When I had the chendol from Penang Road Famous Chendol, the vendor across from it was closed because of Chinese New Year (Thanks, Chinese New Year, for making sure basically everything was closed during the bulk of my trip to Penang. Thanks. I was hoping that most of the places I wanted to try would be closed. You know, just to spice things up).
I happened to be in the area again, and this time, the stall across from it — Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul (everything is “Penang Road Famous” apparently) — was open. And the line was bonkers.
Meanwhile, there was no line whatsoever at the first place, despite the fact that it was right there serving the exact same thing.
I wasn’t planning on getting dessert, but how can I resist a line that long for food?? I need to see what’s at the end of it. I must.
Well, this is one of those rare instances where I have to question the wisdom of the line, because the first bowl of chendol I had was clearly superior. They were very, very similar, but the first one had a more satisfying sweetness, it was creamier, and the ice was shaved a bit more finely.
That’s not to say that this one wasn’t good — it was still quite tasty — but the first one was a lot better. It deserves a longer line. Oh well.
Location: Jalan Penang, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
How to find it: Assuming it’s open? Just look for the crazy line.