Sri Ananda Bahwan, Penang

The banana leaf rice at RM5 is unbeatable value. A full spread of rice, dhal, rasam, three vegetable sides, papadum, and pickles served on a fresh banana leaf. The rogan josh mutton curry (ordered separately) was rich and deeply spiced. Open from 7 am to 11 pm daily on Lebuh Penang, so it works for breakfast, lunch, or a late supper. Halal-certified.

We ate here three times during our five-day stay in Penang and never got tired of it. The butter naan is soft and fluffy, and the chicken butter masala has a creamy, well-balanced sauce. Prices are remarkably low, with a full meal for two around RM20 to RM25. The Little India location at 55 Lebuh Penang is easy to walk to from most George Town hotels.

Best South Indian food in Penang. The roti canai is freshly made and perfectly crispy. Palak paneer was creamy and the thosai was paper-thin. The restaurant is always busy, so expect to wait a few minutes during peak lunch hours. Service can be brusque but it is efficient. A proper banana leaf meal for under RM10 is hard to beat anywhere in Malaysia.

Came for the famous banana leaf rice and it did not disappoint. The variety of side dishes on the leaf is generous and the curries have authentic South Indian flavour. Teh tarik was sweet and frothy. The place gets crowded and noisy during lunch, and service can feel rushed when it is busy. Still, for the price and quality, it is one of the best budget meals in George Town.

A Penang institution. My family has been coming here for years. The fish head curry is outstanding and the mutton varuval is rich and tender. They do both North and South Indian dishes well, which is unusual. Open every day with no off days. Bring cash for the fastest experience, though they accept cards now. RM6 to RM15 per person for a full meal.