Imagine stepping into the world of flavours that transports you to the heart of a heritage city, George Town, where you can taste and discover from traditional Malaysian foods to international cuisine. One of the best places to experience the food scene in George Town is at one of the many cafes.
Here’s a guide for you to experience, whether you are looking for a place to enjoy a meal, sweet treat or light snack, you are sure to find a cafe in George Town that is perfect for you.
Top Hidden Gems Cafe in George Town Penang
Mews Cafe: Authentic Malaysian Food
Mews Cafe opens the gateway to the rich, authentic tastes of Malaysian cuisine, where every plate narrates tradition and cultural richness.
Source: Mews Cafe – Georgetown Heritage Hotels
Mews Cafe, situated in a beautiful restored heritage building, with a lust green courtyard in George Town. It features a cosy indoor and alfresco space. It’s worth noting that it offers an Instagrammable experience.
Source: Mews Cafe – Georgetown Heritage Hotels
The cafe radiates the classic ambiance of a charming George Town cafe, thanks to its architectural design that bathes you in calming natural light, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
The uniqueness about this cafe is that they serve a variety of authentic Malaysian dishes, including nasi lemak, curry mee, laksa, and rendang. All of the food is prepared with fresh local ingredients and homemade sauces and spices.
Source: Mews Cafe – Georgetown Heritage Hotels
Step outside your comfort zone and try new things at Mews Cafe! You can start your meal time by having the famous Cucur Udang as appetizers first.
Source: Trip Advisor
The crispy Cucur Udang with chunky peanut sauce is a flavor explosion in your mouth.
Now, to make your tummy more satisfied, let’s dive into Malaysian local delights on the menu: The Curry Mee and Nasi Lemak. The Curry Mee, prepared in Peranakan style with rich coconut milk, delivers an authentic taste that will transport you.
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And the Nasi Lemak? It’s a popular Malaysian dish served with fragrant rice.
Source: Facebook
If you are a coffee lover, Mews Cafe has got you well covered with the best aromatic coffee beans used to make the coffee. You can sit down and relax and enjoy your cuppa!
Source: Mews Cafe – Georgetown Heritage Hotels
The speciality here?
Dear veggies, not to worry! Mews Cafe offers vegetarian and gluten-free options, free from MSG, made with fresh local ingredients, and we serve Western meals too.
If you are looking for an authentic Peranakan dining experience, you have the option to dine in either an air-conditioned setting or alfresco. If you have a pet, you are in luck! Mews Cafe is pet-friendly.
Mews Cafe caters to everyone, whether you are a local or an international traveller. It serves the perfect taste of authentic Malaysian cuisine, with a wide selection of food and beverages to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Come visit Mews Cafe today!
Price range: $-$$
Contact number: +60 4-263 6125
Location: 77, Muntri Street, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
The Mugshot Cafe: A Bagel Lover’s Paradise
Calling all coffee connoisseurs and history buffs! The Mugshot Cafe, a distinctive brown-hued oasis nestled within two pre-war shophouses on Chulia Street, is waiting for you.
With its modern mixed light snacks and variety of drinks, The Mugshot Cafe is the perfect place to relax and refuel in between sightseeing. Mugshot Cafe has a very unique and eye-catching vibe.
Source: Living Nomad
Mugshot Cafe, founded by two old mates, Tristan and Jesse, is a cafe known for its freshly brewed coffee and a wide variety of pastries, with a special focus on bagels.
Bagels are a popular type of bread that originated in Poland and have become a favourite among Penangians. Mugshot Cafe’s bagels are topped with creamy cheese, salmon, egg, and meat, and then heated in a wood-fired oven until golden brown and crispy.
Source: Trip Advisor
On a hot afternoon, cool off with Mugshot Cafe’s homemade yoghurt, highly recommended by locals. The yoghurt is combined with toppings like walnuts, raisins, fruits, and the ever-yummy gula Melaka, creating a soothing and refreshing treat.
Source: Trip Advisor
Mugshot Cafe also offers gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, so everyone can enjoy their delicious treats.
Price range: $-$$
Contact number: +60 12-405 6276
Location: 302, Chulia Street, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
Merry Me: Ice Cream That Makes You Merry
On a hot day in George Town, Malaysia, there’s nothing better than a cold, refreshing treat. Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, you are sure to find something to your taste at Merry Me Cafe.
Drop by and discover their signature cold drinks, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and served with a smile. With so many delicious options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect way to cool down and satisfy your cravings.
What makes it merry?
Merry Me Cafe is known for its handcrafted ice cream, made with fresh and natural ingredients from local farms.
Their flavours are inspired by the tastes and traditions of the surrounding communities, resulting in unique and delicious creations like Salted Egg Oreo, Tau Fu Fah, Kaya Toast and many more.
Source: Penang Foodie
The best part of Merry Me Cafe’s ice cream is that it’s palm oil-free. Moreover, after a long walk, what better place to relax and chat with friends, or even do some journaling, than a cosy ice cream cafe?
