Auntie Gaik Lean – A Michelin-Star Worthy Peranakan Meal in Penang

[PENANG] Tucked away in the heart of Georgetown, Penang, Auntie Gaik Lean is a haven for those seeking a genuine taste of Peranakan cuisine. Led by the talented Beh Gaik Lean, this family-run restaurant holds the secrets of authentic Nyonya flavors passed down through generations. The moment we stepped foot into the establishment, we understood why booking in advance was imperative—the demand for Gaik Lean’s culinary creations was simply overwhelming.

Auntie Gaik Lean has been cooking under her mother’s watchful eye from the age of 12, and her culinary prowess has earned her restaurant a star at the inaugural Michelin Guide Malaysia last December.

Having been in operation for more than a decade, Auntie Gaik Lean’s restaurant has become a legendary institution, drawing both locals and travellers seeking an authentic taste of Peranakan fare. What sets this remarkable eatery apart is the fact that Gaik Lean, despite lacking formal training in fine dining or culinary schools, personally takes charge of the kitchen, passionately preparing most of the dishes herself.

Stepping into Auntie Gaik Lean’s restaurant is like traveling back in time. The spacious eatery, occupying two shop lots in Lebuh Bishop, exudes the charm of a bygone era with vintage ceiling fans, show windows adorned with memorabilia, and a nostalgic 60s soundtrack. The unpretentious dining environment sets the stage for a truly authentic Peranakan experience.

With no compromises on quality, Auntie Gaik Lean prepares many dishes from scratch, using the finest ingredients. The Baba Delight is a vibrant assortment which includes spring rolls, lor bak, cucur udang, and acar awak. The delicate kueh pie tee cups were filled with a mixture of turnip, spring onions and crushed chilli, leaving a lingering hint of spiciness that added a delightful kick to each mouthful. The deep fried cucur udang was perfectly seasoned, and I relished its satisfying crunch.

Kiam Chye Ark is one of my favorite soups since I was a child, and it holds a special place in my heart. The rendition here boasted a harmonious blend of saltiness, sourness, and umami, with the unique taste of duck taking centre stage. It was the perfect appetizer, especially when enjoyed piping hot.

The Curry Kapitan was another highlight at Auntie Gaik Lean. This tantalizing dish featured tender chicken cooked in a blend of rempah, handmade coconut milk, and fragrant spices. The result was a creamy and balanced curry with a depth of flavour that left me craving more.

This smoky and savory Sambal Brinjal was Gaik Lean’s mother’s recipe, passed down through generations. It was fiery and undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser. The Assam Hae is a must-try. It was slightly sour, sweet, and savory, with every bit of flavour coming together nicely.

The Nasi ulam, a rare gem, perfectly showcased their dedication. A mix of fragrant jasmine rice and finely-chopped fresh herbs such as kaffir lime leaves, laksa leaves, and lemongrass, the dish was a true labor of love.

Auntie Gaik Lean’s restaurant left an indelible impression on our taste buds. It was a celebration of heritage, tradition, and the unyielding passion of a true culinary matriarch.

To secure a reservation at this sought-after establishment, one must plan ahead, as it can take up to two weeks to secure a coveted spot. This speaks volumes about the anticipation and eagerness that surround the dining experience at Auntie Gaik Lean’s restaurant.