Malaysia

SINGAPORE: How far does one go to enjoy a treat? Well, Singaporean actor Zhang Zetong missed a flight because he wanted to savour Kuala Lumpur’s chilli pan mee, as reported by CNA. The Star Search winner, who is currently acting in Emerald Hill, shared that he gets upset when the food is not up to standard and as promoted.

He relies on TikTok, Instagram, and Xiaohonghu to search for good eats. He plans ahead when it comes to locating good food and uses apps to find food almost everywhere he goes. Zhang, 32, is actually from Johor Bahru, but he likes Penang food for that is where his maternal grandmother lives. Every lunar new year, Zhang visits her, so he has been to Penang many times.

According to Zhang, he has been to all the famous spots, but what makes Penang so inviting is the nice and friendly people. He shared that for an authentic experience of Penang, you have to visit the mainland. As for adventure, Zhang shared about visiting the Snake Temple as a child, and it was terrifying with its plethora of snakes.

The actor shared that he found out Andy Lau sponsored a pillar at the Snake Temple, bringing luck to his work and chances of having a baby.

For Zhang, besides Penang, Kuala Lumpur is also a spot for good eats. He is learning Cantonese so that he can converse well with the city’s Chinese residents.

Here are some of the recommendations Zhang shared.

Ayear Itam Laksa (Penang)

Zhang has visited it only once or twice. It has become too difficult to visit as it would either be closed or overcrowded. The laksa is so good that no other place can hold a candle to, according to Zhang. The broth is rich and packed with fish. As for the spice level, it is moderate.

Jalan Air Putih Oyster Omelette (Penang)

Having tried Taiwan’s Ximending oyster omelette, Zhang feels that this Penang version is better. The oysters are juicy and fresh, not overcooked. The dish is a secret recipe, and Zhang does not know what is in it except corn starch and seasoning. The egg is gooey and contains all the seasoning, so when you chew it, it dissolves in your mouth.

Madam Chiam Curry Noodle House (Kuala Lumpur)

A local recommended this KL chilli pan mee to Zhang. This is the one which caused Zhang and his friends to miss their flights as they wanted to eat their favourite pan mee. It is a perfect response to Japan’s mazesoba with the lime, half-boiled egg, chilli, and minced meat. Once mixed together, they taste amazing.

Klang Jia Xiang Bak Kut Teh (Kuala Lumpur)

This bak kut teh place is unforgettable for Zhang. He has only been here once, but he wants to go back again. The actor prefers the KL herbal variety to the Singapore peppery version. This is his idea of comfort food with a strong herbal taste. The broth has been boiled with herbs for many hours.