1. What are the must-try local dishes near Kek Lok Si Temple?
Some must-try local dishes near Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang include:– Char Kway Teow: A popular stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, shrimp, cockles, egg, bean sprouts, and dark soy sauce.
– Assam Laksa: A spicy and tangy soup dish made with rice noodles, fish broth, mackerel or sardine flakes, cucumber, and pineapple.
– Hokkien Mee: A savory noodle dish consisting of prawn broth, thick noodles, prawns, pork slices, squid, and sometimes cabbage and bean sprouts.
– Rojak: A mix of fruits (such as pineapple and green apples) and vegetables (such as cucumber) topped with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.
– Mee Goreng: Stir-fried yellow noodles with vegetables like tofu, bean sprouts, shrimp or chicken in a spicy tomato-based sauce.
– Chendul: A popular dessert consisting of green rice flour jelly (known as “cendol”), shaved ice, coconut milk and palm sugar syrup.
2. Where can I find traditional Malaysian breakfast dishes near Kek Lok Si Temple?
Some places where you can find traditional Malaysian breakfast dishes near Kek Lok Si Temple include:
– Bukit Mertajam Market: This wet market offers a wide variety of local breakfast options such as nasi lemak (coconut milk-infused rice served with various accompaniments), roti canai (flatbread served with curries), beehoon goreng (stir-fried vermicelli noodles), and more.
– Loo Kee Restaurant: This restaurant serves various traditional Chinese-style breakfast dishes like congee (rice porridge) with various toppings such as chicken or pork floss.
– Goh Thew Chik Hainan Chicken Rice & Porridge Stall: Here you can try the famous Hainanese Chicken Rice, a dish of steamed or roasted chicken served with fragrant rice and chili sauce.
– Kedai Kopi Kim Hooi: This traditional kopitiam (coffee shop) serves local breakfast dishes like toast with kaya (coconut jam) and half-boiled eggs.
3. Are there any vegetarian-friendly restaurants near Kek Lok Si Temple?
Yes, there are many vegetarian-friendly restaurants near Kek Lok Si Temple. Some options include:
– Idealite Restaurant: This restaurant specializes in vegetarian and vegan dishes made with fresh, natural ingredients.
– Fullness Vegetarian Cafe: Here you can find a variety of vegetarian options such as veggie burgers, fried rice, noodle dishes and more.
– Leaf Healthy House: A popular spot for vegetarian Chinese cuisine, offering a wide range of flavorful dishes made with fresh vegetables and mock meats.
– Dim Sum Kitchen: This dim sum restaurant offers a large variety of vegetarian options such as dumplings filled with mushrooms and vegetables, spring rolls, and more.
4. What are the best seafood restaurants near Kek Lok Si Temple?
Some popular seafood restaurants near Kek Lok Si Temple include:
– Ocean Green Seafood Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood cooked in various styles such as salted egg yolk crab and butter prawns.
– Swee Jee Fish Head Cuisine: Specializes in fish head curry and other seafood dishes.
– Yi Noodle House: Offers a wide selection of seafood noodles – from Hokkien Mee to Thai-style tom yum noodles.
– David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terrace: Located on top of Penang Hill, this restaurant serves up delicious seafood dishes along with stunning views of the island.
5. Where can I find the best durian desserts near Kek Lok Si Temple?
Some places where you can find delicious durian desserts near Kek Lok Si Temple include:
– Hai Bengal Baru Market: This street market offers a variety of durian desserts such as durian cendol (a combination of shaved ice, coconut milk, and durian), durian pancake, and more.
– Guan Tong Seng Durians: A popular spot for fresh durians and durian-based desserts like durian ice cream and durian mochi.
– Hot Bowl White Curry Noodle House: Here you can try their signature dish – White Curry Mee served with a side of fresh durian.
– Gurney Drive Hawker Center: This hawker center is known for its variety of food stalls selling different types of local dishes, including desserts made with durian.
Note: Please check the availability of these dishes/restaurants beforehand as they may be affected by current restrictions due to COVID-19.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at restaurants around the temple?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options available at restaurants around the temple. Some options include:
– Vegetarian or vegan entrees at Chinese restaurants, such as tofu stir-fry or vegetable dishes
– Indian restaurants often have multiple vegetarian and vegan options, such as dal (lentil) dishes, vegetable curries, and dosas (savory crepes)
– Many Thai restaurants have tofu or vegetable-based dishes that can be made without meat or fish sauce
– Mediterranean or Middle Eastern restaurants may offer falafel wraps, hummus plates, and other vegetarian options
It is always best to check with the specific restaurant for their menu offerings.
