The Local Edit: Entrepreneur Nikheel Advani’s guide to Penang

According to Advani, this humble wantan mee stall serves up one of the best plates. Its tender char siew slices are accompanied by perfectly cooked noodles. It’s so good that “people drive from KL to eat at this establishment,” Advani shares.

“These are the best Chapati and curry [I’ve had in Georgetown],” he offers. Here, rather than griddling chapati the traditional way, each freshly made roti is grilled over coal—resulting in a flatbread that’s filled with smoky flavours. It’s served alongside a fragrant and spice-filled daal.

This local zi char restaurant serves up a range of hearty dishes. Advani recommends the crisp chicken wings seasoned with aromatic spices, and the juicy prawns generously battered in Nestum cereal.

Those looking for comforting Cantonese creations can head to Teksen. At this no-frills joint, find an extensive menu comprising creations like kang kong stir-fried with fiery sambal sauce and prawns. The double-roasted pork is a fan favourite, featuring tenderly roasted pork belly that has been chopped to bite-sized pieces and stir-fried in a fragrant mix of dark soy sauce, sugar and chili padi. Advani shares that as the restaurant is very popular, expect long lines—especially during peak hours.

One of the “best crispy duck rice” in Georgetown, Jit Seng Roasted Duck Rice serves up delectable Hong Kong-style Peking duck with a thin and crisp skin, and succulent flesh. The meat sits on a fluffy bed of rice and is glazed in a homemade sweet sauce.

Read more: The best char kuey teow in Malaysia, according to chefs

Indulge in traditional Peranakan kueh’s at Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay. A selection of local creations are available, ranging from kuih lapis to Nyonya chang. The latter is a sweet and savoury Melaka Peranakan delicacy made of glutinous rice, butterfly pea flower and pork.

Best spots to drink

This speakeasy is hidden inside a clothing shop and serves up classic cocktails with a local twist. Fans of fruity cocktails will enjoy the mango martini, a concoction of Pamplemousse rose flavoured gin, mango and grapefruit. While those who enjoy local flavours can try the Kelapa Hotak, a signature of house-made coconut rum, pandan and kaya.  

At this popular speakeasy, sip on localised cocktails like the Pah Poh old fashioned and the BBC. The former is a mix of peated whisky, Penang Pat Poh syrup bitters and orange peel garnish. The latter is a medley of banana peel-infused whisky, banana fermented nectar and dehydrated banana skin.

Things to see

Advani tells us that Habitat Penang Hill is great for those who enjoy being active on holiday. While various trails are available, opt to go on the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk. Located 820 meters above sea level, the vantage point offers stunning panoramic views of Penang Island and the mainland.

Take a day trip to Balik Pulau, a town located southwest of Penang. Taking up over one-third of the whole Penang Island, this town has plenty of things to see, eat and do. “Love this part of Penang where there is modern container art along the countryside,” Advani says. 

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Advani adds that art lovers will not want to miss out on a trip to China House, a gallery featuring top Malaysian artists. The gallery is housed in three heritage buildings which have been converted into 14 spaces filled with shops, live music, galleries and cafes. He reveals that there are “yummy cakes” here too. 

One thing you should not miss while walking around the historical Unesco heritage site that is Georgetown is street art. Here, new artworks are regularly introduced with some easier to find than others—so keep your eye out while you explore the area. 

Best places to stay

Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang’s executive seaview room is perfect for those looking to bask in the sun while on holiday. This luxurious Asian-inspired room offers amenities including premium toiletries, 24-hour room service and a pillow menu. What’s more, this hotel is conveniently located near Ferringhi Beach, one of the most popular beaches along the island. 

Transverse into Georgetown’s illustrious history at this boutique heritage hotel. The mansion was built by merchant Cheong Fatt Tze towards the end of the 19th century and features Chinese architectural styles of the Imperial period, complete in a vibrant indigo-blue shade. During your stay here, book a mansion tour and learn more about how the mansion’s heritage and how it came to be.

This heritage hotel comprises a row of Anglo-Chinese terrace houses that feature traditional Chinese architecture. Book the Argus Apartment, a lavish suite with a private balcony, two bedrooms and a spacious lounge area. 

What’s more, the hotel is a stone’s throw away from the historic Guan Yin temple and popular streets like Chulia Street and Love Lane. At Chulia Street, find various popular hawker stalls, while Love Lane is home to cafes and bars. 

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