Something blue, something rice, something nice at Mews Café
Yes, this blue-coloured rice dish from Mews Café that is simply delicious also titillates the senses. It looks amazing, smells appetising and tasted heavenly as well.
The blue juice from rehydrating dried bunga telang (Butterfly-pea flower) is used to make this beautiful dish called Ikan Sambal. It reminds me very much of the traditional Nasi Kerabu (Salad Rice) from Kelantan – a northeastern state in Malaysia. Mews Café’s version serves the blue-coloured rice with steamed seabass marinated in herbs and spices, encased in a banana leaves parcel to lock in its flovours. On the side, an offering of spicy mango salad, salted egg and emping is served to enhance its indigenous taste. Emping is a bite-size cracker made of melinjo or belinjo (gnetum gnemon) nut. The emping crackers add texture to the dish.
I highly recommend this dish to tourists visiting the island to encounter the wonderful flavours Penang has to offer as well as locals, who will be happy to recognise its savoury delights.
Mews Café serves Asian and international specialties, prepared with fresh local ingredients. The kitchen serves breakfast, light bites as well as homely chicken pies, burgers, fish and chips, pasta dishes and Penang favourites. The café’s delectable spread is all prepared with homemade sauces and spices, without the usage of MSG. The special board changes daily and is worth checking before ordering. Diners can choose to dine in a cozy air-conditioned setting or alfresco.
To complete your meal, you have a selection of tempting dessert choices such as tiramisu, berry crumble and sago with molasses and coconut cream. The extensive beverage menu includes a variety of drinks, from cooling pineapple and mint frappes and mixed berry ice teas to mocktails, cocktails, a decent beer and wine list, refreshing floats and freshly-brewed coffee.
Mews Café is located in the heart of the UNESCO heritage zone in George Town, Penang. If you are exploring the streets of George Town, this café would be ideal to stop by for lunch, dinner or coffee. It opens from 8.00 am to 11:00 pm and the warm and friendly atmosphere is just so welcoming. There is live music in the garden on Saturday evenings from 8.30 pm to 11:30 pm.
Mews Café at Muntri Mews: 77 Lebuh Muntri, 10050 George Town, Penang | Opens from 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
For reservations and more info, call +604 263 5125
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Written and photographed by Adrian Cheah
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