3. Where can I find delicious traditional snacks to try near Kek Lok Si Temple?
Some delicious traditional snacks that you can try near Kek Lok Si Temple include:1. Penang Assam Laksa – This popular local dish can be found at the nearby Ayer Itam market. It is a noodle dish in tangy fish-based broth, topped with mackerel flakes and herbs.
2. Apom Manis – Located just outside Kek Lok Si Temple, there is a stall selling freshly made apom manis. These bite-sized pancakes are crispy on the edges and soft in the middle, perfect for a quick snack.
3. Ice Kacang – Just across from the gate of Kek Lok Si Temple, there is a dessert shop selling colorful ice kacang (shaved ice dessert) topped with red beans, corns, grass jelly and various syrups.
4. Char Koay Teow – Head over to the Ayer Itam market for some authentic Penang-style char koay teow. This stir-fried noodle dish is cooked on a hot wok with egg, prawns, cockles and bean sprouts.
5. Tau Sar Pneah – A short walk away from Kek Lok Si Temple is Ban Heang bakery where you can find these traditional Chinese pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings such as green bean paste or pork floss.
6. Apom Balik – Another street food you can find near Kek Lok Si Temple is apom balik which is a folded pancake stuffed with sweet corn and peanuts.
7. Cendol – Located at the entrance of Air Itam Dam park, stall Auntie Maggie’s cendol serves up refreshing bowls of shaved ice topped with coconut milk, green rice flour jelly strips and red beans.
4. What are some highly-rated restaurants for a romantic dinner near Kek Lok Si Temple?
1. The View Batu Ferringhi
2. Indigo at The Blue Mansion
3. Feringgi Grill at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa
4. Baba-Nonya Cuisine at Seven Terraces Hotel
5. The Spice Market Café at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa
6. Suffolk House Restaurant
7. Davinci Italian Restaurant
8. The Bungalow @ Lone Pine Hotel
9. Thirty Two at the Mansion
10. Villa Maria Restaurant, Batu Ferringhi
5. Can you recommend a budget-friendly restaurant with tasty local food near the temple?
One option could be “Warung Pondok Lesehan” which is a small, family-run restaurant located next to the temple. They serve local Indonesian dishes at affordable prices. The atmosphere is cozy and authentic, and they also offer outdoor seating with a view of the temple.
6. Which restaurants offer the best view of Kek Lok Si Temple while dining?
1. Loh Guan Lye Terrace – this restaurant is located on a hill and offers an unobstructed view of Kek Lok Si Temple.
2. Skyview Restobar – this rooftop restaurant provides a panoramic view of the temple and the surrounding area.
3. Le Tree Restaurant & Bar – with its outdoor seating area, diners can enjoy a beautiful view of the temple while enjoying their meal.
4. Rainbow Sky Dining @ Komtar – located on the 59th floor of Komtar Tower, this revolving restaurant offers stunning views of Kek Lok Si Temple and the cityscape.
5. Food Loft @ Kek Lok Si Temple – for a dining experience within the temple premises itself, this food court offers a direct view of the main pagoda.
6. Jing Yuan Garden Seafood Restaurant – situated at the base of Air Hitam Dalam in front of Kek Lok Si Temple, diners can enjoy their meal with a picturesque view of the majestic temple in front of them.
7. Are there any seafood restaurants in the area around Kek Lok Si Temple?
Yes, there are several seafood restaurants in the area around Kek Lok Si Temple, including:
1. Seafood Village Restaurant
2. Crab Dynasty Seafood Restaurant
3. East & West Rendezvous Seafood Restaurant
4. Hushiemea Seafood Restaurant
5. Golden Wok Seafood Restaurant
6. Ah Keat Seafood Restaurant
7. Hai Boey Seafood Restaurant
8. Hai Cheng Seafood & BBQ Garden
9. Goodall Cafe and Bar (offers seafood dishes)
10. Goh Hock Kee Seafood Village (located at Air Itam Market, a short walk from Kek Lok Si Temple)
8. What is the most popular street food in this area and where can I find it?
The most popular street food in this area is probably tacos. You can find them at various food trucks and small restaurants around the city. Some popular spots include Taqueria La Cabañita, Tacos El Gordo de Tijuana, and Tacos El Paisa.
