When you visit George Town in Penang, food is one of the main highlights. Among the many famous eateries, Teksen Restaurant stands out. Established in 1965, this restaurant started as a small hawker stall known as Teik Seng Rice Stall. Over the years, it grew into a popular dining spot that attracts locals and tourists daily. The place has managed to maintain its family-run charm while gaining recognition from the MICHELIN Guide with a Bib Gourmand award.
What is Teksen Restaurant?
The story of Teksen Restaurant is about humble beginnings. It began as a stall selling rice dishes, built on the simple principle of offering affordable meals with honest flavors. With time, the founders expanded their menu, adding Cantonese dishes with a local twist. What makes this history even more fascinating is that it remains family-owned, carrying forward traditions while adjusting to modern tastes.
Detailed Menu
| Dish Name | Description | Price (MYR) |
|---|---|---|
| Deep-fried Homemade Tofu with Egg White Gravy | Signature tofu dish with prawns and dried scallops in rich gravy | 28 – 38 |
| Double Roasted Pork with Chili Padi | Sweet, spicy pork belly glazed with sauce and chili padi | 32 – 42 |
| Assam Tumis Curry (Pomfret / Stingray) | Tangy and spicy curry cooked with fresh fish | 35 – 55 |
| Stir-fried Water Spinach (Kangkung Belacan) | Water spinach stir-fried with sambal and dried shrimp | 18 – 25 |
| Sweet & Sour Chicken | Crispy chicken chunks in a sweet and tangy sauce | 28 – 38 |
| Claypot Tau Fu with Seafood | Soft tofu braised with prawns, squid, and vegetables in claypot | 30 – 40 |
| Crispy Fried Prawns with Salted Egg | Prawns coated in creamy salted egg yolk sauce | 42 – 55 |
| Steamed Eggplant with Garlic & Chili Sauce | Tender eggplant in savory garlic sauce with a hint of spice | 20 – 28 |
| Braised Duck with Yam | Traditional Teochew-style duck braised with yam slices | 35 – 48 |
| Homemade Soup of the Day | Rotating traditional soups like herbal chicken or lotus root soup | 12 – 18 |
Signature Dishes
The menu at Teksen Restaurant offers a wide range of dishes, but certain meals stand out. The deep-fried homemade tofu with egg white gravy, prawns, and dried scallops is highly recommended by the MICHELIN Guide. Another favorite is the double-roasted pork with chili padi, which balances sweetness with spicy heat. For seafood lovers, the Assam Tumis Curry with pomfret or stingray delivers tangy and bold flavors. These signature meals reflect the creativity of combining Cantonese style with local ingredients.
Why Locals Love Teksen
The restaurant is more than just a dining spot; it is a cultural experience. Locals return regularly because they trust the flavors and consistency. Families often gather here, making it a popular place for celebrations. The food is prepared with attention to detail, and the staff ensures quick service despite the heavy crowds. This blend of comfort, tradition, and taste explains why Teksen has remained strong for decades.
Dining Atmosphere
Eating at Teksen Restaurant is an experience filled with anticipation. You may have to wait in line, but the wait is worth it once the food arrives. The restaurant is lively, with the sound of conversations mixing with the clatter of woks from the kitchen. The service is efficient, and dishes are served quickly after ordering. Even with the simple setup, the energy inside the restaurant makes the experience memorable.
Visiting Information
For those planning a visit, it is important to know the timings. Teksen opens for lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM and for dinner from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays. Due to high demand, arriving early is highly recommended. The location is central, so it is easy to include in a day of sightseeing around George Town’s heritage zone.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Established | 1965 (Originally Teik Seng Rice Stall) |
| Location | 18 & 20 Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town |
| Cuisine | Cantonese with local influences |
| Award | MICHELIN Bib Gourmand |
| Opening Hours | Lunch: 11:30 AM–2:00 PM, Dinner: 5:30–8:00 PM |
| Closed | Tuesdays |
This table provides clear details for travelers who want to plan their dining visit effectively.
Why Tourists Visit Teksen
Travelers from around the world include Teksen in their Penang itinerary. Its location in a UNESCO heritage area makes it convenient to stop by after exploring nearby attractions. Tourists often share their dining experiences online, highlighting how the food represents the soul of Penang’s culinary identity. The recognition from the MICHELIN Guide adds even more reason for international visitors to taste its famous dishes.
Location and Ambience
Teksen Restaurant is located at 18 & 20 Lebuh Carnarvon in George Town, making it easy to access. The setting is simple and unpretentious, with traditional Chinese decor. Red tablecloths, Chinese calligraphy, and the lively atmosphere reflect its heritage roots. Although it has expanded into two shop lots, the restaurant still carries a homey and communal feel. During meal hours, the place quickly fills up, and queues outside are very common.
| Location | Closed Days | Lunch Hours | Dinner Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 & 20 Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, Penang | Every Tuesday | 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM (last order) |
Recognition and Awards
One of the biggest achievements for Teksen was earning the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand award, which recognizes good food at good value. This award showcases the dedication of the restaurant to quality and consistency. The recognition has also attracted more international visitors who want to experience its famous Cantonese dishes. This milestone puts Teksen among the must-visit food spots in Penang.
Conclusion
Teksen Restaurant is more than a place to eat—it is a part of Penang’s living heritage. From its humble beginnings as a small rice stall to becoming a globally recognized restaurant, its journey is inspiring. The combination of authentic flavors, warm service, and cultural value makes it special. Whether you are a local who grew up enjoying its dishes or a traveler seeking authentic Penang cuisine, This Restaurant is a must-visit. Its legacy continues to thrive, proving that genuine taste and tradition always stand the test of time.
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