Malaysia's food is a magnificent fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan influences. Penang is consistently ranked as the world's best street food destination.
1. Nasi Lemak — Village Park, KL
Malaysia's national dish — coconut rice with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and egg.
Must-try: Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng — RM12 (~$2.60 USD)
2. Char Kway Teow — Penang
Flat rice noodles stir-fried with prawns, cockles, and dark soy sauce over high heat.
Must-try: Char Kway Teow — RM10 (~$2.20 USD)
3. Laksa — Air Itam, Penang
Sour fish-based noodle soup with tamarind and torch ginger flower.
Must-try: Assam Laksa — RM6 (~$1.30 USD)
4. Roti Canai — Pelita
Flaky, buttery Indian flatbread with dhal or fish curry.
Must-try: Roti Canai with Dhal — RM4 (~$0.90 USD)
5. Satay — Kajang
Grilled chicken/beef skewers with peanut sauce.
Must-try: Satay Ayam (10 sticks) — RM15 (~$3.30 USD)
6. Cendol — Penang Road
Shaved ice with green jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar.
Must-try: Cendol — RM5 (~$1.10 USD)
7. Nasi Kandar — Line Clear, Penang
Indian Muslim rice with selection of curries and fried chicken.
Must-try: Nasi Kandar — RM12 (~$2.60 USD)
8. Bak Kut Teh — Klang
Herbal pork rib soup simmered for hours.
Must-try: Bak Kut Teh — RM18 (~$4 USD)
9. Mee Goreng — Penang
Mamak fried noodles with tofu, potatoes, and sweet-spicy sauce.
Must-try: Mee Goreng — RM8 (~$1.80 USD)
10. Durian — SS2, Petaling Jaya
The King of Fruits — creamy, pungent tropical fruit.
Must-try: Musang King — RM50-80/kg (~$11-18 USD/kg)
Malaysia Food Budget
Sources: Tourism Malaysia, CNN Travel
