10 best cafes in Penang
Penang is renowned for its vibrant street food scene and cultural richness, but for those who, like me, occasionally crave a coffee break, the question arises: Where can you find excellent cafes on this compact island teeming with culinary delights?
Well, you’re in for a treat, as I’ve put together an exclusive selection of the 10 best cafes in Penang, ensuring you won’t be disappointed in a place brimming with culinary options.
1. China House
First up on our best cafes in Penang list is China House. Nestled within 3 historical buildings, this place is far from your typical cafe. It encompasses an array of establishments, including shops, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, live music venues, and a bakery.
With a daily assortment of over 30 cakes, China House specialises in Australian-style all-day breakfasts and coffee. From towering layered cakes and rich tortes to freshly-baked morning pastries and delightful mini tarts, the options available are virtually endless.
Peruse the food menu, where you’ll find tempting choices like the Bento Special (RM46), the Crumbed Fish Burger (RM35), Beef Short Rib Rendang (RM68), and more. Additionally, treat yourself to China House’s Kefir beverages, such as The Pharm Hunt (RM18) and Nada Natural Farming (RM22).
153, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang
+604 263 7299
Daily: 9.30am – 1am
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2. WHEELER’S
WHEELER’S, a cafe and bar with a bicycle-inspired theme, offers Penang’s ultimate brewed coffee experience. Since its inception in 2014, this cafe has become a favoured brunch destination among locals. Bring your friends and enjoy a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Kickstart your brunch experience with the Wheeler’s Big Breakfast (RM28.90). It includes scrambled eggs, smoked chicken slices, chicken and mushroom sausage, hash browns, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, mixed salad, and sourdough bread.
For those seeking a unique taste, the Korean Cheesy Beef Quesadilla (RM36.90) is a fantastic choice. This whole wheat tortilla wrap is stuffed with Korean cheesy beef fillings and gochujang-sriracha sauce, making it a satisfying option to satiate your hunger.
What’s a cafe without coffee? Enjoy WHEELER’S house blend coffee with your favourite drinks like Americano (RM10.90), Caffe Latte (RM12.90), Piccolo Latte (RM10.90) and Almond Milk Latte (RM14.90).
67, Lorong Love, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
+6019 524 7703
Daily: 8am – 12am
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3. Macallum Connoisseurs Coffee Company
Macallum Connoisseurs Coffee Company is a vast establishment that stretches across an impressive 8,000 square feet, originally a warehouse transformed into an all-encompassing venue. It’s not just a café; it’s a roastery, a restaurant, and an educational hub.
Savour delectable dishes such as Grilled Chicken Breast with Asparagus (RM29), No. 7 Chicken Thigh with Mashed Potato (RM31), Scrambled Egg & Shiitake Croissant (RM23), Chicken Insanity Burger with Sweet Potato Fries (RM33), amongst others.
Indulge in delectable desserts like the Basque Burnt Cheesecake, Calamansi Cheesecake, and Black Forest Cake. Of course, the coffee offerings are not to be missed. You can also explore their barista experience class, brewing experience class, or latte art class for a more immersive coffee experience.
Georgetown Branch
1, Gat Lebuh Macallum, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
+604 261 3597
Daily: 9am – 10pm
Straits Quay Branch
3A-1-13, Straits Quay Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang Tanjung Tokong, 10470 George Town, Pulau Pinang
+6011 5868 4492
Daily: 10am – 6pm
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4. Black Kettle
Escape the hustle and savour simplicity at Black Kettle, where you can relish an artisan bakery, a French kitchen, and Dimattina coffee, all under a single roof. Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Beach Street, Black Kettle’s architectural charm stands as one of the rare structures untouched by the ravages of World War II.
Indulge in their breakfast offerings, such as the Cocotte (RM15), a delightful dish comprising braised black-eyed beans with sausage, baked egg, semi-dried tomato, and toasted baguette. Alternatively, opt for the simple yet satisfying Pain Perdu (RM12), a French toast adorned with peanut butter, cinnamon, and maple syrup.
