SmokePapa BBQ @ Bishop Street, Georgetown, Penang.

From humble beginnings at a food court near Weld Quay back in 2018, SmokePapa BBQ has since found a new home at Bishop Street, continuing its mission of bringing Texas-style smoked barbecue to the heart of Penang. Helmed by Pitmaster Chef Hong, the restaurant focuses on barbecued meats done low and slow—its signature smoked ribs being a crowd favorite. The menu spans across various cuts, from poultry to heartier meats, all crafted with smoky depth and bold flavors. 

Many Thanks to SmokePapa BBQ for hosting us.

Flame @ De View Hotel, Air Hitam, Penang.

Perched high on a rooftop of a building at Air Hitam, Flame is a rooftop restaurant that redefines barbecue dining with a view. Specializing in flame-grilled creations, the menu is a celebration of smoky aromas and charred perfections; with a mix of local delights. Those who seek for a better view should look out for the igloo at the al-fresco dining area; each igloo is equipped with a cooler to ensure comfort. You will be rewarded with a scenic view overlooking the Air Hitam town and Kek Lok Si at the back. The restaurant itself on the other hand, offers a more proper sit-down dining experience. Definitely a unique dining spot for any occasions without putting a dent on the wallet.

Many Thanks to Flame for extending the invitation.

Tazaa Arabic Restaurant @ Juru Sentral, Bukit Mertajam, Penang.

Previously occupied as Azuma Japanese Restaurant, Tazaa Arabic Restaurant took over the prominent lot at Juru Sentral; introducing Middle-Eastern flavors to the Bukit Mertajam folks. You may have heard of the name Tazaa, it first started in Butterworth area and expanded its business operations to Bukit Mertajam. The menu is identical and you can never go wrong with grilled meat over spices, flatbreads, Hummus, salads etc. The branch at Juru Sentral offers a cozy, spacious dining environment... suitable for any occasions. 

Sam Gye Bab @ Golden Triangle, Relau, Penang.

Probably the first and only Sam Gye Tang specialist in Penang, Sam Gye Bab at Golden Triangle has been around for quite a while. The place is well-received by the folks staying in the neighborhood, with plenty of take-outs and delivery orders throughout the day. The small Korean menu features their signature flame-grilled Korean Chicken and Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup as well as some Korean delights (like Toppokki, Doenjang Jigae etc). Price points are lower than most established Korean joints but don't expect top-notch dining experience here. More like a place for a quick, inexpensive and casual Korean fix in the neighborhood. 

Hachiban Izakaya 八番 @ Kelawei Road, Georgetown, Penang.

Under the umbrella of Edo Ichi group, Hachiban Izakaya 八番 is one of the latest additions to the group. Unlike other Japanese restaurants, Hachiban operates in Izakaya style. Traditionally, we would expect a menu with great focuses on drinking (alcohol), but Hachiban has quite an impressive spread. The main menu features many classic items that can be found in a Japanese restaurant as well as some dishes especially suitable for drinking; price points are however, slightly above average. The restaurant is fairly big and houses a grill bar with big seating capacity. 

White Smoke Grill & Bar @ Campbell Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Replacing Vkusno Dom at Campbell Street is White Smoke Grill and Bar... a seemingly quiet and curious restaurant. The white and black toned facade barely speaks anything for the restaurant but once you stepped in the restaurant, you will find yourself in a warm, relaxed dining space. Towards the end of the restaurant, there is an open-spaced kitchen that allows diners to witness the actions happening in the kitchen. They seem to specialize in grills but the menu offers some creative east meets west dishes as well; from the menu, one could tell that they are trying to reinvent and replicate local flavors in playful combinations. While there are ala-carte menu, the 8-course Chef Tasting Menu at Rm 78 is the best way to experience what this place could potentially offer. 

