If you've heard of the sleepy town of Sungai Bakap, chances are probably for their famed Teo Chew Chai Kuih (Teo Chew Vegetable Dumplings). But today we're skipping the Chai Kuih for some tasty roast duck at Wah Seng - one of the most highly recommended outlets in town. They have been operating for more than 85 years and are currently managed by the family's third generation.
We pre-ordered their side dishes a day before on the advice of our local friend as some special sides must be reserved. Arriving at 10 am on a Sunday morning, there was already a small crowd outside the restaurant. Their service was friendly and prompt despite the crowd. 5 minutes after placing our order.....it's time to makan!
Roast Duck (5/5)
The duck is marinated in their secret blend of spices before being roasted for an hour over coconut shells and charcoal. This traditional way of preparing the bird renders out all the fat and results in beautifully roasted pieces of meat with layers of complex aroma. On top of that, the duck is served in a light herbal sauce that goes well with rice or Teo Chew porridge. Tender and uniquely flavourful,I can't recommend this dish enough!
Combination of Roast Pork, Char Siew and Lap Cheong (3/5)
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the other meats as much. The Roast Pork & Char Siew were slightly tough and I found them average in taste. The pork Lap Cheong (sausage) was tasty and would be worth a try for those who enjoy their cured meats.
Assorted Duck Innards (4.5/5)
These are the special side dishes that are only available with pre-order. Fans of organ meat would appreciate these as they were properly prepared: no off-putting odour and cooked to the right doneness in more of their flavourful sauces and marinades. Do try if you're an adventurous foodie!
This dish literally translates to "duck leg wrap" and is essentially duck liver and gizzard wrapped in duck feet. It is a traditional dish that is extremely rare these days. It tastes sweet and smoky, a bit like Char Siew, as it is first braised and then roasted. Don't let the scary appearance fool you as it looks much more palatable when served properly (see the second photo).
For your carbs, they serve an option of white rice drizzled with duck herbal sauce or Teo Chew porridge.
The roast duck tasted delicious and is well worth a try. Adventurous eaters will want to savour their duck innards as well but don't forget to call and order these a day in advance! Ambiance and cleanliness are acceptable for an older restaurant. Service was highly efficient and friendly despite how crowded it was.
Sabbylicious Makan Rating
Food : 4.5/5
Price : 4.5/5
Environment : 3/5
Service : 4/5
Must order : Roast Duck & Duck Innards
Opening Hours Daily between 9:00am–4:00pm (usually sells out around 2pm) Closed on 1st and 15th day of each Chinese lunar month.
Location
Kedai Makanan Wah Seng 华成烧鸭饭店 1121, Jalan Pekan, 14200 Sungai Bakap, Pulau Pinang Contact number : 012-579 3973