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Ayer Itam

Air Itam Sister Curry Mee is a beloved establishment in Penang, Malaysia, known for its authentic Penang-style curry noodles. The stall has been serving customers since 1946, operated by two sisters originally from Thailand. Their dedication to traditional recipes and flavors has garnered a loyal following among both locals and tourists. The stall's popularity is evident from the numerous positive reviews and its recognition in the MICHELIN Guide.

Discover the Legendary Air Itam Sister Curry Mee

Nestled in the heart of Ayer Itam, Penang, 

 stands as a culinary gem known for its authentic Penang-style curry noodles. This legendary food stall has been a beloved part of the local culture since 1946, originally founded by two sisters whose dedication to their craft has made the place a must-visit for food lovers from around the world.

Unlike typical curry mee, the broth here is distinctively light and slightly sweet with minimal coconut milk, offering a savory and aromatic profile that sets it apart. Diners rave about the fragrant and flavorful soup that perfectly complements the yellow noodles, white beehoon, cuttlefish, taupok, pig blood, and taugeh. The chili sambal adds a gentle heat that never overwhelms the palate, making each spoonful a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

Situated in a lively morning market street along Jalan Paya Terubong, this small yet iconic stall offers more than just a meal — it presents a true Penang cultural experience. The humble atmosphere, bustling market energy, and the friendly service from the younger generation keeping the sisters' legacy alive combine to create an unforgettable dining moment.

 complements the vibrant market atmosphere.

 offer exceptional value for a Michelin Bib Gourmand dish.

What are the operating hours of Air Itam Sister Curry Mee?

 The stall operates from 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM on weekdays, and until 12:00 PM on weekends. It is closed on Tuesdays.

 Parking can be challenging due to the busy market area. It's advisable to arrive early or consider parking in nearby streets.

Is the curry mee suitable for vegetarians?

 The curry mee contains meat-based ingredients like cuttlefish and tofu puffs. However, vegetarian options may be available upon request.

The community widely embraces Air Itam Sister Curry Mee as a cherished part of Penang’s culinary landscape. Feedback from locals and visitors alike highlights the stall’s flavorful broth and authentic ingredients as standout features. Many appreciate the stall’s commitment to preserving a classic recipe handed down through generations. The vibrant market setting enhances the overall dining experience, making it a beloved destination for foodies and travelers seeking genuine local flavors.

Experience the soul of Penang’s culinary heritage

Whether you're a passionate foodie, a digital nomad exploring local gems, or a curious traveler eager to taste authentic Malaysian street food, Air Itam Sister Curry Mee offers a unique, flavorful journey you won't forget. Dive into a bowl of rich history, tradition, and vibrant community spirit at this iconic Penang staple.

Asia

Malaysia

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Air Itam Sister Curry Mee offers a culinary experience that is both authentic and steeped in history. This humble stall, recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand, has been serving Penang’s iconic curry mee for over 75 years, making it a must-visit for food lovers seeking rich flavors and cultural depth.

Air Itam Sister Curry Mee: A Legendary Penang Culinary Gem

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfLUtMWVB3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEZ005xnCSjARv8asPh-pj4I/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfLUtMWVB3EAE

Just outside this church, you’ll find a little lane (be careful crossing the road) with curry Mee, chee cheong fun and char kway teow. So good!

The curry mee is thin but flavorful, not much coconut milk taste. The CCF is chewy and tasty with the peanut sauce. The CKT has that wok-aroma and very well done. Would not miss this place when in Penang.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURILXNmbTNRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEZ005xnCSjARv8asPh-pj4I/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURILXNmbTNRRRAB

The curry paste is very special and tasty, the essence of the soup !

The tiny stall located at a small lane . It’s on the left hand side of the small lane , next to the chicken rice stall.

Hard to get parking here.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQanZhRk93EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEZ005xnCSjARv8asPh-pj4I/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQanZhRk93EAE

Over rated. Will not recommend
The tau pok got one weird taste and it’s affected the soup flavour.

TBH I will not travel the distant to eat them

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3NzYzZENnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEZ005xnCSjARv8asPh-pj4I/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3NzYzZENnEAE

Curry Mee (Small) = RM6.00
No Service Charge

This is a Michelin Bib Gourmand Food Stall.

This was originally opened by 2 Sisters back in 1946 and has been around for Over 75 Years already. They are so Famous, they're practically considered a National Treasure here in Penang.

