Georgetown (Malaysia)

Georgetown is the capital of the island and state of Penang, on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia.

It was listed by UNESCO in 2008 as a World Heritage Site, together with fellow former Straits Settlement, Melaka.[1]

History about Georgetown

Founded in 1786 by British trader Francis Light, Georgetown was one of the three Straits Settlements along with Malacca and Singapore. Modern-day Georgetown is one of Malaysia's largest cities with 600,000 inhabitants.

Today, the town is known for its well-preserved colonial core, with original shophouses dating from the 19th century to the 1930's still surviving, together with their trades of old. Street markets and hawkers continue to be a part of daily life, and the atmosphere is often likened to that of Singapore back in the 1960's and 1970's.

Get in

Georgetown is Penang's transportation hub. Ferries arrive at the terminal on Weld Quay (Pengkalan Weld) on the east city of the city; the bus station is nearby on Victoria Street. Take a note of where these are located as you will no doubt want to see them again rather shortly in order to depart.

Places to Visit

Georgetown Attractions

What to See in Georgetown

Visiting Georgetown is like visiting a world where time stands still – a world where history, nature and traditions are weaved into a rich cultural tapestry. Containing the best of Penang’s sights, sounds, smells and tastes, it wouldn’t be too much to say that Georgetown is easily Penang in a nutshell. From heritage buildings to nature parks,

Penang’s capital city has a multitude of attractions to appease the curious visitor. This historic town is best enjoyed on foot or trishaw, enabling you to take in the sights and sounds better.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The house is a magnificent architectural marvel with distinct European styling and stained-glass windows. Today, the house is open for visitors to learn more about Cheong's history through antiques and paraphernalia displayed in the building. Stay in Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion.

Fort Cornwallis

Located close to the Esplanade, on the northeastern coast of Penang, the star-shaped Fort Cornwallis is the largest standing fort in Malaysia and one of the earliest structures in Penang

Historic Cities Of The Straits Of Malacca

Penang may be Malaysia’s smallest state but it is one of the best-known destinations within the country – a place where the best of Chinese and Indian influences meet in almost kismet-like proportions. One of the state’s top draws is the variety of some of the most popular cuisine in the country. Read more...

Kek Lok Si Temple

Standing on a hilltop at Air Itam, near Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Read more...

Penang Hill

Six kilometres away from the city centre, Penang Hill – also known as Bukit Bendera – is the perfect way to escape the heat and humidity of Georgetown. Read more...

Kapitan Keling Mosque

Situated along Pitt Street, the Kapitan Keling Mosque is Penang’s first-ever mosque built in the 19th century, which is also the largest and one of the oldest mosques in town. A monumental structure surrounded by low walls and crowned with Moghul-style copper domes, the mosque was named after the head of the Indian Muslim community back then, Cauder Maydin Merican, a prominent trader appointed by the-then British rulers as leader of the community. The word ‘Keling’ refers to South Indian immigrants back then, so the word ‘Kapitan Keling’ literally means ‘Captain of the Kelings’.

Opening Hours: N/A, but permission to enter must be obtained from the mosque officials. Location: located at the busy junction of Lebuh Chulia and Jalan Buckingham Type : Mosque Remarks: No shoes are allowed inside the mosque, and all visitors must be decently dressed. Address: Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling,George Town

Kuan Yin Temple

Penang’s oldest temple, Kuan Yin Temple, was built in honour of the Chinese Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin), an important Buddhist deity, hence why this temple is also sometimes referred to as ‘The Goddess of Mercy Temple’. Constructed in the early 1800s by early immigrant settlers from China, the temple features a classic Chinese architectural style, with stone carvings of dragons and wavy rooftops. The temple is also dedicated to Ma Chor Poh, the patron saint of seafarers.

Opening Hours: Early morning to late evening. Location: Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling Type : Temple Tel: 604) 261 6663

Penang Botanic Gardens

Filled with all sorts of plants from hundreds of species, Penang Botanic Gardens showcases the wonders of nature in a sprawling 29 hectares of green land. A public park cum botanical gardens, it is as much an educational area as a recreational spot. Hiking through its jungles or jogging in its parks is a refreshingly pleasant affair. There is also an impressive waterfall within.

Opening Hours: Daily, 05:00 – 20:00 Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga Contact: (604) 227 0428/228 5125 How to get there: It is possible to walk to Penang Botanic Gardens from Pengkalan Weld, if your feet could carry you far. Cross Pengkalan Weld by the pedestrian bridge, turn left and walk until you reach the junction with Gat Lebuh Chulia. Turn right and walk the distance until you arrive at Penang Botanic Gardens. Alternatively, you can also take the transit link bus No. 7 from KOMTAR. Tour Available: Penang Half-Day Tour

Penang Islamic Museum

Housed in a beautiful heritage building which was once the residence of Syed Al –Attas, the Penang Islamic Museum takes you through the beginnings of Islam and its development in the country throughout the years, from the early days to the present day. Featuring exhibits which are displayed according to themes in its many sections and galleries, the museum also illustrates the beauty and the philosophies of the religion.

Opening Hours: Daily, 09:30 – 18:00; Closed on Tuesdays. Location: Armenian Street Type : Museum

Address: 128 Armenian Street, George Town.

Penang Peranakan Mansion

The opulent lifestyle of a Peranakan (Straits Chinese) tycoon is recreated in this century-old stately mansion, offering a glimpse into the Peranakan customs and traditions. Serving as a museum of sorts for the Peranakan heritage, this mansion was once the abode of a rich Baba leader, Kapitan (Captain) Chung Keng Kwee. Amongst the items displayed are a traditional marital bed, an opium bed and opium-smoking paraphernalia, and various women’s accessories and gold jewellery.

