(Please note : 15 readers who like and share this article stand to win a complimentary breakfast treat of either a nasi lemak or toast bread with half boiled eggs or koay teow soup on a first-come-first-served basis from April 13 till April 17, 2022 from Penang Hyperlocal)
By V. Sivaji
After three decades operating in Bukit Mertajam, Ah Choon chicken rice finally comes to Georgetown, Penang.
They are now along 91, Lebuh Bishop (beside Public Bank) offering their “time tested” chicken rice for office workers, passers-by and tourists.
The authentic dish was founded in 1989 in Bukit Mertajam where they already have a loyal following.
The secret to their longevity and success can be attributed to their practice of not cutting corners on the ingredients and the delivery of the final product.
“I have always emphasized on fresh products and herbs to prepare our chicken and other dishes we put out.
“Although it costs me extra for these ingredients, I do not compromise on the quality of the food. I do not use ajinomoto or any other artificial preservatives.
“Probably, this is why we have returning customers at our Bukit Mertajam outlet,” said proprietor Tan Meng Choon when met at their newly opened outlet along Bishop Street.
He has a team of five workers including his chef at this cosy outlet. It is also brightly lit and there is ample space to move around.
They cater for the breakfast and lunch crowd and operate from 8am till 3.30pm only.
For breakfast, they also offer homemade nasi lemak, toast bread (roti bakar) with half boiled eggs, koay teow soup.
“The idea to open an outlet struck us when during the pandemic, we received a lot of takeaway orders from Penang Island. So, what better way forward than to open an outlet here for our regular customers on the island,” said Tan.
To go with your meals, they have a list of their own coffee choices created by Tan’s wife, Sally Goh.
Sally also manages their outlet in Bukit Mertajam and is the unofficial public relations and marketing officer.
“I like to meet people and make new friends so it is only natural I take the frontliner role. I am presently assisted by my two daughters who are always on hand to serve and greet guests,” she said.
On a lighter note, Tan is also looking forward for a holiday to China with the reopening of international borders.
Those looking for authentic chicken rice meals can drop by at their outlet along Lebuh Bishop Street or their BM outlet at No: 2, Lebuh Keranji, Taman Mutiara, 14000 Bukit Mertajam.
Call 011-13079191(Carmen) to make reservations or for takeaway orders.
