How a Penang Steakhouse Took a Malaysian Story to the World
Source: Penang Today, written by Paul Choong
In the historic heart of Georgetown, a distinguished restaurant with prestigious honours has now ascended to the global culinary elite, cementing Penang’s reputation as a premier food destination. Firewood Restaurant Penang, an establishment already celebrated as a Michelin Selected restaurant and a recipient of the Tatler Dining Awards, has added a significant international accolade to its collection.
The restaurant has achieved a remarkable ranking at number 68 on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list. This accomplishment marks a historic first for the nation, a fact now officially recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records. The highly respected global ranking is curated by the UK-based Upper Cut Media House, an organisation dedicated to identifying the pinnacle of steakhouse dining across the world.
The architect behind this success, Chef Owner Ker Yang Hao, attributes the international recognition to a philosophy deeply rooted in local identity. He explained that the restaurant’s unique character comes from a commitment to authentic Malaysian flavours. “At Firewood, we are telling the Malaysian story through our fire,” he said. “We are using a lot of local produce, local bakau wood to make a flavour that belongs to Malaysia.”
This vision of showcasing, rather than imitating, is central to the restaurant’s ethos. “We are not trying to copy the world but we are bringing the world to the Malaysian table,” Mr Ker affirmed.
This distinctive approach has resonated powerfully with both global critics and diners, translating into tangible success. “Earning the 101 award had doubled our sales and brought in a lot of tourists who are looking for an elevated dining experience,” Mr Ker stated.
To commemorate the landmark achievement, a special ceremony was held at the restaurant on Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling on Friday, 1st August 2025. During the event, which included a media photo session and a food tasting lunch, Mr Christopher Wong of the Malaysia Book of Records presented the official certificate to Mr Ker. The milestone was witnessed by key figures from the community, including Mr Ooi Chok Yan of Penang Global Tourism.
The achievement is being celebrated as a major win for Penang’s tourism sector. The international spotlight on Firewood is expected to attract a new wave of gourmets, influencers, and discerning travellers to the state. This influx of visitors, seeking world-class and authentic experiences, will contribute significantly to the local culture and the broader tourism economy.
