Update: This business has ceased its operations.
Hai Wei Seafood Restaurant (海味海鲜) is located at the ground floor of a serviced apartment in Tanjung Bungah. The location is relatively hidden, which is good in the sense that it provides a serene atmosphere.
The dining section of Hai Wei is not air-conditioned. This is still fine as there is freeze continuously blowing from the sea.
The food menu here is the typical Chinese chu char (煮炒) with particular emphasis on Hainanese and seafood dishes. The dishes are served à la carte style and usually eaten with rice.
We ordered several signature dishes based on the waitress’ recommendation. In terms of quantity, it is very sufficient for 4 gentlemen.
Our visit to this restaurant is incomplete if we do not order its specialty dish, i.e. Signature Claypot Crab Rice (招牌沙煲螃蟹肉, RM42.00). Due to limited supply and long cooking process, it is recommended to make prior reservation before arriving.
This pot of fried rice contains two large crabs cut into halves. The crabs are appreciably large in size. Under the red shells are succulent bundles of crab flesh. The use of crabs also enhances flavor of accompanying fried rice. Certainly the perfect start for a hearty meal today.
To get inside the thick carapace which protects the crab against natural predators, a small hammer is provided by Hai Wei. It is only in Malaysia where a hardware tool is used as silverware.
Of special mention is the accompanying chili sauce. I like how the sharp spicy sensation complements the portion of oily fried rice.
Our next dish is the Mango Chicken (香芒鸡扒, RM9.00). For this dish, crispy deep-fried chicken pieces are served with mango strips, chopped onion and tangy sauce. Yet another scrumptious meal indeed.
For bean curd, we ordered the Feng Wei Tofu (风味豆腐, RM8.00). This is a dish where dried bean curd is served in thick gravy with other ingredients such as chicken pieces, black fungus, snow peas and carrots. I think the gravy is saltier than necessary, but otherwise this dish is acceptable.
As for vegetables, our choice is Kangkung Sambal (马来风光, RM8.00). This is a dish familiar among locals as water spinach is affordable and the chili paste appeals to Malaysian palate.
To find this place, drive along Jalan Tanjung Bungah. After the police station on your left (from the direction of Batu Ferringhi), turn left into the small road and look out of signboards for Hai Wei. This place is quite easy to overlook, but I say it is a true hidden gem.
Address: 563, Jalan Wee Hein Tze, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-899-0207
Business hours: 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10:00pm, closed on Wednesdays
