Hameediyah Restaurant, Penang

Malaysia's oldest nasi kandar restaurant, operating since 1907 on Lebuh Campbell, and the taste has not changed. The curry gravy is what sets Hameediyah apart: rich, deeply spiced, and poured generously over your rice. I always go for the mutton curry and fried chicken. The mutton was so tender it fell off the bone. Prices are charged by weight, and a full plate rarely exceeds RM12. Halal.

Came during the busy lunch crowd and waited about 15 minutes for a table. The nasi kandar here is legendary for a reason: the curry gravy combinations are complex and layered. I had chicken and dhal on white rice and the bill was RM9. The lamb shank (when available) is excellent but costs more. The dining room is basic but clean. Now in its seventh generation of family ownership.

The murtabak at Hameediyah is as famous as the nasi kandar, and rightly so. The filling was well-seasoned with minced meat and onions, and the pastry was crispy and flaky. Combined with the signature curry gravy for dipping, it was one of the best things I ate in Penang. Located at 164A Lebuh Campbell, just a short walk from Komtar. Open 10 am to 10 pm daily.

My family has been eating here for three generations. The recipe for the curry gravy has been unchanged since 1907 and you can taste the difference compared to other nasi kandar shops. The chicken is well-marinated and the fried fish is always fresh. Prices are incredibly cheap. A nasi kandar plate with two side dishes costs about RM8 to RM12. This is the real deal.

Visited based on its listing in the Malaysia Book of Records as the country's oldest nasi kandar restaurant. The food lived up to the hype. The mixed curry gravy ladled over rice is outstanding. Lamb was tender and well-spiced. It gets very crowded between noon and 1 pm, so come at 10:30 am or after 2 pm for a calmer experience. Cash is quickest but they accept payment cards.