Logs Smoke House @ Phuah Hin Leong Road, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

This new smoke house in town churns out beautifully brown smoked Chicken cooked over real wood. It's not common to find a smoke house that uses real wood to smoke its meat in Penang and this new kid on the block is one of a kind. Accordingly, the chickens are marinated for 24 hours and it takes more than 3 hours to smoke. The entire restaurant only offers a smoked chicken-focused menu... with some simple sides like Coleslaw, mashed Potatoes, Garlic Butter Rice and Garlic Bread. Not too shabby for a change though it did not sweep me off my feet; just a usual roast chicken with a discernible smokiness I reckon. 

Mr. Dakgalbi Korean Restaurant @ Gurney Plaza, Penang.

Dakgalbi, a type of Korean stir-fry dish with Gochujang sauce, has been well-received by Malaysians. One of the biggest players- Mr. Dakgalbi has recently opened a new branch at Gurney Plaza. With its success in central Malaysia, the spread of news on the brand expanding its business operations to Penang was quick; many ardent fans of Korean Dakgalbi were seen queuing patiently over the weekend, just to have their cravings fixed. The franchised restaurant has a small menu dedicated for Dakgalbi but their unique selling point is none other than their alluring Cheese Ring where diners get to enjoy the stir-fried Chicken with pulls of gooey, stretchy melted Cheese.

The Shed Aussie Pub & Restaurant @ Straits Quay, Penang.

Australian Cuisine hasn't had much exposure in Penang but we hope that will change with the opening of The Shed in Straits Quay. The Australian-influenced Pub & Restaurant offers a vast selection of grill meats as well as some Burgers and Pasta. The setup is more of a bistro with a stage behind (live music performances are available on certain days); those who prefer a more outdoorsy ambiance with cold sea breeze could opt to dine-in at the sea-front while those who prefer to sit nearer to the stage could opt for inside. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, most suitable to chill out with friends/ family over a few helpings of beers and wines (or even better, pair with their meat-focused dishes). Not a bad place for drinks and casual Australian barbecue meat but we thought the food lacked the "x" factor (not that we weren't pleased with the quality, just that the probability of returning is not high). The Shed Aussie Pub & Restaurant can be found right next to Spasso Milano, previous tenant was Weissbrau German Bistro.

Bangkok Garden BBQ- Mookata @ Automall, Georgetown, Penang.

For a no-frills Thai Mookata experience, look no further than this curious space at Automall, Karpal Singh Drive. Affordably priced at Rm 19.90 for a basic set (serves 2), budget watchers can now enjoy delicious Thai Steamboat at unbeatable price, well-complemented with sea breeze. The simple set includes some basic meat balls, greens and meat but those with a deeper pocket can always top up extra few dollars for the additional spread. Bangkok Garden BBQ is not air-conditioned and instead, it relies on the sea breeze so the best time to visit would probably in the evening. The serving portion is not that great but it would be perfectly fine to be served as supper in lieu of a proper meal. Bangkok Garden BBQ can be found right next to Sae Ma Eul Korean BBQ Restaurant.

Nando's Malaysia Launches New Flavor- Mango & Lime PERi-PERi Chicken

One of the Malaysian most-loved brands- Nando's (Malaysia) has recently introduced a new PERi-PERi flavor, an excitement to reward its loyal customers. The newly introduced Mango & Lime flavor has roots in the Afro-Portuguese element and carries a hint of tropical flavor- sweet and zesty. Since its humble introduction in various countries across the globe including United Kingdom and Australia, it has proven to be a hit. It shall be permanently added to the Nando's PERi-ometer, joining the ranks as other PERi-PERi flavors. The spiciness is mild and shall fall somewhere above the Lemon & Herb flaming option (below Mild, Hot and Extra Hot). Together with the Mango & Lime, Nando's Malaysia introduces a new designer drink- Tropical Fruitea, a refreshing thirst-quencher that offers the similar tinge to pair and complete the whole Mango & Lime experience. The Mango & Lime- series is now available at all Nando's branches, nationwide. 

Many Thanks to Nando's Malaysia for hosting us that evening.

Morganfield's @ Gurney Paragon, Penang.

