Nasi Kandar had its humble origins in Penang Island, one of Malaysia’s key tourist islands up North. What does ‘Nasi Kandar’ mean? ‘Nasi’ means rice in Malay while ‘Kandar’ refers to a formidable stick that is slung across one’s shoulder to carry heavy objects securely hung on both ends of the stick. Nasi Kandar was therefore coined to lend meaning to the way in which this local range of delightful Malaysian curry options was sold in the villages since time immemorial.

Over the years, Nasi Kandar has evolved into a far more exciting variety of dishes and has gained so much popularity that Nasi Kandar restaurants may today be found all over Malaysia, albeit, not all such restaurants have had their origins in penang….but as the saying goes ‘Copying is the best form of flattery’!

‘Original Penang Kayu Nasi Kandar’ is however founded and managed by Penangites and we are proud to announce that our dishes are true blue Penang Originals. We are presently represented by more than 10 trendy lifestyle restaurants at prime locations throughout Malaysia, concentrated mainly in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang, operating under the well accepted brand name of Original Penang Kayu Nasi Kandar.

Endorsement from the regular patrons has made ‘Original Penang Kayu’ synonymous with ‘Nasi Kandar’. While Nasi Kandar spearheads the signature dish menu, other mouth watering fried and hotplate dishes such as a great variety of fresh roti (leavened bread) and hot & spicy authentic dishes that tickles your adventurous taste buds must not be missed.