Richard Rivalee Nyonya Cuisine
Penang has been awash with influences of Peranakan culture since the 14th century – the Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a prime example of this. But while we enjoy learning about the roots and rich history of the Baba-Nyonyas, it is their hybrid cuisine that’s most widely savoured by Malaysians.
The island is definitely not short of Peranakan cuisine, with a thriving spread of restaurants and food stalls that make up the local cultural culinary mosaic. For a truly authentic Peranakan dining experience, look no further than Richard Rivalee Nyonya Cuisine Restaurant.
Traditional Peranakan setting & gorgeous antiques
Like every laudable gem that is a must-visit in Penang, you’ll find Richard Rivalee Nyonya Cuisine Restaurant tucked amongst a row of heritage shophouses in the heart of George Town.
The restaurant sports a distinctive facade that oozes old-world splendour, all while blending in well with the Straits-Eclectic design of its neighbouring shophouses.
Hand-painted mosaic tiles, gold-leaf fixtures, translucent glass panels on the windows, and vintage lanterns all bring out the details of the elaborate Peranakan-style architecture – a foretaste of the world inside.
Image adapted from: @heichuanhuili & @heichuanhuili
Helmed by a renowned fashion designer Richard Rivalee who also has a passion for food, the restaurant is imbued with the old-world charm of the Peranakan era.
The restaurant’s interior is tastefully decorated to evoke the traditions of the Chinese and Malay communities. The familiar Straits-Chinese architecture – a unique meld of European, Chinese and Malay styles – can be seen in the floral-motif floor tiles, blackwood furniture, and wooden doors and panels with intricate carvings.
Image credit: @vivientancy
Adding to the classical charm, there are exquisite antiques displayed throughout the restaurant. Similar to an opulent Peranakan dining hall, you’ll find portraits of ancestors adorning the walls, peering down at you from their gilded frames.
Image credit: @pekenoms
In a corner sits an indoor garden reminiscent of a courtyard in the homes of affluent Baba-Nyonyas. Hanging leafy greens and potted plants in gorgeous porcelain vases surround the pond, adding to the enchantingly embellished feel of the restaurant.
Variety of Nyonya dishes and steaming rice
Don’t let the pretty ambience distract you from the food.
The restaurant serves simple yet hearty dishes to go with rice, which will make you feel like you’re having a homecooked meal with family. So come with your tummies rumbling, as there’s a large variety of Nyonya dishes on the menu that you’ll want to try many at once.
Image credit: @foodieonabittenapple
Certain dishes – such as Jiu Hu Char (RM24), Sambal Petai with Prawns (RM24), and Fried Kangkung with Belacan (RM20) – may sound and look homely and unassuming, but it’s the amazing burst of flavours that make these dishes distinctively Nyonya.
Other classic Nyonya favourites here include Otak-otak (RM22) and Five-spiced Loh Bak (RM18), which will remind you of your Ah Ma’s cooking.
Image adapted from: Richard Rivalee & @leys.foodieee
For protein, you’ll want to sink your teeth into the tender meats – Chicken Ponteh (RM28), a flavourful chicken and potato stew, or the Lemongrass Chicken (RM28) which is fried to crisp perfection are recommended.
There’s also the Asam Pedas Stew Fish (RM22) and Kurma Mutton (RM70), which are large-portioned dishes that are great for sharing.
Image adapted from: @imhonestfoodie & @leys.foodieee
Don’t miss out on their steaming rice. There are choices such as Turmeric Rice (RM10), Butterfly Bluepea Rice (RM10), and the fragrant Nasi Ulam (RM10) that pair nicely with the side dishes.
Image credit: @imhonestfoodie
The restaurant’s decadent desserts are just as essentially Peranakan. For starters, there’s the Sago Pudding (RM10.90) coated with shredded coconut and served with a Gula Melaka dip.
Otherwise, opt for the Bubur Cha Cha (RM8.90) – a medley of sweet potato, taro, and yam chunks in a pool of thick coconut milk – and the Black Glutinous Rice Dessert (RM8.90) that isn’t cloyingly sweet but will satisfy dessert-lovers all the same.
Richard Rivalee Nyonya Cuisine Restaurant in Penang
A satisfying spread of Nyonya dishes that is authentic to its core, an enchanting old-world setting, and great hospitality – a recipe for a perfect Peranakan dining experience.
Whether you’re familiar with the culture and its cuisine or not, a meal at the Richard Rivalee Nyonya Restaurant will guarantee a dining experience that pairs delectable food with a taste of history.
Address: 62 & 64, Lorong Macalister, George Town, 10400 George Town, Penang
Opening hours: Wed – Mon 11.30am-2.30pm & 6pm-9.30pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: 04-227 4888 | 012-421 2511 | 012-494 9567 | Richard Rivalee Nyonya Restaurant website | Facebook
Read more interesting features of places here:
- Pinang Peranakan Mansion, house museum in Penang
- Irama Dining, rooftop restaurant that serves Malay cuisine in Penang
- Bao Teck Tea House, Dim Sum spot in a heritage house in Penang
Photography by Jia-ju.
Cover image adapted from: TheSmartLocal Malaysia, @imhonestfoodie & @joaquinchanna