Both Elderly Sisters are currently over 90 years Old. They are still around, but due to their Advanced Age, they no longer come to the Stall anymore and are resting at Home ever since the MCO Period during Covid in Malaysia. The Current Stall is being run by a Friendly Young Lady whom I assume is probably one of their Relatives.

Its a Very Small Shop that is tucked away in a Side Road in this Very Vibrant and Busy Morning Market Street along Jalan Paya Terubong in Air Itam. There weren't much Customers at all on a Friday Morning at 7.30am.

How does this Legendary Curry Mee taste?

The Bowl has a Very Fragrant Appetizing Savoury Aroma to it. The Very First Thing that strikes me when I tasted it was that this does NOT taste like Laksa at all!

Having eaten quite a Few Curry Mee in JB, I've always thought that Curry Mee is just how Malaysians call our Conventional Singapore Non-Katong Style of Laksa because they share a Similar Taste Profile.

THIS Curry Mee here is Completely Different. The Broth is Watery and the Predominant Taste is Sweetish, but there is Little to No Coconut Milk at all. Very Little Lemak so to speak. It has a Savoury, Saltish and Light Taste that still taste like a Curry despite having No Coconut Milk.

Not Too Heavy and Not Too Light. Very Unique, I have not eaten Curry Mee that tasted like this. If anything, this really taught me that Malaysia Curry Mee really does have a Unique Taste of its own and is not just a variation of Laksa. (at least from the Curry Mee at this Stall.)

Rest of the Ingredients

The Bowl itself is quite Small but still chock full of Ingredients. There were a Few Slices of Taupok, 4 Small Pieces of Pig Blood, Some Slices of Cuttlefish, Some Taugeh. The Main Carbs were Yellow Noodles and White Beehoon.

There is also 1 Tbsp of Chilli Condiment which tasted like a Mix of Sambal and Taucheo. Not Super Spicy, won't bite your tongue but has some Spicy Heat. The Taucheo side brings a Sharply Salty Earthy Beany Taste to it.

The Taupok Pieces were ok, Small Slices, and of course their Main Job is to absorb the Gravy for a More Juicier Bitefeel.

The Cuttlefish Slices are Surprisingly Soft and Tender and has a Saltish Braised sort of Taste. Usually, Cuttlefish has a Firm, almost Hard Bitefeel but it is totally not the case for this one here. I find it really Smart to use Cuttlefish here because its inclusion can also impart a Seafoody Umami-ness to the Dish.

Pig Blood were just nice. Not too Firm, and Not Too Soft. Noodles were pretty Standard, they slide easily down my Throat although I feel they're just from a Package, not Homemade. The Amount of Noodles given was acceptable for the price.

Although a Small Bowl, it still Felt Filling and I thought was just nice for 1 person. Combining Everything gives it a Nice Heat and it was Very Nice and Satisfying to just Slurp Everything up. I feel the Soul of this Dish is really the Broth which is the Main Component that tied everything together. I liked it so much that I wanted to just drink it dry!

Conclusion and Closing Thoughts

At only RM6.00 (S$1.80) for a Michelin Awarded Dish is Absolutely Worth the Money. This really was a Very Well Made Bowl of Curry Mee and Every Ingredient in this Curry Mee worked together in Harmony and Nothing Clashed.

I also liked how Humble this Little Stall is, and how Affordable it was despite its Legendary Status. If you are here in Penang, I highly recommend that you come to Air Itam and give this a Try. Not only for the Curry Mee, but to also soak in the Atmosphere of this Vibrant and Busy Market Street.

Thanks for Reading. Come join my Facebook Food Blog: "A Solo Singaporean's Guide to JB Foods" to view the Full Review with Photos.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURPcEszTWZREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJEZ005xnCSjARv8asPh-pj4I/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURPcEszTWZREAE

We liked to come here to have a bowl of Curry Mee here because it is my favourite dish and quite delicious.

Top Curry Mee in Ayer Itam, Penang - Michelin Bib Gourmand

Air Itam Sister Curry Mee is a historic food stall in Penang, Malaysia, serving traditional curry noodles since 1946. Operated by two sisters originally from Thailand, the stall has become a local heritage site, recognized in the MICHELIN Guide for its authentic flavors and dedication to traditional recipes.

Air Itam Sister Curry Mee History Overview 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Air Itam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, the Air Itam Sister Curry Mee stall has proudly served the community since its inception. Established in 1946 by Tan Ah Heng along with her daughters, this humble culinary gem has become a beloved institution renowned for its authentic Penang-style curry noodles.

