When visiting Ipoh, a must-try food souvenir is the famous Ayam Garam Ipoh, or salt-baked chicken.
This unique dish is perfect for first-timers eager to experience Ipoh’s flavors.
You’ll find it widely available in Ipoh Old Town, New Town, and residential areas like Bercham and Gunung Rapat.
Salt-baked chicken shops sell whole chickens marinated in a mix of Chinese herbs and rice wine, wrapped in parchment paper, then baked with coarse salt to seal in the flavor.
Most Ayam Garam shops, also known as Yim Kok Kai spots, offer only takeaway.
If you want an immediate taste visitors cab enjoy the chicken at their hotels.
Many shops also sell vacuum-sealed, frozen versions, ideal for taking home.
Despite recent price increases, typically around RM33 per chicken, these shops remain popular among visitors to Ipoh.
Here are some top spots to try Ayam Garam in Ipoh, along with pricing and details to help you decide on the best option.
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Ayam Garam Aun Kheng Lim (Main Branch)
Widely regarded as the original salt-baked chicken shop in Ipoh, Aun Kheng Lim is known for its bold herbal flavors, making it a top choice for traditional, iconic taste.
The shop also impresses with its efficiency in managing numerous orders each day!
They even have a 24-hour vending machine, perfect for picking up Ipoh souvenirs anytime.
Location: Jalan Theatre
Price: RM33 per chicken
Note: Takeaway only, so enjoy it on the go or at your hotel.
Image: Ayam Garam Aun Kheng Lim (Main Branch)
Ipoh Kheng Lim Salted Chicken
For a convenient alternative if you’re just driving though and don’t plan to stop by in Ipoh you can head to Gunung Rapat.
Ipoh Kheng Lim is located outside Ipoh Town’s busy areas, where, parking is easier.
Their frozen chickens last up to a month, and you can simply steam them for five minutes or microwave without the wrapper for easy preparation.
Location: Jalan Gunung Rapat
Price: RM33 per chicken
Note: Not affiliated with Aun Kheng Lim despite the similar name.
Ayam Garam See Heong
Ayam Garam See Heong serves up richly flavored salt-baked chicken that competes well with Ipoh’s other favorites.
Their chicken, while smaller, has a strong herbal flavor that fans of bold tastes may enjoy.
Location: Jalan Theatre
Price: RM33 per chicken
Note: Additional branch available in Menglembu, Perak.
Image: Ayam Garam See Heong
Happiness Authentic Salted Chicken
This Ayam Garam Ipoh spot offers a unique “Eight Treasures” variant, infused with additional herbs.
You can get their regular salted chicken with a milder and less salty flavours.
It makes a great choice for those who prefer a gentler herbal taste.
Smoked duck is also available, and you can order single drumsticks if you don’t need a full or half a duck.
Location: Jalan Yau Tet Shin
Price: RM32 per chicken
Note: Located just opposite Lou Wong Restoran Tauge Ayam.
Image: Happiness Authentic Salted Chicken
Feng Weng Salted Chicken
Previously called Ayam Garam Tat Seng, Feng Weng now at Kedai Makanan & Minuman Sin Tat Seng offers a flavorful, albeit smaller, salt-baked chicken with balanced saltiness.
They also have a branch across from Funny Mountain Soya Beancurd, and another location near Octagon Apartments.
Location: Jalan Mustapha Al-Bakry
Price: RM33 per chicken
Note: The Bercham branch offers additional dishes, such as smoked duck and pork options.
Image: Feng Weng Salted Chicken
Getting Around Ipoh
If your hotel in Ipoh isn’t within walking distance of any of these Ayam Garam shops, Grab can provide convenient transportation options.
Where to Find Salt-Baked Meat in Ipoh
Salt-baked chicken shops are widely available in Ipoh’s New Town and neighborhoods like Gunung Rapat and Bercham.
Choose based on your preferred flavor profile—strong herbal, mild, or a balanced in-between.
If you’re looking for alternatives, many shops also offer duck options, including specialties like smoked duck—a delicious twist on this Ipoh favorite!
