Ah Leng Char Koay Teow

The question "Which is the best char koay teow in Penang?" is a rather contentious issue. Many Penangites hold on their favorite steadfastly to the grave.

My personal favorite is Ah Leng Char Koay Teow (亚龙炒粿条) in Khoon Hiang Cafe. The place is a pretty run-down coffee shop with no viable attractions save for one: Mr. Leng's char koay teow stall in the front. I wonder whether the coffee shop actually pays him to stay here.

There are 2 major choices: The Standard Char Koay Teow (RM6.00) is a small plate of koay teow (flat noodles), 4 large shrimps, some cockles (蚶), eggs, beansprouts and Chinese chives (韭菜). The Special Char Koay Teow (RM10.50) comes with additional 4 large shrimps and 4 mantis shrimps (虾蛄), but other ingredients remain the same. There is an extra charge (RM0.50) to substitute for duck eggs, or for extra koay teow.
The reason that Ah Leng's cooking stands out is his "fiery" wok skills. He only cooks 2 plates at a time to retain this distinctive signature.

This location is only open till afternoon. In the evening, Ah Leng has another location in Air Itam.

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