Perlis may have been the smallest state in Malaysia. But it still offers the goods — from its picturesque natural scenery to visiting parks and for this article, we focus solely on the mostly local foods available in this northernmost coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Here, you will find reasonably priced dishes like laksa, ikan bakar and nasi kandar and these are the 8 places to enjoy good food in Perlis.
1) Beng Laksa
The yellow-orange signboard that sits atop the porch of a residence welcomes its visitors with Beng Laksa’s signature northern-style laksa cooked in two styles. The first is the Laksa Asam reminiscent of the one found in Penang — syrupy laksa noodles packed with the usual ingredients (e.g. fish meat, assorted vegetables) in a mildly spicy and sour, yet appetising broth. Those who prefer their laksa more robust in its flavour can look forward to the santan (coconut milk)-infused Laksa Lemak. And guess what, you can even opt for the best of both worlds by ordering Laksa Campur, which is essentially a mix of Laksa Asam and Lemak broth added in a single bowl.
Address: 145, Jalan Raja Syed Alwi, Taman Perlis, 01000 Kangar, Perlis.
2) Restoran Api Api Ikan Bakar
Here’s the family-friendly seafood restaurant known for its crowd-favourite fish dishes. You can order a la carte or set, where the latter is suitable for 3-5 persons. Pick the fish of your choice, namely siakap (sea bass) or jenahak (golden snapper) and you can have it cooked in one of the four different styles — bakar (grilled), 3 rasa (referring to sweet, sour & spicy), sweet and sour, and stim (steamed). Each set comes with white rice, side dishes and a jug of iced beverage.
Address: Jalan Dato Ali, Bukit Tok Po, 02000 Kuala Perlis, Perlis.
3) Restoran Anjung Keli
This restaurant is another good place for craving seafood dishes in Perlis, offering the likes of fish cooked in different styles from Gulai Siakap to Masak Lemak Keli, Asam Pedas and Siakap Stim. And as the name of the restaurant suggests, their signature keli (catfish) is a must-try dish. Keep in mind that Restoran Anjung Keli tends to be crowded during peak hours so it’s best to come earlier if possible. They have ample parking space while the spacious restaurant provides a choice of indoor and outdoor seating.
Address: Medan Sri Pulai, Jalan Behor Pulai, 01000 Kangar, Perlis.
4) Restoran Nostalgia Hani 9
Fancy trying daging bakar (grilled beef) in Perlis? Restoran Nostalgia Hani 9 would be your answer. They specialise in fresh, locally sourced beef that is grilled to flavourful perfection and served with their appetising sambal kerisik (toasted desiccated coconut sambal). You can pair them with nasi kuning or putih (yellow/white rice). An optional set meal is also available, complete with a complimentary self-service cordial drink.
Address: No 5A & 5B, Bangunan Automart Kawasan Perindustrian Kuala Perlis, 02000 Kuala Perlis, Perlis.
5) Hai Thien Seafood Restaurant
Hai Thien’s pork-free Chinese seafood restaurant has been a favourite among many locals and tourists alike, thanks to its reasonable prices and delicious dishes. Choices are aplenty here, covering various types of seafood from mantis prawns to fried/fresh fish cooked in different styles. And whatever you do, don’t forget to order their signature Yau Char Kwai (fried crullers) coated with mayonnaise — perfect as an appetising snack.
Address: Jalan Jeti Baru, 02000 Kuala Perlis, Perlis.
6) Hameed Nasi Kandar
Hameed Nasi Kandar only operates from 6 pm till night but that doesn’t stop the locals from frequenting here for nasi kandar. They serve plenty of curry and sambal dishes to choose from, covering the likes of beef, chicken, fish, squid and cockle. And let’s not forget, their crunchy fried chicken, which goes well with nasi kuning. You can locate this restaurant just next to McDonald’s Kangar.
Address: Jalan Kampung Bakau – Padang Behor, Kampung Bukit Lagi, 01000 Kangar, Perlis.
7) Restoran Capati Arau
The name of this restaurant says it all with their highlight being soft and fluffy capati served hot upon order. You can have it plain or go for the one with filling such as sardine, chicken and scrambled egg. Best paired with one of their delicious curry gravies, namely kuah ayam and kuah daging. They also serve other a la carte options from tom yam to stir-fried rice & noodle dishes and assorted seafood.
Address: 26 & 28, Jalan 4, Kompleks Tok Arau, Jalan Arau – Kodiang, 02600 Arau, Perlis.
8) Thyme Food Station
Thyme Food Station covers reasonably priced local, Western and fusion dishes that you can enjoy in its casual, laidback setting. Indulge in their hearty Buttermilk Pasta with Fried Chicken Chop or try the best-of-both-worlds Grilled Chicken Chop with Fried Rice. For sharing purposes, do order The Platter consisting of grilled chicken chop, grilled sausage, fries, garlic bread, coleslaw and pasta of your choice.
Address: 186, Kampung Guar Syed Alwi, 01000 Kangar, Perlis.
