If you happen to be wandering along the busy Pengkalan Weld road, right across from the iconic Chew Jetty, you might easily walk past a shoplot that measures just six metres by fifteen. However, doing so would be a mistake. This tiny eatery, known as The Pinn, holds a prestigious honour that many massive establishments can only dream of.
Stepping inside, the first thing you notice is how compact the space is. It barely seats forty diners at a time, yet its walls proudly display three Michelin certificates. It is a refreshing reminder that while larger restaurants often boast about their rankings, small outfits can find a very successful niche by focusing on quality over quantity.
The Pinn moved to this spot opposite Lee Jetty in 2023, and it has clearly benefited from the heavy foot traffic of tourists swept up in the Penang street food craze. While the interior might not be flashy or impressionable, it is practical and well maintained. Even the single toilet is notably clean, which is always a good sign in a bustling heritage enclave.
The menu follows the same philosophy as the room: small but powerful. It offers a curated selection of Malaysian Chinese dishes, including dumplings and a few interesting Indonesian and Taiwanese titbits. The absolute standout, however, is the homemade mackerel fish balls. These are their speciality, and I highly recommend ordering them with a side of noodles to turn a snack into a complete, satisfying meal.
One thing to keep in mind is that the flavours here lean slightly toward the sweeter side. This is quite intentional, as the kitchen aims to suit the specific cravings of local Penang tastebuds. It is honest, unpretentious food that earned its Michelin recognition through consistency and heart. If you want to experience the heritage core without the typical fine dining fuss, this little shoplot is exactly where you need to be.
Address: 58, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Phone: 012-761 4316