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 09:30 – 17:00, Saturday 09:30 – 15:00; by appointment only on Sundays & Public Holidays. Location: Church Street Type : Mansion Address: 29 Church Street, George Town Tel: (604) 264 2929

Penang State Museum & Art Gallery

Reputedly one of the best state museums in the country, Penang Museum & Art Gallery is dedicated to Penang’s historical past, showcasing Penang’s culture and heritage throughout the years with galleries housing a fine collection of photographs, maps, documents, antiques, costumes and other historical artefacts. Located on the first floor is the Art Gallery housing the works of local artists as well paintings of old Penang. Seasonal exhibitions are also held here from time to time.

Opening Hours: Saturday – Thursday 09:00 – 17:00; Closed on Fridays. Location: between Jalan Masjid Kapitan Kling at Lebuh Pitt and Love Lane Type : Museum Address: Lebuh Farquhar, George Town Tel: (604) 261 3144

The Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower

One of the most recognisable icons in Penang, The Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower was commissioned by a local millionaire, Cheah Chen Eok, to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Standing at 60 feet tall with each foot representing each year of the Queen’s 60-year reign, the clock tower leans to one side due to the impact from bombs being dropped around it during the Second World War, although it’s hardly noticeable.

Location: At the intersection of Light Street, Beach Street (Lebuh Pantai) and King Edward’s Place (Persiaran King Edward). Type : Clock Tower

Sri Mariamman Temple

The colourful Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang. Featuring a distinctive South Indian Dravidian architectural style, the temple is filled with intricate carvings and sculptures of Hindu deities, with the main focal point being an opulent statue of Lord Subramaniam which is decorated with gold, silver, diamonds and emeralds. In the early morning, visitors can observe the prayer sessions that are being held.

Opening Hours: 8.00 am - 12.00 noon and 4.00 pm - 9.00 pm Location: between Lebuh Pasar and Lebuh Chulia Type : Temple Remarks: if you wish to enter the temple, ask for permission first from any of the temple’s priests, and do remove your shoes before entering the temple grounds Address: Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling (Lebuh Pitt)

St George’s Church

Built by convicts back in 1816, Penang’s St George’s Church is South-East Asia’s oldest Anglican church. Even through all these years, the original structure of the building hasn’t altered much, and the walls haven’t weathered much either. One of Penang’s most beautiful heritage landmarks, the most striking features of the church are the huge Grecian columns that stand outside the building. Since its conception in the 19th century, it has been holding regular services. A grand Francis Light memorial sits in front of the church, a tribute to the man who had established the island in 1786.

Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 17:00 Location: Jalan Lebuh Farquhar Type : Church Address: 1, Jalan Lebuh Farquhar, George Town. Contact: (604) 261 2739 Tour Available: Penang Heritage Tour

The Clan Jetties

Consisting of a row of wooden houses on stilts along a planked walkway built over the water, The Clan Jetties are picturesque fishing villages lined along Weld Quay. The traditional fishing settlements have been in existence since the 19th century, and are some of Penang’s remaining links to its rich and colourful past. Eight clan jetties can be found here – Chew Jetty, Koay Jetty, Lee Jetty, Lim Jetty, Peng Aun Jetty, Tan Jetty, Yeoh Jetty and Mixed Clans Jetty – with Chew Jetty being the biggest and most well-known.

Opening Hours: Daily Location: Along Pengkalan Weld (Weld Quay) – near Tanjung City Marina & Ferry Terminal. Gat Lebuh Armenian leads directly to Chew Jetty, the biggest of the Clan Jetties.

Georgetown Activities

What to Do in Georgetown

There are plenty of things one can do around Georgetown. The town is filled with historical relics in the form of beautiful colonial buildings, so taking a walk around town can be quite an eye-opening experience, not to mention a pleasant one.

From magnificent heritage buildings in the centre of town to lush landscapes from the top of the hills, there are many ways to explore this multi-faceted town. Go by foot or hop on a trishaw, and go to the places the locals like to go to and do as the locals do – no matter what you partake in, the journey never seem to end and the excitement never seems to stop. Alliance Francaise De Penang

Fans of French films can get their fix at Alliance Francaise De Penang, where they hold a new screening each month.

Address: No. 46, Jalan Phuah Hin Leong, Georgetown

Bird’s-Eye View of Georgetown

he KOMTAR building may look pretty ordinary from the outside, but climb all the way to the top of the building and it’s a different story altogether. Get a magnificent 360-degree view of the city’s skyline from the 57th and 58th floor of the tallest building in Penang. Standing at 232m, this 65-storey complex is also an important landmark in Georgetown. Named after Malaysia’s third Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak, this building houses government offices and retail outlets.

Note: The KOMTAR building is currently undergoing renovations, making floors 57 and 58 inaccessible until further notice.

Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 – 22:00 Location: Jalan Penang Type : Building Address: Jalan Penang, Georgetown (next to Traders Hotel)

Bird’s-Eye View of Penang

Get right on top of Penang’s highest point, 821 metres above sea level, for an unparalleled view of Penang and its surroundings. From the top of Penang Hill (otherwise known as Bukit Bendera), a sprawling view of the island greets you, as far as the eyes can see, with Penang Bridge in the distance and ships in the harbour. On a clear, sunny day, you can even see right through to the other end of Penang Bridge, where it meets Peninsular Malaysia. It’s the best way to get a sweeping view of Penang. If you don’t feel like hiking all the way to the top, the dedicated funicular train service will take you there in less than 30 minutes.

