Best Hawker Food In Penang At Night

Penang is well-known for its mouth-watering cuisine, and its hawker food is a must-try for tourists and locals alike. When the sun goes down, Penang comes alive with its vibrant night markets and street food stalls. Here are some of the best hawker food in Penang that you shouldn’t miss!

The Best Hawker Food In Penang At Night 🍴

From savory noodle dishes and spicy curries to sweet desserts, Penang’s hawker food scene has something for everyone. Here are some dishes that you definitely should try:

1. Char Koay Teow

Char Koay Teow is one of Penang’s most famous hawker dishes. It’s a stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and eggs. The dish is cooked over high heat, resulting in a smoky, charred flavor that is simply irresistible. 🍤

2. Hokkien Mee

Hokkien Mee is a savory noodle dish that is a Penang staple. It’s made with yellow noodles and rice vermicelli, cooked in a rich prawn broth with slices of pork, prawns, and squid. The dish is then topped with crispy fried onions and served with a side of sambal chili paste. 🍜

3. Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar is a popular Indian-Muslim dish that originates from Penang. It’s a plate of steamed rice served with an assortment of curries, vegetables, and your choice of protein such as chicken or fish. The dish is often spicy and bursting with bold flavors. 🍛

4. Assam Laksa

Assam Laksa is a sour and spicy noodle soup that is a Penang specialty. It’s made with thick rice noodles, a sour fish broth, and a variety of herbs and spices. The dish is topped with shredded mackerel fish, cucumber, and pineapple. 🍲

5. Satay

Satay is a popular Southeast Asian dish, and Penang’s version is not to be missed. It’s skewered meat that is marinated in a blend of spices and served with a peanut dipping sauce. You can find satay stalls all over Penang, and they are a great option for a quick snack. 🍢

6. Cendol

Cendol is a sweet dessert that is perfect for cooling down on a hot night in Penang. It’s made with shaved ice, coconut milk, and green rice flour jelly noodles. The dish is then topped with sweet red beans and palm sugar syrup. 🍧

Complete Information about Best Hawker Food In Penang At Night

Penang is a food lover’s paradise, and the hawker food scene is truly unique. The best hawker food in Penang can be found at night markets and street food stalls throughout the city. You can expect to find a diverse array of dishes, from traditional Malay and Chinese cuisine to Indian-Muslim specialties.

One of the best things about the hawker food scene in Penang is the affordability. You can easily find a satisfying meal for under RM10 (US$2.50). The atmosphere is also lively and bustling, with the sights, sounds, and smells of the night markets adding to the experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Penang, make sure to carve out some time to explore the hawker food scene. You won’t be disappointed!

FAQs About Best Hawker Food In Penang At Night

1. What is the best time to visit Penang’s night markets?

The night markets in Penang typically start in the late afternoon and go on until late at night. The best time to visit is around 7pm, when the crowds have started to gather and the food is fresh and hot.

2. Are there vegetarian options available at Penang’s hawker food stalls?

Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options available at Penang’s hawker food stalls. Look out for dishes that use tofu, vegetables, or egg as a protein source.

3. Do I need to speak Malay or Mandarin to order food at Penang’s hawker stalls?

While it certainly helps to know some basic Malay or Mandarin phrases, most hawker stall owners speak enough English to take your order. You can also point to the dishes you want or use a translation app to communicate.

4. Is it safe to eat street food in Penang?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Penang. Just make sure to look for stalls that are busy and have a high turnover of food to ensure that your meal is fresh and hygienic. Also, make sure to stick to bottled water to avoid any stomach upsets.

5. How much should I expect to spend on hawker food in Penang?

You can easily find a satisfying meal for under RM10 (US$2.50) at Penang’s hawker food stalls. However, prices may vary depending on the dish and the location of the stall.

6. What is the most popular hawker dish in Penang?

Char Koay Teow is arguably the most popular hawker dish in Penang. It’s a stir-fried noodle dish that is cooked over high heat, resulting in a smoky, charred flavor that is simply irresistible.

7. Can I find halal food at Penang’s hawker stalls?

Yes, there are plenty of halal options available at Penang’s hawker stalls. Look out for dishes that are labeled as halal or ask the stall owner if the dish contains any pork or non-halal ingredients.

8. Are there any hawker food stalls that are open during the day in Penang?

Yes, there are some hawker food stalls that are open during the day in Penang, but the majority of stalls operate at night. One popular daytime option is the Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul stall in George Town, which serves up delicious cendol.

9. What is the best way to navigate Penang’s hawker food scene?

The best way to navigate Penang’s hawker food scene is to do your research beforehand and make a list of the stalls and dishes you want to try. You can also join a food tour or follow a local food blogger’s recommendations.

10. What is the difference between Penang-style satay and other types of satay?

Penang-style satay is typically marinated in a blend of spices that includes turmeric, lemongrass, and ginger. The peanut dipping sauce is also slightly different, with the addition of tamarind and pineapple juice.

11. Can I find Western food at Penang’s hawker stalls?

While Penang’s hawker stalls are known for their traditional Malaysian cuisine, you can also find some Western options such as burgers and fries. However, these stalls are less common than their Malaysian counterparts.

12. What is the best way to pay at Penang’s hawker stalls?

Most hawker stalls in Penang only accept cash, so make sure to bring enough small bills and coins. You can also download a mobile payment app such as GrabPay or Boost to make transactions easier.

13. Can I bring my own drinks to Penang’s hawker stalls?

While it’s not typically allowed to bring your own drinks to Penang’s hawker stalls, some stall owners may be lenient if you ask first. It’s always best to buy drinks from the stalls themselves to support the local businesses.

Conclusion

If you’re a foodie, Penang is the perfect destination for you. The hawker food scene at night is a must-try, and there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to sample. From savory noodle dishes and spicy curries to sweet desserts, Penang’s food scene has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Grab a friend and head to Penang to indulge in some of the best hawker food in the world!

Note: This article is for informational purposes only. Please exercise caution when consuming street food and make sure to follow proper hygiene practices.