If you’re craving authentic Nyonya cuisine that feels like a warm hug from Grandma’s kitchen, look no further than Yi Zhen Nyonya Kitchen!
This gem is always bustling with friendly aunties and uncles, a true sign of delicious food.
“Did you know there’s a new Nyonya place at Island 88?” Justin excitedly told me.
Last week, Mon and I popped by and found it packed!
But since we had already dined, we decided to wait another day to sample the delights of Yi Zhen Nyonya Kitchen.
This week, we made it our mission to try it out!
Great Atmosphere
The ambiance is cozy and inviting.
The restaurant features a vibrant ‘Picasso Nyonya Mural’ painted by the owner, Mr. Simon Tan.
The ‘Picasso Nyonya Mural’
His collection of batik bowls and plates adds charm, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal.
The dining area in the restaurant is small and cozy, with diners spilling out into the concourse area—what a lively atmosphere!
Justin and I snagged a spot at a couple of small round tables.
I couldn’t help but notice the lovely elderly couple behind us ordering the set lunch.
With such tiny tables, ordering more felt like a juggling act!
Affordable
This place is fantastic for authentic Nyonya food without breaking the bank.
We opted for two set lunches, each featuring rice, curry, two side dishes, and a drink—all for just RM19.80!
What a steal for a filling and tasty lunch!
Yi Zhen Nyonya Kitchen Set Lunch Menu RM19.80 per pax
Flavorful Dishes
Overall, the food we tried was bursting with delicious flavors!
We decided to try the Curry Chicken and Salted Fish Bone Curry, and let me tell you—they were both scrumptious!
The curry chicken was creamy and tender, while the Salted Fish Bone Curry was a delightful blast from the past that I hadn’t enjoyed in ages.
Though the names of the Nyonya dishes might vary slightly in spelling, their flavors are spot-on!
We also indulged in Mangkuang Char (Stir-Fried Yam Bean), Nyonya Achar (Acar Awak), Lo Bak (Five-Spice Pork Roll), and Nyonya Deep-Fried Pancake (Cucuk Udang).
Must-try dishes include Chicken Curry, Kiam Hoo Koot Curry, Lor Bak, Acar, Cucuk Udang, and Bee Koh Moi.
Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Curry Chicken and Salted Fish Bone Curry are delicious!
Set Lunch includes a choice of 1 curry, 2 side dishes, white rice and a drink
Quality
We did notice some of the precooked dishes were heated in the microwave (thanks to our vantage point), which resulted in some temperature inconsistencies.
The curries were nice and warm, but the Lor Bak, Acar, and Cucuk Udang were cool.
Portion sizes are generous for the curries but small for the sides.
Overall, while the food was delightful.
Service Issues
Remember that since the restaurant is a bit small and sometimes a little shorthanded, service may be a tad slow, but the warmth of the owner, Mr. Simon Tan, makes up for it!
He’s a friendly guy who says hi to everyone at the table!
We wish him all the best as he continues growing his restaurant, and we can’t wait to return for more tasty authentic Nyonya cuisine goodness!
Yi Zhen Nyonya Kitchen
118, Jln Tanjung Tokong, Seri Tanjung Pinang, George Town, Penang.