Opening Hours: Sunday – Friday 06:30 – 21:30, Saturday & Public Holiday 06:30 – 23:30. Location: Ayer Itam Type : Nature - Water Dam Address: Air Itam, Georgetown (about 3km from Kek Lok Si Temple). Contact: (604) 262 0202 How to get there: From Weld Quay, Komtar & Lebuh Chulia, take Rapid Penang bus No. U204 which takes you straight to Penang Hill. You can also get there by taxi, costing approximately RM 20 per journey.

Cathay Cineplex, Prangin Mall

For movie buffs, you can catch the latest releases or something more off the beaten path in Georgetown. For the newest mainstream blockbusters, there’s Prangin Mall’s Cathay Cineplex, the only cinema awarded with ISO 9002 certification. Having recently undergone a facelift, it features eight movie halls and a total of 1,478 seats. 

ype : Cinema Address: 33-5-09 Prangin Mall, No. 33 Jalan Lim Chew Leong, Georgetown.

Georgetown Heritage Trail

Georgetown is small enough to be explored on foot – deemed by some as the best way to discover the town’s delights. Arm yourself with a map, a good pair of walking shoes and plenty of water and get acquainted with the town’s roots. The Heritage Trail is regarded as a ‘must-do’ for all visitors to Georgetown, taking you around its main historical sites and colonial buildings.

Start from the State Assembly Building on Lebuh Light. From there, move around the Queen Victoria Golden Jubilee Clock Tower at the roundabout, and go straight into Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah. You will see the Francis Light Flagstaff and Lighthouse as you go move along Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah around Padang Esplanade. As you move down the Esplanade, stop by Fort Cornwallis, a star-shaped fortress which was built more than two centuries ago. From the entrance of Fort

Cornwallis, right across the field called Padang Esplanade, you can see two grandiose buildings standing side by side, City Hall and Town Hall, which can be viewed up-close by walking back out on to Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah and go around Padang Esplanade, making a turn into Jalan Padang Kota Lama, on which the two buildings are situated. Right before turning into Jalan Padang Kota, you will see the War Memorial (Cenotaph) on your left.

After that, turn into Lebuh Farquhar where you will pass St. George’s Church, Penang Museum and Church of the Assumption, all lined in a row. Further down is St. Xavier’s Institution and Convent Lebuh Light, two of the oldest schools in the country. Go into Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, where you will pass the infamous blue mansion, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. Walk further up Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah and turn back into Lebuh Farquhar, where the Protestant Cemetery and the Lim Lean Teng Mansion greets you on both sides of the road. Move further along Lebuh Farquhar until you reach the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, right at the junction of Upper Penang Road and Lebuh Farquhar, signifying the end of your Heritage Trail.

Best time to start: In the morning, around 09:00, when the weather isn’t too hot.Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on how long you take at each stop.

Iswaria Veenai Odeon Cinema

For fans of Bollywood movies, there’s Iswaria Veenai Odeon Cinema on Upper Penang Road, the last remaining film theatre screening mainstream Hindi movies.

Location: opposite Chowrasta Bazaar Address: Upper Penang Road, Georgetown. Tel: (604) 261 8964

Malaysian-German Society Penang

You can also watch some German releases every second Friday of the month at the Malaysian-German Society Penang.

Location: Next to Methodist Boys School Address: 250B, Jalan Air Itam, Penang

Trishaw Tour

Perhaps the best way to see the city, next to on foot, is taking a ride in one of the colourful trishaws lining the streets of Georgetown. It generally costs around RM 30 an hour for a leisurely tour around the city, but prices can be negotiated. Friendly and accommodating, the trishaw peddlers can also act as your local tour guide, and would be happy to make a few stops along the journey for you to take a closer look. Most fascinating is the way they negotiate their trishaws around the busy traffic – once you get

a taste of this, you will be able to see clearly why they are sometimes referred to as Kings of the Road.

Where to catch them: Trishaws are widely available around town, particularly where the major tourist spots are, especially along Padang Kota Esplanade (Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah) and next to Cititel Hotel on Jalan Penang (Penang Road).

Georgetown Nightlife

What to Do at Night in Georgetown

Nightlife is a happening affair in Georgetown. As night falls, people would be thronging the streets to let their hair down at a pub or a nightclub, particularly along the stretch of Jalan Penang from Cititel Hotel and to where it intersects with Lebuh Farquhar.

Some of Georgetown’s best-known pubs and bars are located within hotels, particularly along or around Jalan Penang.

Upper Penang Road

Situated at the beginning of Jalan Penang, right in front of the historical Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Upper Penang Road is considered the centre of Georgetown’s nightlife. Most popular with expats and Westerners, this major party zone is filled with pubs and nightclubs that come alive with neon lights and thumping music come nighttime, with chairs spilling out onto the pavement for drinking sessions out in the open and the Eastern & Oriental Hotel glowing ethereally in the background.

 Mois

Housed in a stately white colonial-style building, Mois sets the beat for a happening party weekend. Catering to the younger crowd, the always-crowded club features guest deejays every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and live performances from guest bands. There is also a bar outside right next to the entrance, where you can chill out in the open with a couple of beers while watching live sports coverage on the television. It’s free to enter before 22:00.

