Michelin Guide: Two Penang restaurants retain their star

The Michelin Guide‘s second edition for Kuala Lumpur and Penang was revealed in a prestigious award ceremony, showcasing culinary excellence in the region.

Penang’s gastronomic scene shines as Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery and Au Jardin retained their coveted Michelin Stars from the previous year.

Johnson Wong, the talent behind Gen Cafe, received the esteemed Young Chef Award, highlighting the emerging culinary talents in the region.

Culinary stars of Penang

Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery, located in Georgetown, occupies a 2,640 sq ft space formerly a jewellery shop. The establishment underwent a transformation, upgrading its layout and converting a safe vault into a private cellar.

Au Jardin, a fine dining gem situated in Hin Bus Depot, has played a pivotal role in elevating Penang’s fine dining scene since its opening in 2019, defying the state’s street food fame.

These establishments continue to define culinary excellence, embodying the Michelin Guide’s one-star distinction for “high-quality cooking, worth a stop.”

The addition of 25 new Michelin Selected establishments, including 16 in Kuala Lumpur and 9 in Penang, further highlights the region’s commitment to culinary innovation.

Out of the 25 recently included Michelin Selected establishments, 16 are situated in Kuala Lumpur, while the remaining 9 can be found in Penang.

In Penang, the 9 newly introduced Michelin Selected establishments are: 888 Hokkien Mee (Lebuh Presgrave), Air Itam Duck Rice, Ceki, Fook Cheow Cafe, Jit Seng Hong Kong Roasted Duck Rice, Penang Famous Samosa, Richard Rivalee, Sambal, and The Pinn.

Michelin Guide: Culinary diversity and emerging talents

The Michelin Guide’s selection, covering Starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected establishments, features 127 eateries, showcasing the diverse culinary tapestry of Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

From traditional heritage dishes to contemporary interpretations, the culinary landscape reflects the evolving gastronomic adventures in these two remarkable cities.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, expressed delight in the influx of young talents into the culinary industry.

Meanwhile, Dewakan, the contemporary Malaysian restaurant led by innovative chef Darren Teoh, has achieved the distinction of being the country’s first two Michelin-starred restaurant.

As per the guide’s criteria, a two Michelin Star distinction is attributed to “restaurants with excellent cooking, worth a detour!” It signifies that the chef and their team exhibit exceptional talent and personality, evident in the refined and expertly crafted dishes.

In summary, the Michelin Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2024 introduces 25 new recommended establishments in its latest selection, highlighting the diverse culinary landscape of the region. This addition brings the total number of Michelin Selected establishments to 77.