Crisp of Life - Penang Food & Travel Blogger

5 Reasons Why Families Will Love Marriott Executive Apartments Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Tue, 12 May 2026 00:46:00 +0800

Penang Marriott, the new lofty presence along the iconic bustling Gurney Drive housed three different properties which are Penang Marriott Hotel, Marriott Executive Apartments, Penang and Marriot Residences.

During our recent family staycation, we checked into Marriott Executive Apartments for 3 Days 2 Nights experience, and it turned out to be one of those unforgettable family stays that stay close to our heart after checking out.

What made this stay different was how it beautifully blended luxury hotel living with the warmth and convenience of home.

Thanks to Penang Marriott for hosting us.

Furanco Patisserie Modern French Desserts at Jalan Burma Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:42:00 +0800

Furanco Patisserie, one of the rising names in Penang's modern dessert scene, that started from online that evolved into having physical shop.

Established in year 2020, Furance first built its reputation through online orders, quickly gained their loyal regular following during the covid timing where movement controls pushing our habits to online ordering. They then transition into physical shop, a beginning with striking blue storefront along Jalan Phuah Hin Leong, which later relocated in 2023 to the bustling Jalan Burma, just before the CRC tennis courts.

Unlike typical cafés, Furanco positions themselves more like a boutique patisserie, focusing on takeaway rather than dine-in experience. Their premium packaging too make it perfect for the gifting culture.

Furanco blends the classic French pastry techniques with Asian-inspired flavours, offering a unique twist that resonates with local taste preferences. You will find flavour profiles such as taro chiffon, matcha, yuzu and oolong-infused among their creation. The East meets West approach is part of what makes Furanco one of the more distinctive French-style bakeries in Penang, and fit Malaysian flavours profile too.

Mansoorali Khan Roti Canai at TPS Jelutong Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:46:00 +0800

Tucked within the newly renovated TPS along Jalan Jelutong, this humble roti canai stall is a true local gem, long loved by residents along Jelutong. Well before moving into its current space, the stall operated along Jalan Madrasah, right opposite Jelutong Street Market, serving loyal customers since the 1980s.

There is something incredibly nostalgic about stalls like this where recipes are not just followed, but perfected over decades. The friendly owner, fluent in Hokkien, embodies the multicultural spirit of Malaysia, effortlessly connecting with customers from all walks of life.

Mansoorali Khan Roti Canai from TPS Jelutong Penang

1926 Heritage Hotel Penang Reopening Stay Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 01:50:00 +0800

April 9, 2026 marks a significant milestone for 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang, as the iconic property officially reopens after an extensive transformation. The restoration was led by Jetblue Sdn Bhd in collaboration with The Ascott Limited under The Unlimited Collection.

Originally built in 1926, this beautiful Anglo-Malay architectural building—true to its name—was once a row of 24 linked houses before being converted into a hotel. Fast forward a century, the property now celebrates its 100-year legacy, making it one of the most unique heritage stays in Penang.

We were incredibly fortunate to be among the first guests (second, to be exact!) to check in after its reopening, making this stay even more meaningful as part of their centennial celebration.

Thank you 1926 Heritage Hotel for hosting us.

Weng Kei Wantan Mee at Lebuh Carnavon Georgetown Penang 荣記茶餐室

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Along the ever-bustling Lebuh Carnarvon, where good food is never in short supply, Weng Kei Wanton Mee remains one of those understated gems that’s easy to overlook. With its humble facade but save for the striking bright yellow walls, there are no bold signboards shouting for attention. In fact, you might not even know what they serve until you step inside the kopitiam. Yet, the steady stream of regulars, alongside curious foreign visitors, speaks volumes about its long-standing presence.

What truly stands out here is their dedication to quality, especially when it comes to their char siew and roasted pork. These are, without a doubt, among our personal favourites in Penang. Each slice showcases a beautiful balance of fat and lean meat, delivering a satisfying bite that is both juicy and flavourful. The caramelised edges of the char siew, paired with the crispiness of the roasted pork, create a rich, savoury profile thats rare to find elsewhere.

If there’s one thing we would nitpick, it would be the noodles, which lean towards the milder side. Unlike the usual wanton mee coated in dark, savoury sauce, theirs is more subtle in flavour. That said, this restraint allows the roasted meats to truly shine, creating a contrast that some may actually appreciate. The addition of generously portioned poached vegetables also adds a wholesome touch, rounding out the meal nicely.