Opening Hours: Daily, 17:30 – 02:30 Address: No. 1 Upper Penang Road

Momo

Combining the exotic senses of the Middle East with a delectable twist of Mediterranean hospitality, the award-winning Momo is divided into several trendy areas. Five bars are located around the club, so that a drink and a dance are at guests’ convenience.

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 21:00 – 03:00 (club), 18:00 – 02:00 (bar & al fresco dining), 18:00 – 20:00 (happy hours). Closed on Mondays for private functions. Address: The Bungalow, Upper Penang Road Contact: 604) 262 3030

Slippery Senorita

Well-known among avid party-goers, Slippery Senorita has been the rage in Penang since it first opened in 2001. This premier Latin dance club is a classy establishment that is more about style than sleaze. Featuring live bands and resident deejays, it is worth coming here just to witness the bartenders showing off their flaring skills – flipping bottles, flames and glasses skillfully – and perform amusing tricks with cards, fruits and napkins.

Opening Hours: Daily, 11:00 – 03:00 Address: Lot B3A, The Garage, No. 2 Upper Penang Road Tel: (604) 263 6868

Soi II Unplugged Bar & Restaurant

Situated next to Slippery Senorita, this restaurant cum bar serves premium beers such as SOL from Mexico and its most famous, Paulaner from Germany. A favourite chill-out haunt of the young crowd, this al fresco bistro also has live band entertainment on most nights.

Opening Hours: Daily, 21:00 – Late Address: The Garage, Upper Penang Road

Others:

Other than Upper Penang Road, there are also other places where one can find small establishments serving cheap beers (the best thing is, hawker food is readily available here for you to enjoy your beer with).

Just after Upper Penang Street, between the junction where it meets Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah and Cititel Hotel, there are also a number of pubs and bars along the road on both sides. They may not be as classy and trendy as the ones on Upper Penang Road, but they are almost always filled nevertheless.

Coco Island’s Traveller’s Corner

Fronting the Blue Diamond Hotel, Coco Island is a true traveler hang-out, populated by backpackers and foreigners. Beer and hard liquor are available here, as well as an extensive bar menu which includes an American breakfast and hawker’s delights at night.

Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 – 01:00 Address: 273B Lebuh Chulia (next to Hong Pin Budget Hotel Tel: (604) 264 3608

Farquhar’s Bar

Eastern & Oriental Hotel

Serving decent food and drinks at surprisingly affordable prices, Farquhar’s Bar is considered by some to be the best bar you can find in Georgetown. A colonial-style hotel bar serving beer, cocktails, a selection of non-alcoholic drinks and delicious pub dinners, its signature drink, the Eastern & Oriental Sling, is something not to be missed.

pening Hours: Daily, 11:00 – 23:00 Address: Eastern & Oriental Hotel, 10 Lebuh Farquhar Tel: (604) 222 2000 ext. 3177

Pitt Street Corner Bar

Wild West meets Little India in this charming, friendly little neighbourhood bar complete with a saloon-style swing doors. Perfect for chilling out with a cold beer on a sweltering day, accompanied by Bollywood song-and-dance on the wall-mounted TV screen.

Opening Hours: Open all day Address: 94 Lebuh Pitt (corner of Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling Street & Lebuh Gereja)

R & B Pub & Bistro

Part of the Merchant Hotel, this lively nightspot has live bands performing on most nights and is equipped with a dart board and a pool table. Yet, despite its casual and laid-back atmosphere, proper dressing is still required – sandals and shorts are a definite no-no. There’s also a karaoke lounge within.

Opening Hours: Daily, 17:00 – 02:30 Address: 1st floor, Merchant Hotel, 55 Jalan Penang Tel: (604) 262 2506

Rock World

Marked by a giant spider hanging over its entrance, Rock World is one of Penang’s oldest nightspots. Liveliest during weekends, this discotheque has techno music blaring from its speakers, with local bands performing live every now and then.

Opening Hours: Daily, 19:00 – 02:00 Address: 1 Drury Lane (Off Lebuh Campbell) Tel: (604) 261 3168

SoHo Free House

Modelled after an English pub, SoHo Free House serves good old Irish stout (allegedly the first establishment in Penang to do so) and English lager. Spinning retro tunes from the 80s all day long, this little blue pub also serves typical English pub grub. The quieter area upstairs has a few pool tables and window-side tables overlooking Jalan Penang.

Opening Hours: noon - midnight Address: Peking Hotel, 50A Jalan Penang Tel: (604) 263 3331

Uptown Pub & Bistro

Characterised by a bright purple exterior that’s hard to miss, Uptown Pub & Bistro features nightly live performance with Chinese songs and Canto-pop on the menu. There’s a beer garden in the courtyard, where you can enjoy your beer out in the open.

Opening Hours: Daily, 19:00 - Late Address: 20 Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah (opposite the Shell station)

Penang has one of the most diverse food fare in Malaysia and at times, the food is so mixed with influences from the Indian, Malay, Chinese and Thai cuisine that it becomes unique to the island itself. To get to know Penang better, there are maps and trails that

takes visitors through small alleyways and nooks & crannies where culture and traditions are still very much alive. The Chinese Operas held on the streets that mark certain

festivals celebrated by Taoists or carrying of the Kavadi during Taipusam or even the Puppet shows at the Temples are for the people of Penang and by the people of Penang.

The same goes with the food, and that's why the standards are good. Their most discerning customers are ones who have grown up on their food. Enjoying Penang takes

time, let us take care of your stay while you take time to explore the real Penang.

Asam Laksa

Kedai Kopi Kek SengLocation : 382-384 Penang Road, opens 9.00am onwards.

