101 Rojak (Rojak Ho Wei Jeng) is renowned for having one of the longest queues at Medan Renong Food Court—and it’s worth going early!
As a food lover and blogger, I always search for unique and authentic culinary experiences.
101 Rojak has been on my radar for some time, but parking at Padang Kota Lama can be challenging.
Among the myriad of food stalls at the Esplanade Food Court (Kompleks Makanan Medan Renong Padang Kota Lama), the 101 Rojak stall stands out!
You can see long queues of both locals and tourists.
This famed spot, located right by the sea, is known for its distinct take on this classic Malaysian dish.
Given the tricky parking situation, the best strategy is to beat the crowd by arriving as early as 5 p.m.
One Friday, Irene, Yvonne, and I went to satisfy our craving for Pasembur.
Medan Renong Food Court
Medan Renong Food Court at Padang Kota Lama has two sections.
The one on the left primarily features Pasembur stalls, with every stall claiming to be “Famous” in big letters!
It was hilarious—so which one is famous?
Our choice was made for us as there were no vacant tables in this section, and they were undergoing some construction, so seating was minimal.
We headed to the section on the right.
We wanted to try the Green Tom Yam, but it wasn’t open yet—all the workers were busy with food prep.
So, we decided to enjoy Pasembur.
We savored our fruit juices, the tasty Pasembur, including one incredibly delicious fish fritter!
The 101 Rojak Experience
After our meal, we chatted a bit and noticed that the stall owner of 101 Rojak had arrived with trolleys and bags of fresh fruit and ingredients.
Irene said, “If you’re not rushing, I’ll get a number and queue for the rojak.”
When she walked over, she got number 5 in the queue!
As the stall opened, the anticipation was palpable.
Cut fruit ready for your rojak mix, featuring a variety of fresh ingredients
101 Rojak
Our plate of 101 Rojak (RM12) included a medley of fresh fruits and vegetables.
It has pineapple, guava, mango, cucumber, and tofu, with an unexpected twist – Sotong Bakar (BBQ dried squid).
The first bite of the squid caught me off guard, packed with a delightful umami depth to the dish.
The Sauce
The magic of rojak lies in its sauce, and 101 Rojak’s version was sweet and sticky, reminiscent of molasses.
This sauce, infused with tamarind and shrimp paste, creates a tangy and savory profile.
While it leaned a bit too sweet for my taste, I can understand why it’s popular among many.
The sauce generously coats the fruits and vegetables, making each bite an explosion of flavors.
Personally, I would have preferred a spicier version with a more acidic tang.
One thing to note is the addition of deep-fried, crunchy Ewe Char Kueh (Chinese crullers).
Some pieces can be hard, so be careful when biting into them.
101 Rojak is worth waiting for—an irresistible mix of fruits and vegetables with a flavorful sauce.
The Verdict
101 Rojak is a must-try for anyone visiting Penang.
The dish is a delightful blend of fresh fruits and vegetables, topped with a sauce that, while a bit sweet for my taste, is undeniably addictive.
The surprising addition of dried squid provides a delightful umami kick, elevating the dish beyond a simple fruit salad.
The stall operates on a self-service basis, and despite occasional hiccups with portion sizes, uncertainties about what to order, or people packing a lot of takeaways, the staff is friendly and accommodating.
The vibrant atmosphere of the food court and the fresh sea breeze make the experience even more enjoyable.
If you’re in Penang, drop by the Esplanade Food Court and try 101 Rojak.
The queue at 101 Rojak forms quickly right after opening at 6 PM, a testament to its popularity.
Despite the long queues and occasional parking challenges, the experience is worth it.
The dish is a testament to Penang’s rich culinary heritage, offering a unique and flavorful adventure that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet dishes or just looking to explore local flavors – this rojak is a culinary experience you shouldn’t miss.
101 Rojak
Medan Renong, 11, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah,
George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Hours: Sunday & Monday: Closed
Tuesday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Phone: 016-446 1666
Google: https://g.co/kgs/8xNd3dy
Blog Disclosure: This is a NOT sponsored blog post. All opinions are mine. The writer and friends paid for their meal.
