It’s no secret by now that Penang is renowned for its food. Malaysians flock to the tiny island city in droves to indulge in the culinary delights found throughout its many popular eateries and food spots.
If you’re a student, however, your options for food are probably limited by budget. After deducting rent and other expenses, you might only have a certain amount set aside each month for food.
Still, you probably shouldn’t have to restrain yourself to the point where you’re eating cheap and bland food for the rest of your college life. Fret not – noodles in a cup aren’t your only option!
Here are a few places in Penang to get some affordable yet delicious grub for your grumbling student tummy.
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2018/07/09/char-koay-teow-master-is-back-in-business
What’s not to love about Char Kway Teow? It’s cheap, simple and delicious. The Siam Road Char Kway Teow stall is considered one of the most legendary spots in Penang to grab a plate of these delectable noodles. What’s more, this quaint stall prepares the dish the old school way, cooked over a wood-fired wok. There are many additions to choose from too, with a plate of Char Kway Teow costing as little as RM6.50.
- Address: Jalan Siam, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 3 pm to 7 pm, or till sold out | Closed on Mondays.
Assam Laksa – Air Itam Bisu Laksa
http://penangfoodie.com/air-itam-bisu-laksa-not-the-famous-one-but-better/
With its sweet and sour flavours and savoury soup base with a variety of condiments, Assam Laksa is an iconic dish in Penang.
Most Malaysians have probably at least heard of the signature item, and it has possibly become a hit with locals (and even many foreigners) due to its affordable price. One of the best places to get yourself a bowl is at Air Itam Bisu, and it will only cost you about RM4.50. The tangy fish taste goes superbly well with the fresh vegetables and a good helping of mackerel to boot!
An interesting side note: Both members of the brother-sister duo that run this stall are actually mute (hence the name Bisu which is mute in Malay). You have to use hand signs to order from them.
- Address: Air Itam Market Food Court, Penang.
- Opening Hours: Daily 10 am – 5 pm
Hokkien Prawn Noodles – CY Choy Road Hokkien Mee
Penang Prawn Mee
Yet another well-known noodle dish is Asia, Hokkien Mee has long been a staple food in Penang (as well as almost everywhere else in Malaysia). Derived from a long traditional lineage, this aromatic pork-based soup can be described as sweet and fresh, often costing no more than RM4 and served with additions such as fish balls. The CY Choy Road Hokkien Mee is said to be one of the best in town, and locals often queue up during peak hours for a taste.
- Address: Jalan C.Y.Choy, 10300, Georgetown, Penang
- Opening Hours: Daily 6:30 am – 2:30 pm | Closed on Monday
Cendol – Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul
Studying can be hard work, so why not wind down and chill out with a cold bowl of icy Cendol? This chilled coconut milk beverage with jelly strands and red kidney beans is considered more a dessert than a full meal. However, if the hot weather in Penang is getting to you, head on over to Penang Road for some relief. The Famous Teochew Chendul often attracts big crowds and queues can look long and intimidating. Don’t let that discourage you though, because the lines here have a tendency of moving fast. Expect to pay RM2.70 for each bowl.
- Address: Jalan Penang, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Daily 10:30 am – 7 pm
Nasi Kandar – Natrah Nasi Kandar
You may have been expecting that Nasi Kandar would be included in a list about Penang food. Well, here it is!
This mixed rice delicacy often comes with an assortment of options that you get to pick on your own. These range from a variety of marinated meats, as well as vegetables to other items like eggs and sambal. It’s a combination of ingredients and fantastic flavours. Natrah Nasi Kandar, found along Jalan Teluk Kumbar, is one of the oldest and most popular spots around, going back about 60 years! Over here, the fish curry and minced meat dishes are especially in demand. Try to be quick though, because the stall only opens for about 3 hours a day or until all the food has run out.
- Address: Bee Ghah Cafe, 35, Jalan Teluk Kumbar, Kampung Teluk Kumbar, 11930 Teluk Kumbar, Penang
- Opening Hours: Daily 6 pm – 8:30 pm (Closed on Sundays)
Penang has a long list of good local food just waiting to be discovered. If you’re a student on a budget, don’t overlook even the smallest of stalls on this island, because they might just pack the kind of scrumptious (and cheap) goodies to help keep you going throughout the day.
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