About the Place
Perak is a culturally rich Malaysian state nestled between Penang and Selangor. Known for its beautiful limestone hills, historical towns, and vibrant street food culture, Perak is every food lover’s dream come true. From the iconic Ipoh White Coffee to the legendary Nasi Ganja, Perak’s food scene is a melting pot of bold flavours and traditions passed down through generations.
Highlights
- Authentic heritage cuisine in Ipoh, Taiping, Pangkor, and Tanjung Malim
- Home of Ipoh White Coffee, Salted Chicken, and Nasi Ganja
- Delicious seafood-infused Laksa Pangkor and Mee Udang
- Unique dishes like Bamboo Rice and traditional Pau
- Historical coffee mills, bustling kopitiams, and rustic food stalls
Things to Do
Embark on a Food Trail in Ipoh Old Town – Try everything from kaya toast to curry mee
Visit Antong Coffee in Taiping – Malaysia’s oldest coffee factory
Island-hop to Pangkor – Taste Laksa Pangkor by the beach
Savour prawn noodles in Kuala Sepetang – Seafood fresh from the sea
Explore porridge varieties at Warung Bubur Perak – Sweet or savoury delights for under RM5
Top Stays for Foodies in Perak
Ipoh
- Weil Hotel – Modern 4-star hotel near Ipoh Parade & food streets
- M Boutique Hotel – Stylish boutique stay in the heart of Ipoh Old Town
Taiping
- Novotel Taiping – Near the Lake Gardens and Antong Coffee
Pangkor Island
- Pangkor Laut Resort – Private island escape with world-class dining
Tanjung Malim
- Hotel Scholar’s Inn – Budget stay near famous Yik Mun Pau outlet
How to Get There
By Air
- Fly into Sultan Azlan Shah Airport (IPH) in Ipoh from Johor Bahru or Singapore
By Train
- ETS High-Speed Train from KL Sentral to Ipoh (Approx. 2 hours)
By Car
- Drive from Kuala Lumpur: ~2.5 hours via the PLUS Highway
By Bus
- Frequent buses from KL, Penang, Johor Bahru, and other major cities
Attractions Nearby
Ipoh Old Town – Famous for its murals, colonial charm, and endless food stalls
Kek Lok Tong Temple – A cave temple surrounded by limestone peaks
Taiping Lake Gardens – Ideal for family strolls and picnics
Zoo Taiping & Night Safari – Fun for kids and wildlife lovers
Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan – A quirky historical landmark
Ubudiah Mosque & Royal Museum in Kuala Kangsar – Glimpse into royal heritage
Beaches on Pangkor Island – Great for sunsets and seafood dinners
Top Food Points in Perak
Salted Chicken – Ipoh
Whole chicken marinated in herbs, wrapped in parchment, and baked in salt.
Where to try:
- Aun Kheng Lim Salted Chicken (Pork-Free)
- Ipoh Kheng Lim Salted Chicken (Non-Halal)
Ipoh White Coffee – Ipoh & Taiping
Rich, creamy coffee made from roasted beans and condensed milk.
Top cafés:
- OldTown White Coffee Ipoh Padang
- Chang Jiang White Coffee
- Antong Coffee (Taiping)
Nasi Ganja – Ipoh
Curry-soaked rice with chicken or fish and veggies.
Best spots:
- Kedai Kopi Yong Suan
- Restoran Nasi Vanggey
Bubur Perak – Titi Gantung
Over 12 types of sweet and savoury porridge.
Where:
- Warung Bubur Perak Titi Gantung
Laksa Pangkor – Pangkor Island
Spicy, tangy laksa served with prawns, squid, or fish.
Where to try:
- Laksa D’Kelapa
- Gerai Laksa Mee Uda
Mee Udang – Kuala Sepetang
Prawn noodles cooked in spicy broth or stir-fried.
Famous stalls:
- Mee Udang Mak Jah
- Mee Udang Laut Segar Pak Hashim
Yik Mun Pau – Tanjung Malim
Fluffy steamed buns with sweet or savoury fillings.
Where:
- Yik Mun Pau (Operating since 1926)
Bamboo Rice – Tanjung Malim
Flavourful rice steamed inside bamboo stalks, served with spicy curries.
Best places:
- Nasi Bamboo Sungai Klah Sungkai
- Nasi Bamboo Motivasi
Final Thoughts
Perak is more than just a scenic Malaysian state – it’s a foodie’s wonderland packed with regional specialties, timeless traditions, and flavour-packed dishes that reflect the rich cultural diversity of the region. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, Perak’s food scene will leave you full, happy, and craving for more.
