The MICHELIN Guide Penang 2025: New Additions to the Bib Gourmand and Michelin Selected Categories
The MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2025 has been unveiled, marking a triumphant third chapter for this gastronomic nation. With 143 establishments spanning Starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected categories, this year’s lineup showcases the full, vibrant spectrum of dining in Penang. From bustling street food stalls to elegant fine-dining venues, this edition celebrates over 30 diverse cuisines that make Malaysia a true gastronomic paradise. Whether you’re a food connoisseur or simply love a great meal, Penang’s culinary scene is undoubtedly one to explore.
7 New Bib Gourmand Additions: Penang’s Street Food Excellence
The Bib Gourmand category in the MICHELIN Guide is awarded to restaurants that offer high-quality meals at affordable prices, and this year’s selections bring a mix of traditional and contemporary flavors that define Penang’s street food scene. Here are the seven new Bib Gourmand additions:
- BM Yam Rice
- Laksalicious
- Lum Lai Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng
- Ravi’s Famous Apom Manis
- Serabai Istimewa
- Super Star Koay Teow Soup
- Winn’s Cafe
1. BM Yam Rice
Since opening its doors in 2006, BM Yam Rice has been serving the owner’s family recipe, earning a reputation for its comforting yam rice with pork soup. The yam rice is perfectly cooked, with a strong shrimp flavor that complements the briny-sweet pork broth. The dish features the option of pork offal, which is cooked to perfection, or a simpler version without offal. The addition of pickled mustard greens gives the soup a tangy depth, while the peppery, flavorful pork balls elevate the dish to another level. BM Yam Rice’s dedication to quality and tradition makes it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
2. Laksalicious
With a caricature of the owner on its sign and a mural deconstructing its signature items, Laksalicious is a cheerful little gem bubbling with character. As its name suggests, laksa is the main event here – choose between Nyonya assam laksa with a sour, spicy fish broth or Nyonya laksa lemak with a rich, creamy coconut milk broth. Prawn crackers add texture and flavor, and crispy prawn fritters, nasi ulam, and gula melacca cendol are also popular choices. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with exceptional laksa dishes, has earned this spot a dedicated following.
3. Lum Lai Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng
For over 40 years, Lum Lai Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng has been serving its signature koay teow soup with a delicious combination of duck, pork, and fish cake. The broth bursts with umami, and the duck is silky, perfectly complemented by the crispy fried garlic and shallot bits that add aroma and depth to the dish. It’s a beloved spot for noodle soup lovers, so be prepared to queue during peak hours to experience this comforting bowl of goodness.
4. Ravi’s Famous Apom Manis
Since 1920, Ravi’s Famous Apom Manis has been selling its famous apom—crispy crêpes with a soft, puffy center, cooked in a claypot over charcoal. These apom are fluffier and more coconutty than most, making them a standout treat in Penang. Come early to ensure you get a taste, as they tend to sell out by 9:30am. The perfect way to start your day, these crispy delights are a beloved part of Penang’s vibrant street food scene.
5. Serabai Istimewa
A beloved local institution since 1978, Serabai Istimewa has become synonymous with the popular Malaysian breakfast treat, serabai—a coconut milk rice pancake served with palm sugar syrup dip. The serabai, which is still a local favorite, is offered in three variations: plain, with palm sugar, or with egg. It’s best to visit before 10am to enjoy the dish at its freshest, and its nostalgic appeal continues to make it a favorite morning stop for Penang locals.
6. Super Star Koay Teow Soup
A beloved food cart dating back to 1960, Super Star Koay Teow Soup is now run by the third-generation owner, continuing the legacy of its flavorful koay teow soup. The dish, which features a delightful mix of chicken, pork, fish balls, and pork liver, remains a must-try for any noodle soup lover. The highlight, however, is the braised chicken feet, marinated in a spiced soy sauce that adds a deep, rich flavor. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, the comforting, aromatic broth and tender ingredients make Super Star Koay Teow Soup a true Penang classic.
