Yeng Keng Restaurant, Penang

A signature restaurant, cafe and bar that specializes in Hainan and Western cuisine, was built for guest by Yeng Keng Hotel for a worry-free stay. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town - well preserved heritage buildings while still retaining its modernity of the current world, Chulia Street is no doubt a strategic place for foreigners to experience the best of Penang with food while still being culturally educated with Penang's history. 

Asam Fish (price differs according to weight)

I am a big fan of sweet, spicy and sour dishes and this was exceptional but I could have done more of everything. More acidity, more heat and a little more sweet notes would be great! My partner doesn't enjoy spicy, but this was edible to him so thumbs up! In my opinion this wasn't spicy at all so I believe some kids will enjoy this as well! A very generous serving if you ask me, served alongside with a bowl of rice, meant for sharing with your families! The fresh herbs, tomatoes and onions just brought some freshness and beautiful colour for contrast!

Hainan Mee (RM 18)

These noodles were simple and filling, the meat servings of chicken and prawns were good. I believe they cooked this with chicken stock. Flavours in the noodles do not stand out but... the sambal belacan that came along with it! Oh my goodness.... it was so good! Chili lovers will love the sambal belacan as it packs a punch! It just elevated the noodles from being plain to a whole new different kind of level! Be light handed with the chili as a little goes a long way.

Choon Piah (RM 18)

To those who are not familiar with what Choon Piah is, its a Hainanese delicacy of a spring roll filled with minced meat, assorted vegetables and crab meat served with a side of Worchestershire sauce (Ang-Moh Sauce - how the locals call it) for dipping! I have not had many Choon Piah's in my life time but I enjoyed this! This specific one was filled generously, their Ang-Moh Sauce gave it an extra boost of savory notes that paired well with the spring rolls. It was a tad bit dry, I would have preferred it a little more juicier. But, a good effort! Would enjoy this at any time of the day.

Signature Chicken Pie (RM 18 - Small)

This is their most raved about dish, their specialty. We ordered 2 to dine in and 2 to take away. This was served piping hot straight from the oven which I appreciated very much. My first bite went in, I was not blown away. The dish to me lacked a depth of flavour. Don't get me wrong, this does taste decent, but I think I could easily find the same exact tasting chicken pie elsewhere for a cheaper price and maybe a more flavourful one. As any mother would quote "I think I make a better chicken pie". Sadly, the take away chicken pie didn't taste that great either as I did not heat it up to taste the difference. I enjoyed the puff pastry which was light and crisp, although the pies that I opted for takeaway was a tad undercooked (puff pastry).

Sago with Gula Melaka (RM 7)

A true classic! I grew up having this. Nothing crazy over here but truly when I have this, it takes me back to my childhood. Some dishes have the power to bring back something nostalgic and it doesn't take a lot to do that. Sago that was pearly white served with Gula Melaka (palm sugar) and Santan (coconut milk). The owner actually came up to us, recommending we don't mix everything together so that we're able to enjoy the pure taste of Gula Melaka and Santan without the flavours getting lost if it were to be mixed. So simple yet so mouth-watering!

It was difficult trying to reach them through phone calls as their Signature Chicken Pie is made to order. They did not update their opening and closing timings (resulting in many unnecessary phone calls from customers) or pin it up on Facebook or even Google Maps so I found it a struggle trying to reach them. The weirdest thing, it seems like their oven can only make 3 single serving chicken pies at a time so I was almost pushed to the corner to order 3 or 6 pies but not 4 or 5? Yeng Keng, I think your customer service can improve vastly. What do you mean I can't order 2 single serving chicken pies? If I did not call to make a order to just appear in your restaurant to order, could I still have my 2 chicken pies or must I have ordered 3? 

Comment below your thoughts on Yeng Keng Restaurant! 

RATINGS

Food : 6/10

Price : 4/10

Service : 6/10

Parking : 5/10

Ambiance : 7/10