Malacca is the perfect destination for a short getaway or a change of environment to unwind and recharge.

For those of you who have not been to Malacca in a while, you will be happy to know that the cafes in Malacca are quite an interesting sight to behold. Some reflect the age-old traditions of the city, others carry modern influences from abroad and many more cafes are a mixture of both.

If you are planning a trip to the historical city, here is our guide to 13 Cafes In Malacca That Are Worth Checking Out.

#1 BACKLANE COFFEE

Just as its name implies, the cafe is tucked at the back lane of a street but still not too far off from the popular Jonker Street.

While Backlane Coffee has built a reputation for serving handmade grub such as classic breakfast sets, pizza and panini, most people visit the cafe for their enticing coffee and dessert selection. Also, the cafe provides free wifi!

129 Jalan Hang Jebat
75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6282 0542
Sun to Thu: 11am – 12 Midnight
Fri & Sat: 11am – 1am

Photo Credit: Malacca.Ws

#2 CALANTHE ART CAFE

Having been around for a decade, Calanthe Art Cafe has made a reputation for itself along Jonker Street. What is interesting about the cafe is that it serves 13 different types of coffee—highlighting the difference in coffee that is unique to each Malaysian state.

11 Jalan Hang Kasturi
75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6292 2960
Sun to Thu: 9am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 12 Midnight

#3 COFFEOLOGY CAFE & RESTAURANT

A Halal option for those who are traveling with Muslim friends to Malacca. The unassuming Coffeeology Cafe & Restaurant has a mission to support local farmers by sourcing for the best local produce for their customers.

While ingredients from the kitchen are local, the cafe strives to provide the best possible when it comes to their progressive coffee menu with coffee beans from all over the globe.

Lot 21 & 23, Ixora Condomunium
75450 Bukit Beruang, Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 13-288 6792
Daily: 10am – 11pm

Photo Credit: Rebecca Saw

#4 EAT AT 18

If you have a thing for outdoor courtyards like us, you will absolutely adore Eat at 18. Residing on the first floor of a two storey house along Jalan Hang Leiku, the quaint cafe is a lovely place for your OOTD pictures.

Using all natural ingredients, diners can delight themselves in baked organic bread, mains and a selection of desserts.

18 Jalan Hang Lekiu
75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6281 4679
Daily: 8.30am – 6pm
Tue: Closed

#5 GEOGRAPHER CAFE

Geographer Cafe is probably one of the most well-known cafes in Malacca located within the heart of Malacca City. Health junkies would love to visit this cafe as food is prepared without MSG.

There are some who visit during the day for a scrumptious lunch but it is more happening at night as its lively atmosphere is fit for downing a pint or two.

81 Jalan Hang Jebat
75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6281 6813
Mon to Fri: 10am – 1am
Sat & Sun: 9am – 1am

Photo Credit: m.blog.naver

#6 HALIA INC.

Nestled in Quayside Hotel, Halia Inc. is a riverside restaurant and coffee bar boasting views of the Malacca River. It is a place to rest your weary feet from all the walking and indulge in a mixture of Western and local cuisines.

1 Jalan Merdeka
Quayside Heritage Centre
Bandar Hilir, Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6284 1001 / 012-399 8835
Daily: 7am – 11pm

#7 KAYA-KAYA CAFE

Kaya-kaya Cafe is a reflection of Malacca’s rich culture, history and traditions which are passed down from early settlers to the present generation. The vintage cafe exudes a calm ambiance and this hidden treasure where visitors are able to get some respite from the crowd at Jonker Street.

Settle in for a hearty meal at their outdoor courtyard while you admire the beautiful handpainted wall murals.

32 Jalan Tukang Besi
Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6281 4089
Daily: 8am – 6pm

Photo Credit: Rebecca Saw

#8 LOCAHOUZ

Locahouz takes pride in creating their own recipes so guests can enjoy a taste of their homemade dishes which you cannot find elsewhere. Run by a pair of sisters, the rustic cafe is embellished with vintage furniture and items passed down from the elders in their family.

Highlights there include flavoured latte and their signature Malacca Kopi and Teh.

8 Jalan Bukit Cina
Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 19-679 3993
Daily: 10.30am – 6pm
Wed: Closed

Photo Credit: Mandy

#9 PADDLES & BEANS CAFE

Framed by floor-to-ceiling glass doors, you get natural sunlight filtering into Paddles & Beans Cafe when you visit during the day. If you are into food photography, you know that this is the place to go!

