Best Laksa in Penang

Rumour has it that yonks ago, this place was set up by a “master” who just simply enjoyed preparing a bowl of warm laksa for his customers. Today, this same master serves the most authentic, raw and epic laksa in Penang which has been featured locally and internationally. Bold, daring, sweet and spicy, his laksa has a Midas touch to turn your craving into satisfaction! Just hop over to the old market and watch him prepare a bowl of laksa for his customers. You’ll be so impressed! 

Love fish? Try Low Eng Hoo Coffee Shop’s laksa! Served with chunks of ikan kembung (mackerel), freshly sliced onions, pineapple and red hot chilli, the laksa here has a perfect blend between sweet, sour and spicy. Topped with a spoonful of prawn paste which is an all-time favourite for locals, their laksa is for those who enjoy a well-balanced taste. 

“Ai laksa bo?” (would you like a bowl of laksa?), asks a friendly looking lady with her hair tied into a bun. You can never say no to her sweet smile. Apparently, her laksa tastes as sweet too. Accompanied with a mixture of fish, chilli, pineapples, prawn paste and onions, this place serves their customers with a bowl of classic looking laksa. Its flavour is quite palpable with a cheeky little taste of spiciness and raw vegetables – perfect for people who love a more balanced flavour. 

The locals at Batu Feringgi also have their own laksa spot to boast about, Zarie Laksa House. As per the name of the restaurant, they do take their laksa seriously. First of all, it’s aesthetically served in a claypot with lid. Upon removing the lid, a nice gush of aroma greets your nostrils at once, while the colours are pretty engaging too. Most importantly, they score in terms of flavours with a nice fishy-flavoured broth, silky noodles, prawns, squids and a haystack of chopped pineapples, julienned cucumber and onions on top. Do ask for additional chopped chillies for a dose of heat. 

If you happen to google Sin Hwa Coffee Shop, you will find that their laksa has been the talk of the town. The chef, known as “Max”, differentiates his laksa by adding huge chunks of mackerel and freshly cut leafy lettuce in the laksa bowl. Serving two types of laksa – Asam Laksa and Laksa Lemak, this place is a must-try because its juicy fish and rich gravy have what it takes to reflect the culture and spices of Penang. 

Flavour? Checked. Location? Checked. Price? Checked. The laksa here is specially made and has a more subtle and “toned-down” taste profile compared to all other stalls around the island. If you prefer a more well-balanced flavour and not so much of spiciness and a fishy smell, then this place is for you! Its gravy creates a perfect balance, soothing to the tongue and throat without causing you to choke on any chilli flake. Not only that, quench your thirst with their must-try rojak. You won’t regret it! We promise.