Special thanks to Rubik’s Cube Homemade Sausage for extending this food review invitation.
Update: This business has ceased its operations.
Northam Beach Cafe is a popular eatery along the scenic beach of George Town. Unlike many hawker centers in the vicinity, there is ample free parking here. Now this is what I call convenience!
There are over thirty stalls catering a wide diversity of food, ranging from seafood to nasi kandar.
Facing the sea, Northam Beach Cafe provides scenic view of the Penang Strait and the Penang Bridge which traverses it. Right after sunset, light breeze from the sea provides a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy dinner.
One of the many stalls here is Rubik’s Cube Homemade Sausage (九方格特制香肠). Although the stall is characteristically blocked by a tree, it is easily identifiable through an iconic Rubik’s Cube in which its name derives from.
In fact, this mock-up Rubik’s Cube more than a prop. It is a fully functioning charcoal grill! How’s this for creativity?
As the name implies, this stall specializes in homemade sausages. There are also a number of sides and meal combinations on its menu.
The sausages are made from ground pork, and prepared on a daily basis. Slow but steady heating from charcoal allows the sausages to be cooked evenly.
Tonight’s sample is the Special Happy Meal (RM20.00). The homemade sausage is served on a charcoal bun, plus a number of deep-fried side dishes.
The sausage itself is appealing to my palate. I feel that the sausage densely packed, therefore is quite filling despite its unassuming size.
Besides the signature sausage, the charcoal bun contains grilled onions, sesame seeds and a drizzle of mayonnaise. I prefer more onions as they contribute extra sweetness and moisture.
The chicken nuggets can use some kind of seasoning for improved flavor. For example, light coating of black pepper can improve its appeal significantly.
My favorite side dish is the fried shiitake mushroom. I like the juicy mushroom flesh beneath the crispy coating of flour batter.
As for the fried enoki mushroom, it feels drier due to thinner stipes (mushroom stems). I prefer the deep-frying to be briefer. Nevertheless, I reckon it goes well with beer.
To be honest, the Special Happy Meal is quite a heavy feast for one person. This is primary attributed to the densely loaded sausage and generous amount of side dishes. Sharing is recommended unless you plan to have a very heavy meal.
Name: Rubik’s Cube Homemade Sausage (九方格特制香肠)
Address: 58, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 012-969-8318
Business hours: 6:00pm-12:00pm, closed on Mondays
Website: Click here
Coordinates: 5.42842 N, 100.32264 E
Directions: Along the one-way Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, look out for Northam Hotel and MBF Tower on the right. Northam Beach Cafe is directly opposite of MBF Tower. There is plenty of car park inside.