Macallum Street Uncovered: A Hidden Foodie Paradise in Georgetown’s Working-Class Heart
Welcome to MacCallum Street—a humble, working-class enclave in the heart of Georgetown, Penang, just minutes away from the tourist crowds but worlds apart in authenticity. Named after Sir Henry MacCallum, a former British engineer and governor, this area is home to MacCallum Ghaut, one of Penang’s largest affordable housing projects. But what really makes this street special? The undiscovered, mouthwatering street food loved by locals—and barely known by outsiders!
For this food tour, I will help uncover the best-kept culinary secrets of MacCallum Street—dishes that have fed generations of Penangites but remain under the radar. From smoky char koay teow cooked in decades-old woks to fluffy apom balik stuffed with sweet corn, these stalls are the real deal.
MacCallum Street is known as the fifth street for local Penangites
MacCallum Street is mainly inhabited by working class Penangites
History of Maccallum Street: Penang's Historic Gateway
Once a quiet, working-class lane lined with rustic wooden shophouses and modest trades, Macallum Street has transformed into one of Penang’s most densely populated urban hubs—a vibrant testament to Georgetown’s relentless growth. Named after Captain D.H. Macallum, a former superintendent of Penang Prison in the 19th century, this unassuming stretch was originally home to dockworkers, artisans, and small-scale merchants catering to the bustling port nearby. Over the decades, waves of migration and industrialization turned the area into a melting pot of cultures, where Chinese kopitiams, Indian barbers, and Malay workshops thrived side by side. Today, soaring high-rises and modern apartments stand where attap roofs once sheltered generations of families, yet the street’s gritty charm endures in its legendary hawker stalls, weathered façades, and the unshakeable spirit of its community. Macallum Street’s journey—from a backwater lane to a concrete jungle—mirrors Penang’s own metamorphosis, proving that even the most unpretentious streets can become the heartbeat of a city.
Immigrants pouring into Penang starting from the late 1800s
Penang's iconic Komtar being build and MaCCallum Street at the backgroud in the 1980s
Stop #1: Boss Mee Goreng
Boss Mee Goreng on Macallum Street is a smoky, wok-fired masterpiece that’ll make you question every other stir-fried noodle you’ve ever had. The uncle (yes, he’s the boss) works his magic over a roaring flame, tossing thick yellow noodles with a brutal yet precise chaos—charred edges, springy bites, and a sweet-spicy-savory sauce clinging to every strand. Chunks of crispy pork lard, a squeeze of lime, and that elusive wok hei breath of the gods elevate this from "just mee goreng" to a Penang street food icon.
The tauke has been making them since the 1980s
The iconic green sign board of Boss Mee Goreng
They are usually open in the afternoon
The Boss Mee Goreng is not to be missed on Macallum Street
Stop #2. Ah Chye Rojak Macallum
Ah Chye Rojak on Macallum Street is my ultimate 10/10 go-to – hands down the BEST rojak in Penang! 💖💯👍 The thick, fragrant peanut sauce is pure perfection, generously coating every piece of juicy fruit, crispy fritters, and tender squid. The balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors is just unbeatable. Rain or shine, I’ve never been disappointed – and when the sun sets, the boss keeps the magic going at his Jalan Perak stall. If you haven’t tried this legendary rojak yet, you’re seriously missing out. Absolute must-eat!
Uncle Chye is an icon on MaCCallum Street
Uncle Chye's Rojak is a true treasure
Stop #3. Ang Hoay Lor
Restaurant Ang Hoey Lor is a living relic of Penang's culinary heritage - this no-frills, 70-year-old institution doesn't bother with menus or decor, letting their timeless flavors speak for themselves. Their legendary bak kee (pork soup) remains the star, but regulars know the real treasures are their plump, juicy oyster specialties - the 蠔面 (oyster noodles) bursts with briny freshness while their 蠔煎 (oyster omelette) delivers that perfect sticky-starch texture true connoisseurs crave. The 虾卷 (prawn rolls) offer crispy contrast to their rich dishes. What this humble shop lacks in seating (closed Wednesdays!), it makes up in unadulterated 古早味 - that hard-to-find 'old-school taste' preserved through generations. Pro tip: Call ahead (they take reservations!) and let the owner-curated meal unfold - this is heritage dining at its most authentic.
An iconic institution: Ang Hoay Lor 70 years history
Ang Hoay Lor signature dish Oyster Noodle
Ang Hoay Lor signature dish Bak Kee
Ang Hoay Lor 's fried prawn is a must order
Stop #4. Auntie Hong Wan Tan Mee
Tucked into the shadowy corner of a timeworn kopitiam Auntie Hong’s new restaurant comes alive when most shops shutter. By sunset, the ever-smiling auntie fires up her wok, feeding night owls with glossy strands of springy noodles tossed in inky dark soy—each bowl crowned with caramelized char siew, a golden fried wonton, and her secret weapon: a blistering sambal that’ll jolt you awake better than an espresso. The old-school ritual remains—a side of clear broth with two silky pork dumplings bobbing like edible moons. While her suikow and noodle soups tempt, it’s the midnight wonton mee that regulars dream about. No frills, pure Penang soul served till the stars fade.
Open Till Late Night Auntie Hong Kopitiam is perfect for the night owls
Auntie Hong Kopitiam's fried wonton are homemade
Auntie Hong wonton are a must order
Auntie Hong has been making wan tan mee for over 20 years now
Stop #5 MaCCallum Street Monday night market
Macallum Street Night Market in Penang is a vibrant nocturnal hub, offering a diverse range of local culinary delights and cultural experiences. As the sun sets, the street transforms into a lively marketplace featuring stalls with iconic Penang dishes such as Char Kway Teow, Penang Laksa, and Nasi Lemak. Beyond food, the market showcases local crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The energetic atmosphere, filled with enticing aromas and lively chatter, makes Macallum Street Night Market a must-visit for those seeking an immersive experience in Penang's cultural and culinary scene.
