FoodMalaysia

Dining and Local Food Options around Perai

1. What are the most popular types of cuisine in Perai?

Some of the most popular types of cuisine in Perai are Malay cuisine, Chinese cuisine, Indian cuisine, and Western cuisine. Other popular cuisines include Thai, Korean, Japanese, and Mamak (Indian-Muslim) food.

2. Can you find halal food in Perai?

Yes, there are many halal options available in Perai as Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country. Many restaurants and food stalls display the halal certification or sign to indicate that their food is prepared according to Islamic dietary laws.

3. What are some local dishes to try in Perai?

Some local dishes to try in Perai include nasi lemak (coconut rice served with spicy sambal sauce and various side dishes), laksa (spicy noodle soup), char koay teow (stir-fried flat rice noodles), roti canai (flaky flatbread served with dipping curry sauce), and mee goreng mamak (fried noodles with a mix of Indian spices).

4. Is street food safe to eat in Perai?

Generally, street food in Malaysia is safe to eat as long as proper hygiene practices are observed by the vendor. Look for busy stalls or vendors who have a constant turnover of freshly cooked food. It’s also recommended to avoid raw fruits and vegetables that may have been washed with tap water.

5. Are there vegetarian/vegan options available in Perai?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available in Perai. Some restaurants offer meat-free versions of popular dishes like nasi lemak or stir-fried noodles using plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. You can also find dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants or stalls that specialize in these types of cuisine.

2. Are there any must-try local dishes in Perai?

Some popular local dishes in Perai include:

1. Penang Assam Laksa: A tangy and spicy noodle dish with a fish-based broth, served with shredded fish, vegetables, and a dollop of shrimp paste.

2. Char Kway Teow: A stir-fried rice noodle dish with soy sauce, chili paste, prawns, cockles, and Chinese sausage.

3. Hokkien Mee: A savory dish made of yellow noodles and vermicelli in a thick prawn broth, garnished with pork slices, prawns, and squid.

4. Nasi Kandar: A famous Malaysian rice dish consisting of steamed rice served with various curries and side dishes such as fried chicken or beef rendang.

5. Roti Canai: A flaky flatbread usually served with a curry dipping sauce or dal (lentil) curry.

6. Apam Balik: Also known as “Malaysian peanut pancake”, it is a crispy pancake filled with peanuts, sweet corn and drizzled with condensed milk.

7. Otak-Otak: Grilled fish cake wrapped in banana leaves and flavored with spices such as turmeric, lemongrass, and chili paste.

8. Cendol: A popular shaved ice dessert drizzled with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup, topped with green pandan jelly noodles (cendol) and red beans.

9. Rojak: A mixed fruit salad featuring vegetables such as cucumber and pineapple tossed in a sweet-sour-spicy dressing made from shrimp paste (belacan), lime juice, chili paste, tamarind juice and sugar.

10. Mee Goreng Mamak: Stir-fried yellow noodles cooked Indian Muslim style with tomatoes, onions, garlic, prawns or chicken slices and tofu cubes.

3. How is the seafood in Perai?


The seafood in Perai is known for being fresh and delicious. Perai, being located near the coast, has access to a variety of fresh seafood such as fish, crabs, prawns, clams, and squid. The dishes are often cooked in a variety of ways including grilling, steaming, or stir-frying with flavorful sauces and spices. Many locals and tourists enjoy the seafood dishes in Perai as they are typically affordable and offer a unique taste experience.

4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Perai?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Perai, including:

1. Mee Udang Warisan: This restaurant serves a variety of vegetarian options such as stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, and mock meats.
2. Humble Chef: This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
3. Rucola Cafe & Restaurant: This cozy restaurant has an extensive vegetarian menu including pasta, pizza, salads, and sandwiches.
4. Mango Tree Veggie Cafe: Specializing in vegan and vegetarian dishes, this cafe offers a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine.
5. Daily Fish Vegetarian Kitchen: Despite its name, this restaurant offers a range of delicious vegetarian dishes such as vegetable curries and tofu-based dishes.

Note: It is always recommended to check with the restaurant beforehand to confirm their menu options for vegetarians or vegans.

