TAKING a nice stroll along the streets of George Town has always been a ‘must-do’ activity if one visits Penang.
Famed for its heritage and mouth-watering local fare, George Town is a popular destination to visit among tourists and even the locals.
Sandwiched between a row of pre-war shophouses in Carnarvon Street is a Teochew opera-themed cafe, known as the Lai H’ng Cafe.
Cafe owner Goh Hooi Ling, or better known as Ling Goh, said the cafe offers visitors a glimpse of history and a chance to ‘revisit the past’.
“Diners can enjoy the nice ambiance, learn about the disappearing Teochew culture and taste the delicious Teochew delicacies here,” Goh said.
Goh has been operating the Teochew Puppet and Opera House museum (located in front of the cafe) for the past six years. She is the museum director.
“It has always been my dream to operate a cafe.
“I have been busy running the museum for the past six years. The museum allows me to share the Teochew culture with the visitors.
“I conduct opera lessons as well,” she said.
According to its Facebook page, Lai H’ng Cafe was established on Feb 21 this year.
Goh said the cafe and museum would trigger fond memories of the visitors, especially among those from the Teochew community.
“We used to feast on oyster porridge, fried lor bak and chai kuih while enjoying the opera shows during our childhood days.
“We can rarely enjoy such experience nowadays,” she said.
Goh added that the team is currently trying to include opera performances, allowing cafe diners to have their meals while watching the shows.
“It will be awesome!” she said.
The cafe is open from noon to 8pm; and is close on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting