31-07-2025
Setiu eatery offers seafood with a view
THERE are many reasons to visit the east coast state of Terengganu, and indulging in local seafood at beachside eateries is high on the list for many.
Boasting scenic views and a sea breeze, Pantai Penarik in Setiu district – about 60km north of Kuala Terengganu – is lined with numerous restaurants along the coastline.
Among them is Celup Tepung Cikgu, which offers a range of deep-fried seafood in addition to regular warung staples like fried rice and sup tulang.
Popular items include battered squid, fried crab and fried Indian mackerel, typically served with colek which is a spicy local dipping sauce.
The breezy spot near Pantai Penarik in Setiu gets popular in the evenings, with seats in the common covered area or right on the sand (pic, above).
Prices range from RM10 to RM15 per 100g for seafood, and between RM7 and RM20 per plate for other dishes.
The eatery operates daily from 10am to 10pm, but really comes alive in the evening as customers arrive to dine by the beach.
In addition to a common covered seating area, those who prefer privacy or like to get close to the sea can dine at individual huts on the sand, ideal for enjoying the sea breeze and sunset views.
Noor Syafiqah preparing the fried seafood dishes.
According to worker Noor Syafiqah Mohd Noor, the seafood is presented in large trays for customers to browse before ordering.
'We will refry the foods before serving, to ensure they are hot and crispy,' she said.
She added that the eatery has many customers from the Klang Valley as well as Sabah and Sarawak, and a smattering of foreign visitors too.
Customer Mohd Azrul Amirudin, who travelled with his family from Gombak in Selangor, said the restaurant's laidback setting was the draw.
'We came to Kuala Terengganu for a holiday and decided to check out this popular beach when we saw the restaurant.
'It is a nice place to wind down with family and friends.
'And there are plenty of spots to take pictures,' he said.
Tourist Darryl Breese Abdullah, visiting with his Malaysian wife Sharifah Hanum Kassim from Connecticut in the US, also enjoyed the setting.
'I especially enjoy the scenery. It is a relaxing place and the locals are very friendly too,' he said.
The eatery also offers set menus priced between RM60 and RM170.
Typical sets include steamed seabass, tomyam, kailan ikan masin, telur dadar and rice, along with drinks like iced tea.
For details, WhatsApp 019-985 3804.