Price range: $-$$
Contact number: +60 10-374 9991
Location: 163-D, Level 5, P1, Gurney Paragon Mall, Gurney Drive, 10250 George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
My Own Cafe: The Famous Asam Laksa
Have you wondered why Asam Laksa is famous in the region of Penang? Have you ever wondered what it tastes like?
In My Own Cafe served authentic Asam Laksa. It originated in the 1900s and is famous among the Nyonya people, a Peranakan Chinese ethnic group. It has become a cultural icon associated with the Peranakan people.
Source: Facebook
According to legend, young Nyonya girls would sell this type of laksa on the streets of Penang, balancing bowls of it on their heads. They were known for their colourful clothing and their ability to sell delicious laksa. It became famous for its unique flavour and affordability.
Today, it is a popular dish among both locals and tourists alike. Asam Laksa can be found in many cafes or restaurants throughout the city, however, My Own Cafe serves the best authentic Asam Laksa to you.
Source: Facebook
This cafe was listed in the Michelin Guide for its signature light and refreshing Asam Laksa, which strikes the perfect balance of sour and spicy flavours.
Price range: $-$$
Contact number: +60 16-485 1050
Location: 2, Lebuh Cannon, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. (Opposite Khoo Kongsi)
Kota Dine and Coffee: When Francis meets rempah at KOTA
Kota Dine and Coffee, a cafe in George Town, Penang, offers an unforgettable dining experience in a glass-clad space with natural light, nestled among historic and iconic landmarks.
Source: MisTan IzZy | Travel & Lifestyle
Kota Dine and Coffee is a Michelin-listed cafe in George Town, Penang, that will tantalize your taste buds with its neo-Nyonya menu. This fusion of Asian, Malaysian, and cafe influences offers a wide range of creative and delicious dishes, like laksa capellini and blue nasi kerabu.
According to Michelin’s esteemed review, Kota Dine and Coffee is a culinary haven where every dish is a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western flavours. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will bring you to the heart of Penang’s vibrant food scene.
Source: Kota Dine In
In addition to their signature coffees and homemade juices, Kota Dine and Coffee is also a great place for a romantic date. With its soothing atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to be yourself and enjoy a meal with your loved one. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also available.
Price range: $$-$$$
Contact number: +60 4-371 4929
Location: Fort Cornwallis, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
Yin’s Sourdough Bakery & Cafe: Penang Sourdough Specialist
Sourdough has become a popular and healthy bread option for many people. In 2017, a mother of three girls who worked in the pharmaceutical industry shared her famous sourdough recipe with the world.
Sourdough is made with a fermented starter made from flour and water, and it is a healthier alternative to regular bread.
Source: Facebook
Yin’s Sourdough Bakery & Cafe is known for its delicious sourdough bread, including loaves, baguettes, croissants, and cinnamon rolls.
Sourdough has a unique tangy flavour and chewy texture, and Yin’s bakery strictly follows the traditional sourdough method in baking their bread and buns. They also use high-quality ingredients, such as locally sourced flour, fruits, and vegetables.
Source: Facebook
In addition to its delicious sourdough bread, Yin’s Sourdough Bakery & Cafe also serves a selection of sandwiches, salads, and other savoury dishes. What makes this bakery and cafe even more unique is that they also prepare and serve homemade sausage and luncheon meat.
Price range: $-$$
Contact number: +60 11-2419 5118
Location: 11, Pesara Claimant, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
Looking for an affordable hotel in Penang? Find out the best 3-stars Hotel in Georgetown Penang now!
Jawi House Cafe Gallery: The Peranakan Feast
Nestled in the heart of George Town, Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Jawi House Cafe, a Michelin-listed restaurant that serves authentic Peranakan cuisine.
The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, and its dining room is decorated with traditional Peranakan furniture and artifacts.
Source: Jawi House
Source: Instagram
This cafe has its own creativity and uniqueness that as you step through the doors of Jawi House Cafe, you are empowered with rich flavours and aromas of the foods. The menu features a wide variety of Peranakan dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Source: Rolling Grace
Peranakan cuisine is a unique fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, which means that there are many dishes at Jawi House Cafe that you may not be familiar with.
But that’s all part of the fun! The recommended dishes to try by the locals are nasi lemak, rendang, cendol and many more. Jawi House Cafe also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as a children’s menu.
Price range: $$-$$$
Contact number: +60 4-261 3680
Location: 85, Armenian Street, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
If you’ve had a taste of the exquisite Jawi Peranakan cuisine at Jawi House Cafe, you’ll certainly want to explore more fine dining options in Penang.
One place that promises an unforgettable dining experience is Kebaya Dining Room. Located in the heart of Penang, Kebaya Dining Room combines traditional Nyonya flavours with a contemporary twist, offering a culinary journey that’s bound to tantalise your taste buds.
Source: Kebaya Dining Room
Whether you’re a connoisseur of Penang’s rich culinary heritage or simply seeking an extraordinary dining experience, Kebaya Dining Room awaits to delight your senses. From its elegant ambience to the carefully crafted menu, Kebaya Dining Room is a haven for those who appreciate the finer aspects of dining.
