Few years ago, when someone mentions charcoal steamboat in George Town, Penang, it must be the legendary Goh Huat Seng. Just like many big players in year 2018, it went into history and if you are looking for a placement, we recommend Huo Tan Wang 火炭皇 Charcoal Steamboat at Nagore Road (GPS: 5.42166,100.32632). We had a wonderful evening there with its signature Sour and Spicy base soup.
Dim Sum Yuen 点心苑 @ Taman Canning, Ipoh
Tired of sharing tables with others and with waiting customers staring at you in hoping you finish the subpar pre-steamed Dim Sum ASAP? Head to Dim Sum Yuen 点心苑 (GPS: 4.61177,101.11120) in Taman Canning for innovative make-to-order Dim Sum including lovely Cold Water Chestnut Cake 鸟吞马蹄 (RM5.50). Even our anti-Dim Sum friend plans to return here again.
Bibimbowl @ Summerton, Bayan Lepas, Penang
Usually operated by Koreans folks, Korean restaurants is mushrooming in Penang and in fact, we are not sure if it is already supersede Japanese restaurants. Similar to the latter, most Korean restaurants here are more suitable for mid-to-high income group with some even impose minimum order quantity policy. Specifically for BBQ restaurants, expect one won’t walk out alive if he/she does not have a blue paper note in his/her pocket. Fortunately, we met Bibimbowl (GPS: 5.33879,100.30864) recently.
Viva Local Food Haven @ Tanjung Tokong, Penang
Strategically located along Tanjung Tokong’s main road and right in front of Hotel Sentral Seaview, Viva Local Food Haven (GPS: 5.46270,100.30512) is always crowded with both local and foreign customers. Thanks to our friends who stayed in Hotel Sentral Seaview recently, we had a chance to revisit the food court after our initial visit 8 years ago.
Sungai Tok Pawang Durian Farm @ Gurun, Kedah
As long as durian is concerned, most fruit king lovers will think of Penang, namely Balik Pulau as the main supplier in northern region of Malaysia. Little do they know that Gurun in Kedah is in fact another durian paradise. The private property – Dusun Durian Sungai Tok Pawang (GPS: 5.76419,100.48716) has been here for more than 40 years and recently, the young owner decided to open the farm to the public.
Coffee On The Table @ Beach Street, Penang
We remembered that more than a year ago, 3D latte art stormed Penang by surprise. Back then, we didn’t pay much attention due to busy schedule. Until recently, we finally found the cafe – Coffee on the Table (GPS: 5.41577,100.33991)
BÁNH MÌ ÚT @ Church Street, Georgetown, Penang
It was one tiring Saturday evening in which we finished working late (yes, we still need to work on Saturday) and decided to just had our dinner outside. BÁNH MÌ ÚT (UT Sandwiches Cafe) (GPS: 5.41884,100.33984 ) was our accidental discover when we passed by Church Street.
Champagne Brunch @ Vino Vino Bistro
From exterior, Vino Vino Bistro (GPS: 5.33700,100.30717) may give first timers misconception that it is an Italian restaurant. Well, you are partially correct as it is one of the best wine bars in town. More important, it is their signature Yakitori. Yes, it is a Japanese bistro and we recently visited it again for the new Champagne Brunch menu.
4FINGERS @ Gurney Paragon, Penang
About a year ago, Korean fried chicken was mushrooming Malaysia. Unlike fried chicken of well-known brands, the poultry was usually coated with spicy sauce. Personally, we tried once during our trip to Seoul but it was burning hot to our liking, to an extend that it was “painful” to eat it. Recently, we finally found a better alternative – 4FINGERS at Gurney Paragon, Penang (GPS: 5.43585,100.31113).
Jamuan Berbuka Puasa @ E&O Hotel, Penang
Head to the heritage Eastern & Oriental Hotel (E&O Hotel) (GPS: 5.42361,100.33472) for a quintessential, delightful Malaysian spread this Ramadan. We recently visited Sarkies once again for Ramadan buffet preview session.