Discover the culinary wonders of Penang City, especially in the vibrant district of Georgetown, renowned as a mecca for food enthusiasts. This Penang famous food reputation is built on the city’s cultural diversity, blending various ethnicities and religions, resulting in an extensive selection of acclaimed street and hawker food.
Penang’s streets boast many food options, with virtually every establishment earning a well-deserved reputation for being nothing less than “delicious.” Immerse yourself in the essence of Penang’s best food as we take you on a culinary journey through its renowned street food scene.
Explore the streets of Georgetown for a taste of Penang’s famous food and indulge in the best of Penang street food. Uncover the hidden gems that come alive at night, experiencing the richness of Penang’s night food culture.
Don’t miss the chance to savour the best of Penang’s culinary delights, making your food hunt an unforgettable experience in this gastronomic paradise.
Best Food in Penang You Must Try:
1. Char Kway Teow – Ah Leng Char Koay Teow 亜龙炒果条
A well-loved dish among Malaysians, Char Kway Teow is a national favourite. This delectable dish is infused with the essence of wok hei and features comforting elements like lap cheong, pork lard, and succulent prawns.
For an extra indulgence, consider opting for the duck egg version (RM11) at Ah Leng Char Koay Teow, offering a richer and creamier texture.
The vibrant orange hue from the duck egg yolk enhances the decadent plate of noodles, while two jumbo prawns delight those who relish a substantial seafood experience.
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Location |
343, Jalan Dato Keramat, George Town, 10150 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia |
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Working Hours |
Thursday to Tuesday – 10.30 am to 4 pm |
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Contact Number |
+6012 498 3962 |
2. Penang Assam Laksa – Penang Air Itam Laksa 亜依淡巴刹叻沙
Did you know that Penang’s Asam Laksa secured the seventh spot on CNN Travel’s The World’s 50 Best Foods list? Indulge in the irresistible allure of the sweet-sour mackerel broth at Penang Air Itam Laksa.
Priced at RM5.50, their Asam Laksa is adorned with generous servings of raw herbs and vegetables, including cucumber, lettuce, onions, bunga kantan, red chilies, and fresh mint.
Renowned for its flavorful broth, even Anthony Bourdain himself savoured every bite during his visit in 2012.
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Location |
Jalan Pasar, Paya Terubong, 11500 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
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Contact Number |
+6012 500 7063 |
3. Loh Bak – Kheng Pin Cafe
Immerse yourself in the must-try Loh Bak when in Penang, and one of the best foods in Penang to savour this popular treat is at Kheng Pin Cafe along Penang Road.
Renowned for its crisp golden-brown loh bak, served with chilli sauce and a flavorful starchy black sauce, the dish is so delectable that patrons are known to take it back to Kuala Lumpur.
Additionally, the prawn fritter, prepared upon order to ensure freshness, is another delightful item on the menu. Visit Kheng Pin Cafe to experience these Penang street food delights in the heart of George Town.
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Location |
80, Jln Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
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4. Penang Rojak – Rojak Ho Wei Jeng
What a perfect start to your weekend or any day with a delightful bowl of rojak at Rojak Ho Wei Jeng, situated in the bustling Esplanade Food Court.
Despite the often lengthy queues, fear not, as the service is exceptionally swift, ensuring you’ll be savouring the unique Javanese-origin salad in just a matter of minutes.
Priced at RM5, the Rojak is a flavorful mix of water chestnuts, pineapple, guava, squid, green mangoes, cucumber, fried tofu, complemented by fermented prawn paste and ground nuts.
What sets it apart is the slightly sweeter and less savoury sauce, which has become a customer favourite, even available for purchase by the bottle.
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Location |
Medan Renong, 11, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
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Contact Number |
+6016 446 1666 |
5. Curry Mee – Air Itam Sister Curry Mee 暹罗姐妹咖哩面
Established in 1946 by the two visionary sisters, Lim Kooi Heang and Lim Kooi Lai, Air Itam Sister Curry Mee has been an iconic purveyor of Penang Style Curry Mee for decades.
The sisters, immortalised in a mural at Air Itam Market, have passed the legacy to their grandchildren who now run the stall.
What sets their RM5 Curry Mee apart is the traditional method of preparation – they sit on stools, operating over a traditional charcoal fire stove, and serve a unique bowl of curry soup that has stood the test of time.