The journey began in 1946 when Tan Ah Heng and her daughters started selling their signature curry mee at the bustling Air Itam market. Their dedication to preserving a traditional recipe and serving quality noodles quickly won the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Over the decades, the stall has not only offered a distinctive taste but has also become a cultural landmark within the community.

Like many small businesses, Air Itam Sister Curry Mee faced challenges, including a temporary closure in 2020 due to the global pandemic. However, demonstrating resilience and strong community support, the stall reopened later that year, continuing to serve its cherished customers with the same authentic flavors and warm hospitality that has defined it for over seventy years.

In 2023, the cultural significance and impact of the Air Itam Sister Curry Mee were celebrated through the unveiling of a mural in Air Itam. This tribute honors the enduring legacy of Tan Ah Heng and her daughters, recognizing their contribution to Penang’s culinary heritage and their role in maintaining the traditional art of curry mee preparation.

Why Air Itam Sister Curry Mee Is a Must-Visit

Today, the stall continues to be a vibrant spot for food enthusiasts, digital nomads, and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Penang's culinary traditions. The unique curry broth, minimal coconut milk use, and fresh local ingredients create a flavor profile distinct from other regional variants. It’s a perfect stop to experience a piece of Malaysia’s rich food heritage while exploring the lively Air Itam market scene.

 - Tan Ah Heng and her daughters started the iconic curry mee stall at Air Itam market.

 - Temporary shutdown due to COVID-19 but resiliently reopened, continuing its culinary tradition.

 - A mural was created in Air Itam to honor the legacy of the original curry mee sisters.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Good for Children

In the vibrant heart of Ayer Itam lies the culinary gem known as Air Itam Sister Curry Mee, where the tantalizing dance of spices and rich flavors beckons the adventurous foodie. This charming eatery, set against the backdrop of lush greenery and the hum of life in Pulau Pinang, is a must-visit for anyone keen on experiencing the authentic taste of local cuisine. The signature curry mee, a luscious bowl of noodles bathed in a fragrant coconut milk curry, is adorned with succulent prawns, tender pork, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs that elevate the dish to a new dimension. Each bite bursts with taste, embodying the rich heritage of Penang’s culinary tapestry.

Air Itam Sister Curry Mee

Authentic Penang-style curry mee served with a variety of toppings.

Curry Mee

Air Itam Sister Curry Mee Menu

Nestled in the bustling heart of Ayer Itam, Penang, Air Itam Sister Curry Mee offers a culinary journey through authentic Malaysian flavors. This legendary establishment is renowned for its unique take on the classic Penang-style curry mee, a dish cherished by locals and travelers alike. Voted a national treasure by food enthusiasts, this Michelin Bib Gourmand award-winning stall has been delighting taste buds since 1946.

While the menu mainly showcases their signature curry mee, the vibrant market setting invites you to explore nearby stalls offering tempting bites such as chewy chee cheong fun accompanied by rich peanut sauce and wok-fried char kway teow infused with smoky aromas. These local favorites set the perfect stage for the main event.

 is the star dish here — an authentically prepared Penang-style noodle soup that captivates with its delicate yet complex flavor profile. The broth is uniquely light and sweet, distinctly different from typical coconut-heavy curries, offering a savory sensation with minimal creaminess. This special recipe blends fragrant spices with just a hint of chili paste, creating a harmonious balance that excites the palate without overwhelming it.

Ingredients include tender egg noodles and silky white beehoon, complemented by crispy tofu puffs that soak up the flavorful broth, soft spring squid lending a subtle seafood umami, and small pieces of pig blood adding a traditional texture. A dollop of sambal mixed with taucheo chili condiment provides a mild heat with earthy, beany notes, enhancing every bite.

Though Air Itam Sister Curry Mee focuses on savory delights and does not serve desserts, the vibrant market surroundings offer various local sweet treats nearby to round off your visit.

Complement your meal with traditional Malaysian coffee offered at the stall, a robust brew that pairs perfectly with the rich spices of the curry mee. The establishment serves a variety of freshly brewed coffees, ideal for breakfast or brunch in this lively setting.

 - The curry paste used is a secret blend passed down by the founding sisters since 1946, delivering a truly authentic and deeply flavorful soup base.

 - Unlike many curry mee variants, this version features little to no coconut milk, resulting in a lighter, less creamy broth that highlights the spices and fresh ingredients.

