Is there anything better in this world than a well-made nasi lemak? It’s such a comfort food that when done well, it can make any Malaysian’s day feel infinitely better. Thus, we are always on the lookout for good nasi lemak places.
Say hello to Ali Nasi Lemak
Image Credit: Sam K on Google Review (Left), Atrayee Basu on Google Review (Right)
Penang has quite a few of these places. When it comes to value for money, though, there’s no beating Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang. This simple nasi lemak stall on Beach Street regularly draws lines of customers, and for good reason.
If you plan on visiting the stall, it is best to do so as soon as it opens at 7 am. Come later in the morning, and you will have to join a long queue. Drop by too late and there’s a high chance the nasi lemak has been sold out.
A crowd favourite
Image Credit: Nabil Imran on Google Review (Left), David Huang on Google Review (Right)
But what is it about Ali Nasi Lemak that draws the crowds? Finding a simple food stall with over 1,000 Google Reviews and an average of 4.2 stars is not easy! As any Penangite will tell you, something good is cooking here.
The stall is run by a team of Malay aunties who effortlessly deal with the endless lines of customers. It is also located within a food court, and if you choose to dine-in, you ought to order a drink. Not doing so will have you charged RM1 otherwise.
Affordable nasi lemak
Image Credit: David Huang on Google Review (Left), Traveller Jun on Google Review (Right)
At present, the stall has just five types of nasi lemak. What is interesting, however, is that they are all priced at RM3, regardless of the toppings. The available types are egg with ikan bilis, prawn, squid, ayam, or salted fish.
Small portions
The portions sold here are not particularly big. It is not unusual for customers to buy two or even more for themselves to feel full. The packets, like any good nasi lemak, are wrapped in banana leaves.
A plain, good nasi lemak
Image Credit: Sil Lifestyles on Google Review (Left), Fred Chen on Google Review (Right)
Most folks go for the first type, the egg with ikan bilis. It is the most conventional nasi lemak one could enjoy, but there is much to enjoy. The fragrant rice, fiery sambal, umami egg and crunchy ikan bilis are all perfectly done in this single packet.
Fiery sambal
What makes people come back here for more has to be the stall’s sambal. Served in generous amounts, the sambal is famously fiery and packs a kick. In fact, those with more sensitive palates are welcome to request toned-down spiciness levels.
Fragrant rice
Sambal is one thing, but well-cooked rice is another. The stall serves customers a well-balanced rice, with minimal clumping and each grain neatly separated. Paired with the sambal, this makes for the perfect combo.
Worth your time?
Image Credit: Harvintha Reddy on Google Review (Left), Carmen Heah on Google Review (Right)
So, the next time you are heading to Penang, don’t think about char kway teow and laksa only. Ali Nasi Lemak is worth a pit stop, especially if you love all things spicy. Just be sure to buy it in the morning when it’s hot and fresh for max enjoyment.
Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang
Address: Sri Weld Food Court, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang
Opening Hours: 7 am – 2 pm Monday-Friday | 7 am – 1 pm Saturday | Closed on Sundays
Contact: 016-4070717
Halal Status: Muslim-owned & pork-free
You should also check out: This nasi lemak owner in PJ is serving spicy ayam varuval made from a 30-year-old family recipe
Feature Image Credit: Henry Koay on Google Review (Left), Joe Nagawa on Google Review (Right)