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Location |
612 T, Jalan Air Itam, Pekan Ayer Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
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Contact Number |
+6012 410 8152 |
6. Nasi Kandar – Shariff Nasi Kandar
Indulge in the renowned Penang dish of nasi kandar at Shariff Nasi Kandar, a stall I’ve cherished since childhood. Known for its affordability and exceptional taste, patrons eagerly line up as early as 6.30pm to savour this culinary delight.
Each plate features fluffy rice adorned with a selection of rich, flavorful gravies, along with your choice of protein and vegetables. Priced at less than RM10, the meal ensures you get true value for your money.
Shariff Nasi Kandar is a must-visit destination for an authentic and satisfying nasi kandar experience in Penang. One of the best foods in Penang that you must try!
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Location |
Gerai 23, Kompleks Pasar Dan Makanan, Jalan Permai, Taman Brown, 11700 Gelugor, Penang |
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Working Hours |
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Contact Number |
+6017 458 6786 |
7. Ais Kacang – Swatow Lane Ice Kacang
Discover the legacy of Swatow Lane Ice Kacang in Penang, a beloved establishment with nearly a century of history. Originating as a modest cartwheel store providing refreshing desserts, this renowned ice kacang stall has transitioned to a new home on Burma Road.
Indulge in the Classic Ais Kacang (RM5), featuring shaved ice drenched in house syrup, complemented by corn, red beans, and grass jelly. For an extra treat, try the Ais Kacang Special (RM6) with a generous scoop of ice cream.
Visit Swatow Lane Ice Kacang for a delightful taste of tradition in the heart of George Town.
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Location |
E, 102, 1, Jalan Burma, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
Daily, 11:30 am – 9:30 pm |
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Contact Number |
+6016 459 5213 |
8. Penang Teochew Chendul/Chendol – Joo Hooi Cafe
No visit to Penang is complete without indulging in the iconic Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul. Located at Joo Hooi Cafe, the renowned stall is unmistakable, identified by the perpetual queue it attracts.
The enticing offering comprises shaved ice topped with chewy green rice flour jelly, red beans, fresh coconut milk, and a generous drizzle of gula melaka syrup—all for the affordable price of RM4.40.
While the vendor’s speedy preparation is fascinating, it’s worth noting that the quality may vary; on my second visit, the coconut milk seemed diluted, and the gula melaka was scant. Nevertheless, this ice-cold dessert remains a delightful escape from the scorching tropical heat.
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Location |
27-29, Lebuh Keng Kwee, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
Daily, 10:30 am – 7 pm |
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Contact Number |
+604 262 6002 |
9. Apom Manis – Swee Kong Coffee Shop
Swee Kong Coffee Shop, nestled in Pulau Tikus, houses one of the oldest apom manis stalls in Penang, dating back to its establishment in 1920.
This family-run business has been serving delectable sweet Apom Manis prepared in claypots over open charcoal stoves. Priced at just RM1 per piece, these coconut-rich treats are known for their irresistible moistness.
A visit to Swee Kong Coffee Shop is a journey back in time to savour the authentic flavours of this beloved Penang delicacy. Don’t miss the chance to indulge – one is never enough, and you’ll likely find yourself reaching for more.
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Location |
317, Jalan Burma, George Town, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
Daily from 5:30 am to 1:00 pm |
10. Dim Sum – Maxim Dim Sum
For Gelugor locals and those who grew up in the area, Maxim Dim Sum is a breakfast haven that has stood the test of time.
Renowned for its delectable and reasonably priced dim sum, this eatery has become a go-to spot for a satisfying start to the day. Indulge in perennial favourites like Fried Radish Cake, Fried Prawn Roll, Crystal Crab Dumpling, and Scallop Prawn Dumpling, making Maxim Dim Sum a beloved choice for a delightful breakfast experience.
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Location |
Bangunan Lip Sin 2 G – 6 to 12, Lebuh Pekaka 1, Sungai Dua, Taman Pekaka, 11700 Gelugor, Penang |
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Working Hours |
Daily, 6:30 am – 2:00 pm |
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Contact Number |
+6012 472 6625 |
11. Hokkien Mee – 888 Hokkien Mee
A renowned establishment among Penangites, 888 Hokkien Mee stands out as a staple, particularly known for its popularity reflected in the frequent long queues.
