The Best-Selling Nasi Ganja in Ipoh
Your trip to Ipoh, Perak is incomplete without trying one of the must-eat dishes: Nasi Ganja. Ask any local in Perak about recommendations for the best food in Ipoh, and 90% of them will recommend Nasi Ganja to you.
Before we tried this nasi ganja, we were confused as to why it was called that. Does the recipe contain illegal substances? Hehehe. As the saying goes, you won't know until you try. Once you try it, you'll understand. It turns out this nasi ganja is incredibly delicious! You'll find yourself wanting to eat, eat, and eat some more. You could say it's addictive. It's just that good. Perhaps that addiction is the reason it's named Nasi Ganja. In the past, there were rumors that the addictive nature of the recipe came from the use of poppy seeds, which might be why people started calling it 'nasi ganja' (marijuana rice). We don't know if that's true or not; it's just an unverified rumor. One of the most popular nasi ganja destinations frequently recommended by locals in Perak is Restoran Yong Suan, located opposite the Memory Budget Hotel in Ipoh. The restaurant has a Chinese name, but the menu is prepared by Indian, Mamak, and Malay staff. You can see how the '1 Malaysia' spirit is applied here—harmony and goodwill. This nasi ganja restaurant is never quiet, especially during lunchtime. People queue up outside the shop waiting for their turn, and everyone waits patiently. From outside the shop, you can already smell the curry and spices of the nasi ganja. With a rumbling stomach and a long queue, it certainly makes you extremely hungry, and it could even invite anger if someone cuts the long line. You are advised to come early if you want to enjoy the deliciousness of this nasi ganja. The restaurant is not very large or spacious. Sometimes you have to scramble for tables and chairs. Therefore, it is advised that once you get a table and finish eating, you should leave happily. Don't linger too long because many others are waiting for a table to dine. Lingering too long might invite the ire of other patrons. Let's be considerate of others.
