Food is a central part of any travel experience, and for some, it’s the very reason they travel. While I’m not a hardcore foodie, I relish the chance to try local cuisine whenever I explore a new place. Local food festivals are a favorite of mine, offering a unique way to connect with the local community. Langkawi Night Markets are a prime example of this and stand out as one of the island’s major attractions. Unlike the stationary or weekly markets in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and Vietnam, Langkawi boasts a different night market every evening in various locations. Due to the island’s small size, it’s entirely possible to experience all of these vibrant markets during your stay. You have the option of joining a guided tour of Langkawi night markets if you would like to experience the night markets in a more personalized manner.
Unlike the night markets in Cambodia, which blend food and shopping, night markets in Langkawi are purely culinary celebrations. Imagine a food festival happening daily – yes, every single day! While these markets draw many tourists, they primarily serve as social hubs for locals, continuing a cherished tradition that has thrived for decades. Many of the delicious recipes you’ll find have been passed down through generations, each with unique family touches and secret ingredients. A few stalls even proudly write “Made in Langkawi”. Having lived in Phnom Penh, I appreciate the significance of night markets to locals, and Langkawi’s markets quickly revealed their rich culture and lively atmosphere during my visit.
The best place for dinner
If you aren’t picky about your meals and prefer a light dinner, the night markets in Langkawi are the perfect spot for your evening meal. They’re also ideal for budget travelers, offering delicious food at very affordable prices. Don’t let the low cost fool you – quality is high, and it’s rare to encounter any stomach issues unless you have very strict hygiene requirements. During my family trip to Langkawi, we often dined at night markets, spending about RM 20-30 for the three of us. Isn’t that incredible?
Do you get vegetarian food in Langkawi night market?
If you are a vegetarian, finding suitable options might be a bit challenging but not impossible. There are some meat-free varieties, including dessert items in food and drinks. However, if you are vegan, the choices become even more limited, and it might not be the best place for you to eat. During our one-week stay in Langkawi, I found only one stall offering a soy-based dish.
Do they speak English?
Language is not an issue in Malaysia, and Langkawi is no exception. Most vendors at the night markets speak English, ranging from fluent to basic, so communication is generally smooth. It is however good to know a few words of Bahasa in order to have conversation with the locals. The locals are friendly and accommodating, and they never objected to me taking photos of their dishes or even of them, regardless of whether I made a purchase.
What to Eat at the Langkawi Night Markets
The biggest question is: what type of food is available at the night markets? How do you identify the dishes and find what interests you? Describing Langkawi night market food is quite a task. After visiting night markets across Southeast Asia and numerous times in Langkawi, my knowledge has grown, but there’s always more to discover. The night markets offer a wide variety of food. We had tried some before, some for the first time, and some we were just curious about. You won’t encounter anything creepy or crawly like fried insects, which are common in other Southeast Asian countries. Here’s a list of dishes and drinks you might want to try.
Apam Balik
Apam Balik is a popular Malaysian street food known for its delicious combination of flavors and textures. This pancake-like dish is typically filled with a mixture of crushed peanuts, sweet corn, and sugar. Flour, eggs, coconut milk, and baking soda are mixed together to create the batter, which has a light, fluffy texture.
When preparing Apam Balik, the batter is poured onto a hot griddle and cooked until bubbles form. The filling is then spread over half of the pancake before it is folded over and cooked until golden brown. This delightful snack, enjoyed by both locals and tourists, was declared a heritage food by the Malaysian Department of National Heritage. It costs RM 1 for each piece.
Karipap
Karipap, also known as curry puffs, is a savory pastry that originated in Singapore and is widely enjoyed in Langkawi. These pastries are filled with a flavorful mixture of potatoes, chicken, onions, and a blend of curry spices. This dough is made of flour, water, and butter, resulting in a flaky and crispy outer layer. The dough is rolled out, filled with curry mixture, and then folded into half-moon or triangle shapes before being deep-fried. This snack is known for its rich, spicy filling and crisp pastry. For RM 2, a dish usually includes three pieces.
