Seri Bako By Kwan Kee Store at Queensbay Mall Penang

Those who grew up watching TVB dramas would probably very familiar with Hong Kong's iconic street sweet snacks, especially the beloved Rice Bowl Cake (Put Zai Ko in Cantonese). Kwan Kee has been selling these nostalgic treats for over half a century in Hong Kong, and recognized with six consecutive years in Michelin Guide's Recommended Street Food (2016-2021). Kwan Kee has finally opened an outlet in Penang Island at the lower ground of Queensbay Mall.

At this branch, yo uwill find their signatures too such as Rice Bowl Cakes, Steamed Cakes, Rice Toasts and Radish Cakes. Kwan Kee takes pride on their commitment to tradition, the rice paste used in their cakes is still milled with stone mill as the staff kindly shared.

The staff here are warm and welcoming, even offering samples of their steamed cakes so first-timers can try before deciding. This thoughful gestures makes the experience feel inviting. The cozy oriental style of dine in settings seems nice to just chill and enjoy some classic sweet snacks after tiring shopping times.

Seri Bako by Kwan Kee Store at Queensbay Mall Penang

During my visit, their bestseller Brown Sugar Rice Bowl Cake had already sold out, but I managed to get the last piece of White Sugar Rice Bowl Cake (RM 4.90). I loved the chewy texture, the subtle fragrance of rice and the sweetness paired from the red beans. The Yam and Sweet Potato Rice Bowl Cake (RM 6.90) was another nice option, the Yam and Purple Sweet Potato paste took the center stage with its smooth, mushy sweetness, complemented by the chewy rice cake base.

Their Steamed Cakes deserve a spotlight on their own. Soft, bouncy and non-sticky. They come in unique flavours such as the Steamed Nutmeg Cake, bursting with Penang's signature nutmeg aroma. The Steamed Osmanthus Cake and Steamed Water Chestnut Cake were refreshing to have, while the the Steamed Red Bean Cake offered generous bites of beans. For something nuttier, the Steamed Black Sesame Cake and Steamed Almond Cake are worth trying. These steamed cake are priced at RM 2.10 per slice or RM 7.90 for a whole piece.

Another highlight is their Seafood Radish Cake (RM 13.90) which surprised me. Every bites was layered with flavours, the fragrance of rice, sweetness of radish, and the umami richness of seafood and mushroom bits, making it a hearty and satisfying choice.

With its mix of nostalgic flavours, artisanal preparation, and the welcoming vibes, Kwan Kee is a nice place for a stop of having some Hong Kong style of sweet treats.