Nasi kandar is a Malaysian dish of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, gravies, and side dishes, typically originating from Penang’s Indian Muslim (Mamak) community.
1. Nasi Kandar Deen Maju
It’s rare to see Penangites patiently queuing under the blazing hot sun, but you’ll witness it at Nasi Kandar Deen Maju. This crowd-pulling eatery must be doing something right to attract such long lines every day. With reasonable and affordable prices, it’s no surprise locals keep coming back. Recently, they’ve expanded their seating area to cater to more customers. Its popularity is undeniable — so drop by soon and savour their exceptional nasi kandar.
Must-try: Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken), Kari Sotong (Squid Curry), Daging Hitam (Beef in black sauce)
Address: 170, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Penang
Opening Hours: 2.30pm – 11pm
Contact: +6012-425 2421
2. Nasi Kandar Beratur
Known to some as Nasi Kandar Beratur, to others as Nasi Kandar Masjid Kapitan Keling, or by its actual name, Liyaqat Ali — this spot is a local legend. Operating from 10pm until the early hours, it’s famous for its long queues. But rest assured, the delicious plate of nasi kandar is worth every minute of waiting.
Must-try: Ayam Ros (Rose Chicken), Kari Daging (Beef Curry)
Address: 98, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, 10200 Penang
Opening Hours: 10pm – 8.30am
3. Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu
What was once a Chinese coffee shop has transformed into a beloved nasi kandar stall. Many visit in the early morning for their nasi kandar fix, drawn by the thick, creamy gravies passed down through generations. A hearty breakfast here is the perfect way to kickstart your day.
Must-try: Daging Masak Merah (Beef in red curry), Ayam Ros (Rose Chicken), Paru Ayam (Chicken Lungs)
Address: Block A1-29-31, Kampung Melayu, Air Itam, Penang
Opening Hours: 6am – 1pm
4. Nasi Kandar Tajuddin Hussain
During lunch hours, this place is a melting pot of customers from all walks of life. If dining in, simply take a seat and place your order with the staff. For takeaways, head to the counter to queue.
Must-try: Ayam Ros (Rose Chicken), Kurma Kambing (Lamb Korma), Kari Sotong (Curry Squid)
Address: 49 & 51, Queen Street, George Town, Penang
Opening Hours: 11am – 3.30pm; 6.30pm – 10pm (closed on Sunday)
Contact: +604-262 5367
5. Nasi Kandar Merlin
A pioneer in Penang’s nasi kandar scene, this eatery sits beneath the Merlin Hotel. Crowds start gathering as early as 8am for a breakfast that’s sure to energise your workday.
Must-try: Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken), Kari Kepala Ikan (Curry Fish Head), Kari Telur Rebus (Curry Egg)
Address: 1, Lebuh Penang, George Town, Penang
Opening Hours: 8am – 2.30pm
Contact: +604-262 1336
6. Nasi Kandar Syein Shah
Hidden inside Hans Food Centre, this spot surprises many first-timers. Opening at 9.30am, it’s a popular stop for office workers grabbing a hearty ‘tapao’ before work. Loyal customers love the generous portions at wallet-friendly prices.
Must-try: Ayam Goreng Crispy (Crispy Fried Chicken), Sambal Tauhu (Chilli Paste Beancurd)
Address: 92, Jalan Hijau 5, Taman Green Lane, 11600 Penang
Opening Hours: 9.30am – 3pm
Contact: +604-264 1191
7. Nasi Kandar Ceri
Located near Dato Keramat Market and Masjid Datuk Keramat, this stall opens bright and early at 7am. Their rich, flavourful curry is the perfect start to the day, and there’s ample parking for convenience.
Must-try: Ayam Bawang (Onion Chicken), Nasi Tomato (Tomato Rice) — available only on Fri, Sat, and Sun
Address: Jalan Air Itam, Jelutong, 10460 Penang
Opening Hours: 7am – 4pm
8. Nasi Kandar Hameediyah
Operating since 1907, this legendary eatery has kept its flavours authentic for over a century. Recently upgraded with air-conditioning, it’s now even more comfortable to enjoy their renowned nasi kandar.
Must-try: Ayam Bawang (Onion Chicken), Kari Itik (Duck Curry), Murtabak Daging (Beef Roti)
Address: Lebuh Campbell, 10200 George Town, Penang
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm
Contact: +604-261 1095
9. Nasi Kandar Imigresen
Distinguished by its three-wheel cart, this open-air stall offers a nostalgic dining experience, reminiscent of old-school nasi kandar days. Enjoy your meal under a tent on small chairs for that authentic touch.
Must-try: Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken), Bawang Goreng (Fried Onions)
Address: 8, Lorong Pasar, 10200 George Town, Penang
Opening Hours: 10.30am – 9.30pm (Closed on Friday)
10. Nasi Kandar Aboo
Tucked under the flyover near Butterworth (Penang Sentral), this humble stall is run by a friendly uncle who serves up hearty plates until the early morning. It’s not unusual to see customers queuing even at 4am.
Must-try: Beef Curry
Address: Bagan Dalam, 12100 Butterworth, Penang
Opening Hours: 10pm till they sell out
11. Nasi Kandar Deen Jelutong
Queues are a constant sight at Nasi Kandar Deen. While the shopfront is modest, the flavours more than make up for it. Open round the clock, it’s a go-to spot for late-night cravings.
Must-try: Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken), Bendi Rebus (Steamed Okra)
Address: Jalan Jelutong, Jelutong, 11600 Penang
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Contact: +604-657 5285
12. Nasi Kandar Mohamed Raffee
A bustling 24-hour outlet with the familiar atmosphere of a mamak shop — casual, lively, and full of chatter.
Must-try: Daging Hitam (Beef in black sauce), Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken)
Address: 295-A, Jalan Burma, Pulau Tikus, 10350 Penang
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Contact: +604-228 8466
13. Nasi Kandar Bintang
Located close to Penang Hill, this restaurant is a lunchtime favourite among locals. Arrive early to ensure you get your preferred dishes before they’re gone.
Must-try: Ayam Goreng (Fried Chicken), Tosai (Dosa)
Address: 38 P-O, Jalan Air Itam, Kampung Pisang, 11500 Penang
Opening Hours: 6am – 2am
Contact: +604-826 8739
14. Nasi Kandar Pokok Ketapang
A popular late-night nasi kandar destination on the mainland, starting service at 11pm. Perfect for satisfying midnight hunger pangs.
Must-try: Telur Ikan (Fish Roe), Ayam Madu (Honey Chicken)
Address: Jalan Telekom, Kampung Benggali, 12000 Butterworth, Penang
Opening Hours: 11pm – 5am
