Kim Hock Su of One-MICHELIN-Starred contemporary European restaurant Au Jardin in Penang may seem serious in the kitchen, but on days when he isn't creating his next show-stopping dish or tending to his other restaurants, Su can often be seen catching up with pals — both local and from overseas — in coffee shops, wine bars, and eateries around the city.
Su seems to have mastered the art of hospitality — or Hockspitality — as those close to him fondly call it. Trust Su to bring you to some of Penang's well-kept secrets and unique gems. So, today, we're taking you on a trip to Penang — Kim Hock Su-style. Here are his favourite haunts in the charming city of Penang!
Photo: MICHELIN Guide
For a hearty local breakfast: Hot Bowl White Curry Mee
"The white curry mee at Hot Bowl is a standout dish that has won my heart. What makes it distinctive is its creamy texture and subtle flavours, setting it apart from the traditional red curry noodles commonly found elsewhere in Malaysia. One of the highlights of dining at Hot Bowl is the ability to customise the heat level of your curry noodles. The amount of sambal you add can significantly impact the spiciness, allowing each diner to tailor their meal to their preferred level of heat. In addition to their exceptional noodles, Hot Bowl also serves perfectly poached chicken that pairs beautifully with the curry mee. The tender and flavourful chicken complements the rich broth and adds another layer of deliciousness to the dish."
Hot Bowl White Curry Mee is located at 58C Jalan Rangoon, George Town, 10400 Malaysia
When choosing which location to book a hotel at in Penang, Su recommends Armenian Street. (Photo: Shutterstock)
For booking a hotel that captures the essence of Penang: Armenian Street
"Choosing a hotel around Armenian Street in Penang is a down-to-earth decision for those seeking an authentic experience. This area's historical significance, vibrant street art, cultural attractions, diverse food options, and convenient access to key landmarks makes it a practical and enriching base for exploring the city's heritage and modern delights."
Photo: Ome by Spacebar Coffee
For a satisfying brew of specialty coffee: Ome by Spacebar Coffee
"Ome by Spacebar all the way! Ome by Spacebar holds a special place in my heart because it's not only a coffee place but also a welcoming spot where I start my mornings. The laid-back atmosphere and excellent coffee selection are definite draws, but what truly makes it special are the people. It's where industry folks gather, creating a sense of community and camaraderie that's hard to find elsewhere. The servers, with their friendly and empathetic approach, add to the welcoming vibe. It's a place where I can relax, connect with others, and start my day on a positive note."
Ome by Spacebar Coffee is located at 1, Lorong Toh Aka, George Town, 10100 Malaysia
Photo: Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion)
For hanging out with friends who are visiting from overseas: Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion)
"The Blue Mansion is a well-preserved heritage building that showcases the rich history and architecture of Penang. It was once the home of Cheong Fatt Tze, a prominent Chinese merchant and is a testament to Penang's multicultural past. The mansion's distinctive blue colour and intricate details make it a standout attraction. Visitors can admire the blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles, from the ornate facade to the intricate carvings and decorations. Additionally, the design of the building incorporates elements of feng shui, further enhancing its cultural significance and appeal. A visit to The Blue Mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past, with guided tours providing insights into the mansion's history, the life of Cheong Fatt Tze, and the cultural influences that shaped Penang."
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion) is located at 14, Lebuh Leith, George Town, 10200 Malaysia
Char Koay Toew is one of Penang's quintessential dishes.
For a taste of Penang's famous char koay teow: Restoran Taman Emas
"To me, the char koay teow at Restoran Taman Emas stands out as a must-try delicacy. What sets it apart is the perfect balance of flavours and textures in every bite. The dish features stir-fried flat rice noodles with succulent prawns, crunchy bean sprouts, crispy lard, and a flavourful soy sauce-based seasoning. Diners can also opt for additional duck egg to add richness to the dish. The chef ensures that each plate is cooked individually, frying it with intense, high heat that imparts a distinctive wok hei."
Restoran Taman Emas is located at 1, Jalan Gottlieb, George Town, 10350 Malaysia
Photo: Shokudō Niban
For unwinding on a lazy afternoon with some beers and small bites: Shokudō Niban
"Another place that's close to my heart is Shokudō Niban, a cooperative venture owned by my colleagues from Au Jardin. This project was born out of the desire to create opportunities for their career growth and has since become a beloved dining destination.