Murtabak
Murtabak is a stuffed pancake that originated in Yemen, was influenced by Indians living there, and eventually became a staple in Malaysia. A thin dough is filled with onion, green chillies, and minced meat (usually chicken or beef), eggs, garlic, and various spices. As with Roti Canai, this dough is typically made from flour, water, and a little oil, then rolled out into thin sheets. The dough is stretched thin, filled with the meat mixture, folded into a square, and then cooked on a hot griddle until golden brown and crispy. The dish is usually served with curry and costs RM 2.
Fried Noodles
A Langkawi night market staple, fried noodles come in a variety of ingredients and flavors. A common ingredient is yellow noodles, vegetables such as cabbage and carrots, eggs, chicken or shrimp, and a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste. Known for their savory and slightly spicy taste, these noodles are enriched with fresh vegetables and protein. All the ingredients for Fried Noodles are stir-fried in a hot wok until well-mixed and cooked. For as little as RM 1, this quick and flavorful dish is a great option.
Green Mango Salad
Green Mango Salad is a refreshing dish in Langkawi, perfect for vegetable lovers. The main ingredients include grated green mango, grated carrot, semi-crushed peanuts, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and a variety of spices. Tangy, spicy, and crunchy, this salad offers a burst of flavor. It is important to clearly specify your vegetarian status when ordering, as some dishes may contain dried fish or other non-vegetarian ingredients. All the ingredients are mixed together and well combined before preparing Green Mango Salad. This healthy and delicious salad showcases the fresh produce of the region. The price of RM 2 is a steal.
Hoi Crok
Hoi Crok is a savory dish that originated in Thailand and has found its way into Langkawi’s night markets. This dish consists of a mixture of seafood, often including shrimp, squid, and mussels, combined with coconut milk, rice flour, and eggs. The batter is seasoned with garlic, shallots, and spices to enhance flavor. The batter is poured into special half-round molds and cooked until crispy and golden brown. It has a rich, creamy texture and a unique blend of flavors from the fresh seafood and aromatic spices that make it such a delicacy. In general, it is a filling dish that is usually served with six dumplings for about RM 7.
Tokiyoo
Tokiyoo, originally a Japanese dish similar to Dorayaki, is a sweet treat that has mysteriously made its way into Langkawi’s culinary scene. This delightful dish combines sweet coconut paste and sweet corn, creating a unique flavor profile that combines sweetness with natural corn taste. A batter made of flour, eggs, and sugar is cooked until golden brown. The batter for Tokiyoo is cooked on a griddle, filled with sweet coconut paste and sweet corn, and folded in half. Tokiyoo usually costs between RM 1 and 2 per piece.
Roti Canai
Roti Canai is a popular Malaysian dish that is widely enjoyed in Langkawi. A flaky, crispy flatbread is made from flour, water, butter, and sometimes condensed milk. The dough is kneaded, stretched, and skillfully flipped to achieve its thin, layered texture. The dough is stretched until thin, then folded and cooked on a flat griddle until golden brown and crispy on the outside, yet soft and chewy inside. Often served with curries (including fish) or dhal (lentil stew), this bread is a favorite for breakfast or as a snack. If you are vegetarian, please opt for dhal instead of curry. The price of Roti Canai in Langkawi typically ranges from RM 1-2 per dish.
Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is a staple Malaysian dish that holds a prominent place in Langkawi’s culinary offerings. In this dish, fragrant coconut rice is cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaves, served with a variety of accompaniments. Typical ingredients include crispy fried anchovies (ikan bilis), roasted peanuts, cucumber slices, a boiled or fried egg, and chicken or beef rendang. The dish is traditionally served with a side of spicy sambal, a chili paste that comes in various types ranging from mild to fiery, each adding a distinct flavor profile to the meal. Nasi Lemak in Langkawi can cost anywhere from RM 3 to RM 10, depending on the sambal.
Cheesy Wedge
Cheesy Wedges, a fusion dish found in Langkawi night markets, diverges from traditional Malay cuisine. This indulgent snack features potato and chicken wedges topped with melted cheese, often accompanied by additional toppings like bacon bits, jalapenos, and sour cream. In most cases, potato and chicken wedges are deep-fried until crispy, then topped with melted cheese and other desired toppings. Typically, a serving dish of Cheesy Wedges costs around RM 5 in Langkawi night markets.
