This is my usual Char Kway Teow joint. I've been to Penang on many
occasions and am a big fan of Penang Style Char Kway Teow (CKT).This stall is found in
a corner coffeeshop in a row of shophouses fondly named by Yee Sze as "Red Brick
House". It's not difficult to find, it's just next to the Holland Town Council
which is the newest building in the area, and just across the road from the Buona Vista
Swimming Pool and the neighbourhood police post.
This stall is not quite authentic, because instead of the normal secret ingredient in
any CKT (it's no secret - lard!) they use vegetable oil which is a whole lot more healthy!
The taste suffers the lack of it though and I'm tempted to ask for the unhealthy
version.
The CKT is finely cut and soft a la Penang style and does not have the usual dark sauce
Singaporeans are so accustomed to having in their CKT so this should be an eye opener for
some of the uninitiated. Also by default you do not get cockles so you'd have to ask
for them if you're a shellfish fan. The taste is decent by Penang standards, but
it's rare to get such good Penang CKT out of Penang itself.
Our group was somewhat divided on this review, I and Eugene
like the food, it's Jegher's fav CKT this side of town and Yee Sze gives his usual indifferent "I-don't-mind",
making it a three thumbs up out of four site.
Other recommended food at this joint: Eugene loves the rojak, coz they roast the
you-char-kway and they give you heck of a large serving for a couple of bux. Also
look out for the western food which is pretty decent. The zhi-cha is supposed to be
good, I personally think it's only mediocre but some people like it. Give it a try
and let me know ok?
There's another Penang CKT and Penang food that I've been wanting to write up, third
floor of China Square. Once I get down to it you guys will be the first to know.
- Yuen Ho
