Kuantan’s food scene blends tradition, flavour, and local pride — here’s where to start.
If you’re heading to the east coast of Malaysia and skipping Kuantan, you’re seriously missing out, especially when it comes to food. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat beach-goer, one thing’s for sure: good food in Kuantan is never hard to find.
This coastal town has a chill vibe, friendly locals, and best of all, a food scene that ranges from classic hawker gems to hidden seafood spots worth driving for. So, if your stomach is ready, here’s where you should eat when in Kuantan.
Ana Ikan Bakar Petai – Charcoal-Grilled Perfection
A long-time crowd favourite, Ana Ikan Bakar Petai is where you’ll find fresh Kuantan seafood grilled over charcoal and slathered in spicy sambal. What sets it apart? A generous layer of petai (stink beans), adding a bold, unmistakable depth of flavour.
Local reviews on travel forums like Cari praise its signature ikan bakar for being “fresh, fiery, and worth the drive.” Come early if you want a table—the queue builds fast, especially on weekends.
Restoran Hoi Yin – Curry Mee With a Cult Following
Located near Teluk Cempedak beach, this humble spot serves one of the most famous food in Kuantan—curry mee that’s rich, creamy, and spiced just right.
Locals have been queuing up for this since the 90s, with one TripAdvisor user calling it “breakfast that stays on your mind long after the beach.” Don’t let the modest setup fool you—this is where locals fuel up for the day.
Tip: It opens as early as 7am. Go for the bee hoon mee mix for best texture.
Terminal Satay Zul – Skewers That Never Miss
You haven’t really eaten in Kuantan until you’ve had Satay Zul. Known for tender, juicy skewers of beef, chicken, and lamb grilled to smoky perfection and served with rich peanut sauce, it’s a legendary spot among locals. A staple of Kuantan town’s food scene for decades, it remains a must-visit for anyone chasing proper good food with street-food soul.
Akob Patin House – Taste of Local Heritage
Ask any Kuantan local where to find proper patin tempoyak, and chances are they’ll point you to Akob Patin House. This family-run spot has been serving the iconic dish—catfish in creamy fermented durian gravy for years, drawing regulars who grew up on its bold, comforting flavours. One diner on TikTok shared how it reminded her of her mum’s cooking, with tempoyak “kaw gila” just like back home. Served with rice, sambal and ulam, it’s a meal that captures the essence of east coast tradition.
Plan Your Kuantan Food Trip Now!
Why just read about it when you can taste it yourself? Kuantan’s food scene is warm, welcoming, and bursting with flavour you won’t forget.
Ready to go? Skip the hassle and sort your bus booking online with KKKL. It’s a smooth, comfortable way to get to all the good food adventures waiting for you in Kuantan! And if you’re still hungry for ideas, browse our related blogs to discover more mouth-watering food trails across Malaysia.
