Penang
The Malaysian Food Capital
It is impossible to talk about Malaysian food without first talking about the Pearl of the Orient, Penang Island. Situated on the west coast of the Malaysian Peninsular and approximately 4 hours from the capital, Kuala Lumpur, Penang is the unofficial food capital of the nation and home to arguably the best food in Malaysia. Malaysians are known to make the journey to the island merely to feast on the delights. Here are some of the most popular favourites.
Bangkok Lane Mee Goreng Simply the bomb!
Ask any Malaysian where the best fried noodles are in Penang, and they will immediately direct you to Bangkok Lane. Lined with colonial style wooden houses dating back to pre-independence, Bangkok Lane also serves as a wonderful photo opportunity.
Served in a little hawker stall at the end of the street, Bangkok Lane's fried noodles has won many an accolade from numerous publications throughout the decades. Stop by and have a taste to find out why!
Air Itam Assam Laksa You'll want two bowls!
Noodles in fish broth is a staple of Penang cuisine. Each Malaysian with argue as to where the best Assam Laksa can be found. One notable hawker is found at the market in a little town on the island called Air Itam.
This particular stall has also had a mention in the Lonely Planet guide book as a must visit food venue. A word of warning though, get up and leave as soon as you finish your meal because there is always a line of people crowding your table waiting for it to be vacant so they can enjoy the feast you just savoured.
Pasembur Spicy Indian Salad
Cucumber, potatoes, beancurd, turnip, bean sprouts, prawn fritters, spicy fried crab, fried octopus or other seafoods topped with a sweet and spicy nut sauce.
There are many locations throughout the island that serves this wonderful treat but the one that has to be sampled is the stall at the Gurvey Drive hawker centre.
Nasi Kandar 'Line Clear' is the place to feast!
Rice served with your choice of curries and vegetables. Nasi Kandar can be found throughout Malaysia, but Penang is where it was born and is still where the best is served.
The stall you seek is called Line Clear. Legend has it it's called that because after paying your bill, if alls in order, the owner will tell you "Line Clear". An indication of thanks and that your bill is settled. The stall is situation down a little alley off Penang Road and like all the most famous food places in Penang, it's usually packed, so be prepared to wait for a seat.