Ipoh, the capital city of Perak in Malaysia, is a haven for food lovers, especially those who delight in exploring the rich tapestry of street food. The city’s culinary scene is a vibrant mix of traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, creating a unique and irresistible street food culture that draws both locals and tourists alike. Let’s take a deep dive into some of the best street food in Ipoh, and explore the best spots to savor these local flavors.

One cannot discuss Ipoh’s street food without mentioning the famous Ipoh Chicken Rice. This dish consists of succulently poached chicken served with fragrant oily rice and a tangy chili and ginger sauce. The chicken is known for its tender texture and aromatic herbs, while the rice is cooked in chicken broth to enhance its flavor. One of the most popular places to enjoy this dish is at Lou Wong Tauge Ayam Kuetiau. This eatery is often bustling with people who come from all over to taste their renowned version of chicken rice.

Ipoh is the birthplace of the famous Malaysian White Coffee, renowned for its distinctive method of roasting coffee beans with palm oil margarine. This gives the coffee a rich, creamy taste that is less acidic and smoother than the regular black coffee. The best place to enjoy an authentic cup of Ipoh White Coffee is at Sin Yoon Loong, a traditional coffee shop where the beverage is served with a creamy head and balanced sweetness, perfect for coffee enthusiasts.

Nasi Kandar is a popular Malaysian dish of Indian origin and consists of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes. In Ipoh, Nasi Vanggey is legendary and often sees a long queue of patrons eager to sample their flavorful curries, crispy fried chicken, and savory side dishes. It’s a burst of flavor in every bite and a must-try for anyone visiting Ipoh.

Ipoh’s dim sum scene is another attraction not to miss. The city offers a myriad of dim sum joints, serving up steamed buns, dumplings, and other bite-sized delights from the early morning till late. Foh San Dim Sum Restaurant is a local favorite where the variety is vast and the food is always fresh. Be sure to try their shrimp dumplings (har gow) and the pork spare ribs.

Hakka Mee in Ipoh is a simple yet satisfying noodle dish typically topped with minced pork seasoned with soy sauce and served with a side of soup. A popular spot to enjoy Hakka Mee is at Paris Restaurant Hakka Mee, a traditional eatery that has been serving this dish for decades. The noodles are handmade and have a distinctive springy texture that makes them stand out.

This dish is a fusion of creamy coconut milk and spicy chili paste, served with noodles and garnished with chicken, prawns, and the essential boiled egg. Xin Quan Fang, famously known as the 'Police Station Curry Mee' due to its proximity to the local police station, offers one of the best Curry Mee in Ipoh. It’s rich, aromatic, and incredibly addictive.

To cool down from the tropical heat, Cendol is the perfect dessert. This sweet treat is made from shaved ice layered with coconut milk, a worm-like green jelly made from rice flour, red beans, and sweetened with palm sugar syrup. Ansari Famous Cendol in Ipoh serves one of the best in the city, with the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Ipoh is renowned for its Sar Hor Fun, a noodly soup dish featuring silky-smooth flat rice noodles in a clear, savory broth. The broth is typically made from chicken and prawn shells, imparting a deep, umami flavor that is both subtle and complex. The dish is garnished with chicken strips, prawns, and spring onions, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Thean Chun Coffee Shop in Ipoh's Old Town is famous for their version of Sar Hor Fun, beloved by both locals and tourists.

Ipoh's take on Chee Cheong Fun differs from that found in other parts of Malaysia, primarily because it is served plain without any filling and with a trio of sauces: a sweet red sauce, a spicy chili sauce, and a fragrant shallot oil. The rice noodle sheets are incredibly soft and slightly chewy, providing a perfect base for the flavorful sauces. A popular spot to enjoy this dish is at Ipoh Chee Cheong Fun at Ipoh Central Market, where the simplicity of the dish shines through its fresh ingredients.

Rojak in Ipoh is a deliciously refreshing fruit and vegetable salad tossed in a thick, sweet, and spicy peanut sauce. Common ingredients include cucumber, pineapple, turnip, and green mangoes, topped with crushed peanuts for added crunch. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it a popular snack among locals. Ipoh Garden South Rojak is a favored stall where you can taste this vibrant mix, offering a burst of flavors in every bite.

Ayam Taugeh, or Chicken with Bean Sprouts, is another iconic Ipoh dish. The chicken is poached to perfection, tender and juicy, typically served with a pile of blanched bean sprouts which are famously fat and juicy due to Ipoh’s mineral-rich waters. This dish is usually accompanied by a dipping sauce made of soy sauce and chopped chili. Restoran Onn Kee in the heart of Ipoh is well-known for their delicious Ayam Taugeh, drawing crowds throughout the day.

No visit to Ipoh would be complete without trying Heong Peng, a traditional Chinese pastry that translates to 'fragrant pastries' in English. These biscuits are crispy on the outside, slightly flaky, and filled with a sticky, sweet malt filling. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Gunung Rapat Hiong Piah is famous for making these pastries using traditional wood-fired ovens, giving them a distinct smokiness that adds to their allure.

Ipoh's street food scene is a testament to its cultural diversity and culinary richness. These dishes not only satisfy the palate but also provide a glimpse into the local way of life, making your visit to this charming city a truly memorable gastronomic adventure. Whether you are slurping noodles, biting into fresh, zesty salads, or enjoying sweet traditional treats, Ipoh promises a feast for the senses.

Malaysia is a paradise for street food enthusiasts, boasting a rich mosaic of flavors and dishes influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other culinary traditions. Here’s a guide to some of the best places in Malaysia to explore and enjoy street food:

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, is at the heart of Malaysia’s street food scene. The streets of KL are lined with vendors and food stalls that offer an array of local and international dishes. Jalan Alor is perhaps the most famous street for food in KL, bustling with activity and offering everything from grilled seafood to delectable desserts. Petaling Street in Chinatown is another must-visit for food lovers, known for its hawker stalls selling Chinese specialties like dim sum and roast duck.

Often called the food capital of Malaysia, Penang is renowned for its diverse and delicious street food. The capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a stunning variety of street food that reflects the island’s rich cultural heritage. Gurney Drive is a popular waterfront promenade with a large hawker center serving famous dishes like Penang Laksa, Char Kway Teow, and Hokkien Mee. Another spot is Chulia Street, where you can find nighttime vendors selling satay, lor bak, and refreshing coconut ice cream..

Melaka, a historic city on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, offers a unique blend of Portuguese, Dutch, British, Chinese, Indian, and Malay influences. Jonker Street is the centerpiece of Melaka’s vibrant street food scene, especially during the weekend night markets. Here, you can try the famous Chicken Rice Balls, Nyonya Laksa, and the delightful cendol, a traditional icy dessert.

In East Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu (KK) in Sabah offers a coastal take on street food with its array of seafood dishes. The Kota Kinabalu Night Market is a fantastic place to sample fresh seafood like grilled fish, prawns, and even squid. The market also serves up local Sabahan dishes such as Tuaran Mee and Roti Cobra.

These cities showcase the best of Malaysian street food, each offering a distinct array of dishes that reflect their multicultural heritage. Ipoh’s street food scene is a dynamic blend of history, culture, and flavor. Each dish tells a story of the city’s rich cultural tapestry and offers a taste of local life.

From the aromatic brew of Ipoh White Coffee to the complex spices of Nasi Kandar. So, when you visit Ipoh, make sure to bring your appetite and an adventurous spirit to truly experience the best of what this vibrant city has to offer. Book your flight to Malaysia now in Traveloka, your best gateway to the beauty of Southeast Asia.Explore Traveloka for great deals on activities, flight and hotel. Visit Traveloka for more information!