Jia Siang Cafe (家香茶室) @ Pulau Betong, Balik Pulau, Penang.

A famed fishing village at Southwest of Penang Island (approximately 15 km away from Balik Pulau market), Pulau Betong is home to many fishermen and is known to have some of the best sea produce in Penang. Jia Siang Cafe is one of the more prominent seafood restaurants in the vicinity; having operated for years, it has accumulated an appreciate following. But there is a catch here- you must either reach there early during the day (as soon as it opens) or you will have to buy the fresh sea produce behind the restaurant (for the Chefs to cook). The seafood supplies in the restaurant are rather limited and the demand is usually high, so if you wish to savor some of the best seafood, make your way there as early as possible. Located at the end of the road, Jia Siang Cafe is right next to the river mouth; not air-conditioned, the heat-intolerant might this place a little uncomfortable to dine-in, especially with the sultry hot tropical weather.

Steamed Flower Crabs with Chinese Rice Wine (Rm 27/ for 2)

Fried Shrimps with Premium Soy Sauce (Rm 25)

Stir Fried Gong Bao Squid (Rm 22)

Stir Fried Green Dragon Chives with Sprouts (Rm 10)

Jia Siang seems to be an expert in Seafood; we were most impressed with the dishes and the doneness of the Seafood. Crabs are popular items in Jia Siang, we had our Flower Crabs steamed with Chinese Shao Xing Wine and Ginger. The crustacean was meticulously cooked with firm texture and a burst of Seafood essence, the natural sweetness can be clearly tasted; with the satisfying Crab Roe that carried the flavors from the sea, it was truly one of the best Flower Crab dishes we have ever had. 

The Fried Shrimps with premium Soy sauce was equally delicious- the Shrimps were fried till tawny crisp and a quick stir fried with premium Soy sauce. The Shrimps were so crispy and we were able to finish the entire Shrimps, including the heads. It might be a little salty on its own but perfectly balanced if spooned over rice. 

Ratings:

Taste: 7.5/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)

Service: 6/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)

Price: 7.5/10 (1-3 expensive, 4-7 average, 8-10 cheap)

Ambiance: 6/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)

Parking: 6/10 (1-3 bad, 4-7 average, 8-10 good)

Non-Halal

Service Charge: No

Government Tax: No

Additional Information:

Address: No. 321, MK 7, Pulau Betong, 11020, Balik Pulau, Penang.

Business Hours: 11:30 am to 6:30 pm. Closed on Thursdays.

Contact Number: 6019- 746 8465