Gēn

Penang, George Town, Malaysia

With its pale marble floors, tactile wooden counters and statement floor-to-ceiling windows, Gēn (meaning ‘roots’) represents a stellar reason to visit Penang’s The Prestige Hotel. Talented young Johor-born chef Johnson Wong’s ‘My Malaysian Stories’ tasting menus (eight-course lunch; 12-course dinner) showcase nostalgic native flavours and innovative cooking techniques. Courses arrive at a relaxed pace, allowing time to linger over the likes of T’lur caviar, served in a can with fish at the bottom, and a typically photogenic black chicken with banana heart and aubergine. Sister venture Communal Table offers the island’s restaurant-goers a more casual concept, with flavour-packed sharing plates such as rice-stuffed chicken wings at entry-level prices and top-notch, fresh cocktails on a par with those served at its fine-diner sibling.

Key Information

• Average price per person $85
• Tasting menu from $50
• Lunch and dinner: Thurs – Tues
• (6012) 511 3323
• Visit Gēn's Website

Location

The Prestige Hotel, 8 Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, Penang, George Town, George Town, 10300