BY CK LAM

There are several iconic banana leaf rice eateries in George Town and one definitely worth checking out is Traditional Indian Banana Leaf Rice. Most Penangites would not have realized this eatery although it is located in the UNESCO heritage zone.

This eatery also known to many as Muthu was once located in Lumut Lane (Lorong Lumut). It has since shifted to a shop house in the neighbouring Acheen Street (Lebuh Acheh). There are a few small tables leaning against the wall and another long communal table on the right side of the entrance. It caters mostly to the lunch time crowd who are mainly regular local Indians.

The banana leaf rice is a kaleidoscope of flavours. A serving comes with white rice, three choices of condiments and side vegetables (rotated on a daily basis).  On the day of visit, the vegetable choices are taugeh in tumeric (bean sprouts), dalca and ‘limau’ chutney which has a slightly spicy and sourish flavor.

Customers can enjoy the white rice with three choices of gravy – chicken, fish and crab served in metal buckets. Mixed together with the different medley of mild curry flavours, the rice is simply delicious.

The white rice, chutney, vegetables and curry gravies are refillable, so ask for a second helping if you do not have enough.

There is a small variety of meat and seafood dishes – mutton tripe curry, deep-fried fish, chicken curry and stir-fried chicken which is full of different spices.

This hidden gem without a signboard is not fancifully decorated, not air-conditioned but it serves cozy home cooked dishes with right blend of flavors.

Traditional Indian Banana Leaf Rice
143 Acheen Street (Lebuh Acheh)
10200 Penang

Business Hours: Early to late lunch

Closed on Sundays

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.