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Hainanese Heaven in Penang: Kong Thai Lai Coffee Shop
Step into a time capsule of Penang’s culinary past at Kong Thai Lai Coffee Shop! This iconic shophouse has been simmering up Hainanese comfort food for over 80 years, and each bite is a journey through generations.
Indulge in the undisputed king: Hainanese chicken rice. Tender, poached chicken glistens with a golden soy sauce glaze, nestled atop fluffy, fragrant rice. It’s a simple symphony that sings on your tongue.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Dive into the fiery depths of Penang laksa, a spicy noodle fiesta with shrimp and cockles. Or savor the creamy embrace of Johor laksa, a milder delight with chicken and tofu. Craving something smoky and savory? Char kway teow hits the spot, a stir-fried dance of noodles, prawns, and eggs.
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Jlor
a month agoThe restaurant offers traditional Chinese breakfast items, including fried kway teow, nasi lemak package, with a focus on various types of roti.Personally, I feel it is a bit overrated and comes across as just a typical traditional Chinese breakfast spot.We tried the fried kway teow, but my friend from Penang felt it didn't meet their standards, although it did have wok smell.The place is non-air-conditioned and can get quite hot.
Sabah Kendo
3 months agoUpdate 20/4/24 Visit again in their new shop. Still the same old taste.Best local coffee in town. Visit this coffee shop twice during my trip in Penang. Service is good and fast, staff very friendly. The coffee, the toast and the half boiled eggs are perfectly done. A very good place to relax after long walk in the surrounding.
Vivien Tan
6 months agoGood old toast and eggs! Bread was perfectly toasted and fragrant but margerine lacks a little. Drinks were diluted so be sure to ask for kopi/ teh to be gao.
Jeffrey Chan
a year agoThe butter taste flavourful. Toasted bread is a bit tough and dry. Overall….can visit if u plan this place along the way of your itinerary.I saw patrons started to order the CKT when the CKT aunty arrived at her stall. I did not order the CKT. I did not observe WOW expression when they eat the noodles.The food shop assistant is friendly and well spoken in English. But the temperature of the food shop is warm even the weather is cloudy.
Mahirah Law
a year agoGot recommended to try Kong Thai Lai instead of waiting out the queue for Toh Soon Cafe. Have to say that it was such a great decision because I enjoyed this iced coffee so much more! The signature Roti Kahwin was really fluffy and they also serve other local dishes if you want something more substantial. Hope to revisit sometime!