Mother, Baby & Kids

11 Best Restaurants for Dinner in Penang

Dinner Spots in Penang

Welcome to Penang, where every turn leads to a new taste adventure and every evening promises a culinary discovery. It’s no overstatement to say that Penang’s dinner scene is a buzzing, aromatic tableau that captures the soul of its heritage and the heart of its people.

From the sun-kissed beaches of Batu Ferringhi to the charismatic streets of Georgetown, this gastronomic playground offers a tapestry of dining experiences that are as diverse as they are delicious. So, loosen your belt and prepare your taste buds because we’re about to embark on a journey through the 11 best dinner destinations that this island has to offer.

1. Two Frenchies Cafe Bistro

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Dive into the heart of French cuisine without leaving Penang at Two Frenchies Cafe Bistro. With each dish crafted to perfection, from decadent desserts to sumptuous mains, this bistro strikes the perfect balance between authenticity and innovation. The cosy ambience, reminiscent of a quaint Parisian café, makes every dining experience here a romantic affair.

Cuisine: French, Western

Location: 36 Lebuh Bishop, George Town

Opening Hours: Tue-Fri 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Sat-Sun 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays.

Contact: 604-261 2000

2. What the Duck Restaurant

What the Duck Restaurant offers a delightful surprise to the palate with its duck-centric menu that goes beyond the conventional. Each dish is a creative exploration of flavors, blending classic techniques with modern twists. The contemporary and comfortable setting makes it an ideal spot for both intimate gatherings and solo culinary adventures.

Cuisine: Western, Asian fusion

Location: Setia SPICE Canopy, No 108, Jalan Tun Dr Awang

Opening Hours: Daily, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays.

Contact: 604-638 6084

3. Il Bacaro

Il Bacaro provides an intimate slice of Venice in the heart of Georgetown. Here, traditional Italian cuisine meets the charm of small-town Italy in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Savoury pasta, delicate antipasti, and robust wines served in an elegantly rustic space promise an authentic Italian dining experience.

Cuisine: Italian

Location: 106 Lebuh Campbell, Georgetown

Opening Hours: Daily, 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Contact: 604-261 8290

4. The Book Sandwich Cafe

Nestled in the bustling streets of George Town, The Book Sandwich Cafe offers a refuge for those pursuing a good meal accompanied by a great read. Its innovative sandwiches break the mould of the ordinary, creating flavour-packed combinations that surprise and delight. The literary-themed décor and cosy ambience add to the unique dining experience, making it a haven for book lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Cuisine: Western

Location: Lebuh Pantai, George Town

Opening Hours: Daily, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Contact: 604-261 3445

5. Restaurant Ferringhi Garden

Dining at Restaurant Ferringhi Garden feels like a retreat into an enchanting botanical oasis under the stars. This restaurant serenades your senses with its visually stunning garden ambience, accompanied by a symphony of Asian, Western, and Mediterranean flavours. A perfect setting for a magical evening, each dish served is as aesthetically pleasing as it is gastronomically satisfying.

Cuisine: Asian, Western, Mediterranean

Location: Batu Feringgi

Opening Hours: Daily, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The last order is at 9:30 p.m.

Contact: 604-881 1196

6. Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe Penang is where great food meets rock and roll history. Iconic memorabilia adorn the walls, while the American menu serves up classic favourites with a side of nostalgia. Live music and a vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit for those looking to enjoy a meal that comes with its own soundtrack.

Cuisine: American

Location: Batu Ferringhi Beach

Opening Hours: Sun-Thurs, 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Fri-Sat, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Contact: 604-886 8050

7. Hainantown & Yeng Keng Nyonya Restaurant

Hainantown & Yeng Keng Nyonya Restaurant is a culinary tribute to Penang’s rich cultural tapestry, offering dishes that are a blend of Hainanese precision and Nyonya zest. Diners can expect a journey through time with each bite, where traditional recipes are prepared with meticulous attention to detail. This place stands as a celebration of heritage, bringing together families and food enthusiasts to revel in its culinary delights.

Cuisine: Hainanese, Nyonya

Location: Chulia St, Georgetown

Opening Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Closed on Mondays

Contact: 604-263 3177

8. Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery

At Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery, every dish tells a story of Nyonya heritage and tradition. Here, the intricate flavours of Peranakan cuisine are brought to life using age-old recipes passed down through generations. The restaurant’s vintage decor and warm hospitality transport diners to the golden age of Nyonya culture, making each visit a nostalgic journey back in time.

Cuisine: Nyonya

Location: Bishop Street, Georgetown

Opening Hours: Daily, 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays.

Contact: 6017-434 4398

9. Tofu Village, Best of Hakka Tradition

Tofu Village stands as a bastion of Hakka culinary tradition, showcasing the simple yet profound flavours characteristic of Hakka cuisine. Specializing in tofu-based dishes, the restaurant offers a comforting homage to this versatile ingredient. The warm, homely atmosphere complements the honest, straightforward dishes that fill both the heart and stomach.

Cuisine: Chinese

Location: Church St, Georgetown

Opening Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays

Contact: 604-251 9512

10. Tek Sen Restaurant

With a legacy that spans over half a century, Tek Sen Restaurant has mastered the art of Chinese cuisine with its flavour-packed dishes that have locals and tourists coming back for more. Its humble beginnings as a small family-run business are evident in the care and dedication put into each dish. It’s a place where tradition meets tasteful innovation, creating a delightful dining experience in a friendly, inviting environment.

Cuisine: Chinese

Location: Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town

Opening Hours: Daily, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays

Contact: 6012-981 5117

11. Andrew’s Kampung

At Andrew’s Kampung, the promise of a hearty Malaysian meal awaits. Offering a wide selection of local favourites, this restaurant prides itself on serving generous portions meant for sharing. The relaxed, homely atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for casual family dinners, where the joy of eating is celebrated in each shared dish.

Cuisine: Malaysian

Location: Jalan Batu Ferringhi

Opening Hours: Daily, 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Contact: 6016-443 2400

As our food-laden journey through Penang comes to a close, we hope your wanderlust has been stirred—not just for the sights and sounds of this cultural mosaic but for the mouth-watering dishes that await your discovery. Each restaurant we’ve spotlighted tells its own delectable story, adding chapters to Penang’s rich culinary narrative.

Whether you’re munching on a fusion masterpiece at What the Duck or tucking into a comforting plate from Andrew’s Kampung, each bite is a memory in the making.

So when the sun dips below the Malacca Strait, make your way to one of these dinner spots and dive headfirst into a feast that celebrates the heart of Penang’s food scene. And remember, in Penang, every meal is not just sustenance—it’s an occasion!


Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.


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