Auntie Gaik Lean's Old School Eatery

DISCOVER

About Us

Nestled in the heart of UNESCO‑listed George Town, Penang, Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery is a charming, family‑run Peranakan restaurant celebrated for its unwavering dedication to traditional Baba‑Nyonya cuisine. Founded in 2013 by Chef Beh Gaik Lean—affectionately known as “Auntie Gaik Lean”—and her devoted son Adrian, our eatery began as a humble venture that has blossomed into a Michelin‑starred culinary institution. We are proud to be Malaysia’s first—and Penang’s only—homestyle Peranakan eatery awarded a Michelin star in 2022, a recognition of our passion for heritage cooking executed with consistency and heart.

Opening Hours

Monday – Closed

Tuesday – Closed

Wednesday – Sunday 12.00 -14.30 18.00 -21.30

Auntie Gaik Lean’s

Our Heritage

A proud fourth‑generation Nyonya, Auntie Gaik Lean’s culinary journey began at age 12 in her mother’s kitchen, mastering the fine art of Peranakan cooking—grinding sambal, slicing ulam, and perfecting family recipes passed down through generations. Drawing from her time cooking in multinational factory canteens, she eventually returned to Penang, opening this nostalgic eatery to share her authentic flavors with the world.

Our Accolades

Michelin star

We are proud to be Malaysia’s first—and Penang’s only—homestyle Peranakan eatery awarded a Michelin star in 2022, a recognition of our passion for heritage cooking executed with consistency and heart Our commitment to maintaining tradition while embracing respectful innovation has also earned acclaim in local and international design circles .

From the menu

From the Menu, Auntie Gaik Lean's Recommendations

Terung Sambal

Fried eggplant tossed in a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet sambal sauce, a signature Peranakan side dish best enjoyed with rice.

Sambal Petai

Petai beans stir-fried with prawns in a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet sambal sauce, a bold and aromatic Peranakan favorite.

Assam Hae

Nyonya-style fresh prawns, tamarind juice (assam jawa) simmered in a spicy, tangy tamarind sauce, perfect with steamed rice.

Nutmeg Punch

Nutmeg Punch is a cooling, sweet-tangy drink made from fresh nutmeg fruit, a Penang favorite for hot days.

Gulai Tumis

Nyonya-style curry that’s spicy, sour, and aromatic, made with fish or seafood simmered in a turmeric and chili-based gravy flavored with tamarind.

Egg Belanda

Nyonya comfort dish made by frying eggs and simmering them in a tangy, slightly sweet tamarind-based gravy.

Curry Kapitan & Hong Kae

A rich and aromatic dry curry, made with chicken in a thick blend of spices, coconut milk, candlenut, galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves.

Beef Rendang

Slow-cooked dry curry of tender beef simmered in coconut milk, chili paste, and spices until caramelized and deeply flavorful.

Baba Delight

A Nyonya appetizer platter featuring Kuih Pie Tee, Lor Bak, Cucur Udang, and Acar Awak — a perfect mix of savory bites.