Cakoi 166 at Corner of Lebuh Carnavon Georgetown Penang 亞榮油炸粿, 油條西施

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0800

With flashy and artistic cafés mushrooming around George Town, it feels incredibly refreshing to stumble upon a humble corner shop along Lebuh Carnarvon, quietly focusing on something as simple as freshly made you tiao. The old school street food vibe makes it a nice photo spot too.

You might easily overlook Cakoi 166 at first glance, but this understated spot is well worth seeking out. They start early at around 6 AM, serving hot, freshly fried batches to the morning crowd. By the time we arrived close to lunch, the trays were already nearly empty.

We were lucky to grab a few pieces of you tiao along with a butterfly bun, and it was absolutely worth it. The you tiao was beautifully crisp on the outside yet light and fluffy within, while the butterfly bun carried a fragrant sesame aroma that lingered pleasantly with every bite.

Khao Kun Mookata Bay Avenue Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Thu, 9 Apr 2026 17:10:00 +0800

Khao Kun Mookata, probably the most value-for-money mookata buffet you can find in Penang and has the most outlets in Penang with their newest branch at Bay Avenue opened this April 2026. They are bringing their signature all-you-can-eat experience even closer to you.

Walk through the doors of the Bay Avenue outlet and you will instantly feel at home, especially if you are a returning Khao Kun regular. The same welcoming vibe carries over here, but with a few upgrades such as wider selection of ready-to-eat foods, a more generous spread of steamboat and grill ingredients, and a layout that feels fresh while staying true to what made Khao Kun a Penang's favourite mookata place.

They are remaining their hard to beat pricing, at RM 39.50 nett per adult and RM 24.20 nett for children aged 4-12 or senior citizens aged 70 and above with the requirement of 2 pax dining in.

Thank you Khao Kun for hosting us.

1998 Cafe Air Itam: Wok Hei Hokkien Char, Dry Beef Hor Fun & Char Hor Fun in Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Fri, 3 Apr 2026 17:22:00 +0800

Located next to Sunshine Central Penang, 1998 Cafe has been a familiar dining spot for Air Itam residents for over two decades. True to its name, this long-standing food court was established in 1998 and continues to house a variety of local hawker favourites under one roof.

Among the many stalls, one that consistently draws a crowd is the Char Hor Fun stall, known for its wok hei packed Fried Hokkien Noodle (Hokkien Char). Do expect a short wait, as each plate is cooked to order. A key step in their cooking process is covering the wok briefly with a lid after stir-frying-allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce while the steam works its magic.

The result is a plate of smoky, glossy noodles coated in a rich dark soy sauce. The flavours are deeply satisfying, layed with the savoury richness of sliced pork, elevated by the indulgent crunch of crispy pork lard, and balanced with the natural sweetness of fresh prawns. The addition of vegetables brings a refreshing crunch to cut through the richness. A tad of their sambal adds an extra punch, enhancing the overall depth of flavours.

Kong Thai Lai Coffee Shop 广泰来咖啡店 at Lebuh Dickens Georgetown Penang Where Tradition Lives On

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:25:00 +0800

We have been following Kong Thai Lai from its previous shop location at Hutton Lane and Leith Street to the recent new location at Lebuh Dickens. You may read about our 2014 post here. The familiar facade of Kong Thai Lai coffee shop, the classic interiors and the warm, recognizable faces of the owners instantly bring back a flood of memories. We really appreciate the owners' effort preserving the coffee shop that way, as if everything is exactly the same but just different location.

Budget Buffet for RM 39.50 Only at Khao Kun Lalapot Lorong Macalister Georgetown Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:35:00 +0800

As the sun begins to set, a brightly lit eatery comes to life along the otherwise quiet Lorong Macalister. You will notice a steady stream of patrons, some just arriving, others leaving with satisfied smiles and full stomachs.

At just RM 39.50 per person, diners can indulge in an all-you-can-eat spread featuring a wide selection of seafood, meats, vegetables, and noodles. There are two soup base options available, a comforting lala clear broth or a bold tom yum base. You can opt for either one or enjoy both without any additional charge.

Freshly Fried Ayam Penyek at ML Coffee House II Air Itam Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 01:00:00 +0800

Ayam Penyek, this popular Indonesian dishes is increasingly common in local coffee shop scenes. We recently discover a stall at ML Coffee house is selling at RM 9, a wallet-friendly find.

We visited during lunch hour, and the stall was flooded with customers wanted to takeaway. We noticed continuously frying batches of chicken to ensure each serving stayed crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The short wait was worth it as nothing quite like freshly fried chicken served hot.

Their own made sambal is nicely done with balance between spiciness and aroma, with the fragrance of shallots and garlic. Drizzled generously the sambal over the chicken and rice, every bite was an indulgent.

