Ipoh is a former boomtown that is now experiencing a population decline. When its mining industry shuttered its windows. Still, Ipoh remains one of the largest cities in Malaysia. It is especially known for its food. Though not as famous or accessible as Penang, Ipoh remains a popular destination for food lovers. Some Singaporeans make the trip down to Ipoh for the weekend for the sole reason of eating.

Ipoh is perhaps most known for its Chinese cuisine, although Malay and Indian dishes are also very popular throughout the city. As with everywhere in Malaysia, Laksa is on the menu. This fish paste and noodle soup is sour and spicy at once. It is found at markets and food courts throughout the city. The food court in Canning Garden is a good place to start, though there are numerous small restaurants and food centers that deserve a mention. Gourmet Square is a popular place, especially for its seafood dishes. Try the sweet and sour crab and also the shrimp.

Two notable local specialties are the stir-fried vegetables and squid. This dish is sweet and packs a bit of a kick in its sauce. Hainan chicken rice is another dish, often made with locally produced soy sauce and mung bean sprouts.

Some of the area’s Chinese restaurants offer dim sum, an array of small dishes eaten earlier in the day.

Ipoh’s white coffee, a special blend of beans roasted in butter and mixed with sweet-condensed milk is excellent, especially in Ipoh’s old quarter. Because of the strong Chinese influence in Ipoh, some quality teas are on the menu, as well. It is quite an experience to get up early and enjoy some tea at a local café with all the elderly folks relaxing after a morning of walking and tai chi.

Health conscious eaters will be happy with the wide variety of locally grown produce. Tropical fruits are cheap and plentiful, especially the pungent durian and sour/sweet Pomelo. Man-made sweets like custard and cakes are popular, especially at restaurants.

Finally, satay, skewered meant marinated in peanut sauce and barbecued, is a great dish to try.

Ipoh is not as big a culinary destination as Penang, but it is very close. At two hours from Kuala Lumpur, it is quite reasonable to spend a day or two exploring the food courts, cafes, and restaurants of Ipoh. Though it is generally known as a good city for retirement, the culinary industry of this city is a fresh and unique as it gets.