5. Can you recommend any good street food options in Perai?

Some popular street food options in Perai include:

1. Char Koay Teow – a stir-fried noodle dish with cockles, bean sprouts, and eggs, usually cooked in a fiery hot wok.

2. Apom Balik – a sweet and crispy pancake filled with toppings such as corn, peanuts, or chocolate.

3. Murtabak – a stuffed flatbread usually filled with minced meat and onions, and served with curry sauce.

4. Rojak – a tangy fruit salad made with ingredients such as cucumber, pineapple, mango, and topped with a thick peanut sauce.

5. Satay – skewered and grilled meat (usually chicken or beef) served with spicy peanut sauce.

6. Nasi Lemak – coconutty rice dish served with various toppings such as fried chicken, hard-boiled eggs, sambal (chili paste), and anchovies.

7. Cendol – a refreshing dessert made of shaved ice, green rice noodles, red beans, coconut milk and palm sugar syrup.

8. Pisang Goreng – deep-fried banana fritters that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are often sold by vendors on bicycles along the streets.

Make sure to try these local delicacies while exploring the streets of Perai!

6. Is there a famous night market or food market in Perai?

One famous night market in Perai is the Butterworth Night Market, also known as “Gerai Makan Malam Butterworth.” It is a popular spot for locals and tourists to grab delicious street food at affordable prices. Some must-try dishes include lok lok (skewered meats and vegetables dipped in boiling broth), char koay teow (stir-fried rice noodles with prawns and cockles), and rojak (a local fruit and vegetable salad). The market operates every evening from around 6pm until late at night.

7. What is the price range for dining out in Perai?


The price range for dining out in Perai can vary greatly depending on the type of restaurant and cuisine. Generally, a simple meal in a local eatery can cost around RM10-20 per person, while a more upscale or international restaurant may charge RM50-100 per person.

8. Are there any upscale or fine dining restaurants in Perai?

Yes, there are a few upscale or fine dining restaurants in Perai, such as:
-Tumble & Roast: A fusion restaurant that offers fine dining dishes and an extensive wine list.
-La Viva’s Italian Restaurant: Specializes in authentic Italian cuisine with a cozy and elegant ambiance.
-Freame’s Home Coffee & Dining: Offers a sophisticated dining experience with modern European dishes and a variety of wines.
-Shokudo Japanese Restaurant: A Japanese fine dining restaurant with a wide selection of sushi and sashimi dishes.
-Bel Cibo Fine Dining & Wine Bar: Features an elegant setting and gourmet European cuisine paired with a selection of premium wines.

9. How is the coffee culture in Perai? Any highly-rated cafes to check out?


The coffee culture in Perai is still developing and there are not many cafes in the area compared to other cities in Malaysia. However, there are still some highly-rated cafes that you can check out:

1. Café Penang Pearl (https://www.facebook.com/cafepenangpearl/) – This cafe serves a variety of specialty coffee and also offers delicious homemade desserts.

2. Sam Whiskey Café (https://www.facebook.com/SamWhiskeyCafe/) – A rustic and cozy cafe that serves great coffee, light meals, and pastries.

3. The Daily Fix Cafe (https://www.facebook.com/theDailyFixMalaysia/) – A popular café known for its Instagram-worthy décor and delicious coffee.

4. Good Friends Café & Restaurant (https://www.facebook.com/goodfriendscafeandrestaurant/) – A charming café with a garden setting that serves good coffee and local dishes.

5. Coffee on the Table (https://www.facebook.com/coffeonthetable/) – A quaint café with a minimalist design that serves quality handcrafted coffee.

6. Lighthouse Coffee (https://www.facebook.com/LighthouseCoffeePerai/) – A hidden gem of a café that offers a selection of unique coffees and tasty snacks.

7. Waikiki Bistro & Café (https://www.facebook.com/waikikibistro) – A Hawaiian-themed café with beach vibes that serves excellent coffee, light bites, and mains.

8. Komugi Bakery & Café (http://komugi.my/pages/komugicoffeebar.html) – Known for their fresh baked goods, this bakery and cafe also serves delicious gourmet coffees.

9. Breakfast Boss Cafe Penang (https://www.facebook.com/BreakfastBossPenang/) – A cozy spot for breakfast or brunch featuring 3rd wave coffees and yummy food options.

10. Are there any halal food options available in Perai?

Yes, there are several halal food options available in Perai. Some popular restaurants serving halal food in Perai include Dapur Penyet, Surau Ar-Rahman Restaurant, and Warung Melayu. Additionally, many seafood restaurants also offer halal seafood options. Muslim visitors can also easily find halal Malaysian street food such as roti canai and nasi lemak at local markets and stalls.

