7 Best Things We Ate in Penang, Malaysia: A Street-Food Haven
Nestled on the northwest coast of Malaysia, Penang is a gem of a destination that offers a unique blend of historical charm, beautiful sights, and most importantly, an unparalleled food scene. Known as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang boasts a culinary landscape that is as diverse as its cultural heritage. From mouth watering street food to gourmet delights, this island has something to satisfy every palate. Even after spending over a week here, we only scratched the surface of what this foodie paradise has to offer. Still, out of the many, many items we tried, here are the 7 best things we ate during our visit.
1 - Nasi Kandar at Kassim Mustafa Nasi Dalcha Restaurant, Penang
Let's jump right in with the best thing we discovered in Malaysia - Nasi Kandar. While on our way to a biryani spot, we stumbled upon a magical scene. A buffet of curries, containers of vegetables, and grilled chicken all lined up in a row. People would step up and point, getting a bowl of rice, adding some cabbage and an egg, selecting a juicy piece of chicken, and then the server would ladle a spoonful of curry sauce from each different pot on top of the concoction.
The result? A flavor explosion that is simply unforgettable. Best enjoyed with crispy papadum on the side, we found ourselves returning to Kassim Mustafa Nasi Dalcha Restaurant again and again for this heavenly dish. While we may have been unfamiliar with this concoction, it is a local dish Penang is synonymous with.
2 - Roti Canai at Roti Canai Transfer Road
A classic Malaysian breakfast, Roti Canai is a flaky and fluffy flatbread that is typically served with curry or dal. We headed to the famed Roti Canai Transfer Road and enjoyed this delicious dish paired with tender chicken. The perfect start to any day in Penang!
3 - Charcoal Toasted Bread at Toh Soon Cafe
What is special in Penang? It turns out everything, even the alleyways. Tucked away in a very bustling alleyway, Toh Soon Cafe is a local favorite known for its charcoal toasted bread. Simple yet perfect, this crispy and fragrant bread is best enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
4 - Char Kway Teow at Kafe Heng Huat, Penang Street Food
What food is Penang Famous For? We would argue it is this Malaysian street food delicacy, Char Kway Teow. This dish is a flavor explosion of smoky flat rice noodles stir-fried over high heat with sauces, chili, egg, bean sprouts, and usually prawns. We found the best version of this dish at Kafe Heng Huat, where every bite was a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
5 - Iced Coffee in a Bag at Kopi Peng Famous Aunty
For a unique coffee experience, head to Kopi Peng Famous Aunty. This legendary aunty still makes coffee in the classic way she learned from her grandfather, resulting in a delicious combination of richly flavored coffee with sweetened condensed milk. And if you're taking this drink to go, it is served in an adorable plastic bag with an elastic to hold it around your wrist and a straw sticking out.
6 - More Nasi Kandar at Deen's Maju Nasi Kandar
If we weren't clear before, Nasi Kandar is amazing. Our second favorite spot for this delectable dish is Deen's Maju Nasi Kandar. But be warned, this place is a local favorite and there are usually long lines, but trust us, it's worth the wait! Just make sure you have enough days here to enjoy this dish all over town. We would suggest spending 4-5 days in Penang just to be sure.
7 - Ais Tingkap at Ais Tingkap Stall
Last but not least, we couldn't leave Penang without trying Ais Tingkap, also known as Window Sherbet. This Sri Lankan drink is a magical mix of coconut flesh, rose syrup, basil seeds, and is topped with shaved ice. Its taste is as striking as its hot pink appearance, making it the perfect refreshing treat to end our culinary adventure in Penang.
In conclusion, Penang is undeniably a food lover's paradise. When you are asked what food Penang is famous for, hopefully you will be able to choose between the iconic Nasi Kandar, the flavorful Char Kway Teow and the unique Ais Tingkap. Despite its culinary excellence, the street food in Penang is not expensive, making it accessible to both locals and tourists alike. With its vibrant street food scene, rich cultural heritage, and affordable prices, it's no wonder Penang stands out as one of the best food destinations in the world.
We only scratched the surface during our visit, and we can't wait to dive in again and explore more of what Penang has to offer. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready for a gastronomic journey like no other!
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