Each set comes with cucumber on the side and topped with a fried egg, adding a comforting touch to the meal.

Gurney Paragon Mall Welcomes Hari Raya with “Raya Bersulam Batik” Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 01:58:00 +0800

Gurney Paragon Mall by Hunza Group ushers in Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2026 with the launch of its festive celebration themed “Raya Bersulam Batik”. Inspired by intricate craftsmanship of traditional batik woven with contemporary design, the theme celebrates Malaysia’s cultural heritage through immersive artistic expressions.

Nan Zeng Fish Head Bee Hoon at New Dragon Phoenix Kopitiam Ayer Itam Penang 南增鱼头米粉

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:02:00 +0800

Nan Zeng has built a loyal following over the pass nine years. This humble stall may look simple but it has gained popularity among locals for its hearty bowls of fish head bee hoon, especially the much-loved Signature Three Combo and their tender fried fish.

Despite the constant flow of orders, the stall owner remains warm and welcoming, always greeting customers with a friendly smile. The New Dragon Pheonix kopitiam can get busy during peak hours, and parking around the area can be a little challenging. However, with a few rounds around the surrounding streets, you will usually be able to find a spot.

Jungle Jumpscape Kids Indoor Playground at i-Santorini Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 22:11:00 +0800

Jungle Jumpscape is an indoor playground located on the second floor of the shop lots at i-Santorini. From the outside, the playground may appear rather low-profile, but step inside and you will quickly discover a spacious and exciting play environment for children.

The playground is thoughtfully divided into two main play zones. One zone focuses on obstacle courses and active play, helping children build physical strength, coordination, and problem-solving skills. The other zone encourages imaginative and creative play through interactive role-play setups and hands-on activities.

With a single entrance ticket, kids are allowed multiple entries within the same day. Each child receives a QR-coded wristband for scanning at the entrance, so simply keep the wristband on throughout the day and your kids can come and go as they wish.

Thank you Jungle Jumpscape for hosting us.

Big Bad Wolf Books Penang Opens with Over A Million Books, Driving Chinese New Year Momentum

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 18:17:23 +0800

Big Bad Wolf Books officially opened its Penang 2026 edition at Level 4, Gurney Paragon Mall, bringing over a million books to the island during the Chinese New Year festive season. The 11-day sale was officiated by YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councilor for Tourism and Creative Economy.

(From left) Chloe Lim, PR Senior Manager; Big Bad Wolf mascot; Puan Norlina binti Ahmad, Director of the Penang State Library; Ms. Khor Tze Ming, Executive Director of Hunza Properties Bhd; Jeremy Sew, Marketing Director; YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy; Ms. Karen Sim, Marketing & Communication Manager of G Hotel Group; Ms. Anne Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Anovia Banquet Art Centre; Muhammad Asyrafi bin Muhamad Pozi, Han Chiang University College of Communication, at the official launching of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale 2026 in Penang.

Marking its sixth return to Penang, the internationally recognized book sale positions itself as more than a retail event — serving as a festive cultural attraction that complements the state’s vibrant Chinese New Year tourism landscape.

Flavours of Sarkies Ramadan Buffet 2026 at Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:27:00 +0800

If you are searching for a Ramadan buffet in Penang that blends heritage, elegance, and an indulgent spread, the Flavours of Sarkies at Eastern & Oriental Hotel is one of the most anticipated buka puasa experiences this season.

Set within the iconic colonial charm of the E&O, this annual Ramadan buffet at Sarkies brings together the hotel’s classic and signature dishes, thoughtfully curated for those breaking fast as well as families and friends gathering for a memorable feast in George Town.

Thank you Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang for hosting us.

玄母殿 Hean Boo Thean Penang's Floating Sanctuary of Faith

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 06:48:00 +0800

Hean Boo Thean — the temple I would love to call Penang’s most beautiful floating sanctuary, stood out vibrantly this Chinese New Year, glowing against the backdrop of modern city living in the heart of Penang.

What makes this temple historically interesting is its striking striking contrast between tradition and contemporary surroundings. From the temple grounds, you can see the iconic Komtar rising prominently into the skyline. It is a powerful visual reminder of how heritage and urban development coexist side by side in Penang.

Hean Boo Thean was established by early Chinese settlers to Penang from southern China, particularly Fujian province. Like many temples in George Town, it began as a modest shrine serving dock workers, traders, and families seeking divine protection and blessings in a new and unfamiliar land.

