Char Koay Teow is one of Penang’s trademark food. If you happen to travel to Penang, and you did not try out any of the Char Koay Teow, never tell your friends that you came to Penang.
This beloved northern Malaysian favourite is made with flat rice noodles stir-fried over high heat with garlic, light and dark soy sauce, chili paste, cockles, prawns, and bean sprouts. The result? A smoky, flavour-packed plate that captures the soul of Penang street food.
Not sure where to begin your Char Koay Teow journey? We’ve curated a list of must-try spots to get you started. While there are countless gems across Penang, these picks are some of the nice places to kick off your CKT cravings.
Ah Leng Char Koay Teow
Jalan Dato Keramat, Kampung Makam, 10150 George Town, Penang.
Operating Hours: 9.30 am – 3.30 pm (Closed on Wednesdays)
Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow
82, Jalan Siam, George Town, 10400 George Town, Penang.
Operating Hour: 12.00 pm – 5.00 pm (Closed on Sundays & Mondays)
328 Char Koay Teow
Khoon Hiang Coffee Shop, 358, Jalan Dato Keramat, 10150 George Town, Penang.
Operating Hours: 8.30am – 12.30pm (Wed – Sun)
Tiger Char Koay Teow
179, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10450 George Town, Penang.
Operating Hours: 8.00 am – 2.30 pm (Daily)
Left-handed Char Koay Teow
79-G-11, Ivory Tower, Kampung Jawa Baru, Off Jalan Datuk Keramat, 10150 George Town, Penang.
Operating Hours: 11.00am – 7.00pm (Daily)
Ah Shen Presgrave Street Duck Egg Char Koay Teow
67B, Lebuh Presgrave 10300 George Town, Penang.
Operating Hours: 3.00pm – 10.00pm (Daily)
Ah Soon Char Koay Teow
26, Jalan Sungai Kelian, 11200 Tanjung Bunga, Penang.
Operating Hours: 9.00am – 5.00pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Sin Hwa Coffee Shop Char Koay Teow
329, Jalan Burma 10350 Penang.
Operating Hours: 8.00am – 5.00pm (Daily)