9. Is there a night market near Kek Lok Si Temple where I can try local delicacies?
Yes, there is a night market near Kek Lok Si Temple called the Tropical Spice Garden Night Market. It is held every Thursday and offers a range of local delicacies such as char koay teow, laksa, satay, and more. You can also find various handicrafts and souvenirs at the market.
10. Which restaurant serves the best curry dishes close to Kek Lok Si Temple?
The best curry dishes near Kek Lok Si Temple can be found at Kampong Makanan Thai Food Restaurant. This restaurant offers a wide variety of authentic Thai curries such as green, red, and massaman curry, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. Customers rave about the rich and spicy flavors of their curries, as well as the friendly and efficient service. It is located just a short walk from Kek Lok Si Temple on Jalan Balik Pulau.
11. Where can I find authentic Chinese cuisine near the temple?
You can find authentic Chinese cuisine at restaurants in the Chinatown district of Philadelphia, which is located about 20 minutes away from the temple. Some popular options include Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House, Han Dynasty, and Dim Sum Garden.
12. Are there any places to eat that specialize in Hakka cuisine near Kek Lok Si Temple?
Yes, there are several places to eat that specialize in Hakka cuisine near Kek Lok Si Temple. Some popular options include the Hakka Village Cafe and Restaurant, Han Xiang Cup of Tea Traditional Cuisine, and Tan Boon Hwa Hakka Restaurant. These restaurants offer traditional Hakka dishes such as Salt Baked Chicken, Tau Yu Bak (Braised Pork in Soy Sauce), and Lui Cha (Hakka Thunder Tea Rice).
13. Can you recommend a good spot for breakfast or brunch before visiting Kek Lok Si Temple?
One highly rated spot for breakfast before visiting Kek Lok Si Temple is Ghee Hiang Restaurant. They serve a variety of traditional Chinese dishes and dim sum, as well as other breakfast options like noodles and congee. It is located about 10 minutes away from the temple by car. Alternatively, you can also try Ming Xiang Tai Pastry Shop for their famous pork buns and pastries, which are also located within 10 minutes’ driving distance from the temple.
14. Is there a specific dish or specialty that this region is known for?
Yes, the Midwest is known for several dishes and specialties, including:
1. Hot dish/casserole: A baked dish typically consisting of meat, vegetables, and a starchy ingredient like noodles or potatoes.
2. BBQ: The Midwest has several regional variations of barbecue, including St. Louis-style ribs and Kansas City-style burnt ends.
3. Chicago-style deep dish pizza: A thick crust pizza with a high edge that contains large amounts of cheese and chunky tomato sauce.
4 The Juicy Lucy/Burger: A cheese-stuffed burger that originated in Minnesota.
5. Bratwurst: A type of German sausage that is popular in the Midwest, particularly Wisconsin.
6. Pork tenderloin sandwich: A breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet served on a bun, often topped with pickles and mustard.
7. Tater tot hotdish/hotdish surprise: A casserole made with ground beef, vegetables, canned soup, and tater tots on top.
8. Maid-Rite/Roseanne sandwich/loose meat sandwich: A sandwich made with seasoned loose ground beef served on a bun.
9. Beer cheese soup: A creamy soup made with beer, cheese, and vegetables.
10. Jello salad/fruit salad/pretzel salad/Waldorf salad: All variations of fruit or vegetable-based salads popular in the region.
15. Which nearby restaurants offer international or fusion cuisine options?
Some nearby restaurants that offer international or fusion cuisine options are:
– Spice Market: a popular spot for Southeast Asian inspired dishes
– The Breslin: known for its innovative take on British and American cuisine
– Eataly NYC Flatiron: offers a variety of Italian dishes from different regions of Italy
– Buddakan: serves up modern Asian fusion dishes in an upscale atmosphere
– ABC Kitchen: known for its seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients used in their globally-inspired menu items
16. Where can I find a traditional teahouse for a relaxing break after visiting the temple?
You can find traditional teahouses near many temples in countries like Japan, China, and Korea. Some specific places to check out include:– Japan: Kyoto’s Gion district is known for its traditional teahouses, as well as the area around Kiyomizu-dera temple.
