Best Otak-otak in Penang

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Otak-otak is a well-loved Nyonya and Malay dish that is commonly spotted along the streets, night markets and even highly-rated restaurants. Let us answer your curiosity first. The name translates as a brain in Malay, yet fret not, it only appears like one but no brains are part of the ingredients. The tawny concoction of grounded fish, coconut milk, chopped onions, assorted herbs and spices is held hostage by banana leaf, then grilled over a charcoal fire till succulent succes. Perfect appetite-whetter or a good dish on its own, no matter whichever way you look at it, otak-otak downright delivers. Looking at the complex workload, we are most likely to pass up trying at home, therefore let’s leave it to the experts below. 

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  • #2
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    New World Park Halal a81b201f94b2180a29928950eefa06850871fc85c2ba8fcb39753bdbcdfb49cfCertified
    halal

    New World Park has garnered a strong following over the years thanks to the wide selection of both local and Western delights in a clean and comfortable atmosphere. Looking at the options available, opting for otak-otak may seem just not right yet upon panning your sight at the tables, the bundles of banana leafs are easily spotted. The texture of the fish is absolutely moist and the employment of spices isn’t only visible in colours, in does impress in terms of flavours too. Some patrons prefer pairing their otak-otak with a mound of yam rice, you can try it too. 

    Tips

    Runs out fast during weekend

    Things to expect

    Spacious ambience

    Best with

    Juice

    Price

    RM2.80 to RM10.00

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    New World Park View restaurant

    New World Park, Jalan Burma,, 10050 , Georgetown, Penang
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    Open Now
    Every day
    10:00AM—07:00PM
    More info
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    Annathai-Kitchen

    Another reliable contender in the Thai food scene that constantly draws a diverse crowd over. Needless to say, the menu boasts with a plethora of authentic Thai dishes yet either to whet your appetite or wrap up your meal, their otak-otak is a good playing card. Here, the delectable fish cake is steamed in individual metal bowls and once done, it’s crowned with thick coconut milk, chopped chillies and kaffir lime leaves. The fish meat just flakes off with the mildest touch while the curry paste employs a nice tang to your taste buds. On a side note, it works really well with steamed white rice. 

    Tips

    Opt for extra chillies

    Things to expect

    Authentic Thai fare in a nice atmosphere

    Best with

    Tomyam

    Price

    RM5.00 to RM10.00

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    Annathai-Kitchen View restaurant

    26 Jalan Moulmein, Pulau Tikus, 10350, Georgetown, Penang
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    042277599

    Open Now
    Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
    12:00PM—02:30PM
    Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
    06:00PM—09:00PM
    More info
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    Seed Natural Food Cafe

    In comparison to other eateries in the list, one might stop short looking at a vegetarian restaurant but this is surely not your average healthy food spot. Creativity is the name of the game here, which is why their otak-otak is not to be missed. By using bean curd as the base of the dish and not skimping the medley of spices and herbs, this vegetarian bundle does not pale away from the original version. Full of fragrance, cooked to custard-like smoothness and visually arresting, this otak-otak downright washes away your previous notions that vegetarian food is rather unambitious or dull. 

    Tips

    Do call before heading over if otak-otak is available, as its only done twice to thrice per week and according to orders

    Things to expect

    Neat and clean space with quick service

    Best with

    Juice

    Price

    RM5.00 to RM15.00

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    Seed Natural Food Cafe View restaurant

    12, Lorong Abu Siti, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, 10400 , Georgetown, Penang
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    042297903

    Open Now
    Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
    11:00AM—03:00PM
    Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
    05:30PM—09:00PM
    More info
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  • #6
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    Nyonya Baba Cuisine (Dragon King EST 1976)

    Staying true to the name, this well-patronised restaurant scores authentic Nyonya in both the atmosphere and extensive menu. Just like any good Nyonya eatery, the menu is not complete without a nod to savoury sides, where their otak-otak is among the frontrunners. Encased in the banana leaf to safeguard the aroma and intrinsic identity, the fish ensemble within is worth scuttling over for seconds or even thirds. The unison of spices, herbs and the moist fish cake is an exemplary. If you’re on a budget, all you need is a mound of rice to get you going. 

    Tips

    Parking is scarce during lunch hours

    Things to expect

    Charming and nostalgic ambience

    Best with

    Nutmeg juice

    Price

    RM5.00 to RM20.00

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    Nyonya Baba Cuisine (Dragon King EST 1976) View restaurant

    7, Jalan Ismail Nagore, Kampung Gelugor, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, 10050, Georgetown, Penang
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    Open Now
    Every day
    11:00AM—03:00PM
    Every day
    06:00PM—10:00PM
    More info
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