The perks of having locals take you around their city are aplenty, especially when our travel itinerary is no longer confined to what the media covers and what the guidebooks mention. We are lucky that our born-and-bred Malaysian friends have very kindly taken us around their UNESCO World Heritage-listed hometown, Penang

Similar to most Southeast Asians, Malaysians’ way of greeting revolves around the question of “have you eaten yet”. Needless to say, food is a way of life here—something that Singaporeans can resonate with. Penang’s street food has been ranked as world-class and we wholeheartedly agree. We had the best plate of char kway teow at Penang and there is no turning back.

From Bangkok Lane Mee Goreng to Pitt Street Koay Teow Thng, here are five local dining destinations—Penangite natives frequent—you should eat at the next time you visit Penang.

While Penang’s cafe scene is growing and flourishing, it is the abundance of roadside hawker heroes that have captivated our stomachs and hearts. These mouthwatering local delicacies are only for the determined and patient foodies, as long waits accompanied by unpredictable opening hours are a norm at several famous hawkers such as Siam’s Road Char Kway Teow.

BANGKOK LANE MEE GORENG

Bangkok Lane Mee Goreng is an unassuming tiny pushcart situated within Seng Lee Coffee Shop and can be easily missed if you do not look hard enough. The family-run business is especially famous amongst Penangites, so much so that word of its fragrant mee goreng has too reached foreign tourists. A piping hot plate of mee goreng ranges from RM$3 to RM$7.

Watch in awe as the chef cooks up a storm in the steamy wok. Yellow noodles are fried over high heat with a secret blend of sweet and spicy tomato sauce, before beansprouts, chewy cuttlefish, eggs and potatoes are added into the mixture. The entire process is completed under a minute, where the cook simultaneously spins the gigantic pan whilst frying the dish.

280, Jalan Burma, George Town
10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

PITT STREET KOAY TEOW THNG

If you were wondering, Koay Teow Th’ng literally means ‘flat rice noodles soup’ when directly translated. The white flat noodles are served in a clear broth with an assortment of meat and seafood. Lettuce and onions are also used to give the overall dish and extra oomph. While it is common to see handmade fish balls in your bowl, do note that recipes vary across hawkers.

Over at Pitt Street Koay Teow Thng, eel is used to prepare the lovely delicate fishballs. They are served in a bowl of silky smooth flat white noodles and garnished with tender pork slices and fresh lettuce. A dry option is available too and don’t forget to savour their homemade chilli sauce! The local eatery is extremely popular, so be there early or risk missing out.

Pitt Street Koay Teow Thng
183, Carnarvon Street, 10100 Penang

SIAM ROAD CHAR KWAY TEOW

As its name implies, Siam Road Char Kway Teow is located along Siam Road and you can opt for takeout or dine at the nearby coffee shop. The locals love him so much that many have nicknamed him as the God of Char Kway Teow. Each aromatic plate of stir-fried noodles is served with bean sprouts, Chinese sausage, chives, cockles, eggs, fried pork lard and prawns.

Warning: It is common to wait up to 90 minutes (or more) to get your hands on a portion of these divine char kway teow. Before you lament on the ‘unnecessary’ wait, do know that the cook is staying true to his craft by frying only in small batches to ensure that no flavours have been compromised in the process. If anything, his stubbornness is a sign of genuine passion.

Siam Road,
10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

SUPER HOKKIEN MEE

Super Hokkien Mee might not be as well known online, but by no means pale in comparison. In fact, it is incredibly popular amongst locals where Penangites would start queuing up before 8am to satisfy their cravings. It is located at One Corner Cafe, where the bulk of the patrons visit the hawker centre just to get a bowl of Super Hokkien Mee! P.s. They sell out really fast.

Penang’s Hokkien Mee is nothing alike Singapore and Kuala Lumpur’s renditions. Instead, it bears most resemblance to Singaporean’s Prawn Mee. Yellow noodles and vermicelli are dunked into the rich shrimp broth along with a myriad of ingredients, namely prawns, sliced pork and fried garlic. The soup is very spicy on its own, but you can always opt for more chilli.

One Corner Cafe
4, Jalan Bawasah, George Town
10050 George Town, Malaysia

WANTON MEE AT CHULIA STREET

When daylight wanes away, Lebuh Chulia street awakens from her afternoon nap and transforms into a bustling food street. One particular vendor—with no visible signboard—is exceptionally famous for its springy wanton noodles. It is the go-to place for locals and tourists alike, even before Anthony Bourdain sang praises of this glorious dish.

As with all the other legendary vendors, waiting is almost mandatory. The noodles are boiled, dipped into cool water, reheated and drained to achieve an irresistibly springy texture. The noodles are served in dark sauce and the result is delightfully moist. The dish is completed with deep-fried wantons, boiled smooth wantons and a handful of tasty char siew slices.

