A Taste of Heritage at Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Kuih, Penang

[PENANG] Nestled along Lebuh Chulia in Penang, Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Kuih is a time capsule of flavours and traditions. Dating back to 1933, this quaint establishment has been making Nyonya kuih for generations, making it one of Penang’s oldest and most cherished Nyonya kuih makers.

So, here’s the story: Back in 1933, the owner’s father started a kuih factory, whipping up all sorts of local treats like cakes, dumplings, and pastries. Fast forward to 2016, and the owner decided to open a sit-down restaurant right next to the factory. This is where folks like you and me can chow down on freshly made kuih, steeped in rich Nyonya heritage. Moh Teng Pheow has earned the prestigious Bib Gourmand status in the 2023 Michelin Guide KL and Penang list.

Walking into Moh Teng Pheow feels like stepping into a kitchen time capsule. The big, bustling kitchen area is where the magic happens. They’re making kuih daily, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of it in action, even in the afternoon.

Moh Teng Pheow offers a tantalizing menu of more than 20 different types of Nyonya kuih, ranging from beloved classics like Angku kuih, Kuih Lapis and Kuih Talam to more unique delights like Rempah Udang and Abuk-Abuk. Each kuih tells a story of Penang’s rich culinary heritage.

One standout is the Bengka Ubi, a tapioca-based kuih infused with coconut milk and sugar. Its fragrant aroma and delightful caramelization make it an absolute must-try. Another crowd-pleaser is the Bengka Purple, which gains its vibrant purple hue from sweet potato and boasts a pronounced gula Melaka flavor.

For fans of Pulut Tai Tai, Moh Teng Pheow serves it with a generous dollop of fresh kaya jam. We also love the Seri Muka which strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and savoriness. And for a classic taste, there’s Angku Kuih, though it could use a bit more mung bean. If you’re into Kuih Lapis, well, they’ve got that too.

So, there you have it – a tasty journey through Penang’s culinary heritage. Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Kuih is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.