Penang Sister Yao's Char Koay Kak is one of those old-school Penang food spots that has stood the test of time. It may not look fancy, but this legendary breakfast stall is definitely one to put on your list whenever you are in Penang.

Open in the wee hours of the morning, the stall is run by two sisters in front of Kedai Kopi Seow Long Fye. There are only two food stalls here, with a Chee Cheong Fun stall right beside them.

But don’t let the simple setting fool you. This Michelin Guide-listed Sister Yao's Char Koay Kak is more than enough reason to make a morning trip here.

Yes, Char Koay Kak for breakfast might not be the healthiest choice, but in Penang, it is one of those local dishes that is hard to say no to. The Char Koay Kak comes with plenty of bean sprouts and radish cake, all stir-fried together over high heat. What really makes it stand out is the generous amount of wok hei.

Every bite gives you a lovely contrast of textures. The bean sprouts are crunchy while the radish cake remains soft and slightly chewy. Combined with the savoury seasoning and smoky wok hei, it makes for a very satisfying Penang-style breakfast. It is simple, hearty and full of flavour. Exactly the kind of local food I enjoy discovering when travelling.

Since you already here, you might as well order the Penang-style Chee Cheong Fun from the stall next door.

Unlike the versions you may find elsewhere, Penang Chee Cheong Fun is typically served with a generous amount of Har Ko (prawn paste), giving the dish its distinctive sweet, savoury and slightly pungent flavour. It may be an acquired taste for some, but if you enjoy Penang’s traditional flavours, it is definitely worth trying.

Is Penang Sister Yao's Char Koay Kak Worth Trying?

Absolutely. Penang Sister Yao's Char Koay Kak is the kind of humble roadside breakfast stall that reminds you why Penang is so famous for its food.

There is nothing fancy about the setting. Just two sisters, two food stalls, and plenty of hungry customers in the morning. Yet the combination of smoky wok hei, crunchy bean sprouts and soft radish cake makes this a breakfast worth waking up early for. If you are looking for traditional Penang food and the best local breakfast spots in Penang, put this one on your food list.

Will I return?

Yes, yes!

Ambient: 2/5

Price: $$$

Food: Local Penang food

Service: Average

Sister Yao's Char Koay Kak,

96, Lorong Macalister,

11400 George Town, Penang 

Opens daily from 7.00pm to 12.00 pm except Wednesday 

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Key Points

1. Do I need a reservation? 

No, walk-ins will do. 

2. Is there parking? 

Yes, but limited street parking. 

3. What is the estimated spending per person?

Expect to spend around RM10–RM20 per person.

Written by,

FoodiesTravelblog

Ps: This is based on my personal opinion