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Updated by Joanna James on Sep 18, 2025
Headline for A Penang Food Guide: 6 Must Eat Food and Where to Find Them 
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A Penang Food Guide: 6 Must Eat Food and Where to Find Them 

Once the centre of trade on the island, Penang is a hub of multiculturalism, with its diverse communities infusing its flavours into Penang's cuisine. Shophouses of early Chinese fishermen blend into British colonial architecture and mosques in the old quarter, all informing the culinary landscape of the island. Whether at the best restaurant in Penang, or a humble street-side stall in George Town, enjoy these 6 essential dishes that must be added to your Penang food itinerary. 

1

Penang Chendol at Cafe Chendol Taman Rimba

Craving something sweet? Grab a serving of Penang's twist on this iconic Malay dessert at Cafe Cednol Taman Rimba, a short 10-minute coastal drive from PARKROYAL Penang Resort. Penang Chendol, a shaved ice dessert, is the perfect way to cool down from the tropical heat. Green rice flour jelly noodles are layered with shaved ice and doused in a fragrant coconut milk and palm sugar syrup, a refreshing and textural delight with a touch of sweetness.

2

Char Koay Teow, A Streetside Staple

The aroma of Char Koay Teow sizzling in a wok is a quintessential Penang experience. This stir-fried flat noodle dish is a crowd-pleaser, featuring flat rice noodles cooked with light and dark soy sauce, bean sprouts, egg, and sometimes seafood or chicken. Watch in awe as skilled vendors expertly flip the noodles on high heat, ensuring a smoky char that adds depth to the flavour. This symphony of textures - crispy noodles, fluffy egg, and crunchy bean sprouts - is all coated in a savoury and slightly sweet sauce.

3

Hokkien Prawn Mee

For a taste of the sea, look no further than Hokkien Mee. This rich and flavorful prawn noodle soup is a Penang classic. The heart and soul of the dish lies in the thick yellow noodles, perfectly cooked to retain a slight bite. These noodles are bathed in a fragrant and flavorful broth, often infused with pork bones, prawn shells, and a touch of turmeric for a golden hue. Top it all off with juicy prawns, slices of pork belly, fried shallots, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

4

Asam Laksa at Air Itam Market

If you're looking for a spicy and sour adventure, Assam Laksa is calling your name. This tangy noodle soup explodes with flavour. Aromatic fish broth forms the base, infused with tamarind for its distinctive sourness and lemongrass for a citrusy kick. Thin rice noodles provide a delightful base for a variety of toppings like fishcake, sliced vegetables, hard-boiled egg, and often, a dollop of fragrant shrimp paste. Asam Laksa is a complex and vibrant dish, perfect for those who enjoy a flavour explosion.

5

Tau Sar Peah

Don't miss out on Penang's iconic street snacks on your culinary journey. Tau Sar Peah, a flaky pastry filled with a sweet mung bean paste, is a beloved local treat. These bite-sized pastries boast a golden brown, flaky crust that crumbles satisfyingly in your hand. Inside, a sweet and creamy mung bean paste provides a delicious contrast. Tau Sar Peah is a perfect on-the-go snack while exploring the bustling markets of the island.

6

Market Kopi at Pulau Tikus Wet Market

Penang's street food experience extends beyond the realm of food itself. The local "kopi" culture, a tradition of enjoying strong coffee with condensed milk, is a social experience. Visit the Pulau Tikus Wet Market and grab a cup from a local stall - sit amongst the locals and savour the strong brew while engaging in friendly conversation. This is an essential Penang experience that allows you to truly connect with the local way of life.

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