Ask any foodie what they miss most about Penang, and chances are the answer will involve smoky char kway teow, tangy assam laksa and late-night hawker feasts. While a weekend getaway to Malaysia’s food capital is always tempting, this new Penang buffet at 21 On Rajah offers a convenient way to enjoy many of the island’s most iconic dishes without leaving Singapore.
From 22 June to 10 September 2026, 21 on Rajah at Aloft Singapore Novena is bringing back its popular Kedai Penang Buffet, serving up more than 40 Penang-inspired dishes on rotation. The buffet takes diners on a culinary road trip through one of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated food destinations, without the need to clear immigration.
More Than 40 Penang Dishes on Rotation
One of the biggest draws of the buffet is the sheer variety. Rather than repeating the same dishes daily, selected highlights rotate throughout the week, giving diners a reason to return.
Seafood lovers should keep an eye out for the Kam Heong Crab, a Penang favourite known for its fragrant blend of curry leaves, dried shrimp, garlic and chilli. The result is a rich savoury sauce that clings to every piece of crab.
Another standout is the Steamed Whole Seabass in Signature Nonya Gravy, which combines delicate fish with the bold sweet, sour and spicy flavours often associated with Peranakan cooking.
For those who prefer hearty comfort food, the Teochew-style Braised Beef Short Rib delivers fall-off-the-bone tenderness after being slow-cooked in an aromatic Chinese-style gravy.
Images from 21 On Rajah
The Penang Street Food Classics Most Singaporeans Crave
The Penang Char Kway Teow with Cockles recreates the dish that has become almost synonymous with the island. Expect flat rice noodles wok-fried with prawns, bean sprouts and cockles for that distinctive smoky flavour Penang fans love.
Then there is the live-prepared Penang Assam Laksa. Unlike the coconut-rich laksa commonly found in Singapore, Penang’s version is built around a tangy mackerel broth with a punchy balance of sour, spicy and savoury notes.
Also appearing on rotation is Ayam Percik, a Malaysian grilled chicken dish basted repeatedly with spiced coconut gravy while cooking over fire, resulting in a smoky and flavourful finish.
Images from 21 On Rajah
DIY Chendol, Fruit Rojak and Kueh Pie Tee Stations
One of the more interactive elements of the buffet is its selection of DIY stations.
Instead of simply queuing for a prepared dessert, diners can customise their own Penang-style chendol, assemble fruit rojak to their liking, and even create their own kueh pie tee.
It’s the sort of hands-on dining experience that makes group meals more fun, especially when everyone insists their version is the best.
Durian Lovers May Want To Save Space
While the savoury dishes headline the buffet, the dessert station might be the real showstopper for some diners. Among the highlights are Durian Penyet, Durian Gelato and Cempedak Cake, alongside other sweet treats inspired by Penang’s rich dessert culture.
If you’ve ever argued that durian deserves its own food group, this section alone could justify a second visit.
Kedai Penang Buffet Pricing
Buffets are often best enjoyed with friends and family, and 21 on Rajah is encouraging exactly that.
- Lunch Buffet: Dine 4 Pay 2
- Dinner Buffet: Dine 4 Pay 3
There is also a National Day special on 9 August 2026. Diners who arrive dressed in red and white can enjoy 50% off both lunch and dinner sessions, while catching a live telecast of the National Day Parade.
21 on Rajah
- Address: 1 Jalan Rajah, Aloft Singapore Novena East Wing, Singapore 329133
- Dates: 22 June to 10 September 2026
- Contact: +65 6808 6847
- Opening Hours: 7am to 10am, 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm
