Best Ayam Percik in Penang

We have got to admit, authentic Malaysian cuisines in a sophisticated backdrop are scarce, yet we have scouted a spot to relish. Sandwiched between Savaro and Lunarich is this comfy restaurant that has been changing the frame of mind by whipping out local delights such as Nasi Lemak with Rendang Chicken, Durian Pancake and Rojak. With splashes of catchy colours here and there, it exudes gaily vibes upon entering.  Their Nasi Ulam with Ayam Percik is rave-worthy, grilled chicken is shrouded with a rich and creamy rosy-red sauce, complementing the tender meat below. Batons of deep-fried keropok lekors and fluffy nasi ulam share space on the banana leaf to complete a platter of Kelantan's delicacy at the heart of Georgetown. 

Thank God it’s Friday, yet those in the nabe of Sungai Ara isn’t actually heading home after work. How could they when the streets are transforming into a buzzing night market serving a succulent spread of local delicacies. It’s easy to locate the Ayam Percik stall, the smoky fragrance just pervades through the air or sights hook onto marinated chickens rolling above the flame, your senses will bring you there like a virtual GPS.  It’s juicy and infused with heaps of spices that spur wonder in your mouth, load a few into the bags; you need them on the couch too. 

This humble and laid-back ambiance allows you to rub shoulders with friendly locals and dig in Western and local delicacies that are cheap and toothsome. Despite the far-flung choices of dishes to pick, their Ayam Percik is the most captivating with its glistening surface with speckles of charred marks that are absolutely sublime. The blend of flavours is spot on, suavity of the coconut milk and the spice hit from the lemongrass, garlic and chilies just stamps onto your memory. It’s usually served with a mound of white rice and wallop of earthy greens.

This could be a heartbreak to many as it’s only available during the fasting month before Hari Raya, yet patience is a virtue, especially if it’s sinfully gratifying. Ayam Percik is also known as Ayam Golek, which means rotating those marinated birds in an open fire, which can be spotted here. It’s a long stretched stall, parallel to the never-ending crowd; where the chicken are meticulously imbued with spices for an additional depth of flavours, complementing the tender and juicy meat.   

Visiting this old-school joint rather reminds you of Kelantan itself, you are soaked into an oasis of calmness with sights of country charm everywhere and amiable aunty dishing out Ayam Percik with heirloom recipes that include honey as a key marinating ingredient. You would be starving looking at rows of chicken wheeling under the fire, where the slow gradation of colour and caramelisation is droll-worthy. It offers plenty of taste and texture at each bite and the honey isn’t overpowering. Many get their whole chicken, which is the best bet for birthdays and gatherings while keeping your kitchen clean. 

Teh Tarik Place has been stacking up reputations as an establishment that is capable of perking up even the darkest of days with wide-spread choices of local favourites and matching it with a trendy atmosphere. It explains their consistent growth throughout the country. Among the crowd pleasers is Nasi Kerabu with Ayam Percik, an irresistible combo. The turquoise-blue rice is coupled with roasted chicken which is showered with viscous gravy and sides of greens and crunchy keropoks that teleport you to the east coast in a platter. Matching its namesake, pair it up with a glass of teh tarik, a true Malaysian’s delight. 

This fabled establishment reminds many of their childhood, the first place where we witnessed chickens being wheeled and roasted under a sizzling flame. This memory has been travelling throughout our life and till today Ayamas is offering wide-spread of chicken goodness to quell our craving. Get ready to smoosh onto their long shelves, where you’ll find Ayam Percik among their mouthwatering choices, juicy, fork-tender and bursting with fragrance. They come in various cuts and you have the privilege to mix and match other flavours too.