Ho Ping Char Koay Teow is one of those old-school plates I’ve been eating since the days I used to hang out with Kelly.
If you’ve been following SmartDory’s George Town food trail, you’ll know the kopitiams along Penang Road have seen some changes over the years.
Ho Ping Coffee Shop is gone and the old hawkers have scattered.
But the good news is the Char Koay Teow is finally back home at Kedai Kopi Malabar.
Authentic Wok Hei
When Lisa pinged me and said, “Let’s eat CKT,” I didn’t realize I was in for such a nostalgic treat.
The stall is now helmed by Anne (the original Uncle’s wife).
Anne’s Signature “Red Noodles”
Anne is chatty, friendly, and doesn’t miss a beat. She’s managed to replicate that exact signature “red noodle” style I remember.
Only less oily.
“People are more health-conscious now,” Anne said with a wink.
It’s deeply smoky, packed with wok hei, and has those perfect charred bits that make a plate legendary.
Extra Umami Bouncy Prawns
Just look at those prawns in the photo.
They’re “just cooked” exactly how they should be; to stay bouncy and juicy instead of turning into rubber.
Every mouthful hits you with a surge of extra umami for that perfect finish.
Ho Ping Char Koay Teow lives up to the hype.
It proves that while the coffee shop names might change, the heritage of the wok is safe in Anne’s hands.
In Penang, we don’t come for the view; we come for the taste. This is what authentic local food is all about.
Share this with your friends and get a table before the lunch rush hits!
Kedai Kopi Malabar
55, Kampong Malabar, 10200 George Town, Penang
Business Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
Sunday: Closed
Google Map
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.
