Some say Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang is the best Nasi Lemak in Penang. Rows and rows of Nasi Lemak were prepared neatly yet quickly right in front of our eyes; from the rice to a ladle of sambal ingredients poured over to the pyramid-shaped wrapping that holds the rice nicely. The process was so unpretentious but alluring.

Unwrapping the banana leaf, I could already smell an ubiquitous coconut milk aroma from the rice and a pleasant freshness from the banana leaf. Digging in, the fluffy rice exudes a lingering pandan fragrance. What I underestimated was the sambal belacan that almost burnt me alive. Such intense fieriness from a spicy explosion, although somehow was still addictive. Small pieces of chewy sotong topped on the rice but didn’t quite hit the spot as it felt a little lacking. Whereas the bilis telur was comforting; a plenty of anchovies and half of a hard-boiled egg, something that we would all find familiar.

Portion was rather small and diners having at least 2 packets was a common observation. Good thing is, the price stays at RM 1.80 regardless of toppings. So is this really the best Nasi Lemak in Penang? You decide.