If you’re visiting Ipoh and wondering which salt-baked chicken to try, Ayam Garam Aun Kheng Lim is the top choice.
Choosing the Best Ayam Garam in Ipoh: A Quick Guide for Visitors
Ayam Garam Aun Kheng Lim has achieved almost legendary status for its deliciously aromatic, tender meat that surprises beyond its simple appearance.
Salt-baked chicken perfectly illustrates the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.”
While it may look like a regular cooked chicken, and some customers even say it looks unappealing.
But a single bite reveals why it’s everyone’s favourite Salt-baked Chicken (Yim Kok Kai).
Why Is Ayam Garam So Special?
What makes this dish stand out?
The chicken, known as Yim Kok Kai in Cantonese, is unique for two main reasons.
Health Benefits: The chicken is marinated with an herbal marinade containing Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis), which is known for its health benefits.
Cooking Method: The chicken is double-wrapped in cooking paper and placed in a cooker filled with smoking hot, coarse, high-quality salt. This method ensures even cooking and infuses the chicken with incredible flavor without imparting excessive saltiness.
When stored in the fridge, the chicken soup becomes jelly, which dissolves after steaming.
Why Choose Aun Kheng Lim?
Is this place worth the visit?
Here are some reasons why it stands out.
Authenticity & Freshness: With over 30 years of history, Ayam Garam Aun Kheng Lim has built a reputation for traditional recipes and consistent quality.
They offer fresh and frozen options, allowing you to enjoy it immediately or take one home as a souvenir.
Unique Presentation: Each chicken is sold whole, wrapped in cooking paper, and presented in a bright red box, adding a touch of festivity to your experience.
Rich, Herbal Flavor: Before baking, the cavity is filled with Chinese herbs, ginger, and rice wine, creating a rich aroma.
The meat is juicy, tender, and practically falls off the bone.
What Should I Expect When Buying?
What can I expect when I get there?
Here’s what you need to know.
The Experience: The best way to enjoy it is to gather friends, find a quiet spot, tear open the paper, and dig in!
It’s ideally eaten hot and fresh, but the convenient box makes it easy to take home for later.
Just a heads up—once you open that chicken for “just a taste,” it’s hard to stop!
Practical Tips for Visitors: Priced at RM33 per bird, this salted chicken is a favorite for locals and tourists.
The shop is well-staffed, so the wait is usually only 5-10 minutes, even on busy days.
Call ahead if you’re visiting on a weekend or public holiday, as they often sell out.
We decided to remove the paper wrapper before steaming the Chicken.
There’s a nice giblet!
Lots of aromatics
Can I Buy It to Take Home?
Is there a takeaway available? Yes, this shop specializes in takeaway only. They also offer vacuum-packed salt-baked chickens, ideal for traveling long distances or saving them for later.
Important Considerations
No Dine-In Option: Since there is no dine-in option, plan to enjoy the chicken hot at your hotel or chosen location.
Storage: If stored at room temperature, the chicken lasts a day or two, but it can last up to a week in the fridge.
It stays delicious when frozen for months—steam it before eating.
Convenient Vending Machine: If you miss shop hours, there’s a vending machine outside, so you can enjoy this unique ayam garam anytime.
Remember, the Chicken is salty!
Aun Kheng Lim Salted Chicken makes it delicious, but be ready to have a few drinks of water after you eat it!
Jalan Theatre, Ipoh
Tip: Call ahead on weekends and public holidays to ensure you don’t miss out on this must-try dish!
So, if you’re in Ipoh, don’t miss the chance to taste the city’s most famous salt-baked chicken!
Ayam Garam Aun Kheng Lim (Main Branch)
Address: 24, Jalan Theatre, Taman Jubilee, 30300 Ipoh, Perak
Hours: Daily 9 am–6 pm
Phone: 05-254 2998
Blog Disclosure: This is a NOT sponsored blog post. All opinions are mine. The writer and friends paid for their meal.
Update Note: This guide was last reviewed on 29 October 2024 to ensure accuracy and relevance. For the latest information regarding hours, menu options, and special promotions, please visit Aun Kheng Lim’s official social media pages or contact them directly.
Interesting n informative n yet humorous and it cheers up my day.
Thanks for visiting Michelle!