Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu

The Flavorful World of Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu – A Hearty Dish that Satisfies

Join us on a captivating quest to unveil the mysteries of Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu—a culinary treasure in Air Itam.

The Flavorful World of Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu – A Hearty Dish that Satisfies

Join us on a captivating quest to unveil the mysteries of Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu—a culinary treasure in Air Itam.

Air Itam entices with its rich heritage and diverse flavours. Among the myriad culinary treasures, Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu stands tall as a bastion of hearty satisfaction, delivering a symphony of flavours that resonate with the discerning palate.

Origins and Heritage


Nasi Kandar, a beloved Malaysian dish, traces its origins to the Indian-Muslim traders of Penang. Historically, they would carry wooden poles (known as 'kandar') with two large containers of rice and curry balanced at each end. This unique method of serving quickly caught on, leading to the birth of Nasi Kandar. Today, this dish encompasses a variety of curries paired with chicken, meat, vegetables, and fish, creating a satisfying and flavoursome meal.

Experience the perfect blend of tradition and innovation at Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu. Established in 1970 by Abdul Nasir Abdul Razak, this humble eatery began as a roti canai stall. Two years later, the introduction of Nasi Kandar to its menu elevated its status. Situated beneath a low-cost flat in Kampung Melayu, patrons are known to queue as early as 6:00 AM for a plate of Nasi Kandar, kickstarting their day with an authentic culinary delight.

Craftsmanship and Quality



The hallmark of Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu lies in its commitment to cleanliness, quality, and efficient service. The meticulous attention to detail has garnered a loyal clientele not only locally but also nationwide. Each dish is a labour of love, curated precisely to deliver an exceptional culinary experience.

The reputation of Nasi Kandar Kg Melayu has even caught the attention of prominent figures, including Sultan Kedah. This esteemed patronage is a testament to the eatery's enduring excellence.

The secret to Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu's unrivalled taste lies in its ancestral recipe from Sri Lanka. Abdul Nasir upholds this tradition, using only authentic ground curry spices passed down through generations. A generous quantity of onions, a hallmark of his family's recipe, adds layers of flavour and a unique texture to each dish.

A Symphony of Curries and Delights

As the sun rises over Penang, so does the aroma of Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu's sumptuous offerings. To fully savour the Nasi Kandar experience, early birds are in for a treat. The queue forms as early as the break of dawn, with regular weekdays witnessing the sale of up to 700 dishes and weekends surpassing 1,000 dishes. Abdul Nasir's commitment to maintaining food quality even in the face of demand is genuinely admirable.


One cannot visit Nasi Kandar Kg Melayu without experiencing the myriad curry combinations and delectable offerings. With 15 tantalizing choices, from succulent chicken rendang to aromatic fish curry, every plate promises an unparalleled gastronomic journey. The versatility of their menu ensures that every palate is catered to.

Indulge in Penang's history, flavours, and traditions through the iconic Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu. This culinary voyage promises a plateful of memories that will linger on your taste buds long after your journey through the vibrant streets of Air Itam comes to an end.

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Operating Hours:
06:30 AM - 01:30 PM (Monday)
06:30 AM - 01:30 PM & 04:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Tuesday)
06:30 AM - 01:30 PM & 04:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Wednesday)
06:30 AM - 01:30 PM & 04:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Thursday)
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 04:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Friday)
11:30 AM - 02:00 PM & 04:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Saturday)
11:30 AM - 02:00 PM & 04:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Sunday)