Savor the unforgettable flavors of Air Itam Sister Curry Mee in Ayer Itam, Malaysia! Dive into authentic cuisine—visit us today!

Experience Authentic Curry Mee in Ayer Itam, Penang

Ayer Itam Municipality

A traditional Penang-style curry noodle dish served with egg noodles or rice noodles, topped with tofu puffs, cuttlefish slices, pork blood curds, and sambal.

Air Itam Sister Curry Mee Penang's Legendary Culinary Gem 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ayer Itam, Penang, 

 is a legendary food stall that has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 1946. This Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded eatery is famed for its distinct Penang-style curry mee, a traditional noodle soup that offers a unique culinary experience unlike any other.

Unlike typical curry mee, the broth here is notably lighter and less creamy, with little to no coconut milk flavor. The broth’s sweetish and savory notes create a harmonious balance that sets this dish apart from the usual rich and heavy curries. Each bowl is cooked over charcoal, infusing a subtle smokiness that enhances the depth of flavors.

 include tofu puffs that soak up the rich curry flavors, tender spring squid that adds a delightful seafood umami, slices of pig blood, taugeh sprouts, yellow noodles, and white beehoon. A carefully crafted chili sambal and taucheo condiment adds a gentle heat and earthy saltiness, rounding out the flavor profile perfectly.

Vibrant Local Atmosphere and Accessibility

This humble stall is tucked away in a lively morning market street along Jalan Paya Terubong, near a historic church landmark. Enjoy your meal with outdoor seating available, perfect for soaking in the bustling street market vibe. The spot welcomes families and groups, making it a great destination for travelers seeking authentic Penang street food in a friendly environment.

 – Enjoy a delicious bowl of Curry Mee for just MYR 4, offering incredible value for money.

 – Dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup options available to suit your preference.

 – Availability of paid parking lots and free street parking for ease of access.

 – Welcoming atmosphere suitable for children and groups, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal.

Tips for Visiting Air Itam Sister Curry Mee

Due to the stall's small size and high popularity, parking can be challenging during peak hours. It's best to visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful meal and experience the vibrant market before the crowds arrive. Don't forget to try other local delights nearby, such as chee cheong fun and char kway teow, to complete your Penang street food adventure.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Air Itam, Penang, Air Itam Sister Curry Mee is a beloved culinary gem with a rich history dating back to 1946. This iconic eatery is renowned for its authentic Penang-style curry mee, offering a unique taste that distinguishes itself from typical laksa varieties with a light, slightly sweet broth and minimal coconut milk. The stall's legacy, originally founded by two sisters and now run by a relative, makes it a treasured cultural landmark in the area.

The stall is famous for generous portions of curry mee featuring a harmonious blend of yellow noodles, white beehoon, taupok, pig blood cubes, tender cuttlefish, and taugeh, all topped with a flavorful chili sambal. Priced reasonably at around RM6, it offers exceptional value that appeals to food lovers and budget-conscious travelers alike. The curry paste is a standout, delivering a savory yet delicate flavor profile that has delighted locals and visitors for over 75 years.

While Air Itam Sister Curry Mee offers an authentic local experience and legendary flavors, visitors should be aware of a few limitations. The stall is located in a small lane near a bustling morning market which can make parking challenging despite the availability of some paid lots and free street parking. Seating is limited and the space is cozy, which may require some patience during peak hours. Additionally, the stall is closed on Tuesdays, so planning your visit accordingly is advised.

Distinctive savory, slightly sweet broth with fresh local ingredients.

Operating since 1946 and regarded as a local treasure in Air Itam.

Delicious offerings at around RM6 per small bowl, excellent value for money.

Small stall with few seats and parking can be challenging during busy times.

Plan your visit accordingly as the stall is closed one day a week.

Pulau Pinang

Experience legendary Penang-style curry mee at Air Itam Sister Curry Mee in Ayer Itam. Authentic flavors near Air Itam Market, great for food lovers!

Air Itam Sister Curry Mee - Authentic Penang Curry Noodles in Ayer Itam

Dine at Air Itam Sister Curry Mee, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand recognized stall since 1946. Satisfy your craving for traditional Penang curry noodles today!

Visit Air Itam Sister Curry Mee - MICHELIN Bib Gourmand in Penang

Discover the opening hours of Air Itam Sister Curry Mee in Penang. Operating from 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM/12:00 PM, closed Tuesdays. Plan your visit!