7. Winn’s Cafe
Run by a husband-and-wife team, Winn’s Cafe is nestled in a charming detached house with dining rooms spread across two storeys. The upper floor doubles as an art gallery, showcasing work by local artists, creating a unique ambiance that complements the cafe’s inviting atmosphere. The menu highlights Peranakan classics, including otak otak, a coconut milk-based fish cake seasoned with local herbs grown in their backyard, offering a silky smooth texture. The asam tumis stingray is a standout, with bouncy, flavorful meat served in a rich, complex sauce made from a blend of nine herbs. The culinary offerings at Winn’s Cafe blend tradition with creativity, making it a must-visit for those looking to explore the depth of Penang’s Peranakan heritage in a warm, artistic setting.
6 New Michelin Selected Restaurants: Penang’s Fine Dining Evolution
The Michelin Selected category highlights restaurants that offer high-quality dining experiences, with an emphasis on creativity, presentation, and innovation. This year’s new Michelin Selected additions take Penang’s culinary scene to new heights, offering a fusion of local ingredients with global techniques. Here’s a look at the six new Michelin Selected restaurants in Penang:
1. Blanc
Located in an 18th-century castle-turned-heritage boutique hotel, Blanc offers an exceptional fine dining experience. The restaurant’s graceful architecture features a stunning dining room with royal blue walls, white window shutters, and a striking faux white tree at its center, creating an elegant atmosphere. The 8-course tasting menu is meticulously crafted and cannot be faulted, with á la carte options also available for those who prefer to choose. Each dish is intelligently devised and perfectly balanced, showcasing both creativity and technical skill. Don’t miss the desserts— they are simply too good to skip!
2. Christoph’s
The Austrian owner of Christoph’s opened the restaurant in 2022 to serve hearty family favorites from his homeland. Known for Wiener schnitzel (deep-fried breaded pork chop) with a crispy crust and juicy meat, Christoph’s also offers a veal cutlet on request. A true standout is the Salzburger nockerl, a sweet, fluffy soufflé served with house-made lingonberry sauce. As a wine importer, the owner has curated an impressive selection of Austrian wines, perfect for pairing with the dishes.
3. Firewood
Set in a historic building with a lofty ceiling, Firewood combines rustic charm with a faux industrial style, providing the perfect backdrop for its central open fire grill. For the full experience, request counter seats to immerse yourself in the smoky atmosphere and watch the high flames at work. Both set and á la carte menus are available, offering a delightful range of dishes. Begin with the hay-smoked seasonal mushrooms, followed by tiger prawns in a tangy, sweet Nyonya sauce. For beef lovers, the dry-aged steaks are a must-try, and it’s recommended to pre-order them for the best experience.
4. Jaloux
Hidden behind lush greenery, Jaloux may be easy to miss, but Chef Hong’s slow food and artisan handmade pasta are well worth the hunt. The restaurant’s pappardelle with oxtail ragu is a standout dish, with perfectly al dente noodles balanced between richness and acidity, topped with fork-tender, melty oxtail ragu. The atmosphere is relaxed, and while the service can be slow, it’s a perfect setting to sit back, enjoy the music, sip wine, and savor every bite. Since Jaloux does not take reservations, it’s best to arrive early to beat the crowd.
5. Lucky Hole
Once a factory, Lucky Hole has been transformed into a retro-industrial dining space that buzzes with energy, thanks to the sizzling charcoal grill in the open kitchen and a lively, passionate service team. Chargrilled meats, seafood, and vegetables are the main attractions, with wild-caught giant shrimps served with crispy garlic crumbles and chili oil being a popular choice. The warm banana cake with Baileys ice cream provides a delightful contrast of temperatures, making it an unforgettable dessert to end your meal.
6. Nyonya Willow
For an authentic slice of Penang’s culinary life, Nyonya Willow offers a hidden gem tucked away in a residential neighborhood, where locals often gather. The shop, adorned with vintage Nyonya photos and traditional motifs, serves up a feast of northern Peranakan specialties. The signature gulai tumis (tamarind fish curry) is a perfect blend of sour and spicy, following a recipe passed down from the owner’s mother. Their assam prawn is renowned for its unique sour-sweet balance. Be sure to save room for the heart-warming desserts that complete this truly local dining experience.
Penang: A Gastronomic Destination Like No Other
The addition of these new Bib Gourmand and Michelin Selected restaurants is a testament to Penang’s dynamic food scene, which continues to evolve while honoring its rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re seeking affordable street food that offers exceptional flavors or fine dining that showcases creativity and innovation, Penang has something to satisfy every palate.
THE FULL SELECTION OF MICHELIN GUIDE PENANG 2025 CAN BE FOUND HERE
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