Further Reading:
Unveiling Penang’s Culinary Charms – 8 Top Nyonya Restaurants to Savor
Jawi House Cafe Gallery: The Peranakan Feast
Nestled in the heart of George Town, Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Jawi House Cafe, a Michelin-listed restaurant that serves authentic Peranakan cuisine.
The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, and its dining room is decorated with traditional Peranakan furniture and artifacts.
Source: Jawi House
Source: Instagram
This cafe has its own creativity and uniqueness that as you step through the doors of Jawi House Cafe, you are empowered with rich flavours and aromas of the foods. The menu features a wide variety of Peranakan dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Source: Rolling Grace
Peranakan cuisine is a unique fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, which means that there are many dishes at Jawi House Cafe that you may not be familiar with.
But that’s all part of the fun! The recommended dishes to try by the locals are nasi lemak, rendang, cendol and many more. Jawi House Cafe also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, as well as a children’s menu.
Price range: $$-$$$
Contact number: +60 4-261 3680
Location: 85, Armenian Street, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
If you’ve had a taste of the exquisite Jawi Peranakan cuisine at Jawi House Cafe, you’ll certainly want to explore more fine dining options in Penang.
One place that promises an unforgettable dining experience is Kebaya Dining Room. Located in the heart of Penang, Kebaya Dining Room combines traditional Nyonya flavours with a contemporary twist, offering a culinary journey that’s bound to tantalise your taste buds.
Source: Kebaya Dining Room
Whether you’re a connoisseur of Penang’s rich culinary heritage or simply seeking an extraordinary dining experience, Kebaya Dining Room awaits to delight your senses. From its elegant ambience to the carefully crafted menu, Kebaya Dining Room is a haven for those who appreciate the finer aspects of dining.
Black Kettle: A Coffee Haven
Stepping into Black Kettle Cafe and being exposed to brick walls, wooden furniture, and vintage light fixtures creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a delicious cup of coffee and a pastry.
Source: Black Kettle
Black Kettle Cafe is a coffee lover’s dream, serving a diverse selection of coffee drinks, including espresso drinks, lattes, and cappuccinos.
The cafe also offers a variety of teas and other non-coffee beverages, but the coffee is the main attraction, paired with their innovative artisan bread and pastries, which are made with fine details and a balance of European and local flavors.
Source: Black Kettle
Source: Black Kettle
The cafe’s baristas are experts in their craft, and they use only the highest quality coffee beans. The result is a cup of coffee that is both delicious and satisfying.
With its wide variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and cakes, there’s something for everyone at Black Kettle Cafe.
Price range: $-$$
Contact number: +60 4-251 9270
Location: 105, Beach Street, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia.
Norm Micro Roastery: Your Daily Brew Spot
Norm Micro Roastery, a cozy cafe with a warehouse-like garden feel, is located at Gat Lebuh Gereja. The cafe has raw walls and built-in cement seating and counters, and is bathed in natural light from the high ceilings.
Source: foodcrush
If you are in the mood for something sweet, try one of their freshly baked pastries. They have a variety of options to choose from, including cinnamon rolls, banana bread, and croissants. They also have a selection of savory pastries, such as quiches and empanadas.
If you are looking for something more to eat, they have a variety of dishes to choose from, including pasta, salads, and sandwiches. Their pasta and salads are a must-try. They offer a variety of sauces and toppings to customize your meal.
Source: Facebook
In addition to food, they also have a wide variety of drinks to choose from. They have a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso drinks, lattes, and cappuccinos. They also have a selection of teas, smoothies, and juices.
Source: Instagram
No matter what you’re in the mood for, you are sure to find something to your liking at Norm Micro Roastery. Relax in their cozy atmosphere while you enjoy a delicious meal or snack. On the side note, they serve alcohol and are pet-friendly!
Price range: $$-$$$
Contact number: +60 16-527 6273
Location: 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
Macallum Connoisseurs Coffee Company: For Coffee Enthusiasts
Macallum Connoisseurs Coffee Company is a modern and spacious cafe with a unique design that draws visitors in with its dark ombre colors.
Source: Facebook
Macallum is a hidden gem in Penang’s coffee scene. It’s located in a converted warehouse with a unique atmosphere, and the coffee is some of the best in the city.
Source: Living Nomads
This cafe has something for everyone, whether you are a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a delicious cup of joe. They roast their coffee on-site daily and offer a wide variety of brewing methods to choose from, including espresso, pour-over, and cold brew.
Plus, they have a delicious food menu featuring breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, and pastries, so you can easily make a meal out of it.
Source: Facebook
Price range: $$-$$$
Contact number: +60 4-261 3597
Location: 1, Gat Lebuh Macallum, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
Conclusion
George Town is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of authentic and delicious Malaysian cuisine. Even if you’re a bagel person, pastry lover, or cake connoisseur, be sure to try some of the local fare. You won’t be disappointed!
And of course, no trip to George Town would be complete without a visit to Mews Cafe. This hidden gem serves up some of the best Malaysian food in the city, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Further Reading: