Khoon Pastry House

Special thanks to Khoon Pastry House for extending this food review invitation.

Established in 1957, Khoon Pastry House (悦群糕饼中心) at Argyll Road (Jalan Argyll) is one of the oldest confectionery shops in Penang. Originally specializing in traditional and Western pastries, the shop has been converted to an air-conditioned café 3 years ago.

The modern shop retains much nostalgia of its original form. Ceramic tiles cover much of the café's walls and floor. The ordering counter even features a vintage phone with rotary dial. The phone still works except for the fact that the receiver's volume is very soft. Although the second generation has taken the reins of Khoon Pastry House, the patriarch is still pretty much involved in the shop especially when it comes to pastry.

During my previous visit, I tried the Hainanese Chicken Rice, Mutton Shepherd's Pie and Chicken Curry Puff. Today's signature dish to review is the Hainanese Chicken Chop (RM16.90). Coated in batter, the deboned chicken thigh is deep-fried to delightful crispiness. In terms of texture, I think the chicken is at its zenith while it is hot.

Chicken is served with house-signature Hainanese sauce, which is onion gravy based on Worcestershire sauce. Presented on the side are fried potato wedges and mixed vegetables in mayonnaise. According to the proprietor, Hainanese Fried Noodle is yet another signature dish here - but I have yet to try this noodle dish.

As for side orders, Spring Roll (RM7.50 per piece, RM14.00 for two) is highly recommended. The large roll is loaded with chicken, shrimps, shiitake mushrooms, jicama (sengkuang) and carrots. Meanwhile, the accompanying chili sauce carries sharp tanginess of Worcestershire sauce.

Speaking of confectionery, Khoon Pastry House still retains popular pastries from the original shop. Among the bestsellers are fruit cake, layer cake, Swiss rolls, cream puff, cream horn, coconut candy and coffee mooncake.

As the restaurant receives substantial Malay clientele, Khoon Pastry House does not serve pork. Especially on weekends, the restaurant is often fully occupied during peak hours. It is advisable to visit during a non-peak hour to dine under a more relaxed setting.

Name: Khoon Pastry House (悦群糕饼中心)
Address: 29, Jalan Argyll, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-263-2858
Business hours: 11:00am-3:00pm, 6:00pm-9:00pm, closed on Sundays
Website: https://www.facebook.com/khoonpastryhouse
Coordinates: 5.42043 N, 100.33183 E
Directions: From Penang Road (Jalan Penang), turn right to Argyll Road (Jalan Argyll). Khoon Pastry House is located halfway down this road before reaching the Caltex gas station. Street parking is available along Argyll Road.