If you prefer a lighter option, consider trying the Mousse De Yaourt (RM15), a Yoghurt mousse complemented by homemade granola, berry coulis, and fresh strawberries.
For a lunchtime treat, explore their pasta selection, which includes Seafood Risotto (RM30), Truffle Alfredo (RM25), and Duck Ragu (RM28). Meat enthusiasts can savour options like the Burger De Artisan (RM24), Confit De Canard (RM38), or Steak Frites (RM69).
Make sure not to miss Black Kettle’s award-winning coffee imported from Melbourne, Australia. Delight in a Shaken Espresso (RM10), an Aussie Ice Cafe Latte (RM18), or a Doppio Espresso (RM9). The menu also offers a variety of teas served by the pot, matcha, fresh juices, and frappes.
105, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang
+604 251 9270
Thu to Tue: 9am – 10pm
Closed on Wed
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5. The Mugshot Cafe
If you’re in search of a cafe that offers an appetising array of bagels, look no further than The Mugshot Cafe. This cosy establishment is the ideal spot for satisfying your coffee cravings and grabbing a quick, tasty snack.
You can relish the timeless Cream Cheese Bagel (RM11.50) or elevate your bagel experience with the Cream Cheese with Smoked Salmon (RM19). If you’re looking for something more substantial, consider the Bacon & Egg (RM17) or the Turkey Ham and Cranberry Sauce (RM17). But if your sweet tooth beckons, go for the delightful Nutella and Banana (RM16) option.
For those on the move, they offer a selection of yoghurts for just RM17. Flavour choices include Jackfruit and Gula Melaka, Kiwi and Honey, Mango and Walnuts, and Walnuts and Raisins. The Mugshot Cafe also houses the Rainforest Bakery, where you can choose from an array of cakes and pastries.
When it comes to beverages, you can opt for coffee delights such as Espresso (RM10), Mocha (RM17.50), or the timeless Latte (RM15.50). Additionally, there’s a variety of tea options, fresh juices, and soft drinks to cater to those who aren’t coffee enthusiasts.
302, Chulia St, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
+6011 2644 7007
Sun to Thu: 8am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 12am
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6. La Vie en Rose Pâtisserie
Number 6 on our best cafes in Penang list is La Vie en Rose Pâtisserie. If you share my passion for French pastries, then this is a must-visit destination. This cafe, owned by women, not only offers heavenly pastries and cakes but also presents them in a visually-pleasing, Instagram-worthy manner.
Their top-selling items include Pain au Chocolat (RM12), Almond Croissant (RM12), and the Paris in a Box Giftbox (RM46), which features a selection of 5 pastries. The menu also includes Croissants (RM10), Madeleines (RM6), Cannalés (RM9.50), Orange-Choco Croissants (RM15), and more.
La Vie en Rose Pâtisserie also boasts an array of sinful desserts. Satisfy your cravings with options like Tarte au Citron (RM21), Tiramisu (RM23), Gateau au Chocolat (RM23), and more. If you’re looking for beverages, you can choose from coffee selections like Piccolo (RM10), Short Macchiato (RM12), Cold Brew (RM13), and Mocha (RM14).
For those who wish to take home a slice of France, La Vie en Rose Pâtisserie allows pre-orders of whole cakes through their Beepit platform with a minimum of 1-day notice. So, you can also enjoy the authentic taste of France in the comfort of your own home!
19, Lebuh Melayu, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
+6014 333 6480
Wed to Sun: 10am – 6.30pm
Closed on Mon & Tue
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7. Ice Cafe
Next on our best cafes in Penang list is Ice Cafe. In line with its name, this place is situated on Lebuh Victoria and offers a delightful assortment of chilled desserts, making it the perfect respite from the scorching Malaysian weather. Taking inspiration from igloos, Ice Cafe invites you to relish their icy delights in an environment chilled to a frosty 10 degrees Celsius.
