Few dishes are as iconic to Penang as Nasi Kandar. Once a humble meal sold by Indian-Muslim hawkers carrying baskets of rice and curries balanced on a pole (or kandar), today it has become a national obsession. With its roots in Penang, Nasi Kandar is more than just food—it’s a cultural experience of bold spices, overflowing gravies (kuah banjir), and hearty plates that fuel conversations long into the night.
If you’re planning your next trip to Penang, here’s your ultimate guide to 10 legendary Nasi Kandar spots you simply cannot miss.
Hameediyah Restaurant
Dating back to 1907, Hameediyah is believed to be Malaysia’s oldest Nasi Kandar restaurant. Their spice recipes have been passed down for generations, making their mutton curry, beef rendang, and biryani unforgettable. The yellow shopfront on Campbell Street is iconic in itself.
Location: 164 A, Lebuh Campbell, 10100 George Town, Penang.
Nasi Kandar Imigresen
Nicknamed “Imigresen” due to its proximity to the old immigration office, this spot is a lunchtime favourite. Expect long queues as office workers pack in for their famous fried chicken, squid curry, and irresistible kuah banjir.
Location: 8, Lorong Pasar, 10200 George Town, Penang.
Nasi Kandar Beratur
True to its name, people do beratur (queue) here—sometimes from 10pm until the wee hours. This late-night spot is known for its strong-flavoured curries, crispy fried chicken, and squid eggs. It’s an experience as much as a meal, with the mosque backdrop adding charm to the midnight feast.
Location: 98, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, 10200 George Town, Penang.
Shariff Nasi Kandar
A long-time neighborhood favoirite, Shariff’s is often packed during dinner with locals who swear by its no-frills, flavour-packed plates. Their chicken curry and fish head curry are particularly popular, and prices here remain among the more affordable.
Location: Gerai 23, Kompleks Pasar Dan Makanan, Jalan Permai, Taman Brown, 11700 Gelugor, Penang.
Dalkandar Restaurant
A rising name in Penang’s Nasi Kandar scene, Dalkandar draws crowds for its flavourful ayam bawang (onion chicken) and robust curries. Though newer compared to century-old establishments, it has quickly become a must-visit for many Penangites.
Location: 134, Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong, 10100 George Town, Penang.
Nasi Kandar Tajuddin Hussain
Tucked within the Little India area, this decades-old restaurant is well-loved for its simple yet flavour-packed curries. Their beef dishes and fried fish are crowd favourites, making it a top pick for those exploring George Town.
Location: 45-63, Lebuh Queen, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang.
Nasi Kandar Merlin
A staple since the 1970s, Merlin is known for its tender ayam ros (rose chicken), fish curry, and sambal sotong.
Location: 1A, Lebuh Union, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang.
Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu
A true local gem in Air Itam, this stall has been feeding the community for generations. Their signature ayam ros (rose chicken) and rich curries have a loyal following, especially among Penangites who grew up in the area.
Location: A-29, Jalan Kampung Melayu, Kampung Melayu, 11500 Ayer Itam, Penang.
Nasi Kandar Mohamed Raffee
Raffee has been serving Nasi Kandar in Penang since the 1940s. Their curries are slightly milder but deeply aromatic, with regulars praising the fish head curry and fried chicken. The Pulau Tikus location makes it a favourite for families and older Penangites.
Location: 295-A, Jalan Burma, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Penang.
Tips for the Best Nasi Kandar Experience
- Go with an appetite: A proper Nasi Kandar meal is heavy, rich, and worth every bite.
- Always mix gravies: Don’t be shy—ask for mixed gravies (kuah campur). That’s the real magic.
- Peak hours mean queues: The most famous outlets are busiest at night. If you hate waiting, go off-peak.
- Bring friends: Nasi Kandar is best shared. Order multiple dishes and try everything.
Final Thoughts
From century-old establishments to neighborhood favorites, Nasi Kandar is more than just food in Penang—it’s a heritage. Every plate tells a story of migration, spice, and community. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, this ultimate guide ensures you won’t miss out on Penang’s legendary Nasi Kandar.