Do not skip on their waffles, which come in various delectable flavours that will satisfy those with a sweet tooth.
2 Jalan KSB 1
Taman Kota Syahbandar
Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6288 0368
Daily: 12pm – 12 Midnight
Tue: Closed

#10 PLAT KITCHEN

The people behind Plat Kitchen aims to provide an experience that is beyond just the taste of the food. By hosting regular events and workshops touching on topics such as arts and fashion, diners leave the place with more knowledge on culture and maybe even a new like-minded friend.

The menu mainly features western mains made with local ingredients.

596 Jalan Melaka Raya 10
Taman Melaka Raya
75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6-288 8097
Mon to Fri: 11am – 12 Midnight
Sat & Sun: 10am – 12 Midnight

Photo Credit: Coffee And Bread

#11 THE COFFEE JAR

A small and cosy coffee house in Malacca, The Coffee Jar is a simpler alternative to the fancy cafes on Jonker Street. Focusing all their attention on excellent coffee, the owners started the cafe out of a passion for the cafe industry.

Complement your coffee with sliced cakes which come in seasonal flavours.

38 Lorong Hang Jebat
75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 12-281 5100
Daily: 10.30am – 6pm
Tue: Closed

#12 THE DAILY FIX

The Daily Fix welcomes many visitors on a daily basis. There are a few factors we can think of that attributed to the cafe’s overwhelming success—its location and charming vintage interior.

The Daily Fix is hidden behind a souvenir store at Jonker Street and its menu features fusion mains and desserts.

55 Jalan Hang Jebat
Malacca Town, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6-283 4858
Mon to Fri: 9am – 11.30pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 11.30pm

#13 THE HUSKITORY

Located along Jalan Taman Asean, The Huskitory is about 15 minutes drive away from the city center. The cafe-cum-pet shop is home to more than 20 huskies so expect only chaos from a bunch of extremely excited dogs.

There are two outdoor sessions in a day—one from 5pm to 7pm and the next at 8pm to 10pm. During these periods, the huskies would be let out into the backyard where you can have fun interacting with them.

27 Jalan Taman Asean
Malacca, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6334 2602
Tue to Sun: 12.30pm – 10.30pm
Mon: Closed

Read our 3D2N Malacca Itinerary featuring 12 tips on what to see, do and eat in the city.

It is always a good idea to go for a weekend respite with your family or friends to unwind from work and get away from the fast-paced lifestyle of the city. An underrated neighbouring city bursting with rich history and culture that some of us may overlook is Malacca.

Contrary to popular belief, there is more to this UNESCO World Heritage Site than you may think. While history buffs might fall in love with the rustic charms Malacca can offer, the activities go far beyond just admiring ancient cultural sites.

Give this Malaysian city a chance the next time you are thinking of going on a short trip! You may be pleasantly surprised at what you can find there. Here are 12 Tips On What To See, Do & Eat There.

DAY 1 IN MALACCA

#1 HAVE LUNCH AT THE DAILY FIX

1pm: The Daily Fix is a charming, vintage cafe that is hidden behind a souvenir store at Jonker Street. The cafe serves a menu featuring fusion mains and desserts, complete with house brews and tea. Go for their signature pancakes which come in both savoury and sweet flavours!

Heading to Jonker Street?
Here are 7 fun things to do there.

Photo Credit: Eddy Rush Fat Boy

#2 TRY THE FAMOUS KEBLANG ORIGINAL COCONUT SHAKE

3pm: Cool off from the sweltering heat with the Keblang Original Coconut Shake which is an extremely popular roadside stall visited by both locals and tourists. Expect to queue for their coconut shakes with ice cream and nasi lemak.

Photo Credit: Pantip

#3  TAKE OOTDS AT MALACCA’S WHITE SAND DUNE

5pm: No time for the Sahara Desert? No problem! This hidden attraction in Malacca has recently been gaining attention on social media for looking almost similar to a white sand dune or desert (it is actually a land reclamation project).

Depending on traffic and weather conditions, Padang Pasir Keblang Meleka is about 15 to 30 minutes drive from Malacca’s city centre. Take your OOTDs against the breathtaking landscape!

DAY 2 IN MALACCA

#4 HAVE A MEAL AT CHOP CHUNG WAH

11am: Chicken rice balls are iconic in Malacca and one of the most renowned shops you can find there is Chop Chung Wah. The trick to skipping the infamous long queue under the hot sun? Visit them in the early afternoon during the weekdays!

