Hey Lykkers! If you're planning to visit Melaka, there's one food you absolutely cannot miss – Chicken Rice Balls! This iconic dish is Melaka's culinary pride. The dish features soft, aromatic rice balls soaked in chicken broth, paired with tender, slow-marinated chicken.
But where can you find the best ones in Melaka? Well, I've got you covered! Here are 8 must-try spots that locals swear by – places where you'll often find a line, because they're that good!
#1 Din Fung Kee Hainan Eatery
This spot is loved for its extra-large rice balls and generous portions of chicken. It's affordable, it's delicious, and the menu? Packed with everything from egg tarts to juicy BBQ buns. Perfect for a food marathon. Plus, there are multiple branches, so you'll never miss out!
📍Closest to the town square
🕐 Open daily 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
#2 Nanyang Old School Chicken Rice Ball
This one's a bit of a drive from the center, but totally worth the trip. Why? Because their chicken is ridiculously tender and juicy. You'll taste the difference in every bite. And since it's a little farther out, the crowds aren't as crazy—perfect for road trippers and food explorers!
📍Nanyang Chicken Rice Ball
🕐 Open 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Closed Wednesdays)
#3 Heritage Chicken Rice Balls
Located right in the historical district, you can't miss this one. The storefront pops with red and blue, and they've been cooking up chicken rice for three generations! The rice balls here have that old-school flavor that makes you feel like you're eating someone's family recipe.
📍Heritage Chicken Rice Balls
🕐 Open daily 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
#4 Huang Chang Hainanese Chicken Rice
These rice balls are super sticky and soft, kinda like little chicken-y mochi! Locals are obsessed. You can choose between poached or roasted chicken (both are 🔥), but don't skip the signature chili sauce—it's spicy, tangy, and unforgettable.
It's a bit out of the way, about 20 minutes from the town center, so it's best to hit this one if you're driving.
📍Huang Chang Chicken Rice Restaurant
🕐 Open 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed Thursdays)
#5 Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice Ball
If you're into variety, this one's for you. Besides amazing chicken, they also serve stir-fried squid and prawns! The place is popular with everyone, and it's a common go-to for family meals. Expect lines, but trust—it's worth the wait.
📍Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice Ball
🕐 Open daily 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM
#6 Heng Hainanese Chicken Rice
This is a classic local gem. The portion might be smaller, but it makes up for it with a rich herbal soup base and colorful side dishes. Their homemade chili sauce? So good you'll wanna bottle it up. Definitely a comfort food spot.
📍Heng Hainanese Chicken Rice
🕐 Open 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed Thursdays)
#7 He Ji Chicken Rice Ball
Located a few blocks from the main market, this spot brings the perfect chewy rice ball texture and beautifully poached chicken. People love the clean flavors and the homestyle feel. If you're not into spicy, their soy sauce-based dip is a great option too.
📍He Ji Chicken Rice Ball
🕐 Open 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
#8 Central Tea House & Chicken Rice
Want a cute little tea house vibe with your chicken rice? This is the spot. They've got all the traditional dishes plus some modern twists, like lemongrass tea and sweet chili wings. Instagram-worthy and seriously tasty.
📍Central Tea House
🕐 Open 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Which one are you trying first, Lykkers?
We're all about exploring new flavors, and these spots deliver BIG on taste, tradition, and that "wow, I need to tell my friends about this" factor. Whether you're a foodie traveler, a local adventurer, or just here for the pics and bites, there's a chicken rice ball waiting for you.
Drop your favorite in the comments 👇 or tag someone who needs to try this next foodie trip with you! 🧡🍗
