Best Food To Eat In Penang

Discover the Delicious Flavors of Penang!

Penang is an island situated on the northwest coast of Malaysia that is known for its rich culture and delicious cuisine. The island is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Malays, Chinese, and Indians, which has resulted in a unique culinary landscape.

In this article, we’ll explore the best food to eat in Penang so that you can experience the mouth-watering flavors and aromas of this beautiful island. From hawker stalls to fine dining restaurants, Penang has something to offer every food lover.

Nasi Kandar: The King of Penang Cuisine 👑

Nasi Kandar is the undisputed king of Penang cuisine. It is a hearty and flavorful meal consisting of steamed rice served with an assortment of curries, meat, and vegetables. You can find Nasi Kandar at any hawker stall around the island.

What makes Nasi Kandar so special?

The key to Nasi Kandar’s deliciousness lies in the curry. The curries are made using a unique blend of spices and herbs, giving them a distinct flavor and aroma. The meats are also cooked with the curry, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

What are some popular Nasi Kandar dishes?

Dish
Description

Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken)
Crispy fried chicken served with rice and curry.

Daging Masak Merah (Beef in Red Curry)
Tender beef cooked in a spicy tomato-based curry.

Sayur Campur (Mixed Vegetables)
Assortment of vegetables cooked in a flavorful curry.

Char Kuey Teow: A Must-Try Dish 🍜

Char Kuey Teow is a popular stir-fried noodle dish that is a must-try when visiting Penang. The dish is made using flat rice noodles, shrimp, egg, bean sprouts, and Chinese sausage.

What makes Char Kuey Teow so special?

The secret to a good Char Kuey Teow lies in the wok hei (breath of the wok). The noodles are stir-fried over high heat in a hot wok, resulting in a smoky flavor and slightly charred taste.

Where can I find the best Char Kuey Teow in Penang?

You can find Char Kuey Teow at any hawker stall in Penang, but some of the best places to try it are at Siam Road, Kafe Heng Huat, and Tiger Char Kuey Teow.

Assam Laksa: A Tangy and Spicy Delight 🌶️

Assam Laksa is a popular noodle soup dish that is known for its tangy and spicy flavor. The soup is made using fish, tamarind, chili, and various herbs and spices.

What makes Assam Laksa so special?

The key to a good Assam Laksa is the fish. The fish is boiled to create a flavorful broth that is then combined with tamarind, chili, and other ingredients to create a tangy and spicy soup.

Where can I find the best Assam Laksa in Penang?

Some of the best places to try Assam Laksa in Penang are at Air Itam Market, Joo Hooi Cafe, and Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul.

Hokkien Mee: A Hearty and Flavorful Soup 🍲

Hokkien Mee is a noodle soup dish that is popular among the Chinese community in Penang. The soup is made using prawn, pork, and a variety of noodles, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish.

What makes Hokkien Mee so special?

The key to a good Hokkien Mee is the broth. The broth is made using prawn shells and pork bones, giving it a rich and savory flavor. The noodles are then added to the broth, along with prawns, pork, and other ingredients, resulting in a delicious and satisfying soup.

Where can I find the best Hokkien Mee in Penang?

Some of the best places to try Hokkien Mee in Penang are at Kim Leng Loh Mee, Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls, and Ah Soon Kor Hokkien Mee.

FAQ

Q: What are some other popular dishes in Penang?

A: Apart from the dishes mentioned above, some other popular dishes in Penang include Curry Mee, Rojak, and Cendol.

Q: Are there any vegetarian options available in Penang?

A: Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options available in Penang, including dishes like Char Kuey Teow and Hokkien Mee that can be made with vegetables instead of meat.

Q: Is it safe to eat street food in Penang?

A: Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Penang. However, it is always a good idea to choose stalls that are clean and have a high turnover of food to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Q: Can I find halal food in Penang?

A: Yes, there are plenty of halal food options available in Penang due to its large Muslim population.

Q: What is the best time to visit Penang for food lovers?

A: The best time to visit Penang for food lovers is during the annual Penang Food Festival, which usually takes place in April or May.

Q: What is the most expensive restaurant in Penang?

A: The most expensive restaurant in Penang is currently Ferringhi Grill, which is located at the Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa.

Q: What is the best way to explore Penang’s food scene?

A: The best way to explore Penang’s food scene is to go on a food tour. There are plenty of food tours available that will take you to the best hawker stalls and restaurants on the island.

Q: Can I find international cuisine in Penang?

A: Yes, there are plenty of international cuisine options available in Penang, including Italian, Korean, and Japanese food.

Q: What is the cost of food in Penang?

A: The cost of food in Penang varies depending on where you eat. Hawker stalls are the cheapest option, with dishes costing anywhere from RM4 to RM10. Fine dining restaurants can be more expensive, with dishes costing upwards of RM100.

Q: What is the most popular drink in Penang?

A: The most popular drink in Penang is Teh Tarik, which is a sweetened tea that is frothed to create a creamy texture.

Q: What is the difference between Penang Laksa and Assam Laksa?

A: Penang Laksa and Assam Laksa are both noodle soup dishes, but they differ in their ingredients and preparation. Penang Laksa is made using a shrimp paste-based broth, while Assam Laksa is made using a fish-based broth. Penang Laksa also contains pineapple and mackerel flakes, while Assam Laksa contains tamarind and mackerel.

Q: What is the best way to order food at a hawker stall in Penang?

A: The best way to order food at a hawker stall in Penang is to approach the stall and let the vendor know what you would like to order. Most vendors speak basic English, so communication should not be a problem.

Q: What are some popular sweets in Penang?

A: Some popular sweets in Penang include Tau Sar Pneah, which are flaky pastries filled with sweet bean paste, and Kuih Bangkit, which are coconut cookies.

Q: What is the best way to get around Penang?

A: The best way to get around Penang is by using public transportation, such as buses and taxis. Grab is also available in Penang, which is a ride