Gurney Drive Hawker Centre, located in the vibrant city of George Town, Penang, is one of Malaysia’s most famous food destinations. Renowned for its diverse array of street food, this open-air food court is a must-visit for foodies and travellers alike. If you are looking to experience authentic Penang cuisine, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, and enjoy a meal by the sea, then Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is the place to be.
Location and Accessibility
Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is situated along Gurney Drive, a popular waterfront promenade in George Town. The exact address is:
Gurney Drive Hawker Centre
172, Solok Gurney 1, 10250 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
How to Get There
- By Car: If you’re driving, you can use Google Maps or Waze to navigate to “Gurney Drive Hawker Centre.” Parking is available, though it can be limited during peak hours.
- By Public Transport: Rapid Penang buses (routes 101, 102, and 103) stop near Gurney Drive.
- By Ride-Hailing Services: Grab is the most convenient ride-hailing option in Penang.
- By Walking: If you are staying near Gurney Plaza or Gurney Paragon, the hawker centre is within walking distance.
Best Time to Visit
Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is open daily from around 6:00 PM to midnight. The best time to visit is between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, when all stalls are in full operation. However, this is also the busiest time, so expect long queues for popular dishes.
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting slightly earlier around 6:00 PM or later after 10:00 PM.
Must-Try Dishes
Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is famous for its vast selection of Penang’s best street food. Here are some must-try dishes:
Char Kway Teow
- Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, eggs, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and cockles.
- Best enjoyed with a spicy kick and cooked over high heat for a smoky flavour.
Penang Laksa (Assam Laksa)
- A tangy and spicy fish-based noodle soup made with tamarind, mackerel, and herbs.
- Topped with fresh onions, cucumber, and mint leaves for a refreshing taste.
Hokkien Mee
- A rich prawn noodle soup made with a flavourful broth of prawns and pork.
- Served with yellow noodles, rice vermicelli, hard-boiled egg, and sambal (chili paste).
Oyster Omelette (Oh Chien)
- A crispy, egg-based dish mixed with fresh oysters and starch for a slightly chewy texture.
- Served with a spicy garlic chili sauce for extra flavour.
Satay
- Grilled skewers of marinated chicken, beef, or lamb served with a peanut sauce.
- Often accompanied by ketupat (rice cakes) and cucumber slices.
Rojak
- A local fruit and vegetable salad drizzled with a thick shrimp paste sauce.
- Includes pineapple, cucumber, jicama, and crunchy crackers.
Cendol & Ice Kacang
- Cendol: A refreshing dessert made with green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar.
- Ice Kacang: A shaved ice dessert with red beans, jelly, sweet corn, and syrup.
Budget and Prices
Food at Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is relatively affordable. Here’s an estimated price range for popular dishes:
- Char Kway Teow: RM6 – RM10 (~$1.50 – $2.50)
- Penang Laksa: RM5 – RM8 (~$1.25 – $2.00)
- Hokkien Mee: RM6 – RM9 (~$1.50 – $2.25)
- Satay (per stick): RM1 – RM2 (~$0.25 – $0.50)
- Cendol/Ice Kacang: RM5 – RM7 (~$1.25 – $1.75)
Cash is the preferred mode of payment, though some vendors may accept e-wallet payments.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Go Early or Late: Avoid peak hours to get a seat and enjoy a less crowded experience.
- Bring Cash: Some vendors do not accept credit cards or e-wallets.
- Order from Multiple Stalls: Mix and match dishes to experience a variety of flavours.
- Try Local Drinks: Pair your food with a refreshing sugarcane juice or nutmeg juice.
- Be Prepared for Heat: It can be warm, so dress comfortably and stay hydrated.
Nearby Attractions
If you have extra time before or after your meal, consider exploring these nearby attractions:
- Gurney Plaza: A large shopping mall with international brands and a cinema.
- Gurney Paragon Mall: A stylish mall with high-end boutiques and cafes.
- Penang Avatar Secret Garden: A magical LED-lit garden, perfect for evening visits.
- Penang Botanic Gardens: A lush, green park great for a morning stroll.
Final Thoughts
Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is a paradise for food lovers, offering a true taste of Penang’s vibrant street food culture. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, the lively atmosphere and delectable dishes make it a memorable experience. So, come hungry, be adventurous, and savour the best of Penang’s flavours at Gurney Drive!
Are you planning a trip to Gurney Drive? Share your favourite dishes or ask for more recommendations in the comments below!