Xin He Cafe Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng was something I had heard about for years but never made it to.
After Sunday service, I finally went with Sharon and Queenine.
Sharon has always been a fan, and I was curious to see how it compared to my childhood favourite.
Since we were chatting about my favorite Koay Teow Th’ng memories, I recounted stories about Ah Hai.
Ever since Ah Hai passed, I haven’t been able to find a broth with that full-bodied, rich flavor that lingers long after the last sip.
The hardest part to get right is always the soup.
A comforting bowl of Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng with crispy pork lard.
Contents
A Hidden Spot on Anson Road
Xin He Cafe sits on a narrow service road off Anson Road in Georgetown, easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.
The cafe keeps it simple with just the Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng and Chicken Rice stall.
The focus is on honest, straightforward flavors rather than fuss or frills.
And regulars clearly appreciate it.
Inviting exterior of Xin He Cafe.
Soup That Hits Every Time
The soup is clear and light, not cloudy or oily.
Every sip carries a gentle meaty depth from duck, pork, and chicken simmered for hours.
The noodles are silky and smooth, and the sliced duck is tender.
A generous pile of pork lard crackling on top adds a satisfying crunch is your a fan.
Bean sprouts topped with crispy pork lard.
Fresh pork lard crackling ready to serve.
It’s comforting and easy to enjoy without feeling heavy.
Sides and Extras
They also serve duck webbed feet and wings cooked until the meat falls off the bone.
Prices have gone up over the years: a small bowl of Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng is now RM 6, and a large is RM 7.50.
Duck Meat Koay Teow Th’ng with Character
The owner is famous for her sharp tongue and short fuse.
You can hear her scolding her helpers, her mother, and sometimes even customers.
Most regulars either ignore her or keep communication minimal.
For me, I took one look, said “one small bowl,” and didn’t bother customizing anything.
I wanted to keep smiling while eating with friends.
Some might call it charm or local character, but I know I won’t return for any sort of drama.
Why Foodies Could Go
For foodies chasing authentic duck Koay Teow Th’ng in Penang, Xin He Cafe is worth the stop.
Maybe I’ll bring Yvonne here next.
The clear, flavorful broth and the pork lard topping make it a comforting, memorable bowl.
As Sharon says, it never disappoints, even if it doesn’t match the legendary Ah Hai’s broth I still remember so well.
Xin He Cafe 啊矮鸭肉面
Opening Hours: Friday to Wednesday, 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. Closed on Thursday.
Address: 72-H, Service Road off Anson Road, 10400, Georgetown, Penang
Blog Disclosure: This blog is written independently. No compensation, free meals, payments, or services have been received from any featured establishments. All reviews are based on the editor’s personal visits with friends while exploring Penang.