You can’t go wrong with their Waffle Ice Cream (RM29), featuring freshly cooked waffles crowned with a scoop of ice cream, complemented by Biscoff biscuit crumbs and fresh fruits. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider the Cake with Ice Cream (RM29) or the Smurfs Berry Tart (RM29).
And there’s more to explore — don’t overlook their impressive selection of ice cream. Sample the Mixed Ice Cream (RM39), allowing you to combine up to 5 ice cream scoops with brownie cubes and a medley of other toppings. If you have a penchant for fruity flavours, don’t miss the Mango Ice Cream (RM39), brimming with luscious mango pieces harmoniously paired with creamy ice cream.
193 (Level 1), Lebuh Victoria, 193, Lebuh Victoria, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
+604 262 1193
Daily: 10am – 6.30pm
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8. Kraffmen
Kraffmen, a cafe with a minimalist aesthetic inspired by Melbourne culture, brings you the flavours of Australia in a setting that’s perfect for a leisurely meal.
For a hearty start, explore Kraffmen’s main course offerings. Consider savouring the Pork Ribs with Guinness Marinade (RM48) or indulging in the Kraffmen Shepherd’s Pie (RM41). Alternatively, you can relish the Lamb Loin with Kraffmen Original Spice Rub (RM41) or opt for the Kraffmen Pork Burger (RM26).
If you have a craving for pasta, fret not! Delight in options such as the Mushroom Trio (RM23), Lamb Goulash (RM39), or Kraffmen Spice-Rubbed Pork Cubes Aglio Olio (RM26). For a lighter snack, you can try the Nachos with Remoulade Sauce (RM21), Baked Egg with Bread (RM26), or the Kraffmen Marinated Pork Salad (RM23).
80, Jalan Zainal Abidin, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
+604 226 2770
Mon to Fri: 11am – 9pm
Sat to Sun: 11am – 10pm
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9. Norm Micro Roastery
Number 9 of our best cafes in Penang list is Norm Micro Roastery. This unique establishment doubles as both a cafe and coffee roastery, which is celebrated for its tranquil ambience. This lovely spot is bathed in natural sunlight and features charming gravel pathways.
Consider trying the Mojo Pulled Pork Benedict (RM32.90) for a delectable brunch experience. It features marinated mojo pulled pork, a mac and cheese croquette, kale, sweet pickled apple, a poached egg, and hollandaise. Other mains worth exploring are the Norm Shashuka (RM35.90), the Slow Cooked Pork Ragout Pasta with Spicy Pomodoro (RM33.90), and the Signature Scallop and Prawn Pumpkin Risotto (RM43.90).
For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the Basque Burnt Cheesecake (RM17.90), the Chocolate Macadamia Fudge (RM17.90), or the Signature Tiramisu (RM23.90). Norm Micro Roastery also offers specialty coffee choices, including the Espresso Tonic (RM15.90), the Aussie Latte (RM21.90), and the Affogato (RM18.90).
13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Daily: 9am – 11pm
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10. Kafka Coffee
Lastly on our best cafes in Penang list is Kafka Coffee. Nestled amid lush foliage, this hidden cafe offers a serene and ideal haven for coffee enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. Their extensive menu ensures a multitude of options to cater to your preferences.
From 8 am to 11 am, you can explore their breakfast menu, which includes dishes like Chorizo Tostada (RM29.90), Pandan Pancake (RM24.90), Eggplant Shakshuka (RM25.90), and many more. If you lean toward sandwiches and wraps, you’re in luck. Choose from the Avocado Egg Sandwich (RM23.90), Kafka’s BLT (RM27.90), or the Chicken Avocado Wrap (RM28.90).
Don’t forget to peruse their lunch and dinner menu, available from 11 am to 9 pm. You’ll find scrumptious options like Lentil and Mushroom Bolognese Pasta (RM28.90), Florentine Chicken Pasta (RM31.90), the Chicken Teriyaki Burger (RM28.90), and more.
15, Jalan Kelawai, George Town, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang
+604 218 9726
Wed to Mon: 8am – 10.30pm
Tue: 8am – 6pm
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