If you ever have the chance to visit Malaysia, Melaka is a must visit city. If you really want to explore Malaysia in-depth, start your trip in Melaka. It will definitely open your eyes to Malaysia’s incredible diversity when it comes to people, culture and even history. This state has a rich historical and cultural background from previous Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. The city centre was also listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in July 2008.
Now, enough with the history. Let’s dive into what Melaka is actually known for: its glorious food. Mostly influenced by the Peranakans’ way of cooking, here is the basic guide to Melaka’s food for beginners.
Food
When in Melaka, do as the locals do and enjoy the food galore on Jonker Street. This vibrant market comes alive mainly at night and sells everything from tasty treats to cheap keepsakes. Here are some of the basics that you can feast on in Jonker.
Chung Wah Chicken Rice Ball
Enjoy Melaka’s most celebrated dish, chicken rice balls, in the place that made them famous. The dish is simply steamed chicken, served with super soft rice balls and chilli sauce. With a great line of people always waiting outside to get their hands on this dish, you will surely never miss this local specialty.
Jonker 88
While exploring the streets of Melaka under the scorching hot sun, Jonker 88 is a good spot to take a break. Make sure to try their well-known Cendol, which is typically made of coconut milk, green starched noodles with pandan flavouring, shaved ice and palm sugar (Gula Melaka). Signature ones are the Baba Cendol and the Baba Durian Cendol.
Heng Huat Kopitiam
If you think you’ve tasted the best wonton noodles, get ready to be proven wrong when you taste the dish here. The usual serving comes with black sauce and a savoury and salty soy sauce. However, Melaka’s wonton noodles are more complex in flavour, with the addition of chilli and accompanied by a delicious pork broth and white sauce.
Loh Yong Moh Restaurant
According to the locals, this is the first and oldest Dim Sum restaurant in Melaka. Ever since 1936, business has been picking up and it still remains thriving among locals and tourists. The servers approach customers from table to table, parading around large trays of steaming hot or fried dim sum. You only have to point out on what you want and it will be served to you.
Accommodation
When all your food hunting is done, take a pick out of these great Melaka hotels to rest your head and unwind until the adventures begin again in the morning.
Hatten Hotel Melaka
Conveniently located right in the heart of the city, this business class hotel is surrounded by UNESCO-listed sites as well as major shopping centres and businesses. Hatten Hotel Melaka is situated above Hatten Square and is linked to Dataran Pahlawan. The numerous attractions it is near include Jonker Street, A’Famosa, Stadthuys, Flor de la Mar Maritime Museum and Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum.
Holiday Inn Melaka
Situated along Melaka’s lively waterfront, Holiday Inn Melaka offers spacious rooms with stunning sea or city views and flat-screen TVs. It features buffet breakfasts, an infinity pool and a spa. Located next to Mahkota Parade Shopping Mall, Melaka Holiday Inn provides free shuttle services to nearby attractions.
Mahkota Hotel Melaka
The Mahkota Hotel Melaka is a beautiful serviced apartment building set in the very heart of Melaka. Combining tradition with excellent facilities, this property offers the very best in comfort, service and hospitality. The 617 rooms and suites offer guests an array of accommodation choices. The hotel is within a short walk from Melaka’s various sightseeing and historical attractions.
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