Laksa Utara
Laksa Utara is a signature dish in Langkawi, known for its rich and flavorful broth. The dish usually consists of rice noodles in a creamy, spicy broth made with fish, lemongrass, galangal, and coconut milk. Among the other ingredients are shredded fish, cucumber slices, onions, and boiled eggs. In order to create a fragrant and aromatic soup, the ingredients are simmered together until they meld together. Laksa Utara typically costs around RM 5. Authentic Malay cuisine with a distinct northern Malaysian twist, this dish is popular with locals and tourists alike.
Desserts in Langkawi Night Markets
Desserts in Langkawi night markets offer a delightful conclusion to a day of exploring the island’s culinary diversity. From sweet and refreshing treats to rich, indulgent flavors, these desserts cater to a range of preferences. Here is a list of a few must-try Malay dessert dishes.
Tau Fu Fa
Tau Fu Fa, a popular dessert in Langkawi, is a silky smooth tofu pudding typically served with a sweet syrup. Soybean milk, gypsum powder (calcium sulfate), and sugar are the main ingredients in Tau Fu Fa. In order to curdle and set the pudding, soybean milk is heated to just before boiling and mixed with white gypsum powder. Tau Fu Fa costs around RM 2-3. You can enjoy this refreshing and delicate dessert either hot or cold.
Klepon
Klepon is a traditional Indonesian-Malay dessert that is also popular in Langkawi, known for its unique texture and sweet flavor. This bite-sized delicacy is made from glutinous rice flour dough filled with palm sugar, then coated with grated coconut. The dough is shaped into small balls, filled with palm sugar, boiled until it floats, and then rolled in grated coconut. Klepon costs around RM 2 for a serving of five pieces. With its chewy rice cake, sweet filling, and crunchy coconut, this dessert is perfect for any time of the day.
Sticky Milk
Sticky Milk is a unique dessert found exclusively in Langkawi night markets. Among its 10-12 distinct flavors, Chocolate stands out as a favorite. You may not get the chocolate flavor if you are late. This dessert is made from full cream and coconut milk and a thick paste of flavors, creating a sticky, chewy texture. The ingredients are mixed in a glass half full with ice cubes and again topped with the flavored paste. This was our favorite dessert and we didn’t miss it single time during each of our visits to night markets. It costs just RM 6.
Kek Batik Coklat
Kek Batik Coklat is known for its rich, chocolatey layers and no-bake preparation. The main ingredients include Marie biscuits, cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and sometimes eggs to enrich the texture.
The butter and sweetened condensed milk are melted together and mixed with cocoa powder to form Kek Batik Coklat. Marie biscuits are broken into smaller pieces and layered in a baking dish, with chocolate mixture poured over each layer to bind them together. After all the layers are assembled, the dessert is chilled until it is set. A small to medium-sized portion of Kek Batik Coklat costs RM 5 in Langkawi night markets.
Varieties of drinks in Langkawi Night Markets
Drinks in Langkawi night markets offer a refreshing respite from the tropical heat, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. From fruity concoctions to aromatic teas, these beverages are often freshly prepared and served chilled, mostly filled with ice cubes.
Assam Boi
Assam Boi, pronounced like “awesome boy,” is a popular drink in Langkawi known for its tangy and refreshing taste. The main ingredients are dried preserved plum (Assam Boi), lemon, sugar, water, and sometimes a pinch of salt. Usually dried preserved plums are soaked in water until soft, then mixed with sugar and additional flavorings as desired. In most cases, the mixture is strained to remove any solids before being served chilled. For a pretty big glass of Assam Boi, it usually costs RM 3.
