If you’re exploring the vibrant food scene of George Town, Penang, one dish you absolutely must try is char kuey teow—and few places do it better than Uncle Teng’s Char Kuey Teow Stall, a humble kopitiam fixture since 1962.
For over six decades, this beloved local stall has consistently served up plates of smoky, flavour-packed noodles with the perfect touch of wok hei. Tucked inside a traditional coffee shop, it remains one of Penang’s best-kept secrets for authentic char kuey teow.
Location & Address
Stall Name: Uncle Teng’s Char Kuey Teow
Location: Inside Kedai Kopi Seng Thor
Address: 160, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Landmarks: Near Campbell Street, Khoo Kongsi, and Penang’s heritage district
Google Maps: Search for Seng Thor Coffee Shop
Easily accessible by foot, Grab, or public transport. Paid parking available nearby.
Opening Hours
- Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM
- Closed: Sundays & selected public holidays
Pro Tip: Arrive before 11 AM to beat the crowd and avoid disappointment. The noodles often sell out early.
Menu Highlights
Uncle Teng keeps things simple—and that’s what makes it great. The stall specializes in traditional Penang-style char kuey teow, fried to order over a charcoal fire for unbeatable flavour.
Signature Dish: Char Kuey Teow
Ingredients:
- Flat rice noodles
- Fresh prawns
- Chinese lap cheong (sausage)
- Bloody cockles (optional)
- Egg (chicken or duck)
- Bean sprouts and chives
- Homemade chili paste
- Aromatic soy sauce
- Crispy pork lard bits
Cooked with real charcoal wok hei – an old-school technique rarely seen today.
Prices:
- Regular plate: RM 7 – RM 8
- Large plate: RM 9 – RM 10
- Add-ons: Duck egg (+RM 1.50), extra prawns or cockles available
Vegetarian or non-seafood versions are not typically offered.
Ambience & Experience
Step into Kedai Kopi Seng Thor, a heritage kopitiam in George Town, and you’ll find a classic Malaysian breakfast scene. Uncle Teng’s stall operates from the front corner, where his rhythmic wok movements and fiery flames draw the attention of locals and curious foodies alike.
Expect:
- Shared seating in a no-frills kopitiam
- Friendly, efficient service
- The smell of sizzling soy sauce and garlic in the air
It’s a true Penang street food experience.
Local Favourite for a Reason
Many locals who grew up eating at Uncle Teng’s continue to return for that unmistakable old-school flavour. While other char kuey teow stalls in Penang have become touristy, this one remains authentic and humble, with flavour that speaks louder than hype.
“The wok hei here is real. It hits the spot every single time.”
“Not as famous as Lorong Selamat, but honestly, way more satisfying.”
⭐ Overall Rating: 4.6 / 5
- Taste: ★★★★★
- Authenticity: ★★★★★
- Value: ★★★★☆
- Ambience: ★★★☆☆
Final Thoughts
If you’re in George Town and craving an authentic, smoky, no-frills plate of char kuey teow, Uncle Teng’s is a hidden treasure worth hunting down. With its time-honoured recipe, traditional technique, and humble setting, this stall embodies everything that makes Penang street food world-famous.