Ardent fans of barbecue meat need not travel far from town to get some good variety of smoky goodies. Morganfield's was made famous from its much beloved classic rib but have now expanded to offer many wonderful Western options. Diners whom prefer a more outdoorsy ambiance would be glad to know that Morganfield's at Gurney Paragon Mall offers a spectacular view- wooden, small communal tables overlooking the fountain right in front of the mall and if you are lucky, you might catch the performances offered by the mall in central square. Whether day time of evening, the place is one of the perfect spots to wind down or to catch up over a pint of chilled Beer.

Magstore Mini Supermarket @ Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang.

Originated from Hong Kong, Magstore is an upscale supermarket that carries many international brands, particularly tidbits and snacks from Japan and Korea. It is the perfect place for those with deep pockets to shop; fanciful flavors of Pretz, Pocky can also be found there but at a premium price tag. In Magstore (Gurney Paragon Mall), there are two sections worth exploring- Takoyaki/ Grilled Squid Corner and the Ice Cream Parlor. The setting is cramped with limited tables and chairs; one will find it difficult to maneuver around the area if full. On our visit, the place was packed to the brim; it was a complete chaos with no clear signage displayed. Visitors walked in and joined the queue not knowing that they were required to pay before queuing for the food. More like a grab and go place and not meant for hipsters to chill... good novelty experience nevertheless.

D' Fat Mona Lisa @ Free School Road, Jelutong, Penang.

It's easy to increase a pound or two, especially with so many wonderful delicacies around us here in Penang but unfortunately, that makes no exception for the most-celebrated painting- Mona Lisa as well. The exaggerated Mona Lisa depicts a sense of humor, where the team seeks to create a fun space for coffee lovers to mingle. The ambiance is somewhat unique, probably larger in space, together with the comfy couches, they exude the warmth of home. Menu is simple and minimalist- the usual cafe fare but one of the dishes did manage to impress me. D' Fat Mona Lisa is housed within a bungalow situated along Free School Road, opposite to the famous Banana Fritter stall. Ample parking space is available too.

Naughty Nuri's Warung @ Burmah Road, Georgetown, Penang.

Frequent travelers should not be new to the name- Naughty Nuri's Warung. The brand is famous for its signature Grilled Pork Ribs and once crowned as one of the best Pork Ribs in Bali by many renowned food connoisseurs. The brand started its humble beginning in Ubud, Bali by selling some grills; amongst the items, their Pork Ribs stood out and has since received many spotlights from tourists. Young entrepreneurs Mike and Sean brought the brand to Penang, opening the brand's first branch in the Norther Region of Malaysia; taking a notable spot at the junction of Swatow Lane and Burmah Road. The duo tries to replicate the setting in Bali, evidently seen from the wooden traits in the restaurant and man-made fountain as well as some artistic sculpture that represents Bali. Naughty Nuri's Warung specializes in serving Pork but they do have a comprehensive menu to satisfy every palate, including those who are not a fan of Pork.

Many Thanks to Sean and Mike for hosting us that evening.

Beep Beep Q @ Bangkok Lane, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

Barbecue devotees would be glad to know that there is a new Barbecue restaurant hit the shore of the island recently. Beep Beep Q walks a slightly different path, the restaurant offers made-to-order barbecue buffet dinner (at Rm 58 nett per person); guests get to choose their orders from their menu, not only featuring an array of meat but a wide selection of vegetables as well. The restaurateur cum Chef is a car enthusiast which explains why there are so many automotive spare parts adorning the walls. The setting is not posh or picturesque but rather simple with a few wooden tables and chairs. Al-fresco dining area is available for those who prefer a more outdoorsy ambiance. However, we belittled the setting and thought that the foods were very impressive and worth every single penny spent. Ala-carte lunch menu may be served in the near future. Beep Beep Q is situated at Bangkok Lane, Pulau Tikus.

Many Thanks to Beep Beep Q for hosting us that evening. 

Rakuzen (樂膳) @ Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang.

