When people talk about Penang’s rich food culture, the name Hameediyah restaurant always comes up with pride and history. Established in 1907, this restaurant has served authentic nasi kandar for more than a century, becoming a symbol of tradition. Many visitors travel to George Town just to experience its unique flavors and long-standing heritage.
Legacy of Malaysia’s Oldest Nasi Kandar Spot
The journey of Hameediyah restaurant started with Mr. Nalla Kader, who came from Tamil Nadu, India, with a dream to share his food. Over the decades, the restaurant grew from a small stall under a tree into Malaysia’s oldest nasi kandar establishment. This legacy makes every dish more than just a meal, but rather a story of culture, family, and survival.
Detailed Menu
| Dish | Description | Average Price (MYR) |
|---|---|---|
| Nasi Kandar (Plain Rice) | Steamed white rice served with curry gravy | RM 2.50 – RM 3.00 |
| Fried Chicken | Crispy spiced chicken, Hameediyah’s bestseller | RM 7.00 – RM 8.00 |
| Beef Rendang | Slow-cooked beef with rich coconut spices | RM 6.50 – RM 7.50 |
| Lamb Shank Curry | Tender lamb shank in spicy curry gravy | RM 25.00 – RM 28.00 |
| Fish Curry | Fresh fish simmered in tangy curry sauce | RM 8.00 – RM 10.00 |
| Mutton Curry | Spiced mutton curry with thick gravy | RM 12.00 – RM 14.00 |
| Squid Curry | Squid rings cooked in a spicy curry blend | RM 9.00 – RM 11.00 |
| Vegetable Dishes | Seasonal vegetables cooked with spices | RM 3.00 – RM 4.50 |
| Egg Curry / Fried Egg | Egg prepared with curry or fried with spices | RM 2.50 – RM 3.50 |
| Ayam Ros (Rose Chicken) | Special chicken dish cooked in fragrant red sauce | RM 7.00 – RM 8.50 |
| Biryani Rice | Flavored rice with spices, served with curry | RM 7.00 – RM 9.00 |
Starters
At Hameediyah Restaurant, the menu is divided into starters, mains, and beverages, providing visitors with a comprehensive dining experience. For starters, simple yet flavorful items like vegetable curries, fried eggs, and light side dishes prepare the palate for the rich flavors ahead. These smaller dishes are affordable and ideal for those who want to sample the spices without going for heavier plates.
Drinks
To complement the food, the drinks menu features traditional Malaysian favorites like teh tarik, iced lime juice, and fresh coconut water. These refreshing options balance the rich spices of the mains, making the dining experience complete. For those who prefer something lighter, plain water and soft drinks are also available, ensuring every visitor finds the right choice.
Dining Experience
One thing that makes the experience unique at Hameediyah is the fair pricing system based on food weight. This method ensures customers only pay for what they choose, making it both economical and practical. The combination of high-quality food and fair pricing makes the restaurant appealing to both locals and tourists.
Mains
Hameediyah Restaurant, The mains are the highlight, with nasi kandar, biryani rice, fried chicken, beef rendang, mutton curry, and lamb shank taking center stage. Each dish is cooked with secret spice blends that have been passed down for over a century, offering bold flavors and authentic textures. The variety allows customers to mix rice with different curries and meats, creating a meal that is both filling and memorable.
Why People Keep Returning
The reason people keep coming back to Hameediyah lies in its mix of taste, tradition, and consistency. Every visit gives a sense of history while offering food that satisfies deeply. This loyalty demonstrates how the restaurant has not only survived but also thrived through more than a century of changes.
Locations & Operating Hours
You can find Hameediyah at 164 Lebuh Campbell, George Town, in the heart of Penang. The atmosphere inside combines traditional design with modern touches, creating a space where history meets comfort. Visitors enjoy both the local vibes and the warm hospitality that comes from a family-run business.
| Location | Address | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| George Town (Main Outlet) | 164 Lebuh Campbell, George Town, Penang | Daily, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Kota Damansara, Selangor | 32 Jalan PJU 5/20B, The Strand, Kota Damansara | Daily, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Sunway Nexis, Kota Damansara | Jalan PJU 5/1, Dataran Sunway, Petaling Jaya | Daily, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ampang, Selangor | Jalan Wawasan 2/3, Bandar Baru Ampang | Daily, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Damansara Uptown, Petaling Jaya | Jalan SS21/39, Damansara Uptown | Daily, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hameediyah restaurant is not just a place to eat but a living history of Malaysia’s culinary world. It represents tradition, resilience, and family dedication that continue to inspire visitors from all over the world. Anyone visiting Penang should make time to experience this historic restaurant and savor its unforgettable nasi kandar.
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