Anniversary dinner, 28 May 2025
On May 28th, our 25th wedding
anniversary, we found ourselves debating where to spend a candlelight dinner
for this special occasion. The shortlist came down to two: 3rd Culture Dining
or Curios-City Penang. We chose the latter. No sentimental reason, really — my
husband is a city boy at heart, and he will always gravitate toward the town
area.
My last visit was about 10 to 15 years ago, and honestly, it wasn't all that great — many netizens had given it what I thought were overly generous reviews. But that was a long time ago, and I figured things must have improved. If I'm not mistaken, there's been a change of ownership too. The place was formerly known as Awesome Canteen by Sekeping Victoria and has since been completely rebranded as Curios-City Penang.
New name, new menu — a fresh start entirely.
Despite my lukewarm memories, I was still a little skeptical about the food. That said, a colleague had given it a thumbs-up, and that was enough of a nudge. We kept it simple: one small bite, one starter, one main, and one dessert.
Small bite
Fried Grouper with Dill Mayo —
RM22
Using grouper for deep-frying is a bold (and pricey) choice — some might say it's overkill when a snapper or barramundi would do just as well. But for what was served, it was genuinely nice. Small, poppable bites dipped in their house-made dill mayo were refreshing and light. My only gripe, which I mentioned to the staff, was that it came out a touch too oily for my liking.
Starter
Sourdough with Truffle Spread —
RM10
At RM10 for a truffle spread, the value is hard to argue with. The sourdough slices were on the thin side compared to what you'd get at places like Gilda Penang, but it was pleasant enough — no complaints there.
Main
Roasted Half Chicken with mashed
potato purée, aji verde & root vegetables — RM78
You might be wondering what aji verde is — I had to Google it myself. It's a vibrant, creamy Peruvian green sauce, known for its herby brightness and a subtle spicy kick. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and roasted vegetables, and here it was no different. This is, hands down, one of the best roast chickens I've had on Penang Island. Incredibly juicy, perfectly executed. My only note was that the sauce leaned a little salty — but it was still very, very good.
Dessert
Baileys Cream & Whiskey
Chocolate Gelato with cashew praline & fresh fruits — RM30
A beautiful ending. Every bite delivered a perfect contrast of textures and temperatures — silky cold gelato, the satisfying snap of candied nuts, and the bright juiciness of fresh fruit. The flavour profile was wonderfully balanced: dark, bittersweet chocolate, warm whiskey undertones, a caramel richness, and a clean fruity finish.
Address
164A, Victoria St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang
Contact Number
+6014-210 5236