Established in 1906, this coffee shop is popular for its asam laksa, kway teow th'ng, loh bak and just desserts... homemade icecream with a very local flavour ~ durian, sweet

corn and the rest ~ chocolate, vanilla, coffee and strawberry. Try the ABC (Ais Kacang) topped with a scoop of ice cream, flavour of your choice.

Sin Hwa Kopi TiamLocation : 329 Jalan Burmah, shophouse opposite the Pulau

Tikus police station. closed thursdays

A small bowl will cost you RM3.00 whilst a large is charged at RM4.00. What else to eat here - the famous char kway teow.

Open 10.30am-4.30pm (Closed Thursday)Jooi Hooi Coffeeshop

Location : 475 Penang Rd. Open everyday except for first & 2nd day of Chinese New Year

One of the best assam laksa in town. For those without transport, this is most convenient location on Penang Road and at Joo Hooi Cafe , you can even order in the famous

chendol from the stall outside in Lebuh Keng KweeAir Hitam Market Laksa

Location: Along a 5 foot pathway of the Air Hitam Market. Open Wednesdays to Mondays from 12.30pm till 8.00pm. Tuesdays closed.

Is it the best asam laksa in penang? Well, it certainly is worth a trip up to Air Hitam even if you have your doubts..

 

Ais Tingkap (Sherbet)

Ais Tingkap

Location : Lebuh Tamil, located next to Chowrasta Market and opposite the old Police Headquarters at Penang Road

This most refreshing drink of syrup water, coconut juice & flesh and selasih goes so well with the cucur udang prepared by another vendor nearby. The best thing to have on

a hot, hot Georgetown afternoon

 

Beef Kway Teow Soup

Kedai Kopi Lam AhLocation : Directly opposite the fire station at the junction of Chulia St and Beach St.

(The one with the green bamboo chicks) Opens from 9 am - 3 pm (Close on Sunday and Public Holiday)

Very popular with the locals. A large would cost RM10 per bowl and a small would cost RM7.80

Eam Huat Cafe Beef Koay Teow

Location : At the old bus depot, Lebuh Victoria. Open 10.30am - 3.00pm daily except Sundays & public holidays

This is an old establishment and has been passed down generations. My first time here was in 1994. That was under strict instructions to seek out this 'to die' for beef kway teow and to bring some back to KL for dear old papa. Back then, the stock was rich

with flavours that have been stewed over a slow fire for hours. Today, if i were to bring papa back for a try.. i definitely would get an earful. But despite that, it's still the best Beef Koay Teow place (but that's my opinion). Mr Kang Chew Eam runs the business here and they have a new variant to the old menu which is of herbal soup base. His son

and grandson has a stall at the Sri Weld footcourt on Beach Street.

Buns

Air Hitam Market Stalls

Open daily - Mornings. The ones specific for prayers are only available occasionallyCKC ( Cheong Kim Chuan) : Hoe Peng Biscuits

Location: 99B, Lorong Selamat. Open daily

The buns on the left are filled with sweet lotus seed paste and many buy this as it symbolise longevity. Especially popular desert at birthday dinners.

The buns on the right are normally used during prayers. These here are not complete. There is still the head, the feet and a tail to attach plus chinese characters to pipe onto the

bun. Those familiar with Hokkien Taoist festivals should be familiar with this pink-crusted bread loaf moulded into the shape of a turtle also known as mee koo to the

locals. Cendol

Penang Road Teochew Cendol

Location: Lebuh Keng Kwee, off Penang Rd. Open everyday except for first & 2nd day of Chinese New Year

Great cendol with gula melaka. Been around for 60yrs+. A bowl of cendol with red beans - RM1.40. Ice kacang - RM1.60. Pegaga Juice - RM0.70 . They have also opened

a branch at the Prangin Mall..looking all spruced up and fastfood-like. But somehow it just doesn't taste the same. Must be the ambience, the dust , the honking of frustrated

drivers due to the bottleneck caused bu its patrons queueing up on the street, that makes the difference.

Coffee

SiTigunLocation: 15 - 17 Jalan Nagore, George Town Phone: 04. 228 7108. Monday closed.

Tuesday - Sunday 08.00 to 22.00 www.sitigun.com

At SiTigun, there's great Tiramisu , chocolate mousse and all things sweet to compliment the taste of freshly ground coffee which is then roasted at the premise.

There are a good selection of coffee beans such as the Sumatra Arabica Coffee and the Bali Robusta Coffee amongst others.

Rio Hotel & Cafe

Location: Kings Street, George Town. Open early morning till after lunch. This place cater to the office crowd.

It's just old world here. The local coffee or kopi and toast is a good start to the day. In the late morning, a plate of the mee jawa or mee goreng would go well. Or the char

kway teow fried by a lovely old man and his wife is a nice tummy filler. However, i'm not too sure if the stall is still running as the elderly man has been a little unwell lately.

The wanton noodle is also a good bet if not looking for a full meal.

 

Curry Mee

Air Hitam Curry Mee Sisters

Location : Jalan Air Hitam. Open everyday from 7.00am till 1.00pm

Every morning the sisters are dropped off by a family member at their usual spot under a big, shady old tree. They have been selling their curry mee at the same spot for 6o

years now and still going strong.

 

Durian

Freedom Eco-FarmLocation : Balik . Call to make appointment or visit Balik Pulau's durian season begins somewhere end of May right through until mid-July. The uniqueness of these durians is

because of their love for a variety of durians , the early planters created a hybrid of durian sp. that has become a durian connoisseur's dream.

