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
Highlighted
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.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!