Hameediyah Restaurant — Penang’s oldest Nasi Kandar (since 1907)

Hameediyah Restaurant is one of Penang’s most iconic makan spots — a century-old nasi kandar institution on Lebuh Campbell (Campbell Street) that locals and visitors queue for. Located in the vibrant heart of Penang, expect heaving plates of rice drenched in layered curries, an energetic counter stacked with lauk (side-dishes), and classics like murtabak and ayam kapitan.

Hameediyah, is recognized as Penang’s oldest nasi kandar restaurant, originally started under a tree at a field in Lebuh Campbell, Penang, in 1907.

Quick facts

• Founded / trading since: 1907.
• Address: 164A Lebuh Campbell (Campbell Street), George Town, Penang.
• Typical opening hours: around 9–10:00 AM to ~10:00 PM (daily) — check locally for changes.
• Contact / ordering: phone and online delivery options exist (e.g., Foodpanda presence).
• Recognition: Listed in the Malaysia Book of Records as the oldest nasi kandar restaurant in Malaysia.

A short history — how it began

Hameediyah’s story starts in the early 20th century when Tamil-Muslim spice traders and hawkers in Penang popularised the portable “nasi kandar” style of selling rice with multiple curries and gravies. Hameediyah began under a tree on Lebuh Campbell in 1907 and gradually grew from a street stall into the famed shop-front and family business it is today. Over the decades it expanded (additional outlets and delivery services) while keeping much of the old-school curry tradition. (Hameediyah Restaurant)

What makes Hameediyah’s nasi kandar special?

• “Kuah banjir” (the wet-curry pouring tradition): staff ladle multiple gravies over the rice so flavours mingle — the layered, sometimes intense “kuah” character is central to the experience.
• Variety and theatre at the counter: dozens of lauk — from fried items to robust curries — are displayed at the counter; you point, they serve. Expect to see everything from fried squid to mutton, offal, and seafood.
• Heritage recipes: many of the curry blends and spice practices are presented as passed-down, giving that distinct, familiar Penang nasi kandar flavour.

Signature dishes & what to order

Below is a practical menu-style guide combining what Hameediyah is famous for and items commonly listed on delivery/visitor menus. Prices vary with portion and time — treat these as typical dish choices rather than fixed pricing.

Nasi base

• Nasi putih (plain white rice)
• Nasi briyani (fragrant yellow/basmati-style rice)

Popular curries & mains

• Kari Ayam Kapitan (chicken Kapitan) — a Hameediyah must-order.
• Kari Kambing (mutton/mutton curry)
• Fish curry / Fish head curry
• Beef rendang / Daging rendang
• Beef offal & liver curries (traditional nasi kandar options)
• Fried items: ayam goreng (fried chicken), sotong (fried squid), prawns/udang.

Specials & favourites

• Murtabak (egg-stuffed flat pancake with meat; served with pickled onions) — Hameediyah’s murtabak is often recommended.
• Roti canai / tandoori items / naan (some branches offer tandoori and breads) — useful for sharing.

Set meals

• Nasi Ayam Goreng Set
• Nasi Ayam Kapitan Set
• Nasi Daging Rendang Set

Other Signature Dishes

Some of Hameediyah Restaurant signature dishes include, Ayam Kapitan, Ayam Bawang, Daging Rendang Hameediyah, Kambing Mysore and others.

How to eat it — tips for first-timers

1. Choose your rice: plain or briyani.
2. Point at the lauk you want at the counter (or pick from a menu).
3. Ask for “kuah banjir” if you want the gravies generously poured (many locals do).
4. Add murtabak or roti if you want something to mop up the curry.
5. Expect queues at peak times — takeaway or off-peak hours help avoid waiting.

Practical details & nearby tips

• Getting there: Campbell Street is in the heart of George Town — pair a visit with a heritage walk (nearby attractions include clan jetties and street-art trails).
• Payment & delivery: most outlets accept cash and cards; Hameediyah is listed on delivery platforms (e.g., Foodpanda), so delivery/takeaway is possible.
• Crowd management: the restaurant is popular with locals and tourists — lines are normal, especially lunch and dinner. Consider off-peak or takeaway if short on time.

Final Note about Hameediyah Restaurant

Discover Hameediyah Restaurant, Penang’s oldest Nasi Kandar since 1907, serving rich curries, biryani, and murtabak in the heart of George Town. Hameediyah isn’t just a meal — it’s a slice of Penang culinary history: century-old recipes, the ritual of choosing lauk by the counter, and the satisfying mix of curries poured over rice. If you want the quintessential, old-school nasi kandar experience in George Town, Hameediyah is a strong contender.