If there’s one dish that defines Penang’s food culture, it’s nasi kandar. Originating from Tamil Muslim hawkers in the early 20th century, this dish of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes is now a must-try in Georgetown, Penang’s UNESCO heritage city. From century-old restaurants to late-night stalls, these are the best nasi kandar spots in Georgetown that will have you coming back for more.
1. Deens Maju Nasi Kandar – Crowd Favourite for Kuah Campur
Address: 170, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Kuah campur (mixed gravies), crispy fried chicken, curry sotong, salted egg
Price Range: RM10–19
Google Rating: ★4.4 (11,000+ reviews)
Opening Hours: 12 pm–10 pm (except Fridays) / Some listings: 2:30 pm–11 pm
Facilities: Spacious seating, efficient service, clean dining area
Why go: Deens Maju is synonymous with overflowing curries that drench your plate in rich, aromatic sauces. Despite the crowd, their service is fast and friendly, making it a reliable choice for both locals and tourists.
2. Hameediyah Restaurant – Penang’s Oldest Nasi Kandar Since 1907
Address: 164A, Lebuh Campbell, 10100 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Fish head curry, Ayam Ros (rose chicken), murtabak
Price Range: Moderate
Google Rating: ★4.2 (heritage favourite)
Opening Hours: 10 am–10 pm daily
Facilities: Air-conditioned, heritage interior, takeaway available
Why go: This historic nasi kandar institution is famed for its hand-ground spices and traditional recipes passed down through generations. The fish head curry here is legendary.
3. Restoran Nasi Kandar Line Clear – 24-Hour Curry Heaven
Address: 161 & 177, Jalan Penang, 10000 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Kuah banjir, fried chicken, beef curry, fish curry
Price Range: RM8.50–15
Google Rating: ★4.0
Opening Hours: 24 hours daily
Facilities: Ample seating, no-frills, fast service
Why go: For late-night nasi kandar cravings, Line Clear is your go-to. Its rich gravies and tender meats taste just as good at 3 am as they do in the afternoon.
4. Liyaqat Ali Nasi Kandar (Beratur) – Worth the Midnight Queue
Address: 98, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Mutton curry, fried chicken, okra
Price Range: RM10–18
Google Rating: ★4.2
Opening Hours: 10 pm–8 am
Facilities: Heritage building, takeaway
Why go: Opens late at night, this spot is famous for its queue that starts before opening. The payoff? Rich, fragrant curries and perfectly fried chicken.
5. Kassim Nasi Kandar – Bold, Peppery Flavours
Address: 12, Lebuh Chulia, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Beef in peppery gravy, cabbage stir-fry
Price Range: RM8–15
Google Rating: ★4.0
Opening Hours: 11 am–10 pm
Facilities: Casual seating, takeaway
6. Restoran Tajuddin Hussain – Vibrant Flavours in Little India
Address: 39, Queen Street, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Mutton curry, Ayam Ros, sotong curry
Price Range: RM10–20
Google Rating: ★4.2
Opening Hours: 11 am–10 pm
Facilities: Casual indoor seating
7. Nasi Kandar Imigresen – Humble but Flavourful
Address: Lebuh Pantai, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Fried chicken, mild curry fish
Price Range: RM8–12
Google Rating: ★4.0
Opening Hours: 10 am–4 pm
Facilities: Street stall seating
8. Nasi Kandar Sulaiman – Old-School Favourite
Address: 16, Jalan Macalister, 10400 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Curry fish, ayam masak kicap
Price Range: RM7–12
Google Rating: ★4.1
Opening Hours: 7 am–3 pm
Facilities: Indoor seating
9. Kampung Melayu Nasi Kandar – A Local Legend
Address: Kampung Melayu Flats, Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Fish head curry, fried chicken, kuah banjir
Price Range: RM8–15
Google Rating: ★4.4
Opening Hours: 6:30 am–10:30 am
Facilities: Simple seating
10. Restoran Sup Hameed – Soupy Twist to Nasi Kandar
Address: 48, Penang Road, 10000 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Must Try: Mutton curry, sotong sambal, kurma gravy
Price Range: RM8–15
Google Rating: ★4.1
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Facilities: Indoor seating
Final Thoughts
Georgetown’s nasi kandar scene is more than just a collection of eateries—it’s a living part of Penang’s cultural identity. From heritage institutions like Hameediyah to bustling late-night favourites like Line Clear and Beratur, each spot offers its own personality through unique spice blends, signature gravies, and cooking traditions passed down over generations.
