Penang is definitely the place to look for the ‘best Asam Laksa‘ in town. But the ongoing debate on which stores has the undeniably KING of Asam Laksa is something for us to ponder, as for me, the best seems to be the Ayer Itam Asam Laksa, located just beside the pasar at the botton of Kek Lok Si Temple. It’s very easy to spot it as the place is thronged with tourists all the time.

The store has been operating for 3 generations and is still now managed by the grandson of the founder. I had this asam laksa 3 times for the past 4 years. Penang is my favourite tourist spot. :D

If you still have no idea about Asam Laksa…

“Asam laksa is a sour fish-based soup. Asam (or asam jawa) is the Malay word for tamarind, which is commonly used to give the stock its sour flavor. It is also common to use “asam keping” also known as “asam gelugor”, dried slices of tamarind fruit, for added sourness. Modern Malay spelling is asam, though the spelling assam is still frequently used.”

This particular store manages to retain the real taste of asam laksa, which is sour with bits of spicy taste. The dish is packed with cucumber slices, onions, chillis and of course the sardins that make a perfecto asam laksa!

Don’t ever step in here if you’re not the people who can stand filthy atmosphere and packed places, as the place is just right on top on drains with rats running around, literally.

And as for me, for great food I’ll go great length to try it out, and what’s more for a RM 3.00 asam laksa that reputably the best in Peninsula!


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