The restaurant is known for its yakitori and charcoal-grilled meats, a favourite amongst diners. The skilled preparation and use of traditional charcoal grilling techniques result in dishes that are bursting with flavour and texture. One of the delights of dining at Shokudō Niban is the availability of fresh draught beer. This refreshing beverage is the perfect accompaniment on a hot day (or after a busy dinner service for me), adding to the overall experience."
Shokudō Niban is located at 125, Jalan Timah, 10150 Malaysia
Photo: @muchiecheeze via Instagram
For delicious dessert to beat the heat: Hema Hema Ice Cream
"What makes Hema Hema truly special is their pursuit of perfection in every scoop. They have managed to perfect ice cream in every possible way, from the unique flavours to the impeccable texture. The ice creams at Hema Hema boast flavours that are not only unique but also incredibly distinct such as burnt butter and sage. I particularly appreciate the ones that are flavoured using natural ingredients, which add an authentic and refreshing taste to their creations.
One of the highlights of Hema Hema's ice cream is its creamy texture. It strikes a delicate balance, being luxuriously creamy without being overly rich, making it a delightful treat even in our tropical climate. Another noteworthy feature of Hema Hema is their homemade ice cream cones. They are exceptionally thin and crisp, providing the perfect vessel for enjoying their delectable ice creams."
Hema Hema Ice Cream is located at 88, Lebuh Campbell, 10200 Malaysia
Photo: YS Yeo via Google Maps
For an unforgettable experience in Penang outside of George Town: Jalan Dewa Teochew Koay Chiap in Sungai Petani
"Jalan Dewa Teochew Koay Chiap in Sungai Petani holds a special place in my heart, even though it's a good 45-minute drive from George Town. I'd happily choose this dish for my last meal on earth, if I could. This style of koay chiap isn't as common anymore, making it even more cherished. The bowl is a symphony of flavours — puffed pig skin is braised in a garlic-infused thick duck soup base. The thick noodles, crafted by drying a batter of tapioca and rice starch, add a satisfying texture to the dish. This meal is a part of my upbringing, and each bite is a nostalgic journey back to my roots."
Jalan Dewa Teochew Koay Chiap in Sungai Petani is located at Off Jalan Dewa, Taman Pekan Baru, Sungai Petani, Kedah, 08000 Malaysia
Photo: Peter Yeoh for Hungry Onion
For an "overrated" touristy place that's actually good: Deens Maju Nasi Kandar
"No trip to Penang is complete without trying our famous nasi kandar, and Deens Maju is a standout in this culinary scene. What makes Deens Maju special is their talent for blending different curries, creating a "kuah campur (mixed sauce)" that's a true reflection of their culinary skills. Despite the mix of flavours, they find a perfect balance that makes the dish incredibly delicious. Personally, I enjoy getting nasi kandar to-go from Deens Maju. This lets the rice soak up all the flavourful curries, making every bite incredibly satisfying. It's a simple pleasure that I highly recommend."
Deens Maju Nasi Kandar is located at 170, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 Malaysia
Photo: Wine Not Penang
For a cosy and vibey natural wine bar with an impressive selection: Wine Not Penang
"Wine Not creates a lounge-like atmosphere that is both relaxing and sophisticated, making it an ideal setting for patrons to unwind and enjoy their evening. What sets Wine Not apart is its impressive collection of over 200 labels of natural wines. This diverse selection allows for exploration and experimentation with different flavour profiles, enhancing the overall experience.
In addition to its stellar wine offerings, Wine Not also serves delicious Malaysian small bites. These dishes, close to my heart as a chef, are expertly crafted to complement the wines and showcase the rich culinary heritage of Malaysia."
Wine Not Penang is located at 68b, Lebuh Presgrave, George Town, 10300 Malaysia
When in Penang, Su recommends bringing home nutmeg products as souvenirs for loved ones.
For the best Penang souvenir: Nutmeg Products
"Nutmeg is a quintessential souvenir from Penang, known for its rich flavour and versatility. Whether in the form of whole nutmegs, ground spice, or products like nutmeg oil or jams, the nutmeg encapsulates the essence of Penang's culinary heritage. The warm, slightly sweet aroma of nutmeg adds depth to both savoury and sweet dishes, making it a beloved ingredient in local cuisine. Beyond its culinary uses, nutmeg is also valued for its medicinal properties, often used in traditional remedies for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. As a souvenir, nutmeg embodies the vibrant flavours and cultural richness of Penang, making it a delightful gift for food enthusiasts and travellers alike."
