Eatery with rich history continues to enchant nasi kandar lovers

The lamb shank is a must-try for every diner.

HAMEEDIYAH Restaurant in Penang not only holds the distinction of being the oldest nasi kandar outlet in Malaysia but also impresses with its uniquely mouth-watering flavours.

With a rich history dating back to 1907, the original shop in Campbell Street (previously known as Kedai 164 in reference to its physical address) in Penang island has survived two World Wars.

Now managed by the fifth generation of founding father Nalla Kader, the restaurant has remained a firm favourite with nasi kandar lovers over the decades. The secret lies in its hand-ground spice blends that are prepared fresh daily for that distinct taste.

The household name has recently set up two new outlets in Medan Perniagaan Pauh Jaya along Jalan Baru, Prai, and Kota Damansara in Kuala Lumpur.

Spanning three shop lots with a 2,000sq ft dining area, the fully air-conditioned Prai restaurant is touted as the most modern and trendiest nasi kandar shop in Penang with its computerised ordering system and high-tech kitchen.

Diners have the option of ordering their food via self-serve (select the dishes at the display counter) or hidang-style (order at the table). The restaurant can seat up to 160 people.

Prawn curry is another favourite among customers.

Specials here include turkey, pheasant and Manila duck curries, ayam kampung bawang, ayam ros, ayam kapitan, lamb shank, prawn curry, beef rendang and fish head curry.

Every dish stands out with that special oomph to indulge taste buds. Tasting is believing, discover for yourself the drawing power of Hameediyah that has withstood the test of time for over a century.

The eatery also staked the claim of being the inventor of murtabak in 1941, which it spells as murtabah to this day. Taste the difference in terms of the masala blend, flavour and texture.

Also on the menu are roti pisang, koay teow goreng, nasi goreng daging, pasembor, kambing bakar, ikan bakar, ayam madu, ayam kurma, kelempung, kambing Mysore and sotong goreng.

More choices consist of a variety of briyani such as prawn, lamb shank and chicken as well as Set Talam Hameediyah for two or four people. Coming soon are the tandoori and shish kebab.

To complement your meal is a selection of refreshing drinks like ice blended mint leave, coconut milk shake and bandung Jagger and desserts comprising bread pudding and brownie cake with ice cream.

Don’t forget to check out the cake counter featuring sweet indulgences such as berry cheese pie, Oreo crumble pie and red velvet cake, just to name a few.

With ample parking, the outlet is open from 11am to 10.30pm daily except Tuesdays. Further enquiries, call 04-3830663 or e-mail [e-mail].