Alor Setar, the historic capital of Kedah, Malaysia, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant street food scene. From traditional Malay delicacies to Chinese and Indian flavors, Alor Setar offers a wide variety of street foods that showcase the best of northern Malaysian cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a traveler seeking authentic tastes, this guide highlights the top 10 street foods you must try in Alor Setar, complete with locations, opening hours, prices, and special features.
1. Wan Tan Mee
Location: Jalan Tunku Ibrahim, Alor Setar
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Price: RM 5 – RM 7
Must Try: Noodles with pork slices, wontons, and char siu
Highlights: Tender egg noodles tossed in a savory soy sauce, topped with juicy pork slices and delicate wontons. This iconic dish balances flavors and textures for a satisfying meal.
2. Ban Chan Kuih (Apam Balik)
Location: Night Market, Alor Setar (Pasar Malam)
Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Night Market days only)
Price: RM 1.50 – RM 2 per piece
Must Try: Crispy pancake filled with corn, peanuts, and sugar
Highlights: A crispy, folded pancake filled with sweet corn, crunchy peanuts, and sugar, offering a perfect combination of sweet and nutty flavors. A beloved snack loved by all ages.
3. Char Kway Kak
Location: Jalan Putra, Alor Setar
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Price: RM 4 – RM 6
Must Try: Stir-fried rice cakes with egg and bean sprouts
Highlights: Stir-fried flat rice cakes with eggs and crunchy bean sprouts, cooked with a smoky ‘wok hei’ that gives it a distinct taste. A hearty and flavorful breakfast favorite.
4. Lok Lok
Location: Medan Selera Kompleks Haji Ahmad Badawi
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Price: RM 1 – RM 3 per skewer
Must Try: Skewers of fish balls, tofu, vegetables dipped in spicy sauces
Highlights: Skewered fish balls, tofu, and vegetables boiled and served with spicy or sweet dipping sauces. A fun and interactive street food perfect for sharing.
5. Nasi Lemak
Location: Jalan Putra Nasi Lemak Stall
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Price: RM 3 – RM 5
Must Try: Coconut rice served with sambal, fried anchovies, egg, and cucumber
Highlights: Fragrant coconut milk rice served with spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, boiled eggs, and fresh cucumber slices. The ultimate Malaysian comfort food enjoyed any time of day.
6. Pek Nga (Kedah-style Pancake)
Location: Local stalls near Alor Setar Central Market
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Price: RM 2 – RM 4
Must Try: Traditional wheat flour pancake served with fish curry or sticky rice
Highlights: A soft, slightly chewy pancake often paired with spicy fish curry or sticky rice. This traditional Kedah dish is a unique and delicious breakfast option.
7. Akok
Location: Jalan Teluk Wanjah Market
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Price: RM 1.50 – RM 2 per piece
Must Try: Sweet, eggy kuih with coconut milk and palm sugar
Highlights: Sweet and rich kuih made from eggs, coconut milk, and palm sugar, baked until soft and fragrant. A perfect treat for breakfast or afternoon tea.
8. Sata
Location: Pasar Tani Alor Setar (Farmers Market)
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Price: RM 2.50 – RM 3 per piece
Must Try: Grilled fish cake wrapped in banana leaf
Highlights: Grilled fish cake wrapped in banana leaves, infused with coconut milk and aromatic spices. A smoky, flavorful snack that’s a Kedah specialty.
9. Nasi Kandar
Location: Nasi Kandar Pelita, Jalan Tunku Ibrahim
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: RM 6 – RM 12 (depending on dishes chosen)
Must Try: Rice served with multiple types of curries and fried meats
Highlights: Steamed rice served with an array of spicy curries, fried meats, and vegetables, allowing diners to customize their plates. A flavorful, filling meal popular across Malaysia.
10. Nasi Katok
Location: Local stalls near Alor Setar Bus Terminal
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Price: RM 3 – RM 4
Must Try: Steamed rice with fried chicken and sambal
Highlights: Simple yet satisfying, this dish features steamed rice, crispy fried chicken, and spicy sambal. Often wrapped in paper for easy takeaway, it’s perfect for a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Alor Setar’s street food scene offers a delicious insight into Kedah’s culinary traditions. From savory noodle dishes to sweet traditional kuih, each bite reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage and flavors. Be sure to visit these spots for an authentic taste of northern Malaysia on your next trip.
