What to Eat in Georgetown, Penang

If there’s one thing that’s certain about visiting Georgetown, Penang, it’s that you won’t be going hungry. This vibrant city is a true melting pot of different cultures, all bringing with them a plethora of different foods to tantalise your tastebuds. Read on for some of my favourite dishes…

Nasi Lemak – you just simply cannot come to Malaysia and not try Nasi Lemak, a mouth-watering mixture of rice cooked in coconut milk served with sambal and wrapped in banana leaves.

Roti Canai – make sure to get up early for this tasty breakfast dish (flatbread served with lentil curry) as it will be sold out by 10am.

Beef Rendang – this has to be one of the tastiest curries, with melt-in-your mouth beef slow cooked in coconut milk and spices. A staple throughout Malaysia, you mustn’t miss this one.

Penang Laksa – okay, so I didn’t actually like this one. But it’s such a famous dish in Malaysia (each town has it’s own version) that it would be a shame not to at least try it. This mackerel soup is made with tamarind which gives it a slightly sour taste.

Satay – this is a true street food staple throughout Malaysia, but you’ll never get bored of it. Tender juicy chicken covered in spicy peanut butter sauce, what’s not to love?

Mee Goreng – because you can’t go wrong with a plate of spicy noodles. Traditionally made with yellow wheat noodles, stir fried with veggies and sometimes chicken.

Bao buns – I first discovered bao buns in China in 2010 and am now completely obsessed. Luckily they’re readily available in Georgetown due to the strong Chinese influence: most streetfood hawker centres will have them.

Hokkien Mee – expect a bowl of noodles served in a rich and aromatic broth. The other ingredients will depend on the individual vendor, but popular choices are prawns, chicken or pork.

Wanton Mee – another version of noodles served in a bowl of broth. Also very yummy.

Hainan Chicken Rice – just what it says on the tin: expect to get a plate of chicken and rice, nothing else. Sooo good though.

Curry – you’ll notice a strong Indian influence in Georgetown, making it one of the best places to eat curry outside of India.

Chendol – this sweet treat is a must-try when in Malaysia. Although it looks incredibly odd (green jelly-like cubes anyone?) it’s actually really yummy!

Apong – also known as Chinese pancake. These crispy pancakes are the perfect way to round off a meal. Traditionally filled with crushed peanuts, you will also find chocolate, banana and coconut flavours.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? See my other posts about this beautiful country here.