Bao Sheng Durian FarmLocation : Balik Pulau. Heard a lot about this farm but not been yet. For more

information, try www.durian.com.myHokkien Mee

Super Hokkien MeeLocation: One Corner Cafe at Jalan

Bawasah 12, (at the back of Burmah Road Giant Supermarket). Open daily from 8.00am till lunch. Closed on Tuesdays

This stall is extremely popular and at times patrons may have to wait 45mins or more just for a bowl of their hokkien mee. One reason to this long wait is because of the phone bookings which can add up to a lot of bowls done before yours. But there are lots of other stalls worth trying out such as the assam laksa, deep-fried fritters, spring

roll and a selection of local kuih.

 

Ice Cream & Ais Kacang

Kedai Kopi Kek SengLocation : 382-384 Penang Road, opens 9.00am onwards.

Established in 1906, this coffee shop is popular for its asam laksa, kway teow th'ng, loh bak and just desserts... homemade icecream with a very local flavour ~ durian, sweet

corn and the rest ~ chocolate, vanilla, coffee and strawberry. Try the ABC (Ais Kacang) topped with a scoop of ice cream, flavour of your choice.

Love it just because it's so old style. Even the eating booths (yeah, check out the eating booths) are old styled.

Kedai Kopi & Ais Kacang (Loh Eng Hoo Coffee Shop)Location: Lorong Selamat. Business hours: 12.30PM – 6PM

This ais kacang venue is one of the better ones in George Town. The famous Lorong Selamat Char Kway Teow used to be located here but the Madam has bought herself a

shop down the road and now her place has been taken over by another char kway teow stall. The gentleman who fries the char kway teow here also wears a pair of goggles

when he's at work!Lor Bak

Kheng Pin Kopi TiamLocation : 80 Penang Road (Penang Road- Jalan Sri Bahari junction), Georgetown.

Opens from 7am-3pm, and closes on Monday

Meat lightly seasoned with five-spice powder, wrapped in bean-curd sheet and deep-fried is a true blue Penang specialty. It's readily available at most kopitiam but Kheng

Pin's is the best. Mr Lou Joo Chon has been frying up these treats for 38 years now and still takes great pride in his work, preparing and frying the lor bak himself rather than

allowing staff to do it as is often found with stall operators in KL. You want to taste the real thing, you'll just have to make the trip - all comparisons pale..

Mamak Mee & Mee Rebus

Pata Hameed Special Mee StallLocation : At Esplanade, Padang Kota Lama in Lebuh Light. Open Mondays -

Saturdays from 12.00nn to 8.00pm

This stall serves the fried yellow noodles with a special squid sambal and is extremely popular. The business started in 1978 and has been passed from father to son. It's so

popular that the owner now fries an average of 400 to 400 plates

The mee rebus is slightly different from the rest in which the the owner uses an old recipe where

sweet potatoes are used instead of beef stock for base.

Fried mee with sambal squid - RM3.00 Nasi Lemak

Mamak Stall at the Modern Hotel, on Muntri Street

Location : At the junction of Muntri Street and Leith Street, round the corner from Modern Hotel. Open nights except Tuesdays

The stall is a great place to go if you're craving for something late at night. The nasi lemak is great. It's the simple nasi (rice) with ikan bilis (anchovies)

and sambal (chili paste) and really fills the spot! Then it's only befitting to end the night with a teh tarik (tea with evaporated and condensed milk) or Milo

kosong (milo drink without sugar and milk)

 

Nasi Kandar

Nasi BeraturLocation : Right next to Kapitan Keling Mosque. Open: 10.00am – 9.00am

The shop starts trading at about 10pm and the queue is something to ogle. A long line of hungry patrons waiting patiently for their turn to douse their mountain of rice with curry gravy. Nasi Kandar is not a cheap meal. It can cost RM10 - 15 per person depending on

what is ordered. But it surely is filling. Line Clear Nasi Kandar

Location : In an alley at the junction of Lebuh Chulia & Jalan Penang . Open 24hrs

This is an institution in itself. Line Clear has a constant stream of hungry patrons. Apparently it is named Line Clear because in the days of the Thomas Cup Fever and

when Malaysia was the favourite contender to win, the young and aspiring badminton players used to come through this little alley and into a small courtyard with a

badminton court built into it. They used to train at this court and hence the name 'Line Clear' stuck. Or is just an urban myth?

Teochew Steamboat and Traditional Cuisine

Goh Huat Seng

Location : 59A Kimberley Street. Tel: 04 261 5811 / 261 5646. Opens from 11.45am - 3.00pm , 6.00pm - 9.30pm. Closes alternate Mondays

This is one of Penang's more established Teochew restaurants serving amongst other traditional teowchew dishes like the special Teochew duck, steamed freshwater fish head, oyster omelett and one seldom but a dish introduced by a friend who lived in

penang some 30+ years ago... the fresh oyster kerabu. It is the most divine dish! Not many people know about this dish but try it, only if you like fresh oyster. The typical

Teo Chew dessert is the 'Or Nee', a sweet taro sticky dessert.

This restaurant is also very popular for its Teo Chew Seafood Steamboat or 'Juan Lo'. The special part to this steamboat is that they provide a deliciously flavoured fish soup

base which is probably what makes an outing to this restaurant worth the effort. Seldom do we see steamboat still using charcoal to cook.

