Michelin-starred acclaim whispers through vintage shophouse walls, a testament to generations of Nyonya culinary wisdom.
Auntie Gaik Lean, a third-generation chef, stirs memories into each dish, her passion a fragrant spice in every bite. Assam Laksa’s fiery symphony dances on your tongue, Ayam Goreng Berempah’s golden armor shatters to reveal tender secrets.
Pineapple fish sizzles in sweet and spicy Ikan Nenas Assam Pedas, its aroma a love letter to Penang’s heritage. Pulut Hitam, a black glutinous embrace, whispers of comfort at meal’s end.
But Auntie Gaik Lean’s magic goes beyond the Michelin plate. Warm smiles, shared stories, and laughter fill the air, weaving a tapestry of welcome and family.
Come hungry, leave with a heart full of Nyonya warmth and a palate singing with memories. This isn’t just a meal, it’s a Penang treasure waiting to be discovered.
Embrace the legacy, savor the flavors. Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery: Where Nyonya magic transcends time and taste!
Cliff Gerardo
a week agoConcurrently as the most recent guide’s review, this spot is definitely the “worth the wait” in my book. Stellar twist for peranakan cuisine, whilst still remaining accessible (should you make a reservation or wait in line in hopes of that) delicious taste, a unique dining experience where some smaller parties were conjoined in a larger table to fit demands even on an unassumingly rainy Thursday.It serves to always make me feel in love with Malaysian old fashioned cuisine complimented by it’s blue colors and well designed front displays
TFO TFO
a month agoWhat an excellent meal! I just wish we had more than two people there so we could try more. Great flavours, well cooked, friendly staff. Would love to go back and try some other dishes. Quite different flavour profile than the equivalent dish in Singapore but very subtle and yummy!
Philip Dao
2 months agoWe were lucky to get 2 seats at the communal table at this Michelin restaurant. The foods were phenomenal! Auntie is so great with herbs and spices which brought her foods up a notch compared to similar great dishes I’ve had before. I would come back to Penang just to eat here.
Heng Alicia
a week agoThe food overall is not bad, though I would personally prefered if the curries are a little more spicy. I especially love the curry tunis fish, it’s the epitome of well balanced sour and spice gravy. This is the star of the show for sure. I had the curry chicken which was not bad, udang prawns were a let down to me. The Nasi Ulam is ok on it’s own but it doesn’t really go well with the curry. I would prefer white rice. I queued for about an hour, don’t think I will queue so long again for it.. but maybe just for the curry tunis. The seatings are a little awkward for small groups though, I wish they have had small tables.
Dessy Barnaby
2 months agoIt was a lovely lovely dining experience. 4.5/5 and definitely a place worth visiting even if you have to wait. Typically longer wait during dinner and/or weekend but we were lucky during our visits Lovely ambience, comfortable with beautifully curated menu and options that will leave you spoilt for choices. Expect the menu with slight modern take with certain dishes.Must try the menu spread at least once Oh! And did we say, it is also Malaysia's first Michelin Star Nyonya Restaurant. Last pic: How we polished up the foodFrom our experience: Price: 5 🌟 Food: 4.5 🌟 Ambience: 5 🌟 Service: 5 🌟 Cleanliness: 5 🌟 Good for casual, family even work dinner, plenty of parking (across the street paid parking lots)