Tasting Hokkien Mee at “Little Penang”
Hello, I’m Chietomonji, a gourmet writer.
This time, I visited a Malaysian restaurant in Wellington called Little Penang.
My goal was Penang Seafood Noodles. I came here in search of that unforgettable flavor I first tasted more than ten years ago—the rich, deeply satisfying soup based on prawn stock that left a lasting impression on me. I wanted to taste it again.
The sign of Little Penang—this is the place.
When I entered, the restaurant was already filled with locals, though there were still seats available.
Since I was dining alone, I was shown to a small table in the corner.
I checked the menu just to be sure.
Looking closely, I realized that what I was looking for wasn’t listed as Penang Seafood Noodles here, but under the name Hokkien Mee. I also noticed that it was included in the Daily Specials, and luckily, it was the right day of the week. I immediately ordered the Hokkien Mee.
Side note: Hokkien Mee, written in Chinese as “福建麵,” is commonly known in Singapore and Malaysia as a type of fried noodle dish. However, Penang Hokkien Mee is not stir-fried—it’s a noodle soup.
The restaurant was quite busy, so I expected a long wait, but in about ten minutes, the Penang Seafood Noodles arrived at my table.
If there had been more bean sprouts and spring onions as toppings, the presentation might have been even better, but the aroma and appearance were more than enough to raise expectations.
Time to taste.
The toppings included fish balls (similar to kamaboko-style fish paste), prawns, egg, and pork ribs with meat attached (likely pork belly). The spoon was served with chili and something like sambal already on it—meant to be mixed into the soup to add heat and depth.
There were two types of noodles: a standard medium-thick yellow noodle, and what appeared to be vermicelli-style glass noodles.
Coconut-based laksa soups are delicious, of course, but this style of noodle soup is equally wonderful.
The flavors and textures had real depth, reminding me once again of how rich and complex Malaysian cuisine can be.
Finished to the last bite.
Thank you for the meal.
Hokkien Mee: $24
Little Penang
179 Victoria Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Phone: 04 382 9818
https://www.facebook.com/LittlePenang