Goh Teo Kee RestaurantLocation: 90G, Gurney Drive Penang Tel: 04-2281037, 012-4105911. Opening Hours:

11.30am – 2.30pm and 6.00pm – 10.00pm. (Closed on 1st and 3rd Wednesday)GPS: 5.328172, 100.273386

This restaurant is located along the beach, and serves a good selection of teochew staple food. The Oh Nee is good here. The simple stuff is the best, forget about the fancy

restaurant dishes like garoupas, sharks fin and some thai infusions...http://www.gohteokee.com/

Hainanese Cuisine

Sin Kheang AunLocation : 2 Chulia Lane. Tel: 04 261 4786. Opens 11.00am - 2.30pm, 5.00pm -

8.00pm. Closes alternate Mondays http://shingkheangaun.wordpress.com/

An old establishment with a reputation spanning 6 decades, this is certainly not a stop to miss for the food connoiseur. Try the marinated fried pork liver and the mee sua for

starters. Then look forward to the pomfret asam tumis , kiam hoo bak (pork with fried salted fish mixed in tamarind juice) , kerabu, pickled vegetables with duck in soup,

inche kabin, mui chee kai (crispy chicken simmered in plum sauce) Penang Fried Kway Teow

Sin Hwa Kopi TiamLocation : 329 Jalan Burmah, shophouse

opposite the Pulau Tikus police station. closed thursdays

The char kway teow here is worth every sen and just one plate may not be enough. The other popular stall here is the Asam Laksa.

Heng Huat Kopi TiamLocation : Lorong Selamat

Open for lunch every day. But better to make it after the lunch hour rush. Our experience is that it tastes better when she's not rushed. The sizes range from RM6.00 to

RM8.50 but if you want the cheapest one, let her assistant know you dont want the 4 gigantic prawns they add to it.

Popiah

Padang Seafood PopiahLocation: Padang Brown Food Court, Dato Keramat Road , at the intersection of Jalan

Anson and Jalan Perak . Business hours: Lunch till afternoon

It really a joy to see this popiah skin maker making the wafer thin skins that are used to wrap

the popiah as above. The filling in the wraps consist of lettuce, crab meat, chinese sausage

french beans, fried shallots, turnip, shredded egg

and sealed with a healthy amount of chilli and plum paste.

For this dish, you could also request it to be vegetarian.

 

Porridge

Tai Buan PorridgeLocation :173 Muntri Street. Open 1.30pm – 8pm. Closed on Sundays

This ever popular teo chew styled porridge comes with several variety of side dishes. The popular dishes are the braised pot has taukua, pork innards and pork belly ; Braised duck meat ; pig’s ear braised in flavorful soy sauce and spices ; duck liver and gizzard.

This is the real deal teo chew porridge. Don't settle for less!Hoe Peng Coffee Shop

Location : Corner coffee shop at Penang Road / Kg. Malabar junction (opposite the now closed Kayu Nasi Kandar shop). Open at night only

Ok, maybe this is not for everyone. Not for those who cannot 'stomach' innards. This Pork Innards porridge is one of my favourites. It has everything in it that makes the broth so rich..a tad salty but still tasty. A bowl of steamy, hot comfort broth costs RM6 which is all that is needed after a tiring, stressful day at work. This stall is not located in Hoe Peng itself but you can order in

as long as you order a drink at the coffee shop itself. Not a Hokkien speaking lass myself, try ordering in English. A few of the waiters can try to work out

your order for you.

Seafood

Sea Pearl Lagoon CafeLocation: 338 Mukim 18 Tanjung Tokong Penang Next to the Tua Peh Kong Temple .

Tel : 04 8990375 Business Hour : 11am – 10pm

This popular seafood restaurant is located in a converted beach home of 60's architecture and tucked away from the main attractions. But the taxi drivers would be

most familiar with this old institution. Reknown for its coal baked crab and salt backed crab dishes, there are also other stalls for those who prefer meats like fried chicken and

satay.Ocean Green View Seafood Restaurant

Location: 48F Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah Tel: 04 2262681 &  2274530 . Business hours: 12noon till 11pm (daily)

This is a very popular place for tourists and corporate patrons. The price is quite a bit more than other places but the food is good. The baked crab, inchi kabin, steamed prawns and the marinaded chicken satay is surprisingly good. The twist is that it

doesn't come with a bowl of lukewarm peanut sauce, the meat itself is well marinade to give the right amount of flavour.

 

TitBits

Chowrasta BazaarLocation ; Penang Road, Georgetown . Open everyday from

morning till 5.30pm

Chowrasta Bazaar is a fantastic place to go if you like these preserved/pickled goodies. There are all sorts from mango, nutmeg,

papaya to grapes , ginger - you name it.

Are items are sundry goods, local biscuits, balms, candy, sauces etc.

Watch out for the very enterprising grandmas. They can more or less get anyone to buy their products!

Cucur UdangLocation : Next to Tingkap Ais at Lebuh Tamil. Next to Chowrasta Market and opposite the old Police Headquarters at Penang Road

The cucur udang is freshly made and goes all too well with the refreshing Ais Tingkap drinks.

PatongkoLocation : In front of Hutton Lodge, Hutton Lane

We normally know this as Char Koi in KL.

This goes fantastically with a hot cup of local kopi.

For RM1 , you can get enough for a satisfying tea break sessionPisang Goreng / Chempedak Goreng

Location : Tanjung Bungah, by a slip road. Open 12.00noon to 6pm daily

Deep fried tee kueh which has three layers, with a piece of homemade tee kueh (glutinous rice cake) sandwiched between a slice of sweet potato and another slice of yam. Chempedak goreng and the especially famous pisang raja goreng. This stall has

been around for over 40yrs. In the old days they has a cute green painted cart and easily recognisable. When you get to this slip road, on the way up to Batu Ferringhi, you will

see on the left, a few stalls selling drinks, fruits and this is where they are locatedStall next to the Keng Kwee Chendol Stall

Location : Lebuh Keng Kwee, off Penang Rd.

