Kim Laksa in Balik Pulau has always been more than just a place to grab a bowl of laksa—it’s a slice of history, a link to simpler times.
I remember being a schoolgirl, excitedly boarding the public bus with friends for our afternoon trips to Balik Pulau.
The journey was an adventure, and the promise of that tangy, savory laksa made it all the more special.
We’d stop by Kim Laksa, a must-visit even back then, before heading to the Sacred Heart Convent school and the Church of the Holy Name of Jesus.
The old town still holds that familiar charm, with its quiet streets and unchanged buildings.
With over 40 years of history, Kim Laksa has stood the test of time.
Much like the memories of my schoolgirl days, connecting me to the rich culinary heritage of Balik Pulau.
The stall’s longevity is a testament to its commitment to preserving Balik Pulau’s rich culinary heritage.
It’s heartening to see that some things remain the same despite the changes around us.
Kim Laksa 2 Types
Kim Laksa offers two beloved varieties: the iconic Assam Laksa, with its thick, tangy fish broth, and the fragrant Siam Laksa, rich with coconut milk.
The Assam Laksa strikes a unique balance—neither too sour nor too spicy, but just right.
While many laksa versions tend to be more sour and spicy, this one is sweeter, perhaps to cater to a broader audience, including tourists.
I’ve always preferred a very sour, spicy laksa—like the one from Wan Da You Laksa—but there’s something comforting about Kim Laksa’s take.
The thick, sweet-sour soup, with its generous mackerel flakes, was satisfying.
Although the noodles were a bit “putus putus,” likely due to our late arrival.
Satisfying sweet-sour soup with mackerel flakes; noodles are slightly ‘putus-putus’ (broken).
Unfortunately, we missed out on the laksa lemak, which had already sold out, along with the crispy fried popia I was eager to try for dipping.
The seating options at Kim Laksa offer a cozy, kampong-style experience.
Whether you sit inside the kopitiam or under the shaded trees at Kim Laksa, there’s a relaxed, communal vibe here.
It is a feeling that will make you feel welcomed and part of a local experience.
We were lucky to snag the last two bowls of Assam Laksa before they began packing up for the day, even though the outdoor seating area was closed.
A flavorful bowl of Penang Assam Laksa featuring a tangy broth and fresh toppings.
I noticed a group of tourists arriving in a van.
Their food set aside by their guide, a testament to the stall’s popularity.
Despite the limited seating and parking, the service at Kim Laksa is efficient and fast.
Place your order at the stall, pay, and wait for your laksa at your table.
And don’t miss the white nutmeg juice.
The local specialty is made from the fruit’s flesh and a refreshing, is a healthy accompaniment to the meal.
If you have a sweet tooth, there’s a durian stall nearby for a post-laksa treat.
However, this year’s shorter durian season means the chances of finding top-quality fruits are slimmer.
However, it’s worth noting that Nan Guang Kopitiam retains its rustic, kampong charm, which doen’t align with all tourists’ expectations.
The washroom facilities, for example, are basic.
There is a squatting toilet positioned directly over an open drain!
This could be a big surprise if you’re used to modern amenities.
It is worth checking out the facilities.
Remember that you don’t have to use the washroom if you don’t want to.
Parking can be challenging during peak hours.
While there are ample spaces beside the shop and nearby, but be cautious about parking illegally.
Traffic officers are vigilant and quick to clamp cars parked in unauthorized spots.
Kim Laksa remains a beloved spot in Balik Pulau.
Here the flavors of the past and present come together in a comforting bowl of laksa, just as I remember from my school days.
Nan Guang Kopitiam
67 Main Road,
11000 Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia
Kim Laksa Balik Pulau
Operating Hours
Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Monday & Tuesday (except public holidays)
Google: https://g.co/kgs/wJQZVwd
Blog Disclosure: This is a NOT sponsored blog post. All opinions are mine. The writer and friends paid for their meal.