The small bowl of Hokkien Mee (RM6) is a delightful ensemble of noodles, pork slices, shrimps, boiled egg, and bean sprouts, generously topped with fried onions for enhanced aroma and flavour.
For those seeking an extra kick, a spoonful of chilli paste is available to be mixed into the savoury broth. Noteworthy is their self-service system, where patrons pick up their own bowls before settling at their tables.
Experience the essence of Penang’s Hokkien Mee tradition at 888 Hokkien Mee, located at 67-A, Lebuh Presgrave.
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Location |
67-A, Lebuh Presgrave, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
Tuesday & Wednesday, Friday to Sunday: 5pm – 8pm |
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Contact Number |
+6012 472 6625 |
12. Lok Lok – Peng Hwa Lok Lok
Savour a wide variety of over thirty lok lok options at Peng Hwa Lok Lok, located in the lively Pulau Tikus Market. This culinary delight not only boasts an extensive lok lok selection but also provides five delicious dipping gravies to enhance your dining experience.
Enjoy your steaming hot lok lok in comfort with specially customised tables. The best part?
Each stick is affordably priced at just RM1, making it the ultimate destination for a lok lok feast.
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Location |
Jalan Pasar, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
Thursday to Tuesday: 4pm – 10pm (Closed on Wed) |
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Contact Number |
+6012 472 6625 |
13. Oyster Omelette – Seng Thor Coffee Shop
Explore the renowned Fried Oyster Omelette, known as Oh Chien in Hokkien, a cherished Penang street food. For an authentic experience, head to the historic Seng Thor Coffee Shop, a hawker stall boasting a legacy dating back to 1930.
Choose from four sizes, priced at RM13, RM17, RM20, and RM30, and relish the combination of plump, juicy oysters with a crispy omelette batter infused with wok hei.
What distinguishes this dish is its remarkable absence of gooey, half-cooked starch—an indicator of the exceptional quality at Seng Thor.
Plan a visit to partake in this iconic culinary delight, embodying the flavours of a longstanding tradition.
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Location |
30, Jalan Nyonya, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia |
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Working Hours |
Tuesday to Sunday: 12pm – 3pm |
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Contact Number |
+603 2145 2512 |
14. Wan Tan Mee – Top Lucky Cafe
If you’re yearning for a delightful bowl of Wan Tan Mee, look no further than Top Lucky Cafe. The best part? A single bowl comes at an incredibly affordable price of RM3!
Mary, the seasoned chef behind the hawker stall, has been serving her wallet-friendly Wan Tan Mee for an impressive 32 years.
Indulge in a plate that includes ample portions of noodles, dumplings, barbecued pork, leafy vegetables, and a flavorful sambal belacan – truly a satisfying and cost-effective choice for your cravings.
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Location |
4E-1-78, Lorong Semarak Api 1, Bandar Baru Air Itam, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
Monday to Saturday: 7 am – 11 am, Closed on Sunday |
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Contact Number |
+6016 444 1119 |
15. Koay Teow Th’ng
Experience the epitome of comfort food at Ah Boy Koay Teow Th’ng, especially enjoyable on rainy days.
Relish a piping hot bowl of Koay Teow Th’ng (RM5), featuring noodles immersed in a ladle of refreshingly light chicken soup. Adorned with meat slices, fish cake slices, and assorted fish balls, each mouthful is a harmonious blend of flavours.
Anticipate sipping down the heavenly soup with delight. Embark on a culinary journey at this hidden gem located in Lebuh Clarke, George Town.
Open daily from 7 am to 2 pm, except on Tuesdays, Ah Boy Koay Teow Th’ng guarantees a gratifying experience for noodle enthusiasts.
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Location |
Lebuh Clarke, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang |
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Working Hours |
Wednesday to Monday: 7am – 2pm |
Conclusion
In summary, Penang stands out as an unrivalled gastronomic haven, providing an exceptional Penang street food experience.
Whether it’s the celebrated Char Kway Teow and Penang Asam Laksa, the nostalgic flavours of Loh Bak and Curry Mee, or the sweet indulgence of Ais Kacang and authentic Teochew Chendul, each dish encapsulates the essence of Penang’s renowned street food culture.
These famous Penang foods, available day and night, underscore Penang’s distinction as the epicentre of the best food in Penang.
With a diverse array of flavours, the vibrant street food scene beckons visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Penang’s famous food in 2024.
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