Ipoh: Eat around the clock

This underrated Malaysian city is slowly but surely claiming its spot on the food map.

- BY ERIS CHOO

Surrounded by dramatic limestone hills, Ipoh in Perak, Malaysia rose to prominence in the late 19th century during the British colonial era, when rich tin deposits transformed it into one of the world's largest tin mining towns.

The tin boom brought waves of immigrants, especially from Southern China, whose influence shaped the city's unique cultural identity. To this day, Cantonese remains the dominant dialect among the local Chinese community.

Though its mining heydays are long gone, Ipoh still carries an air of old-world charm. Colonial buildings, rustic kopitiams, and a slower pace of life give it an air of nostalgia that can be hard to find in Malaysia's bigger cities. In recent years, the place has also been attracting more foodie travellers.

Personally, Ipoh has always held a special place in my heart. It's where my dad grew up, and where I spent countless Lunar New Years as a child, surrounded by relatives and fuelled by endless snacking. Every visit felt like a food pilgrimage, and even now, I keep finding reasons to return. If you're planning a quick stopover between KL and Penang, here are some of the must-visit food spots to check out.

Brunch: yumcha at Luk Yu Tea House

Few things capture the essence of Cantonese cuisine better than dim sum, so start your day at one of the newest yumcha spots in town. Tucked inside AC Hotel Ipoh, Luk Yu Tea House is the hotel's flagship Chinese restaurant, with an elegant yet relaxed setting that features Chinoiserie décor.