Liang Seng Oyster Porridge 蠔干粥 at Lintang Slim Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:10:00 +0800

Tucked beneath a quiet flat along Lintang Slim, this humble shop lot stands out as what seems to be the only operating eatery in the row. They have long adopted the open kitchen concept, it was a joy watching them cook and preparing customer's order. Unassuming from the outside, it has long been a trusted neighbourhood spot, where families drop by for a comforting dine-in meal or pack up takeaway to enjoy at home.

What makes this place truly special is its oyster porridge, a rarity in Penang these days. This isn’t the usual version you would casually find in a typical coffee shop. Here, tradition is preserved as they still use charcoal to boil the broth, infusing it with a depth of heat and aroma that only charcoal fire can deliver.

The porridge itself is simple yet deeply satisfying. Soft rice grains paired with dried oysters, thinly sliced roasted pork, and generously topped with crispy fried shallots and fresh spring onions. Every spoonful carries a robust, old-school flavour, its the kind that sparks nostalgia and reminds you of how food used to taste.

To elevate the experience, you can add side accompaniments such as crispy You Tiao, braised eggs, pork intestines, or pork skin where each bringing extra texture and richness to the bowl.

More than just a place to eat, this is a comforting dishes, surrounded by familiar faces and warm hospitality. Sometimes, the most memorable meals aren’t found in fancy settings, but in simple spaces filled with tradition and heart.

Eastin Hotel Penang "Iftar Selera Sedunia" Ramadan Buffet Dinner 2026

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 01:23:00 +0800

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Eastin Hotel Penang welcomes guests to experience the spirit of the season through their specially curated Ramadan buffet dinner, "lftar Selera Sedunia." From 20 February until 16 March 2026, guests are invited to gather for iftar from 7.00 pm to 10.00 pm with a generous buffet spread that brings together cherished Ramadan traditions and flavours from all around the world.

Thank you Eastin Hotel Penang for hosting us.

Big Bad Wolf Books Returns To Penang This Chinese New Year 2026 With 11-Day Mega Book Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Mon, 9 Feb 2026 01:27:00 +0800

Big Bad Wolf Books is set to return to Penang this Chinese New Year with one of its most anticipated editions yet, marking its sixth return to the state and kicking off early 2026 with a major cultural and retail highlight for Penangites.

Taking place from 26 February to 8 March 2026 at Level 4, Gurney Paragon Mall, the 11-day Big Bad Wolf Book Sale will run daily from 10:00am to 10:00pm, offering readers of all ages access to millions of books at highly affordable prices as part of its ongoing literacy-driven mission.

Held during the Chinese New Year festive period, the return of Big Bad Wolf Books adds a meaningful dimension to the season of renewal — bringing families, students, and book lovers together to celebrate prosperity not just through tradition, but through knowledge and reading.

Singgah Iftar Buffet Ramadan at Iconic Hotel Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Fri, 6 Feb 2026 22:23:00 +0800

This Ramadan, Iconic Hotel warmly invites families, friends, and colleagues to come together and break fast at the Singgah Iftar Buffet Ramadan at Mezza 9. The buffet is available daily from 19 February to 19 March 2026, 7.00pm to 10.00pm.

In the spirit of Ramadan, the Singgah Iftar Buffet features a festive spread of traditional Malay favourites and special Ramadan dishes, thoughtfully prepared to deliver authentic flavours and a joyful dining experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of classic dishes and Ramadan highlights, making it the perfect place to share a meaningful iftar with loved ones throughout the holy month.

Thank you Iconic Hotel for hosting us.

Chinese New Year Festive Celebration and Bazaar Senja Buffet Dinner at The Prestige Hotel Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 01:45:00 +0800

The Prestige Hotel Penang invites guests to embrace the festive season with a curated lineup of culinary experiences, featuring vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations and the much-anticipated Bazaar Senja Dinner Buffet, designed to bring people together over meaningful moments and delightful flavours.

Thank you The Prestige Hotel for hosting us.

Juadah Nostalgia Ramadan Buffet Dinner at Amaya Food Gallery at Amari SPICE Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 16:08:00 +0800

Amari SPICE Penang once again welcomes the holy month this year with a sumptuous host of traditional favourites at the Juadah Nostalgia Buffet Dinner. Guests are welcome from 6.30 p.m. onwards.

Executive Chef Azmi Affandi, fondly known as Chef Benny, presents a thoughtfully prepared selection of Malaysian delicacies and international dishes, served on a daily rotating menu.

