The classic dim sum pushcart rolling out fresh bites every morning in George Town.
Many of us grew up knowing Tho Yuen, a stalwart in Penang’s Chinatown.
If you are a new visitor to George Town, you might pass the 90-year-old restaurant without noticing.
The faded sign above the entrance gives little hint of the near-century of history waiting inside.
Yet once you step in, the lively chatter in Cantonese, laughter, and the clatter of teacups immediately pull you into a different era.
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The History of Tho Yuen Restaurant
This is Tho Yuen Restaurant, a cornerstone of Penang’s Cantonese dining scene since 1935.
Originally known for Hainanese chicken rice, it has evolved into a dim sum and noodle haven, now run by the third generation of the Leong family.
The old decor, the aroma of freshly steamed dim sum, and the rhythm of daily life here make it feel like stepping into a living piece of George Town’s heritage.
Inside Tho Yuen, where regulars gather for breakfast, tea, and lively Cantonese chatter.
Dim Sum at Tho Yuen
Dim sum comes first, fresh and fleeting, rolling on little pushcarts.
There’s har gao with translucent skins and juicy shrimp, siu mai brimming with pork and mushrooms, fluffy char siu buns, and custard tarts that melt in your mouth.
Other favourites include turnip cakes, lightly pan-fried to golden perfection, and steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and vegetables.
Dim sum at Tho Yuen, made fresh and served every morning in George Town.
Signature Dishes at Tho Yuen
Once you’ve had your fill, the noodles take over.
Hong Tu noodles in rich chicken broth are silky and comforting.
Wok-fried noodles loaded with pork, seafood, and vegetables hit every flavour.
Signature noodles reflect Tho Yuen’s comforting Cantonese flavours.
Homemade fish balls are springy and chewy, best in a clear fish stock.
Steamed chicken and fish head with hor fun are simple, honest, and comforting.
Congee lovers will enjoy smooth rice porridge with minced pork, preserved egg, or fresh fish.
Steamed spare ribs with black bean sauce or deep-fried dough sticks dipped in soy sauce are small pleasures that stay with you.
How Locals Enjoy Tho Yuen
Or do what I like best: order the noodles and fish ball soup first, then grab a few yum cha items as you wait.
We enjoyed it with a pot of hot tea and finished with a buttery egg tart.
Families gather for breakfast.
Aunties bring news from the market. Regulars and staff greet each other by name.
This is where Penang wakes up.
Food, community, and history meet on every plate and in every conversation.
Michelin Recognition
Tho Yuen received Michelin recognition in recent years for its consistent charm and quality.
Tho Yuen was honoured with the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2024 and 2025, a recognition of its quality and consistency.
Even though it is no longer listed, its reputation and legacy remain untouched.
Bib Gourmand or not, Tho Yuen will always be the stalwart of Penang’s Cantonese dining.
A Must Visit in George Town
Tho Yuen isn’t polished or quiet.
That’s exactly what makes it special.
It’s a spot to savour, to linger, and to experience a side of the city many visitors miss.
Nearly a century old, the Cantonese restaurant is a rare treasure.
Still going strong.
Still serving the dishes and memories that make George Town feel like home.
Restoran Tho Yuen
92 Campbell Street, George Town, 10100 Penang
Hours: 6 am–3 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
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.
