heat. It consists of green pandan jelly noodles, red beans, and palm sugar syrup, all generously bathed in a bed of shaved ice and rich coconut milk.

Recommended

Swatow Lane Ice Kacang (New World Park)
Penang Road Famous Teochew Cendol Stall (Side of Kafe Joo Hooi, Penang Road)

ROTI CANAI

Roti Canai from Penang is a popular and flaky flatbread that has become an iconic Malaysian dish. Made from a dough that is skillfully stretched and folded, it is then pan-fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Served with flavorful curries or other accompaniments, Roti Canai is a delicious and versatile culinary delight that is enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Recommended

Restoran Roti Canai Argyll Road
Roti Canai Transfer Road

DURIANS - THE KING OF FRUITS

Penang durians tantalize the senses with their robust aroma. The durian season in Penang typically occurs from May to August. I am not a durian fan but my dad who is a durian lover recommends the ever famous Musang King, Black Thorn, Capri, Green Skin, Susu and Red Prawn.

Recommended

Ah Teik Zai Durian (Jalan Burma)
Shan Cheng Durian Penang (Balik Pulau)