The dining experience begins with pembuka selera, including hot and cold beverages, ulam-ulaman, Rojak Petis, and assorted fruits. Savour signature dishes such as Gulai Kawah and the Rendang Beraneka section, featuring Rendang Daging, Rendang Ayam Ayam Muda, and Rendang Paru Lembu.

Back by popular demand, our Turkish Shawarma Station returns to Amaya Kitchen. Meanwhile, the Bidai Sapi Panggang Minang, Paha Kambing Golek, Sate Daging dan Ayam, Ikan Bakar Bersambal and Sup Gear Box will be served at the hawker stall selection at Amaya Terrace.

Indulge in a delightful selection of local favourites at our sweets corner, featuring the Fritter Station, Apam Balik Station, Serawa dan Manisan and a colourful selection of Kuih Melayu and Kuih Nyonya. Watch the live preparation of Buah Melaka, made fresh on the spot by our very own Kak Siti.

Complementing the warmth of Ramadan evenings, guests can enjoy freshly brewed Turkish Coffee served from a push cart, offering a comforting pause during buka puasa. Don't forget to swing by Roti Man’s cart to pick up your favourite childhood snacks and grab a photo for a keepsake.

EARLY BIRD PROMOTION

RM 158 nett per Adult with full payment by Sunday, 18 January 2026

JUADAH NOSTALGIA BUFFET DINNER

Daily, from 20 February to 15 March 2026, 6.30 p.m. to 10.30 p.m.

RM 188 nett per Adult Regular Price

RM 148 nett per Senior Citizen aged 60 years old & above

RM 118 nett per Child aged 6 to 12 years old

• Live Band Performances throughout the Ramadan buffet serving period.

• Amaya Food Gallery can accommodate up to 450 pax, making it an ideal venue for group bookings during Ramadan.

For direct booking: https://bit.ly/4aM51Fr

For more details, please contact them through WhatsApp +6012 956 1030 or Email fnb.penang@amari.com

Surau Separate male and female prayer rooms are available on Level 4 & Level 5 for Muslim guests during the fasting months.

CHINESE NEW YEAR BUFFET from 16 to 19 February 2026

A season of reunion calls for a table full of flavours, celebrate Chinese New Year with a thoughtfully curated buffet feast.

EARLY BIRD PROMOTION

Chinese New Year’s Dinner at RM 158 nett per Adult*

Chinese New Year’s Lunch at RM 148 nett per Adult*

*Full payment made by Sunday, 18 January 2026

FORTUNE FEASTS

Chinese New Year’s Dinner

From 16 to 19 February 2026, 6.30 PM to 10.30 PM

RM 188 nett per Adult Regular Price

RM 158 nett per Senior Citizen aged 60 years old & above

RM 118 nett per Child aged 6 to 12 years old

Chinese New Year’s Lunch

From 17 to 19 February 2026, 12.00 Noon to 3.00 PM

RM 168 nett per Adult Regular Price

RM 138 nett per Senior Citizen aged 60 years old & above

RM 108 nett per Child aged 6 to 12 years old

• Live Chinese Orchestra Performance throughout the festive feast!

• Amaya Food Gallery can accommodate up to 450 pax, making it an ideal venue for group bookings during Chinese New Year.

For direct booking: https://bit.ly/4aM51Fr

For more details, please contact them through WhatsApp +6012 956 1030 or Email fnb.penang@amari.com

Amari SPICE Hotel

2, Persiaran Mahsuri, Bayan Baru, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang

Check out Shirleen & Ee Pin's Instagram for more beautiful photos we have taken.

~End~

“Nostalgia P. Ramlee”: An Exquisite Ramadan Buffet at Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 19:05:00 +0800

This Ramadan, Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang fondly presents “Nostalgia P. Ramlee” Buffet, a heartfelt tribute to the timeless charm of a golden era. Inspired by the lively yet graceful spirit of a traditional Ramadan bazaar, the buffet invites guests to savour cherished local delicacies and authentic flavours. Come together with family and friends to dine in and create memories in an atmosphere filled with warmth, heritage, and fond memories, where every dish tells a story.

The Millen Penang Welcomes the Chinese New Year with Its First Festive Collection

noreply@blogger.com (Shirleen) — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 01:25:00 +0800

The Millen Penang, Autograph Collection, proudly introduces its first Chinese New Year festive celebration, presenting a thoughtfully curated collection of Chinese New Year dining experiences designed for family reunions, corporate gatherings, and joyous celebrations. From auspicious set menus and prosperity Yee Sang to festive cocktails and elegant banquet offerings, The Millen invites guests to usher in the Chinese New Year with abundance, togetherness, and refined elegance.