11. Can you recommend any traditional Thai restaurants with authentic dishes in Perai?


Yes, here are three highly rated traditional Thai restaurants in Perai that serve authentic dishes:

1. Kerabu Thai Seafood and BBQ – This restaurant offers a wide selection of authentic Thai dishes, such as fish cakes, tom yum soup, and green curry. Customers rave about the delicious flavors and generous portions.
Address: 3327 Jalan Todak, Seberang Jaya, 13700 Perai
Contact: +60 4-398 9688

2. Momochan Thai Cuisine – Serving up flavorful Thai street food in a cozy atmosphere, this restaurant is a must-try for those seeking an authentic dining experience. Popular dishes include pad thai, mango sticky rice, and pandan chicken.
Address: 13 Lorong Kurau Satu Chai Leng Park Business Centre, Perai
Contact: +60 12-521 2839

3. White Elephant Thai Restaurant – With a rustic setting and traditional decor, this restaurant offers a variety of classic Thai dishes made with fresh ingredients imported from Thailand. Customers recommend trying their signature dishes like phad krapow and pineapple fried rice.
Address: No.17G Ground Floor Nadi Orchid Commercial Complex Taman Robina Jaya Raja Uda Butterworth
Contact: +60 17-433 9360

12. Is it safe to eat street food in Perai for tourists?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Perai. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to use caution and make sure the food stall or vendor looks clean and hygienic before purchasing anything. It may also be advisable for tourists to stick to well-known and popular street food stalls or markets, where food is prepared and handled with greater care.

13. How are the portion sizes at local restaurants and cafes compared to western countries?


It depends on the specific country and restaurant, but in general, portion sizes at local restaurants and cafes in non-Western countries tend to be smaller than those in Western countries. This is due to cultural differences and traditional eating habits. For example, many Asian countries have a strong emphasis on balance and variety in meals, which often results in smaller portion sizes compared to the larger dishes typical of Western cuisine. Additionally, because Western cuisine tends to be more rich and indulgent, portion sizes are often larger to accommodate this. However, there are also many exceptions and variations within each country’s dining culture, so it ultimately depends on the specific location and establishment.

14. Any recommendations for budget-friendly dining options in Perai?


1. Restoran Joo Heng: This Chinese restaurant serves delicious and budget-friendly dishes like fried rice, noodle dishes and seafood.

2. Warung Tomyam Mutiara: This casual eatery offers affordable Malaysian favourites like nasi goreng, chicken rice and tom yum.

3. Lai Ching Yuen: This restaurant specializes in authentic Chinese cuisine at wallet-friendly prices.

4. Nasi Kandar Subaidah: A popular spot for traditional Indian-Muslim dishes such as nasi kandar and roti canai at reasonable prices.

5. Restoran Tanjung Kyoto: A Japanese restaurant with a wide range of affordable dishes including sushi, ramen and bento sets.

6. Mekdi Claypot Fish Head Curry: Budget-friendly Chinese seafood restaurant famous for their claypot fish head curry.

7. Daddy’s Grill House: A local favourite for grilled meats like chicken, lamb and beef at affordable prices.

8. Xiao Fei Yang Steamboat Buffet Restaurant: An all-you-can-eat steamboat buffet with a wide selection of ingredients at affordable prices.

9. Gong Cha Cafe Perai: For a quick and cheap bite, try this café specializing in Taiwanese street food and bubble tea.

10. Old Uncle Chicken Rice Stall: Authentic Hainanese-style chicken rice at low prices from a popular roadside stall.

15. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with a view of the city?


Yes, there are several rooftop bars and restaurants with a view of the city. Some popular options include:

1. Rooftop at The Standard – Located in Downtown LA, this trendy rooftop bar offers both indoor and outdoor seating with panoramic views of the city.
2. Mama Shelter – This hip hotel features a rooftop restaurant and bar with stunning views of the Hollywood Hills.
3. Perch – Located in Downtown LA, Perch offers a French-inspired rooftop dining experience with beautiful views of the city skyline.
4. Spire 73 – This rooftop bar is located on the 73rd floor of the InterContinental Hotel and boasts 360-degree views of Los Angeles.
5. EP & LP Rooftop Bar – Offering modern Asian cuisine and craft cocktails, this West Hollywood hotspot also has a spacious rooftop terrace with great views of the Sunset Strip.

