BY CK LAM

One will find numerous hawker stalls serving a wide array of local delights at Gurney Drive Hawker Center in Penang. Nasi lemak lovers should try the all-time favourite at Nasi Lemak Cilibilis. The stall specialises in nasi lemak kukus, which is essentially steamed rice in coconut milk.

The rice is steamed with ginger, coconut milk and pandan leaves on large metal trays in a giant steamer. The cooked fluffy rice with an amazing aroma is then transferred and kept warm in a wooden tub. The owner will repeat the entire cooking process once the supply runs low.

A plate of nasi lemak cost between RM2 and RM4. A basic set comes with a half hard-boiled egg, cucumber slices, sambal, deep-fried ikan bilis and fried peanuts. The spiciness of the sambal is slightly sweet and complements the rice perfectly.

Do look out for the Ayam Goreng (deep-fried chicken). Well-marinated and succulent, the chicken with crispy skin makes an excellent accompaniment. They are replenished with a new batch constantly by the owner to ensure consistent freshness.

Another favorite is the Santan Pulut. The glutinous rice steamed with fresh coconut milk is eaten with either durian or mango. The pulut durian comes with a generous amount of durian and fresh coconut milk. The whole concoction is delightful, full of creaminess and sweetness. This mouth-watering dessert is only available when the owner has the fruit.

The stall faces directly opposite Sunrise McDonald.  They do cater for functions as well.

Nasi Lemak CiliBilis
No 1 Gerai Kawasan Penjaja Gurney Drive
Padang Kota Baru
Pulau Pinang

Tel: 017 4928848

Business Hour: 5pm to 10pm

Closed on Sunday

Written by CK Lam, food blogger and editor of http://www.what2seeonline.com ; featuring the Best of Penang Food. She constantly combs Penang for the best gastronomical delights and loves promoting Penang Cuisines, Culture and Heritage.