Happy to squat again for porridge

GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s iconic “squatting” Teochew porridge is back in business, much to the delight of loyal patrons.

The stall located along the busy Magazine Road here decided to call it a day early last year but now has a new operator, and customers are glad they can return to enjoy their favourite meal there once again.

Among them was Felix Tan, 53, who had been frequenting the place for the last 30 years before it ceased operations last year.

He gave his thumbs-up to the food, saying it had not changed much under the new owner.

“I didn’t know that someone new had taken over until a friend of mine told me. The food still tastes the same.

“I am glad that the stall reopened for business as I really miss the authentic taste of the dishes, which you cannot get elsewhere on the island,” said Tan.

He added that the place is unique as stools are placed on benches for customers to experience having their meal in a squatting position.

No frills: Patrons enjoying porridge at the stall in Magazine Road.

“There is nothing fancy about the dishes which go well with the porridge, but those who come here regularly like it that way,” he said.

Another patron, KG Soon, 62, said he has been visiting the place for 40 years.

“I was a bit disappointed when it closed down last year, so I’m glad the new owner has maintained the taste and price of the dishes.

“I come here a few times a week as my business is mostly in town and this is the most convenient place for lunch,” said Soon, who is Tan’s relative.

The previous operator ceased operations early last year after more than eight decades serving ordinary folk here.

The Teochew porridge stall, which belonged to Tan Jin Hock, 80, used to be a popular spot for the elderly to gather during lunchtime along the busy road.

Patrons would squat on a stool on top of benches to slurp down bowls of hot porridge at the stall.

The “squatting” Teochew porridge stall is believed to be Penang’s last of its kind then.

The new operator, Ooi Yew Meng, 68, said he decided to take over the business in April last year and serve economy rice other than porridge.

“I decided to add different flavours to the dishes, something I learnt from working in several places, including in an Indian restaurant, but still retaining the authenticity of the food.

“My previous shop in Kuala Lumpur, which I was operating for 13 years, also had Teochew porridge and economy rice,” said Ooi, who was a chef.

He said people are happy that the stall has reopened, adding that they complimented him for maintaining the original taste.

“I am considering keeping the stall open until 9pm as there are people who like to take their dinner after 6pm.

“I will continue to maintain the squatting style for patrons although there are proper chairs and tables, as this ‘squatting’ Teochew porridge outlet has heritage. There is no other such place on the island,” said Ooi.

Currently, the Teochew porridge stall operates Thursdays to Mondays from 9am to 5pm.