For fans of Malay chicken rice or nasi ayam, my favourite stall is Dwi Archipelago Spices Chicken Rice along Persiaran Gurney.
This small food court, Kompleks Makanan Persiaran Gurney (KMPG), is run by the Penang Island City Council.
It mainly serves the Malay community and still carries that familiar neighbourhood charm.
KMPG may look modest, but it’s always filled with the aroma of good food and friendly chatter.
Over the years, it has become my go-to stop for comforting local fare — especially the Malay chicken rice that keeps me coming back.
I used to eat here almost every week when I was working in Pulau Tikus.
The place holds a special spot in my heart.
I haven’t been back for some time, yet the aroma of that chicken rice still lingers in my memory.
The Heart of Malay Chicken Rice
Walk in from the pedestrian crossing and follow the scent of fried chicken in the air.
That trail leads straight to Dwi, a stall known for its beautifully seasoned nasi ayam.
On my last visit, the air was thick with the smell of shallots and spices sizzling in oil.
The stall is run by a cheerful Malay mother and son team.
Her son manages the wok of fried chicken.
She welcomes and serves customers with a smile.
Watching them work together reminded me that great food often starts at home, passed from one generation to the next.
Malay Chicken Rice
The Malay chicken rice here is simple and full of flavour.
Each plate of nasi ayam comes with fluffy, fragrant rice cooked in herbs.
The fried chicken is golden, crispy outside and tender inside.
Their special Nasi Ayam Herba Perap Berempah Nusantara, stands out for its depth of flavour.
You can taste turmeric, lemongrass, and garlic in every bite.
The marinated chicken carries that unmistakable home-cooked aroma.
A sunny-side-up egg sits beside the rice, and the tangy chilli sauce adds a lively kick.
At RM8 per set, it’s a comforting meal that satisfies completely.
Every bite reminds me why Penang’s hawker food scene never loses its soul.
It’s not about glamour. It’s about honest food cooked with pride and care.
Spices Chicken Rice Stall
Cool Drinks and Warm Memories
I usually pair my Malay chicken rice with a glass of chilled coconut water. It’s light, cooling, and perfect after a plate of fried chicken and rice.
The stall also serves a lovely three-layer iced tea made with tea, milk, and gula Melaka. The sweet, creamy layers bring a touch of nostalgia to the meal.
Spices Chicken Rice Set
Why You Should Nasi Ayam
If you’re craving authentic nasi ayam in Penang, stop by Dwi Archipelago Spices Chicken Rice at Gurney Drive.
It’s not fancy or touristy — just genuine food made with heart.
Maybe it’s the warmth of the people, or maybe it’s the taste that carries a memory.
Either way, this small stall captures what Malay chicken rice should be — fragrant, soulful, and deeply satisfying.
Next time you’re near Gurney Drive, skip the crowds and head to this food court.
Sit down, take a bite, and let the flavours remind you why Penang’s hawker food still matters.
Discover the Best Chicken Rice in Penang in our full guide.
Dwi Archipelago Spices Chicken Rice
Kompleks Makanan Persiaran Gurney (KMPG)
Persiaran Gurney, 10250 Penang
Hours: 8 am – 7.30 pm
Closed on Friday
Disclaimer: This meal was paid for by the writer. All opinions are honest and reflect my personal experience.