Homemade biscuits from cottage industry suppliers. The one thing Penang has that's still thriving despite the monopoly of markets by big boys is the number of home

produced items that are sold on the streets. Some without labels on them even. Toast

Toh Soon CafeLocation : Campbell Street. At the junction of penang road and campbell st. (within the narrow lane between Campbell Street and Jalan Kampung Malabar) . Open everyday

8am until 6pm

This stall is squeezed into a little alley and has been around since the 60's. Every morning, it is packed with patrons. Some bring along the morning paper to read before work. There are even queues here but most times, it involves short waiting time. The

quaint bit about this cafe is that they steam their bread using the steam from when they boil their drinking water and they toast their bread in the little opening at the bottom of the drum where the coal goes into to fire up the pot of water to make hot drinks. You

have to be there to watch their operations. No expensive, branded cooking utensils and ovens, just simple day to day items and they manage to cater to the throng of customers

that come in. Western

Amelie CafeLocation : 6, Armenian Street, Georgetown. Open everyday from 10am till 6pm. Closed

Mondays.

Serves breakfast, lunch, coffees and refreshments. It's a little cubby hole next to the Cheah Kongsi and also next to the Nyonya Beaded Shoe shop at the quiet end of

Armenian St. The prices are reasonable and the latte is pretty good. There are 5 little tables downstairs and some seating upstairs but the entire area of the shop probably just

makes someone's walk-in wardrobe space - which in fact, makes it a little bit more special. One of our favourite places to go.

Soul KitchenLocation : 102, Muntri Street. Just off Penang Road. Open from 10 am to 2 pm and from

6pm to 9 pm daily . Closed on Tuesdays soulkitchencafe.blogspot.com

Soul Kitchen is run by Michelle and Tonio. They opened their doors in June 2010 and have been having brisk business since. Their menu consists of a variety of grilled

sandwiches (Tramezzini), pasta and dessert with daily specials. Kopi Cine

Location: 55 Stewart Lane ,10200 George Town, Penang . Open: 9.00am - 11.00pm - 7 days a week. Tel: 04 263 7299

Kopi Cine is a small, cosy restaurant under Straits Collection brand is managed by Brand Bon Ton. Bon Ton owns and operates two heritage resorts in Langkawi; Bon Ton Resort and Temple Tree. Casual all day dining, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner from

scones and homemade strawberry jam and cream to pizzas and pastas. Asian movies will be shown late evening

Crepe Cottage

Location: 77-A Persiaran Gurney, 10250 Penang Email: crepes@hotmail.com Tel: +60194481680 Open 6.00pm – 12.00midnight (Closed Tuesday)

This place is one of the remaining quaint cottages located along Gurney Drive. It's not garrish, no neon lights and has not changed much since it opened for business ove a decade ago. The kitchen of which you can view a little of it if you sit alfresco has its crepe stove located in the open end of the kitchen. A bunch of young people are often seen manning the kitchen. Nice to see young kids making extra dosh for themselves

instead of just handouts from parents. There is lots of choices of old food available here from lasagna to creamy soups, salads and grilled fish and meats.

 

Thai

Tree Monkey Restaurant Location: Lone Crag Villa, Lot 595 Mukim 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11100 Penang.

Telephone: 604 - 881 1797

Tree Monkey presents a predominantly Thai menu from North Eastern Thailand whilst incorporating Malaysian and other Western treats. Lots of delicious BBQ meats and spicy salads await you - all with the promise of the freshest herbs and spices as on in

display in the gardens. It has a beautiful view of the sea and worth a visit in the evening as the sun sets.

 

Rojak (Fruit Salad)

Kafe Sin Se KaiLocation: Swatow Lane Opposide New

World Park Food Center. Open daily from 10am to 7pm

This is what we call , 'Chinese Rojak' . There is an 'Indian Rojak' which in Penang

is called Pasembur, but that's a different story. The Chinese Rojak consists of a

variety of fresh fruits like mango, turnip , pineapple, cucumber etc , cut up into bite

sizes and tossed together with a sweet, gooey prawn paste. Topping you see here

is crushed peanuts.Oyster Omelette

Kedai Kopi Seng ThorLocation: 160, Lebuh Carnarvon, Penang. Open Lunchtimes

The Penang Oyster Omelette or 'Or Chien' in Hokkien dialect is a favourite at Kopitiams and you can find this cooked up almost as common as Char Kway Teow in Penang.

Normally in Penang, the omelette does not come in a tidy shape of an omelette. What we normally would expect. It's all chopped up and tossed and mixed with chives and when it gets to your table, it's usually a pile of omelette pieces with blobs of oysters

peeking through. Not too appetising? Not until the first bite into these juicy bits...then you will know why Malaysians come from all round the country for penang's street

food. No fancy frills, just expansion of the sense of taste.Food Court

New World Food CourtLocation: corner of Lorong Swatow and Lorong Hutton, Penang. Swatow Lane, Off

Jalan Burmah . Open all day, everyday

This food court is very popular with the locals. I guess it's because its a lot more sanitized than most food courts plus it has a more contemporary design to it. There is a variety of food from sushi to local street food fair and plus restaurants and cafes such as

Starbucks, Tarn Thai Restaurant, Passions of Kerala etc