#5 EXPLORE THE ICONIC SITES AT JONKER STREET

12pm: Religious structures of various faiths are widely respected by the locals in Malacca. You are more than welcome to stop and take a look at the many worshipping places that are located around Jonker Street.

Some of the more well-known ones include the red Christ Church, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Kampung Kling Mosque and Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple.

Photo Credit: Hotels.com

#6 PAY A VISIT TO THE BABA NYONYA HERITAGE MUSEUM

2pm: Learn more about the Baba Nyonyas and how they contributed to Malacca’s trade industry by visiting the museum. There are daily time slots where you can go for guided tours.

#7 DESIGN YOUR OWN SNACK AT MAMEE JONKER HOUSE

4pm: Feeling a sense of nostalgia? We feel you. Mamee Jonker House is a museum featuring everything Mamee-related here including t-shirts and soft toys. Make some time for the Mamee Cafe and Mamee Gallery as well.

#8 GET CLOSE TO SIBERIAN HUSKIES AT THE HUSKITORY

6pm: Located along Jalan Taman Asean, The Huskitory is about 15 minutes drive away from the city center. The cafe-cum-pet shop is home to more than 20 huskies so expect only chaos from a bunch of extremely excited dogs. Dog lovers have to make it a point to visit this cafe!

Interested to find out more? Read our review here.

DAY 3 IN MALACCA

#9 HAVE BREAKFAST AT KAYA KAYA CAFE

11am: Boasting vintage vibes and a sunny courtyard, Kaya Kaya Cafe is an excellent place for breakfast if you want to skip the crowd at Jonker Street. Fuel up for the day with their Kaya Breakfast!

#10 FILL UP YOUR TUMMY AT HOE KEE CHICKEN RICE

2pm: It is easy to tell that Hoe Kee Chicken Rice is a strong competitor against Chop Chung Wah by the large lunch crowd. Unlike the latter, Hoe Kee Chicken Rice has more variety on the menu which includes sides such as vegetables and soup.

#11 SATISFY YOUR CAFFEINE FIX AT BACKLANE COFFEE

4pm:Spend your afternoon at Backland Coffee with a cuppa and some desserts. We love how spacious the cafe is, with comfortable sofa chairs and floor-to-ceiling window panels that allow natural sunlight to filter in.

This coffee sanctuary is a welcoming place for those who wish to rest their weary feet from a day of shopping at Jonker Street.

#12 DROP BY DATARAN PAHLAWAN MELEKA MEGAMALL

6pm: Who says Malacca does not have modern entertainment? Hop over to this bustling megamall which has everything a shopaholic would want from a shopping spree—fashion, retail and branded goods. You can also find a karaoke studio, 3D Art Museum and Kiddie Rides for the little ones.

Penang is another neighbouring Malaysian city you have to explore and you can plan a trip there with only S$250. 

Kaya-kaya Cafe is a reflection of Malacca’s rich culture, history and traditions which are passed down from early settlers to the present generation. The vintage cafe exudes a calm ambience and this hidden treasure where visitors are able to get some respite from the crowd at Jonker Street.

Read: 7 Fun Things To Do At Malacca’s Jonker Street

The Malay word ‘Kaya’ translates to rich or wealthy and the cafe uses it to describe the level of richness in food, life, relationship, health and wealth. In fact, these are the exact words on the wall mural in the courtyard of Kaya-kaya Cafe.

Food at the cafe is hearty and wholesome—ranging from all-day breakfast to pancakes and pasta. Make it a point to stop by the cafe when you are around Jonker Street.

Kaya-kaya Cafe takes you back in time with its faded red brick walls, original artefacts retained from the past, dark wooden furniture and exposed bulbs. Adding to the vintage touches are black and white photographs that are displayed on the wall.

What many visitors really go to the cafe for, is their interior courtyard and wall mural which is at the back of the building. Do not be shy about exploring the cafe for there are many great OOTD spots within!

While Kaya-kaya Cafe’s design is traditional and inspired from Malacca’s past, the food that they serve is mostly Western, such as the Kaya Breakfast (RM22/S$7.10) that we tried. If you are looking for a robust breakfast to start your day right, you have to try this.

The wholesome breakfast came with buttery scrambled eggs, warm toasted bread slices, ham, sausages, mushrooms and refreshing greens.