Having visited both Sushi Zanmai and Pasta Zanmai previously, I thought it would be great for me to check Rakuzen out too, since the three companies belong to SuperDining group. Situated in between Sushi Zanmai and Pasta Zanmai at level 6 of Gurney Paragon Mall, Rakuzen is the most prestigious and upscale Japanese restaurant as compared to the early two. With their comprehensive menu, one needs to take a considerably amount of time to make a decision on what to order; however, it might be a disappointment for Ramen lovers, to my dismal, Rakuzen does not offer any Ramen dishes (yes, you can find Soba and Udon here but not Ramen). Service was not impeccable but considered attentive and prices are on the high side while most of the dishes I had were decent only. I am not too sure if I am willing to pay so much for a decent Japanese meal, I will probably return for an occasional visit. 

Unique Cantonese Delicacy- Duck Leg Wrap (鸭脚包) @ Kimberley Street, Penang.

Traditional delicacies are extremely hard to find these days, especially those decent ones, with the aging problem and lack of support from younger generation, it's unavoidable that all these businesses are to cease their operations real soon. There is this stall here at the T junction between Kimberley Street and Cintra Street, which sells a very unique Cantonese delicacy- Duck Leg Wraps (鸭脚包). This is definitely one of the uncommonly seen delicacies in Penang these days. You may wonder... what are Duck Leg Wraps? To address your question....

"Duck Leg Wraps (鸭脚包) are made of Duck Leg, Pork (with both the lean meat and fats), Pork Liver and being wrapped with Duck Intestines. The wrap will then be braised and roasted. It possesses a very unique aroma and should be slightly more to the sweeter side. As savory as the Chinese Char Siew/ Barbecue Pork."

I have been visiting this stall ever since I was still studying at primary school. I just came to realize that the uncle who has been operating the business for more than 40 years will cease the business by the end of this month (June, 2013) and according to him, he has sold all of his recipes including the stall to the new owner but my only concern is... Will the taste and quality be the same? 

Tarbush Restaurant @ Batu Feringghi, Penang.

If you are finding something exquisite enough to suit your taste buds, you should at least give this restaurant a try. Finding Arabic and Lebanese cuisine has never been easy in Penang, one of the more well-known ones is being Tarbush Restaurant. Tarbush Restaurant has four branches in Malaysia in total, being Penang's branch situated at Batu Feringghi (right beside The Ship Western Food). Tarbush Restaurant has a lot to offer its customers, namely salads, main course (seafood, beef, chicken or even lamb), soups, and a variety of desserts/ beverages. Quoted from Tarbush Restaurant's website:

" TARBUSH's dedication to using only the freshest and finest ingredients and incessant passion of a man's love for authentic and fine Middle Eastern cuisine has undoubtedly rendered TARBUSH's incredible success and growth for all these years. "

Overall verdict: The foods were actually okay to my liking but they lacked of the authenticity. The heavily use of spices and herbs is essential in Lebanese cuisine, but unfortunately, we don't taste the strong aroma of those herbs. Price-wise, expensive for most dishes, despite of their big portion for most dishes, I still find most of them over-priced, especially with the additional 10% service charge and 6% government tax. There is a need for improvements on their services too, with many of the waiters/waitresses do not understand English, the process of ordering/ acquiring information was very troublesome for us (thank GOD the manager was kind and understands English). As for parking, one can simply park its car right in front of the restaurant, there were ample parking spaces available, but do beware of the night market happening every night there, make sure you do not reach the restaurant too late, else, you might face problems finding the parking.

One Malaysia Themed Buffet Dinner @ Berjaya Hotel, Penang.

Yes, Ken is following the "1 Malaysia" concept, Berjaya Hotel Penang that is located right beside Midlands. Berjaya Hotel is well known for offering one of the cheapest and most affordable buffet in town. Saturdays' theme was "1 Malaysia" which obviously promoting all the exquisite food from all three main races. The buffet is priced at Rm40++ for adults and Rm24++ for senior citizens (above 55 years old) and children. Not only as such, they are having this promotion, where by a kid can dine in for free for every two paying adults. There will be live band performances and a cup of complimentary fruit juice given to every single guest of theirs too. Frankly speaking, the choices were pretty limited. The service provided by their highly motivated staff was very impressive.