Kuala Terengganu, the picturesque capital city of Terengganu state on Malaysia’s east coast, is renowned for its rich Malay culture and vibrant street food scene. The city is a paradise for food lovers seeking authentic flavors, especially fresh seafood and traditional Malay snacks that tell the story of the region’s culinary heritage. Whether you are a visitor or a local, these top 10 street foods in Kuala Terengganu will give you a mouthwatering glimpse into Terengganu’s food culture.
1. Keropok Lekor
A Terengganu staple, keropok lekor is a chewy fish sausage made from fresh fish and sago flour. It is usually boiled or deep-fried and served with spicy chili sauce.
Location: Best found at Kampung Losong near Kuala Terengganu, with popular stalls like Warisan Asli and Hj. Abdul Rahman.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
Must Try: Fried keropok lekor with homemade chili sauce
Price: RM 3 – RM 6 per portion
Highlights: Chewy texture, fresh fish taste, iconic Terengganu snack perfect for light bites or appetizers.
2.Sata (Satar)
Sata is a traditional grilled fish cake made with grated coconut, sardines, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
Location: Marang Market and local street vendors in Kuala Terengganu.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Must Try: Sardine sata (sata ikan)
Price: RM 1.50 – RM 2 per piece
Highlights: Smoky aroma, tender and flavorful, a perfect snack or accompaniment to rice dishes.
3. Nasi Dagang
A fragrant breakfast dish of rice cooked in coconut milk, served with spicy fish curry and pickled vegetables.
Location: Warong Pak Malau and Warong Hj. Wahid in Kuala Terengganu.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Must Try: Nasi dagang with gulai ikan tongkol (tuna curry)
Price: RM 5 – RM 7 per plate
Highlights: Creamy coconut rice, rich and spicy fish curry, traditional Terengganu breakfast classic.
4. Nasi Kerabu
This striking blue rice dish is infused with butterfly pea flower, served with grilled chicken, salted egg, fresh herbs, and spicy sambal.
Location: Fauzi Nasi Kerabu, Kampung Ladang Padang Cicar.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Must Try: Nasi kerabu with budu sambal and grilled chicken
Price: RM 6 – RM 8 per plate
Highlights: Vibrant blue color, herbal fragrance, diverse textures and flavors.
5. Celup Tepung (Deep-Fried Seafood)
Popular seaside snack where fresh seafood like squid, fish, and prawns are dipped in batter and deep-fried to golden crispiness.
Location: Pantai Batu Buruk beachfront stalls, Kuala Terengganu.
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Must Try: Fried squid and prawns
Price: RM 6 – RM 15 per portion
Highlights: Crispy outside, fresh seafood inside, perfect for casual beach dining.
6. Pulut Lepa
Glutinous rice stuffed with spicy fish filling, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed, creating a fragrant and savory snack.
Location: Local street vendors near Pasar Payang.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Must Try: Pulut lepa with spicy fish filling
Price: RM 3 – RM 5 each
Highlights: Fragrant banana leaf aroma, tender rice texture, spicy and savory bite.
7. Laksam
Terengganu’s unique laksa featuring soft rice flour rolls served in a creamy coconut milk-based soup with fish and herbs.
Location: Jalan Masjid Lama, Kuala Terengganu.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Must Try: Laksam with shredded fish and fresh herbs
Price: RM 4 – RM 6 per bowl
Highlights: Smooth rice rolls, rich and creamy broth, light and refreshing breakfast dish.
8. Akok
Traditional sweet snack made of eggs, sugar, flour, and coconut milk baked in brass molds over charcoal, resulting in a smoky, custard-like cake.
Location: Pasar Payang and night markets in Kuala Terengganu.
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Must Try: Smoky akok cakes fresh from the brass mold
Price: RM 1.50 – RM 2 per piece
Highlights: Soft and moist texture, sweet with a smoky aroma, perfect dessert or snack.
9. Budu
Fermented anchovy sauce with a strong pungent aroma, typically served with sliced onions, chili, and lime as a dipping condiment.
Location: Widely available at Terengganu food stalls and markets.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (varies by stall)
Must Try: Budu served with fresh raw vegetables or keropok
Price: RM 1 – RM 3 per small serving
Highlights: Strong umami flavor, essential Terengganu condiment, adds a tangy kick.
10. Mei Fong Curry Noodles
Spicy curry noodle soup loaded with cockles, fish balls, and fresh herbs, known for its rich and aromatic broth.
Location: Mei Fong Curry Mee stall on Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu.
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Must Try: Curry noodles with cockles and fish balls
Price: RM 6 – RM 10 per bowl
Highlights: Spicy, hearty, and comforting, a local favorite for lunch or dinner.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Kuala Terengganu’s street food is a delicious way to experience the city’s cultural heart and culinary traditions. From the chewy keropok lekor and smoky sata to the vibrant nasi kerabu and sweet akok, each dish offers a unique taste of Terengganu’s heritage. Affordable and full of flavor, these street foods make Kuala Terengganu a must-visit destination for food lovers. Don’t miss out on this culinary journey on your next trip!
