From Penang to Knightsbridge: Discovering Malaysia’s BBQ Squid “Panggang”

 

At Nanyang Blossom, we’re always inspired by the flavours of the street — reimagined for the elegance of Knightsbridge dining. One dish that beautifully captures this balance is our BBQ Squid “Panggang”.

If you’ve ever strolled the bustling night markets of Penang, you’ll remember the scent of squid grilling over open flames — smoky, spicy, and utterly mouthwatering. Our take on Sotong Panggang pays homage to those roots, while elevating the dish with modern flair and premium ingredients.


🦑 What Is “Sotong Panggang”?

In Malay, panggang means “grilled.” Sotong is squid. The traditional version is usually marinated in spices, grilled over charcoal, and served with sambal and a squeeze of lime. It’s smoky, slightly chewy, and full of depth — a beloved dish across Malaysia and Singapore.

At Nanyang Blossom, we’ve elevated this classic into something truly special, worthy of the London fine dining scene — without losing its soul.


🔥 Our Modern Interpretation: More Than Just Grilled Squid

Our BBQ Squid “Panggang” begins with fresh, tender squid, expertly scored and marinated in a fermented chilli blend. Then it’s grilled over high heat to achieve that perfect char — smoky on the outside, juicy and springy on the inside.

But the magic is in the details:

  • Star anise adds a subtle warmth and aromatic depth

  • Smoked cabbage offers a soft, earthy contrast

  • A finishing glaze of spiced soy and tamarind ties it all together

The result is a dish that’s rich, bold, and layered — a true flavour bomb, made for adventurous palates.


🌶️ Why It’s a Must-Try

This dish is for those who love:

  • Smoky BBQ flavours

  • Seafood with character

  • Spicy, umami-forward sauces

  • Dishes that combine street food nostalgia with fine dining finesse

Guests often tell us the BBQ Squid is one of the most unexpected standouts on the menu. Some order it as a starter to share; others savour it as their main. However you enjoy it, it always makes an impression.


🍷 Best Drinks to Pair It With

To balance the bold, spicy flavours, we recommend:

  • Gewürztraminer – floral and semi-sweet, great with chilli heat

  • Sancerre or Sauvignon Blanc – crisp acidity to cut through the char

  • Or go local with our “Penang” cocktail — dark rum, nutmeg puree, and lime, inspired by the streets this dish hails from

For non-drinkers, try the Lychee Passionate mocktail — tropical and refreshing.


✈️ From Night Markets to Fine Dining

Chef Daren created this dish as a love letter to his childhood in Penang — where BBQ squid was a simple pleasure, eaten on the go or shared at plastic tables with friends. At Nanyang Blossom, he honours that memory by giving it a platform worthy of London’s most refined palates.

It’s proof that great food doesn’t have to be complicated — it just has to be made with skill, heart, and a little flame.


📍 Ready to Taste the Streets of Penang?

👉 Book Now to enjoy our BBQ Squid “Panggang” in Knightsbridge.
📞 Call us at 020 4529 3643 to reserve your table.
📍 Visit us at 12 Knightsbridge Green, London SW1X 7QL

Nanyang Blossom — where street food memories meet modern culinary mastery.