Baba Charlie's, Melaka

The Peranakan or Straits born Chinese are the descendants of Chinese immigrants who first came to the Straits Settlements from the 15th century onwards. Intermarriage and intermingling with local Malays and exposure to the Dutch and British over the centuries has created a unique sub-culture which is a mix of Chinese, Malay and Western influences.

Also known as the Baba and Nyonya, the Peranakan in Melaka are one of the oldest in the region. Despite being ethnically chinese, the Peranakan have assimilated Malay form of dress, language and food into their culture.

One such example are the Nyonya Kuih. "Kuih" are bite-sized sweet or savoury snacks that are served during tea time or as an after-meal dessert. The Peranakan have modified traditional malay kuih into delectable treats now known as Nyonya Kuih.

In Melaka, one of the names synonymous with Nyonya Kuih is Baba Charlie. Operating from his house in Tengkera, Baba Charlie makes and supplies nyonya kuih for night markets, private functions, restaurants and even hotels.

You can actually visit his house in Jalan Tengkera Pantai 2 and purchase these treats direct from the source. The house is located in a small lane located off Jalan Tengkera near where the old Tengkera Mosque is located.

Jalan Tengkera Pantai 2

Baba Charlie's House

The Kitchen

The various types of Nyonya kuih available

Clockwise from bottom left: Kuih Koo Hitam, Kuih Koo Merah, Pulut Inti, Rempah Udang, Popia, Kuih Lapis, Kuih Bingka Ubi and Kuih Kochi Putih

Dodol and Gula Melaka

Nyonya Kuih Chang

Roll Tarts

Curry Puffs and Ondeh Ondeh

Baba Charlie's is open daily (except for Thursday) and closes at 3pm.

Baba Charlie Nyonya Cake

Address: 72, Jalan Tengkera Pantai 2, 75200 Melaka 
Telephone: +6019-666 2907