Cover Kim Hock Su, the chef-patron of Au Jardin, shares the best way to experience Penang (Photo: Au Jardin)
Kim Hock Su, the chef-patron of Au Jardin, shares the best way to experience Penang (Photo: Au Jardin)
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Kim Hock Su, chef-proprietor of Au Jardin, is a proud Penangite who knows his hometown inside out. He reveals what makes the city so special, and why Penang has evolved beyond its legendary street food scene
A true Penangite, chef-patron Kim Hock Su knows his city like the back of his hand. That said, he’s on a mission to showcase Penang in a new light—not just as Malaysia’s street-food capital, but as a destination where fine dining, inventive bars, and exceptional hospitality thrive alongside its legendary hawker culture.
From collaborating with local chefs and mixologists to highlighting boutique hotels and hidden gems, Su is revealing a more complete, modern vision of his hometown. Here’s where to get started.
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Above One of the must-visit places in Penang is The Blue Mansion, which got its name from the indigo-blue outer walls that make it distinct (Photo: The Blue Mansion)
Above Steeped in history, The Blue Mansion in Penang is an architectural masterpiece that blends metaphysics and heritage
One of the must-visit places in Penang is The Blue Mansion, which got its name from the indigo-blue outer walls that make it distinct (Photo: The Blue Mansion)
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The best part about living in Penang is … it’s a city full of artisans and genuinely cool people. The creative energy here is incredible and the art sense and individuality easily rival cities like Melbourne.
The first thing I crave after being away from Penang is … Hot Bowl White Curry Mee. It’s the best! I’ll usually head straight to the shop once I’m back. When I’m away and the craving hits, I’d settle for the instant version from MyKuali; it’s the closest thing to home.
My favourite aspect of Penang’s food culture is … everyone here is so different, yet we’re all working hard together—hopefully to put Penang on the world map.
Penang’s bar scene is getting more and more vibrant because … there’s a sense of community and creativity driving it. People are daring to experiment and express themselves. I’d recommend Backdoor Bodega for its witty, local‑inspired cocktails such as Kepala Hotak, and Good Friends Club for ABC, a fun twist on nostalgia with a touch of chaos and flair.
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Above Gēn Penang’s cured egg yolk with napa cabbage and pucuk manis espuma, paired with grilled melo melo
Gēn Penang’s cured egg yolk with napa cabbage and pucuk manis espuma, paired with grilled melo melo
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For a truly memorable fine dining meal, I’d definitely recommend … Gēn Penang, a space that reflects the city’s terroir and craftsmanship. Apart from that, Communal Table by Gēn serves experiences that are deeply original. You won’t find anything quite like them anywhere else.
For a genuine local street food experience, go to … New World Park. There’s a great variety of hawkers, all under one roof, perfect for first-timers. And Poh Lay Duck Meat Koay Teow Soup, off Kimberley Street: comforting, clean flavours that remind you why Penang’s street food is unbeatable.
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Above 88 Armenian is located in a historic shophouse in the city centre, making it the perfect base to explore Penang
88 Armenian is located in a historic shophouse in the city centre, making it the perfect base to explore Penang
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My top pick for a luxurious hotel stay is … Armenian 88, for its warm, personalised service and charming local touches.
For a dose of history and culture, I recommend … The Blue Mansion, an architectural masterpiece that blends metaphysics and heritage. You feel the layers of history in every corner.
A hidden gem or little-known fact about Penang is … if you look beyond the tourist paths, you’ll find a community of makers—potters, baristas, musicians and chefs—all quietly shaping the city’s identity. Penang isn’t just about food; it’s about the people who make it special.
Credits
Images: Au Jardin, The Blue Mansion, 88 Armenian, Gēn Penang
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Dudi Aureus is the senior dining and travel editor at Tatler Singapore, covering the city’s most exciting restaurants, global travel trends, and the personalities shaping the culinary and lifestyle scenes. She also serves as co-jury chair for the Tatler Best awards in Singapore, celebrating the very best in hospitality. When she’s off duty, she can often be found at a favourite hole-in-the-wall Thai spot, savouring a perfectly balanced pad thai.
