When it comes to Penang street food, one dish almost always tops the list — Char Koay Teow. Smoky, spicy, and wok-hei kissed, this stir-fried flat rice noodle dish is beloved by locals and foodies around the world. Every Penangite has their favourite stall, and debates over which is the best can go on forever.
Here’s my curated list of 10 famous Char Koay Teow stalls in Penang that everyone talks about — from legendary names to hidden gems.
1. Siam Road Char Koay Teow
Location: 82, Jalan Siam, 10400 George Town, Penang.
Often ranked among the world’s best street foods, this humble roadside stall has earned cult status for its incredible wok hei. Expect long queues, but the smoky noodles loaded with cockles, prawns, and Chinese sausage are worth the wait.
2. Penang Road Jin Kor Char Koay Teow
Location: 475, Jalan Penang, 10450 George Town, Penang.
Known locally as Jin Kor, this stall has built a loyal following for its flavourful balance of noodles, prawns, and smoky aroma. They are located at the same coffee shop as the famous Penang Road Cendol.
3. Wahong Cafe Char Koay Teow
Location: 1, Lorong Kampung Jawa, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang.
Located down south of Penang island, this stall is a rising name on the Char Koay Teow map. The noodles are fried to perfection, slightly moist, and served with generous toppings. It’s also well-known for its distinct plating style, where the Char Koay Teow is served only on one side of the plate — making it instantly recognizable.
4. 328 King Prawn Char Koay Teow
Location: Khoon Hiang Cafe, 358, Jalan Dato Keramat, 10150 George Town, Penang.
If you love seafood, this is your spot. The signature here is big prawns paired with fresh and bigger cockles for an extra seafood punch. For a real treat, you can even add mantis prawns to your plate — making it one of the most indulgent versions in Penang.
5. Ming Qin Charcoal Duck Egg Char Koay Teow
Location: 29, Jalan Betek, Sungai Rambai, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Penang.
Famous for using charcoal fire and duck eggs, Ming Qin delivers an extra rich and smoky version. The duck egg adds creaminess while the charcoal wok hei gives it unmatched aroma.
6. Tiger Char Koay Teow
Location: 246, Lebuh Carnarvon, 10450 George Town, Penang.
Why it’s famous: A long-time and legendary name, Tiger Char Koay Teow is loved for its consistent wok hei and generous prawns. A great spot for first-timers to experience the “classic” Penang style.
7. Ah Soon Char Koay Teow
Location: 26, Jalan Sungai Kelian, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Penang.
Why it’s famous: A local favourite away from the tourist path. Ah Soon’s version is hearty, packed with cockles, and cooked with the precision of decades of experience.
8. Lorong Selamat Char Koay Teow
Location: 82, Lorong Selamat, 10400 George Town, Penang.
Why it’s famous: Famous for its red-hat aunty and giant prawns, this stall is always busy. Slightly pricier than most, but many swear by its robust flavours and wok hei.
9. Barefoot Char Koay Teow
Location: Cecil Street Market Food Court, Lebuh Cecil 10300 George Town, Penang.
Nicknamed “Barefoot Char Koay Teow” because the owner operates the stall without wearing shoes, this spot has earned cult popularity. Beyond the quirky name, the Char Koay Teow itself is fragrant, smoky, and packed with flavour — a truly unique Penang experience.
10. No 5 Char Koay Teow
Location: 94, Jalan Macalister, 10450 George Town, Penang.
Considered quite new compared to other long-timers, No 5 Char Koay Teow is getting well-known lately. Some locals consider it underrated compared to the bigger names.
Tips for Enjoying Char Koay Teow in Penang
- Peak hours mean long waits. Go early or be patient — the best stalls usually have queues.
- Duck egg vs. chicken egg. Duck egg adds richness and creaminess to the noodles.
- Watch the wok. The real thrill is seeing the hawker work the blazing fire.
From world-famous roadside legends to hidden kopitiam gems, these 10 Char Koay Teow stalls in Penang represent the island’s best wok hei treasures. Whether you like it smoky, saucy, or topped with king prawns, there’s a plate waiting for you.