Other mains on the menu include Grilled Chicken Chop (RM20/S$6.50), Mushroom Omelette (RM16/S$5.16) and Melaka ‘Elvis’ (RM16/S$5.16) which is actually stacked pancakes with banana and homemade kaya.

Kaya-kaya Cafe
32 Jalan Tukang Besi
75200 Malacca, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6-281 4089
Daily: 8am – 6pm

For more recommendations, read our Malacca’s food & travel guide to find out the best places to visit in the city.

One of the best takeaways from our Malacca trip is visiting Backlane Coffee located at Jalan Hang Jebat, or more commonly known as Jonker Street. True to its name, the cafe is tucked at the back lane of the street where you can enjoy some quiet time away from the crowd.

While the team at Backlane Coffee has built a reputation for serving handmade grub such as classic breakfast sets, pizza and panini, most people visit the cafe for their enticing coffee and dessert selection. Also, the cafe provides free wifi!

This is a pit stop you have to make when you are around Jonker Street.

Featuring warm tones from the aged brick walls, dark wooden furniture and antique items placed around the cafe such as a vinyl record player and a vintage wall clock, the welcoming interior provides a calm environment for guests to stick around for a chat.

We appreciate the large seating area which provides enough space for visitors to wander around the cafe comfortably or even do some work with your laptop without having to squeeze.

Backlane Coffee offers a neat range of artisanal cakes and pastries. We went for their Salted Caramel Tart (RM13/S$4.19) which satisfied our chocolate cravings. The rich chocolate bar comes with a crunchy biscuit base and a layer of salted caramel on top.

Good as the tart is, we recommend sharing it between two people as it might get a little gelat (over cloying).

To balance it out, pair the dessert with a warm cup of Cappuccino (RM12.50/S$4.05). The aromatic coffee is accompanied with handmade traditional biscotti which is marked with the cafe’s name!

When talking about attention to detail when it comes to design, Backlane Coffee wins hands down.

Besides Cappuccino, Backlane Coffee also has Cafe Latte (RM11/S$3.55), Cafe Mocha (RM12.50/S$4) and other beverages including tea and chocolate.

Backlane Coffee
129 Jalan Hang Jebat
75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6-282 0542
Sun to Thu: 11am – 12 Midnight
Fri & Sat: 11am – 1am

Julee is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She is an advocate of travel and hopes to visit Iceland someday. She enjoys having a good conversation over tea and a slice of cake. There are two things in the world she cannot live without—food and humour.

Read: 7 Fun Things To Do At Malacca’s Jonker Street

One of the most popular cafes in Malacca, The Daily Fix welcomes many visitors on a daily basis. There are a few factors we can think of that attributed to the cafe’s overwhelming success—its location and charming vintage interior.

The Daily Fix is hidden behind a souvenir store at Jonker Street. The only way you will notice any signs of the cafe is if you look out for a sign displayed outside. Mysterious vibes? Checked.

Serving a menu featuring fusion mains and desserts, this is one cafe you cannot skip when in Malacca city.

Antique items such as the traditional television, old suitcases and vintage lamps are tastefully put together to accentuate the cafe’s theme. While waiting for your table, grab a seat on the sofa and get comfortable.

If you are looking for a quieter spot, wander to the back of the cafe where you will find an indoor courtyard. We are loving how the vintage kaleidoscopic plates are reused as backdrops!

The Daily Fix is known for their pancakes and that is exactly what we opted for. Local Pandan Pancake (RM13.90/S$4.48) comes with five small round pancakes stuffed with gula melaka.

As the pancakes are sweet on its own, we did not add any additional gula melaka topping that was given at the side. If sweet tasting foods generally do not appeal to you, getting a savoury pancake would be a better choice.

We decided to go for the Cafe Latte (RM10.50/S$3.38) to pair with our pancakes. There was a good balance between the espresso and milk and those who prefer their coffee less bitter will enjoy this.

Other signature pancakes on their menu include Durian Pancake (RM14.90/S$4.80) and Salted Egg Yolk Pancake (RM17.90/S$5.77). Customise your pancakes with add-ons such as Nutella and vanilla ice cream.

The Daily Fix
55 Jalan Hang Jebat (Jonker Street)
Malacca Town, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6-283 4858
Mon to Fri: 9am – 11.30pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 11.30pm

Read: 7 Fun Things To Do At Malacca’s Jonker Street

A trip to Malacca is not considered complete unless you have been to Jonker Street. It is a place where you will find a mixture of holidaymakers learning more about the culture of old Malacca and locals going about their everyday lives.

