The story
Air Itam Duck Rice operates from a modest stall within the bustling Air Itam Wet Market in Paya Terubong, Penang. It is a fixture of the local street food scene, drawing a steady line of customers for its signature dish. The market itself is a sensory experience—the chatter of vendors, the clatter of woks, the aroma of spices. Here, the focus is on the food, not the decor.
The specialty is a bowl of fragrant rice topped with tender, braised duck. The meat is slow-cooked until it falls off the bone, steeped in a dark, savory broth of soy, star anise, and other aromatics. Served with a side of pickled vegetables and a hard-boiled egg, it is a classic Penang comfort meal. Each component is carefully balanced—the richness of the duck, the tang of the pickles, the soft rice.
In 2026, Air Itam Duck Rice received a Michelin Recommended award, a testament to its consistent quality and the skill behind its simple yet satisfying cooking. The recognition places this humble hawker stall among the best street food experiences in Malaysia. For those seeking authentic Penang duck rice, this is a must-visit.
Recognition
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