In search for Malaysia’s best unearthed food expedition…

Countless accolades have been showered on Malaysia for its culinary legends. We aim not to repeat names familiar with foodies, but to shine the spotlight on the underrated and undiscovered gems of small towns along the route.

Use this guide as a loose reference point for you to plan your own adventures and learn about Malaysia while enjoying some of the best offerings it has. We hope these stories also remind you of the beauty of serendipity. Venture off the road with an open mind and appetite, you never know what surprise awaits you.

Butterworth

Butterworth is a major transportation hub for bus routes and railway lines that do not serve Penang Island. Linked to the island via the Penang Bridge, it serves some of the freshest and cheapest seafood in Penang. We had our share of sedap (Malay for delicious) food. Read on to discover these gems.

Ipoh

Malaysia’s third largest city on the peninsula’s west coast was a town built on the vast fortunes during the booming tin-mining industry in the 19th century. Here, you can find a delectable selection of food from hearty breakfast fare, simple desserts to biscuits as take home gifts. There’s more to the jewel of Perak here.

Batang Kali

A town in the Hulu Selangor district, Batang Kali is often used as a transit point to Genting Highlands, a hill resort in Malaysia famous for its casino and theme parks. Whilst a sleepy town, we picked up famed sesame candy and had an enjoyable meal en route. Find out more on where we stopped.