Lao Xiang Claypot Bak Kut Teh

Taman Bukit Curry Mee

🍲 Curry Laksa · Taman Bukit, Bukit Mertajam, Penang

🐖 Non-halalRM7–RM12

Order: Mainland Penang curry mee with cockles and pig's blood

Proof that Seberang Perai can rival the island: a Michelin Bib Gourmand every year since 2023. Early birds only — it's a breakfast affair that's done by late morning.

Ming Qin Charcoal Duck Egg Char Koay Teow

🔥 Char Kuey Teow · Bukit Mertajam, Bukit Mertajam, Penang

🐖 Non-halalRM8–RM15Since 2002

Order: Charcoal-fried duck egg char koay teow

Mainland Penang's answer to the island legends, frying over charcoal since 2002 and a Michelin Bib Gourmand pick. Duck egg plus serious charcoal heat makes for deep, smoky wok hei, and it's a proper supper spot.

Ayam Gepuk Pak Gembus Bukit Mertajam

🍗 Ayam Gepuk & Penyet · Bintang Jaya, Bukit Mertajam, Penang

☪︎ Muslim-friendlyRM15–RM25

JAKIM halal (brand)chain

Order: Ayam gepuk set with sambal and peanut bumbu

The brand that kicked off Malaysia's ayam gepuk craze after landing in Gombak in 2017, now with close to a hundred outlets and JAKIM-certified kitchens. On the mainland side of Penang, where specialist gepuk shops are still thin on the ground, this is the reliable pick.