– China: The Temple of Confucius in Beijing has a tea house where visitors can relax and enjoy tea after exploring the temple grounds.
– Korea: Near Jogyesa temple in Seoul, there are many small traditional teahouses that offer a peaceful break from the bustling city.
17. How late do nearby eateries stay open, in case I want to grab a bite after seeing the evening light show at Kek Lok Si?
It depends on the specific restaurant. Some may close early, around 9 or 10pm, while others may stay open later, especially on weekends. It would be best to check with the individual restaurants for their specific business hours.
18. Are there any rooftop restaurants in the area that overlooks both the mountain and sea views?
Yes, there are several rooftop restaurants in the area that offer scenic views of both the mountains and sea. Some popular options include:– The View Rooftop Bar at The Nai Harn Resort
– Baba Nest at Sri Panwa Phuket
– 360° Lounge at The Pavilions Phuket
– Vanilla Sky at Cape Sienna Hotel & Villas
– Coast Beach Club & Bistro at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket
These restaurants all have outdoor seating areas with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for enjoying a meal or drinks while taking in the stunning scenery.
19. Where can I find unique dessert options made with local ingredients around the temple?
1. Desserts by Chef Anthony: This bakery specializes in unique and creative desserts made with locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes frequently, so you can always find something new and delicious to try.
2. The Salted Honey Bakery: This bakery offers homemade treats made with organic and locally grown ingredients. From hand pies to seasonal fruit tarts, their desserts are both beautiful and delicious.
3. Magnolia Dessert Bar & Coffee: Located just a few blocks from the temple, this cozy dessert spot features Japanese-inspired pastries made with local ingredients. Try their black sesame cheesecake or matcha green tea cake for an exotic twist on classic desserts.
4. The Humble Pie Store: If you’re in the mood for pie, look no further than The Humble Pie Store. All of their pies are made from scratch using organic ingredients from local farms.
5. Whisk dessert bar: This dessert bar uses local and seasonal ingredients to create unique and mouthwatering treats like lavender honey ice cream and peach cobbler bites.
6. Rivers Edge Cafe & Catering: This cafe offers a variety of baked goods made on-site using locally sourced ingredients, including cookies, bars, and cakes.
7. Bricks Cafe & Bistro: This bistro serves up gourmet desserts made with fresh local fruits and other high-quality ingredients. Don’t miss out on their decadent chocolate cake or housemade gelato.
8. Almond Haus Patisserie: For a taste of French-inspired desserts using local ingredients, visit Almond Haus Patisserie where you’ll find macarons, choux pastries, and more delicious treats.
9. Local artisan markets: Check out local farmer’s markets or artisan markets in the area for unique dessert options such as handmade chocolates, jams, and pastries made with locally sourced ingredients.
10. Food trucks around the temple area: Keep an eye out for food trucks serving up desserts made with local ingredients. These trucks often rotate their menus, offering new and creative options every day.
20. Can you recommend any cooking classes or food tours focused on Penang’s cuisine that depart from Kek Lok Si Temple?
Yes, there are a few options for cooking classes and food tours that depart from Kek Lok Si Temple.
1. Penang Cooking Class: This is a popular cooking class that takes place at the Tropical Spice Garden, which is only a short drive from Kek Lok Si Temple. The class includes a visit to the local market to purchase ingredients and hands-on instruction in preparing traditional Penang dishes.
2. Penang Homecooking School: This cooking school offers small group classes in a traditional home setting, located just 15 minutes away from Kek Lok Si Temple. Participants will learn to cook authentic Nyonya dishes and enjoy their creations afterwards.
3. Amazing Food Adventure Tour: This tour departs from Kek Lok Si Temple and takes participants on a food-tasting journey through Penang’s historic streets, visiting iconic eateries and sampling local delicacies along the way.
4. George Town Heritage Food Trail: Join a knowledgeable guide on this walking tour where you’ll discover the rich culinary heritage of George Town, including unique foods and diverse flavors influenced by its multicultural history.
5. Nyonya Cuisine Cooking Class and Market Tour: This cooking class combines a visit to the market with hands-on instruction on preparing Nyonya cuisine, all while learning about the culture and history behind these traditional dishes.
Be sure to check each individual tour or class for availability, pricing, and departure times from Kek Lok Si Temple.