Tea
Tea is a ubiquitous beverage in Langkawi, enjoyed both hot and cold, and often infused with local flavors and ice cubes. Langkawi tea is typically made with black, green, or fruit leaves, as well as water, condensed milk, and sugar. Langkawi tea is prepared by steeping tea leaves in hot water until desired strength is achieved, then straining before serving. An iced tea is made by chilling the brewed tea and serving it over ice. Tea usually costs RM 2 per cup, particularly in cafes or stands that serve specialty blends or variations such as teh tarik (pulled tea) and teh ais (iced tea). As a result of the island’s warm climate, this versatile beverage is a popular choice throughout the day.
Milk Shakes and Fruit Juices
Fresh fruit milkshakes and juices in Langkawi night markets offer a vibrant array of flavors and colors, creating a delightful dilemma for visitors. These refreshing beverages often feature locally grown fruits such as mango and dragon fruit, which are among the favorites due to their sweet and tangy profiles.
The variety of flavors ranges from traditional choices like avocado and pineapple to exotic blends like durian or rambutan, appealing to a wide range of palates. It is typically made by blending fresh fruits with ice, sugar, or condensed milk for creaminess, ensuring a cool and satisfying drink.
These beverages cost between RM 3 and RM 7 per serving. Langkawi’s tropical bounty makes fresh fruit milkshakes and juices a popular choice for quenching thirst and enjoying dessert-like indulgences.
Langkawi Night Market Locations
Langkawi night markets rotate locations throughout the week, ensuring that no matter where you are on the island, there’s always a market nearby. However, these locations are fixed for each day and you can easily find them using Google Maps. There are many of the same vendors appearing every night, as well as vendors who participate in specific areas only.
- Monday Night Market
- Ulu Melaka Night Market – 2, Taman Wawasan Indah, Kampung Padang Gaong, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
- Tuesday Night Market
- Kedawang Night Market – Kampung Chenek Kura, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
- Wednesday Night Market
- Pekan Kuah Night Market – Lencongan Putra 3, Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
- Thursday Night Market
- Temonyong Night Market – Kampung Lubok Buaya, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
- Friday Night Market
- Ayer Hangat Night Market – Jalan Padang Gaong, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
- Saturday Night Market
- Pekan Kuah Night Market – Lencongan Putra 3, Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
- Sunday Night Market
- Padang Matsirat Night Market – Kampung Padang Mat Sirat, 07100 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Note: The same place hosts the Wednesday and Saturday night markets in Langkawi.
Parking at Langkawi Night Markets
These night markets are relatively small and lack designated parking lots, so parking is typically available on a first-come, first-served basis along the roadside. It’s important to ensure your vehicle stays behind the white line at the edge of the road to avoid receiving a parking ticket from local authorities. During the peak tourist season, finding parking can be challenging, so plan accordingly. Generally, Langkawi is a safe place, and you don’t need to worry much about the security of your vehicle, but it’s always wise to take precautions. Some night markets, particularly those in more remote villages like the Tuesday market, offer plenty of open land for parking, allowing you to avoid roadside parking.
Night Market Timings in Langkawi
It is common for the Langkawi Night Market to open at 5 pm and close at 10 pm. However, opening hours vary from one location to another by 30-60 minutes, but the closing time is almost the same in all locations. To make the most of your visit to the night markets in Langkawi, it’s best to arrive within the first two hours of opening during the peak season. This timing helps you avoid the rush and parking issues that often occur later in the evening. Avoid visiting late or close to closing time, as vendors will be busy wrapping up, and you’ll likely end up with leftovers.
Many vendors prepare the food in advance and keep it packed for easy purchase. Locals are accustomed to eating these items cold, but they taste much better when served fresh. Arriving early allows you to catch the vendors while they’re preparing food, ensuring you get it hot and fresh. Additionally, check the weather conditions before planning your night market visit, as Langkawi experiences frequent rain. A rainy evening can dampen the market experience, so it’s wise to choose a dry night for your visit. Prices are fixed, so please do not haggle with the vendors.
Your culinary journey begins here
A culinary journey through Langkawi’s night markets promises to delight your senses and enrich your travel experience. With tantalizing aromas and vibrant flavors, each market offers a unique taste of the island’s rich food heritage. There’s something for every palate, whether it’s savoring traditional dishes or indulging in fusion delights. Let Langkawi be your culinary destination for an unforgettable food adventure, lasting long after you leave.
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