Penang is not just a tourist destination, but also a food paradise, known for its rich culinary culture. We’ve compiled a list of 10 authentic local eateries in Penang that have been selected for the 2024 Michelin Guide. From street food to long-established restaurants, these selected spots cater to food lovers with all kinds of budgets. Whether you’re craving classic flavors or eager to explore new tastes, Penang’s Michelin-recognized cuisine will take you on a delightful journey of happiness for your taste buds.
Cr： Chasah Ramasamy
This Char Kway Teow stall operates for only half a day and often has long queues, mainly attracting tourists and younger customers. The noodles, stir-fried over high heat, have a distinctive smoky aroma from the charcoal, with the seasoning perfectly balanced. Made with high-quality ingredients, you can also choose whether to add chili according to your taste.
Siam Road Char Koay Teow
Address：82, Jalan Siam, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours：(Tuesday – Saturday) 12pm – 6pm
Closed：Sunday and Monday
Cr： Irene T
This shop has been serving Hokkien Mee for 30 years, with a broth that boasts an enticing red color and a sweet, savory flavor. You can choose to add various toppings to enhance your noodles, such as pork ribs or roasted pork, both of which come highly recommended.
888 Hokkien Mee (Lebuh Presgrave)
Address：67-A, Lebuh Presgrave, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：(Friday – Wednesday) 3pm – 9：30pm
Closed：Thursday
Cr：Louis Low
In 1963, a father began his life’s work selling char koay kak, a traditional snack from his ancestral Teochew home. After his passing, his three daughters inherited the business. The rice cakes, fried with just the right amount of wok hei, soy sauce, bean sprouts, egg, and spice, are served with the option of adding hot sauce.
Sister Yao’s Char Koay Kak
Address：96, Lorong Macalister, George Town, 11400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：(Saturday – Tuesday) 7am – 12pm
Closed：Wednesday，Thursday and Friday
Cr：michelin
This welcoming, family-operated shop, now in its second generation, specializes in koay teow th’ng, available either in soup or dry form. The broth is crafted from chicken and pork bones, and the springy tendon balls carry a delightful hint of ginger. A delicious choice on the menu is the braised chicken served with bean sprouts.
Ah Boy Koay Teow Th’ng
Address： Lebuh Clarke, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：7am – 2pm
Closed：Tuesday
Cr：Mel W.
The broth at this famous Laksa shop is made from a rich sardine-based stock, offering a deep and complex flavor. Various condiments are available for you to customize your bowl. If one bowl of Laksa isn’t enough, we recommend trying the Duck Egg Char Kway Teow as well.
Penang Road Famous Laksa
Address：5-7, Lebuh Keng Kwee, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：9am – 5：30pm
Closed：Wednesday
Cr：michelin
This stall has built a devoted following for more than 30 years. Their signature Hokkien prawn mee and loh mee are best savored with extra toppings such as crispy roast pork or fish balls. The prawn broth is known for its rich umami flavor.
Green House Prawn Mee & Loh Mee
Address：133A, Jalan Burma, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：9am – 1：30pm
Cr：michelin
Hidden in a food court, this White Curry Mee features a broth made with coconut milk. If you’re choosing from the various toppings, we recommend going for the roasted pork. And don’t forget to try their homemade chili—it’s a must!
Duck Blood Curry Mee
Address：223B, Jalan Burma, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：12pm – 10pm
Closed：Thursday
Cr：Mananya Chantaruwat
Our menu features Hainanese chicken, as well as grilled chicken served with fragrant chicken oil rice. The tender meat complements the chicken liver or gizzards beautifully. Order in halves or full portions.
Goh Thew Chik Hainan Chicken Rice
Address：340, Lbh Chulia, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：(Monday – Friday) 10am – 5pm , (Saturday – Sunday) 11am – 6pm
Closed：Wednesday
Cr：tle thiti
This stall in Little India offers a variety of curry puffs, including mutton, chicken, sardines, egg, and vegetarian options. The crispy crust encases flavorful fillings with just the right amount of spice. They’re also very affordable, which explains why there’s always a queue.
Penang Famous Samosa
Address：45, Lebuh Queen, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：9：30am – 8pm
Closed：Wednesday
Cr：michelin
Their menu features three noodle dishes: the signature green tom yum, noodle soup, and fried noodles. The fresh green tom yum expertly balances sour and spicy notes. The fried fish topping is both crispy and tender, while the large prawns boast a savory umami flavor.
Ghee Lian
Address：Lot 39 Kompleks, Medan Renong, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang223B, Jalan Burma, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours：6pm – 10pm
Closed：Wednesday
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Penang, these culinary delights are a must-try. Indulge your taste buds in this vibrant city and create unforgettable memories. As you explore Penang’s food scene, discover hidden gems and experience the locals’ passion for food. We hope you find your own slice of heaven in this gastronomic adventure.
