Go bananas over the home-style food at Arati Vilas

I found this place when my colleague shared that they were going for banana leaf rice & beer at Tanjung Bunga. The combination sounded amazing, yet it was uncommon to find both in one place in Penang.

Arati Vilas first struck me as just another small, family-run eatery. But this banana leaf restaurant has customers traveling from neighbouring states just to enjoy their delicious home-style food – a huge testament to its high quality in my books.

My go-to is their signature banana leaf rice served alongside multiple vegetable options, crispy papadum, and a choice of meat. Besides good food, Arati Vilas also has a friendly family atmosphere where everyone seems to know everyone, and the owners happily socialise with customers.

 

They make a great sambal petai – it’s another signature item and a definite must try!

 

The colourful dishes served on a real banana leaf make this a great option for food pics!

 

Customers can help themselves to their dishes of choice, and have it all summed up for payment after.

 

Happy faces all around – any day, any time!