PENANG FOR FOOD-LOVERS

In Malaysia’s charming island city, the kaleidoscope of history and culture culminates in its culinary delights, making it absolute paradise for foodies.

WHY IT’S SPECIAL

Spices are so deeply ingrained in the DNA of Penang that it’s no wonder the Malaysian island has garnered a reputation as one of the planet’s best destinations for foodies.

This small island – about one third the size of Singapore – has a colourful history thanks to its strategic position on the Spice Trade route. Since the late 1700s, Chinese, Indian and Malay flavours, along with fusion cuisine Baba Nyonya, and a smattering of Portuguese, Dutch, French, British and Arabian tastes have all found their way into the local cuisine. Asam laksa (a spicy, tangy fish-based soup), Hokkien mee (fried noodles) and char kway teow (stir-fried noodle strips) are much loved, and you’ll find them served everywhere from the most humble of street-food carts and busiest hawker centres – open around the clock – to the poshest of restaurants. But it’s not just the variety of flavours on offer that makes Penang an absolute dream for those who travel to eat – it’s the staggering abundance of food outlets. The search for food itself only adds to Penang’s charm. The streets of George Town, Penang’s colonial and culinary epicentre, ooze with character. Trishaws glide past beautiful murals, delicate smoke from joss sticks twirls into the air, and bright food carts can be found on streets lined by faded shophouses, inducing a real sense of nostalgia. And no matter how much you’ve eaten there is always something more interesting – and tasty – around every corner.

YOU’LL NEVER FORGET

Your first meal in a hawker centre. The intensity of flavours and the wonderful buzz of the centre makes for real sensory overload – in the best possible way.

INSIDER TIP

The annual Penang International Food Festival (piff.com.my) is a 16-day celebration of Penang’s food and culture. From festivals and guided food walks to unique dining experiences, this is a massive culinary celebration.

HOW TO DO IT

Fly to Penang via Kuala Lumpur, and stay in Cheong Fatt Tze, the Blue Mansion (cheongfatttzemansion. com), an evocative family house packed with fascinating antiques; or Seven Terraces (georgetownheritage. com), beautifully converted from a row of historic town houses.