Weekends are when Jonker Street is most lively and you get to join in the bustling night market. Those who are not a fan of crowds can consider heading there during weekdays when the streets are quieter.

For those who are planning to visit Malacca, here are 7 Fun Things To Do At Jonker Street.

#1 TRY THE FAMOUS CHICKEN RICE BALLS

The reputation of Malacca’s chicken rice balls have spread far and wide. Obviously, this is something you have to try even if you are just stopping by the city for a day.

There are a few famous stalls at Jonker Street namely Chop Chung Wah, Hoe Kee Chicken Rice and Famosa Chicken Rice. Try to make your way there early for some of these shops close before evening!

#2 HAVE BRUNCH AT BEAUTIFUL CAFES

With influences from abroad brought back by the locals, many traditional shops have been replaced by modern cafes at Jonker Street. While it is a pity that some of the original stores are gone, we were pleased to see that some of these cafes have retained the culture and bits of history from the past.

#3 SHOP FOR SECOND-HAND ITEMS AT ANTIQUE STORES

Are you looking for vintage pieces or ornaments to spice up your house decor? Jonker Street is the place to go for antiques. Walk down the lane and you will find yourself spoilt with plenty of choices. Who knows, you may even find a rare gem in there!

#4 CHECK OUT MAMEE JONKER HOUSE

Yes, this is a museum featuring your favourite childhood snack! You can get everything Mamee-related here including t-shirts and soft toys. Also, what is a trip to Mamee Jonker House without leaving with some Mamee snacks?

Besides that, you can also visit the Mamee Cafe and Mamee Gallery.

#5 VISIT THE VARIOUS TEMPLES

Some of Malaysia’s oldest temples can be found around Jonker Street and were built more than a century ago! History buffs will enjoy taking a little tour around the different religious temples such as the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Kampung Kling Mosque and Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple.

Do read up on the history of these temples before making your way there so you can fully appreciate these magnificent structures.

Photo Credit: Hotels.com

#6 BABA NYONYA HERITAGE MUSEUM

One of the most distinguishable culture in Malacca is Peranakan or also known as the ‘Baba Nyonya’. If you are interested to find out more about their heritage and past, visit the Baba Nyonya Heritage Musuem.

The museum is made up of three houses that was first built for a Chinese tycoon and his family. It was later converted into a museum for the public and guided tours are provided at various time slots.

Photo Credit: Maxpixel

#7 JONKER WALK NIGHT MARKET

Last but definitely not the least, is the Jonker Walk Night Market. Happening every Friday to Sunday, the streets are closed for make shift stalls that sell everything from accessories and souvenirs to Nyonya delicacies. If you really need a reason to visit Malacca, let this be it.

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Visiting Bangkok’s True Love Cafe must be on most animal lovers’ must-visit list but not everyone has the luxury of time to travel somewhere far. If you only have the weekends to spare, we have found a great place in Malacca where you can cuddle up with furry huskies.

Located along Jalan Taman Asean, The Huskitory is about 15 minutes drive away from the city center. The cafe-cum-pet shop is home to more than 20 huskies so expect only chaos from a bunch of extremely excited dogs.

Visiting the Huskitory is indeed a dream come true for all dog lovers!

We know, it is hard to resist buying dog treats for them when they look at you with such soulful eyes. Treats go for RM2/S$0.65 per packet and you get one for free with every three packets purchased.

Unless you happen to be a dog whisperer, having some treats on you is the easiest way to catch the huskies’ attention.

There are two outdoor sessions in a day—one from 5pm to 7pm and the next at 8pm to 10pm. During these periods, the huskies would be let out into the backyard where you can have fun interacting with them.

Unfortunately, it was raining on the day we went so the outdoor session had to be cancelled and the caretakers went ahead with the wet weather program instead. Visitors took turns taking a group photo with all the huskies that are currently in the cafe.

While there is no entrance fee, visitors are required to pay RM18/S$5.80 for a drink. We were told to hold on to our beverages at times because the enthusiastic huskies may accidentally spill them over.

Pet owners can consider purchasing some tidbits for their furkids back at home. There is a wide range of pet snacks and even soft toys for Fido to play around with.

The Huskitory 
27 Jalan Taman Asean
Malacca, Malaysia
Tel: +60 6334 2602
Tue to Sun: 12.30pm – 10.30pm
Mon: Closed

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