Please note that some venues may have age restrictions or dress codes, so it’s best to check their websites before visiting.

16. Can you suggest a good spot for a romantic dinner in Perai?


One good spot for a romantic dinner in Perai is at The Dining Room, located at the Vangohh Eminent Hotel & Spa. This restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with dim lighting and elegant decor. They serve a variety of Western and Asian dishes, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The highlight of this restaurant is their outdoor terrace, where you can enjoy your meal while overlooking the stunning view of Perai River. It’s perfect for couples who want to have a quiet, romantic dinner with great food and ambiance.

17. Is it common for restaurants and eateries to accept credit cards or is cash preferred?


It varies depending on the specific restaurant or eatery. In general, larger and more established restaurants are more likely to accept credit cards, while smaller local establishments may prefer cash payments. It is always a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand to see what forms of payment they accept.

18. Are reservations necessary for popular restaurants or can you usually find a table without one?


It depends on the specific restaurant and the popularity of the time slot you are looking for. It is always recommended to make reservations in advance for popular restaurants, especially during peak dining hours or on weekends. However, it may be possible to find a table without a reservation at less busy times or for smaller parties.

19.Where can I find good options for breakfast such as Western style cafes or traditional Thai breakfast places?


Some good options for breakfast in Thailand include:
1. Western style cafes: popular chains like Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and The Coffee Club can be found in major cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Other independent cafés to try are Rocket Coffeebar, Hands & Heart, and Ristr8to.
2. Traditional Thai breakfast places: street food stalls selling Thai-style breakfast dishes such as congee (jok), rice porridge (khao tom), and Chinese doughnuts (pa thong ko) can be found on almost every corner in Thailand. For a sit-down experience, check out Bo.Lan and Top Tables.
3. Hotel buffets: many hotels in Thailand offer delicious breakfast buffets with both Western and Thai options. These are often pricier but have a wide variety of dishes to choose from.
4. Markets: fresh fruit, grilled meats, sticky rice, and other traditional Thai foods can be found at local markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok or Warorot Market in Chiang Mai.
5. Food courts: some shopping malls in Thailand have food courts with a mix of local and international food outlets where you can find dishes like dim sum for breakfast.
6. 24-hour restaurants: if you’re craving breakfast at any time of the day or night, head to one of the many all-hours restaurants scattered around the country serving international and local meals 24/7.

20.Can you recommend any hidden gems or underrated dining spots that not many tourists know about?


There are plenty of amazing dining spots in every city that may not be as well-known to tourists but offer delicious food and unique experiences. Here are a few hidden gems or underrated dining spots that you can check out:

1. The Rustic Table (New Orleans, Louisiana) – This hidden gem offers authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

2. The Alley Light (Charlottesville, Virginia) – Tucked away behind an unmarked door, this speakeasy-style restaurant serves up creative cocktails and French-inspired cuisine.

3. The Bookstore Cafe (Jerusalem, Israel) – Located inside a bookstore, this cafe offers delicious Middle Eastern dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

4. Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall (Atlanta, Georgia) – A rustic outdoor space with an industrial vibe, this spot offers Southern-inspired dishes and craft cocktails in a unique setting.

5. Sticks’n’Sushi (Copenhagen, Denmark) – This popular sushi spot has multiple locations throughout the city but is still relatively unknown to tourists. The fresh sushi and modern decor make it a must-visit for foodies.

6. Fonda San Miguel (Austin, Texas) – This Mexican restaurant features beautiful artwork from all over Mexico and specializes in authentic regional cuisine that is sure to impress.

7. Graze Restaurant (Nashville, Tennessee) – This farm-to-table eatery offers fresh and creative dishes using locally sourced ingredients in a cozy setting.

8. Frantzén (Stockholm, Sweden) – Known for its innovative take on traditional Swedish cuisine, this Michelin-starred restaurant only seats 23 guests at a time for an intimate dining experience.

9. Quimet & Quimet (Barcelona, Spain) – Tucked away in the Poble Sec neighborhood of Barcelona, this tiny tapas bar is beloved by locals for its delicious small plates and extensive wine selection.

10. The Modern (New York, New York) – Located in the Museum of Modern Art, this chic restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine in a sleek and elegant setting.