Ah Beng’s Char Koay Teow: A Must-Try Street Food in George Town, Penang
When it comes to street food in Southeast Asia, Penang stands at the very top. Among the countless delicacies on offer, three dishes dominate the scene: Char Koay Teow (Fried Rice Noodle) at number one, followed by Hokkien Mee (Prawn Noodle) and Asam Laksa (Fish Soup Rice Noodle) in second and third place. If you want to taste the true essence of Penang, these are the dishes you cannot miss.
One of the most authentic spots to enjoy Char Koay Teow is Ah Beng’s stall in George Town. It is a no-frills food stall with plastic tables and stools, open-air dining, and the sounds and aromas of sizzling woks. There are no air-conditioners here, but that’s precisely what makes the experience special—you get to enjoy your food the same way locals have for decades.
For first-time visitors, you might wonder what exactly Char Koay Teow is. In simple terms, it is flat rice noodles stir-fried in a blazing hot wok, giving the dish its signature smoky aroma. The noodles are tossed together with prawns, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and chives, then flavored with light and dark soy sauce, chili paste, and duck eggs for richness. You watch the chef cook right in front of you using simple tools, ensuring both freshness and hygiene.
Having brought many American and European visitors here, I can confidently say the feedback has been 100% excellent. Some travelers finish their first plate only to order a second immediately—proof of how addictive the flavors are.
But Char Koay Teow isn’t the only star at Ah Beng’s stall. Hokkien Mee, a rich prawn-based noodle soup, and Asam Laksa, a tangy and spicy fish broth with rice noodles, are also served here. These dishes complete the “holy trinity” of Penang street food.
Penang is a true street food heaven, and while upscale restaurants may be tempting, they often cannot capture the soul of the island’s cuisine. To truly understand Penang, sit by the roadside, feel the tropical air on your skin, and enjoy a dish cooked fresh in front of you.
Best of all, eating at Ah Beng’s is incredibly affordable. A generous plate of Char Koay Teow paired with a large bottle of beer will likely cost you less than USD 7—a bargain for a meal that rivals some of the best flavors in the world.
So, if you’re visiting George Town, don’t just sightsee — eat. And when you do, make sure Ah Beng’s Char Koay Teow is at the very top of your food list.
