BEST CHAR KUEY TEOW IN PENANG
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST CHAR KUEY TEOW IN GEORGETOWN
Ask any local and the first thing they'll demand from their CKT is "Wok Hei". This happens when the char kuey teow is cooked in a searing hot wok, not too many portions at a time (ideally 1), so that the noodles get a lovely smokey sear on them adding that depth of flavour.
Another thing, never ask two locals at the same time which is the best in town because you'll end up witnessing a fist fight. Local Penangites are violently protective about their favourite spots. One prefers greasier style, others like dry style, some thing cockles should be added, others not, some go for duck eggs, others think it's too rich, others still love the old school charcoal cooking, some swear by gas.
Whatever the reasonings are behind their decisions, one thing is clear: Georgetown residents love their CKT.
The Mouth's editor has been eating this dish for over 20 years in and around Georgetown and decided it high time to make a list of his personal favourites. Before you shoot the messenger, just use this as a guide and find your own spots.
#THEMOUTHSCHOICE
JIN CAFE
70+ year old legend still churns out the best CKT in town by preparing one portion at a time to guarantee that "wok hei". The plate is perfect. Seasoned, not too oily, full of flavour and served with a smile. If you only eat one plate of Char Kuey Teow in Penang, make it this one.
p.s. Thanks to Peter Yeoh for the tip!
TIGER CHAR KUEY TEOW
One of the better stalls downtown, their CKT is flavourful and comes with large shrimp.
AH SOON
More reminiscent of a Thai Phad See Ew perhaps, this wetter version of CKT still packs a good flavour punch. The location is a bit out of the way, but people visiting the beaches can pop in for lunch.
UNDER THE TREE
This auntie cooks a mean CKT along Lengkok Burma in the outdoor food court. Grab a plate and head behind to find seat in the shade. Legit stuff!
AH LENG
Most locals swear by Ah Leng, and if the long lines are anything to go by it's one of the most popular in town. Whilst the plates are very good here and the prawns are huge, the only thing we didn't personally prefer is the mushy chinese sausage on top. We prefer it cut in pieces with some bite.
