Penang
The UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town on Penang Island is often hailed as the culinary capital of Southeast Asia. A rich blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences has shaped a vibrant food scene unlike any other.
Stroll through the charming streets of the old town, where heritage buildings, captivating murals, and eclectic street art create a feast for the senses. From an exquisite multi-course meal in a beautifully restored heritage building to sizzling street food from a Michelin-rated roadside stall, Penang offers an unforgettable gastronomic adventure for every food lover.
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Eating and Drinking in Penang
Discover the many delights of Georgetown as you wander the streets of the old town – from Little India to Chinatown, Armenian Street, Chew Jetty, and the Colonial District. There are many options for the hungry and thirsty foodie exploring Georgetown – here are some of our favourites…
- For lovers of caffeine, there are many coffee shops in Georgetown where you can satisfy your cravings – one of our favourites is The Daily Dose (at 36 Stewart Lane). With a huge menu of coffees, teas, juices, smoothies, frappes, and both Malay and Western food, it has something for everyone. And the best bit – it’s dog friendly, so for those travellers missing their pooch back home, you can get your furry friend fix when one of the locals pop-in…
- Short on time and want to experience the most of Penang’s food scene? One of the best ways to sample a little bit of everything is to take a guided walking food tour of the old town. Journey through the streets of Little India and Chinatown, tasting local delights such as char kway teow, curries, laksa and samosas, whilst learning about the history of Georgetown and marvelling at the street art and murals which the city is famous for.
- Want to learn first-hand about the art of creating Malaysian cuisine? Why not take a cooking class and market tour that introduces you to the cooking techniques and spices used in everyday Penang cooking. Choose between lessons for Nyonya, Indian, or Chinese Hawker Stall cuisine, and the morning tour includes a visit to the local market, to experience the lively atmosphere as merchants interact with customers.
- Worked up a healthy appetite after spending a morning sightseeing through the old town? The Pinn Restaurant is one of many Michelin recommended restaurants in Penang. Situated opposite the Lee Jetty (one of the seven Clan Jetties of Penang), The Pinn specialises in Malaysian-Chinese dishes – try their homemade mackerel fish balls, which they are famous for and are simply delicious!
- One of the local institutions in Georgetown is the Kashmir Restaurant (located on Jln Penang Street), which has been serving up tasty North Indian cuisine for the past 4 decades. The staff will recommend a variety of dishes, but make sure you try the tandoori chicken – one of the best we have ever tried!
- Feeling like a snack whilst wandering the streets of the old-town – join the queues at Penang Famous Samosa, a no-frills hawker stall (located at 45 Leubuh Queen in Georgetown). Their tasty range of samosas (including mutton, chicken, sardine, egg and vegetable) are so good, they have been listed in the Michelin Guide for Penang.
- Want to try some authentic Nyonya cuisine, then Bibik’s Kitchen (at 73 Jalan Sri Bahari) is one of the most popular spots in Georgetown. The menu showcases the owner’s heirloom Peranakan recipes, and the restaurant has been awarded a Bib Gourmand by Michelin. And if you are looking for a typical Penang souvenir, you can purchase a tiffin tin with the restaurant logo – a reminder of the amazing meal that you just enjoyed!
- Finally, if you need a cold beer to beat the heat and have a break from all the shops in the old town, pop into Momokaka (located at 48 Leubuh Armenian), which offers up a range of imported craft beers. If you ask for something local, then you might be lucky enough to be served up whatever they have been home-brewing that week.