Come for Malay classics, Chinese favourites, Penang street food and Western fare
GREAT food often tells the story of a place, and in Malaysia, that story has always been one of diversity.
Centuries of cultural exchange have shaped a culinary landscape where Malay, Chinese, Indian and Western influences coexist and inspire one another.
This spirit of unity through diversity – often described as muhibah – forms the foundation of Ka Satu Dining, the signature restaurant of The George Penang by The Crest Collection.
The outlet was formerly known as Saffron Dining but was revamped earlier this year.
Its new name pays tribute to the island’s past and is based on an ancient Indonesian mariner’s reference to it as “Pulau Ka Satu” or “The First Island” as it was the first landmass their expedition spotted.
Hotel head chef Muhammad Paez Zaim Mohd Fuzi said the new menu highlighted Penang’s melting pot of cultures.
“We serve an eclectic selection of Malay classics, Chinese favourites, Penang street food and contemporary Western fare.
“This allows diners to taste the diversity that defines Malaysian cuisine and the spirit of her people,” he said.
Starters such as Sup Kambing Rempah Tok, Kerabu Ayam Kampung Pisang and Acar-Acar evoke the nostalgia of home.
Mouth-watering mains such as Ayam Masak Lemak, Ikan Siakap Masak Lemak, Udang Laut Segar Sambal Petai, Rendang Daging Pusaka and Pucuk Paku Lemak Cili Padi further illustrate the warmth and depth of Malay cooking.
“These carry the legacy of Penang’s role as a spice trading hub. The spices that arrived on these shores define the flavours we enjoy today,” said the chef, a Penang local.
Complementing those are Chinese dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, Kam Heong Fish, Hong Shao Beef and Broccoli in Oyster Sauce, which offer a different profile of flavours.
As the restaurant overlooks George Town’s famous Chulia Street where generations of hawkers have operated, it would be almost unthinkable not to celebrate that street food culture.
Thankfully, staples such as Penang Char Koay Teow, White Curry Mee and Hokkien Mee are included and can be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort.
Western favourites like Rosemary Ribeye Steak, Sous Vide Salmon, pizzas and pastas also acknowledge the British colonial influences that added to Penang’s gastronomic identity.
“George Town is a city where cultures and traditions have blended for generations. We want our offerings to tell its stories.
“This inclusiveness extends beyond the menu. Our kitchen is halal-certified so families, friends, business associates and visitors of all backgrounds can comfortably gather around the same table,” added the chef.
These dishes are available à la carte from noon to 10pm daily, with prices ranging from RM16+ to RM72+ per dish.
Prefer a complete meal? Go for the five-course Western Fusion set menu instead. This is available from 11am to 10pm daily and priced at RM68+.
It opens with appetisers of Oriental Red Pearl and Fragrant Smoked Cauliflower Soup, followed by main course options of Baked Chicken Breast, Seared Barramundi Fillet or Sicilian Vegetarian Pasta, and then Honolulu Chocolate Mousse for dessert plus coffee or tea.
Ka Satu Dining is also carving out a niche as an afternoon tea destination with its West Orient set featuring locally inspired bites such as crunchy shrimp and vegetable fritters, roti jala with chicken curry, Nyonya kuih, Ka Satu siew mai and Portuguese egg tart complemented by teh tarik.
This is priced at RM78+ for two people and served from 3pm to 5pm daily. Wednesday to Sunday sessions are enlivened by traditional Malay gamelan performances.
“It makes afternoon tea feel more of an immersive cultural experience,” chef Muhammad Paez said.
KA SATU DINING, The George Penang by The Crest Collection, 138, Penang Road, George Town, Penang. Tel: 04-2919000. Business hours: 7am-10.30pm daily.
This is the writer’s personal observation and not an endorsement by StarMetro.