Lebuh Chulia on the corner of Lebuh Carnavon

Read: How to travel to Penang for a 3D2N trip with S$250 (all-inclusive)

Penang is a modern Asian city that still preserves the traditional and historical elements of its past. With its buzzing cafe scene in Penang, travellers are often amazed by the myriad of cafes there—some exude an alluring old-world charm while others are more modern in terms of decor and food.

Whether you are looking for a chill time with your girlfriends, a great Instagrammable spot for photos or just simply savouring great food with freshly-brewed coffee, Penang’s dynamic cafe culture has it all.

This list of gorgeous cafes in Penang will turn your Instagram followers green with envy. Now it’s time to up your Instagram feed with these amazing Insta-worthy cafes you never knew exist in Penang!

Photo Credit: Jiah.wei

AWESOME CANTEEN

For the health junkie, Awesome Canteen is a great place to try Paleo dishes, which is known to be beneficial for health.

With healthy dishes such as the Paleo Eggplant Niku with Chicken (RM29.90), expect a hearty meal filled with plenty of nutrients. With its quaint interior paired with re-purposed industrial furniture as its main decor, the cafe offers a calm ambience for days when you feel taking a respite away from the crowd.

Photo Credit: Jolin_slng

BEHIND 50

#Throwback to the 70s with this retro and aesthetic cafe located at Muntri Street Penang. This interior rewinds you back to the old days with antiques such as the sewing machine, old cable televisions and traditional Penang galleries that are nowhere to be found these days.

If you are unsure of what to get there, Behind 50 is well known for their selection of delicious brunch items.

 Lebuh Muntri, George Town
10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 12 401 3392
Daily: 6pm – 12.45am

CHINA HOUSE PENANG

With its rustic interior, China House is arguably one of the most famous places in Penang.

The lifestyle space has different retail and dining concepts coexisting together so you get to explore the different photogenic spots and discover cafes, restaurants, galleries and more. There’s so much to see and do that one trip is not enough to cover the entire place.

153, Lebuh Pantai, George Town
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 04 263 7299
Sun to Thu: 9am – 12am
Fri and Sat: 9am – 1am

Photo Credit: Coffee Elements

COFFEE ELEMENTS

Located at All Seasons Place, this convenient coffee joint is the go-to place for all coffee addicts.

Coffee Elements prides itself on offering the best of single origin coffee and handmade pastries. With its spacious and sleek environment, this is perfect for a night out with friends or a simple and casual dinner with your loved ones. Do try the unique Masala Chai Supreme tea when you are there.

6G-2-17, All Seasons Place
Lebuhraya Thean Teik, 11500 Ayer Itam
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 12 478 2693
Mon to Thu: 11am – 11pm
Fri: 11am – 11.30pm
Sat and Sun: 9am – 11pm

Photo Credit: Dan

DAN CAFE

Nestled in Lebuh Farquhar lies Dan Cafe that serves up great desserts, coffee and tea. A cosy cafe with lush woodland surrounds and ample natural light, this is the place to take our perfect Instagram #ootds.

Indulge in a molten lava cake with warm fillings oozing out that serves as a great teatime snack.

George Town, 38/1, Lebuh Farquhar
George Town, 10200 George Town
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Mon to Sat: 11am – 8pm

GUDANG CAFE

A warehouse-themed cafe, Gudang Cafe is a hidden gem located at Gat Armenian street. The old and rustic interior is the perfect backdrop for an Instagram picture.

Expect normal cafe fare to be served here such as Japanese and Chinese fusion food including the likes of ramen, penang hokkien mee and chicken katsu don.

5, Lebuh Armenian, George Town
10300 George Town
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 04 251 9634
Mon, Wed to Sun: 11am – 12am
Closed on Tuesdays

Photo Credit: Tomthorogood85

JUNK CAFE

Nestled in Chulia Street lies a small and humble stall that serves up great burgers, sandwiches and small bites.

In contrary to its name, Junk Cafe does not really sell Junk but its exotic interior showcases traditional clocks, wooden furniture, half torn walls and many other knick knacks hanging around. Hipsters, look no further!

401, Chulia Street, Georgetown
10200 George Town
Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 16 438 3205
Mon to Thu: 3pm – 1am
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 2am

Photo Credit: Kota Dine & Coffee

KOTA DINE & COFFEE

Situated inside Fort Cornwallis, one of the longest-standing fort in Penang, Kota Dine & Coffee is a spacious and homely cafe.

There is a statue of the late Sir Francis Light you can take pictures with after indulging in their delectable Malaysian and Indian delicacies including Briyani and Kari (bowl of curry).

Georgetown, 10200 George Town
Penang, Malaysia
Tel:  +60 04 371 4929
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm

Photo Credit: Narrow Marrow

NARROW MARROW

With its rustic-retro interior deco, Narrow Marrow is a small cafe within a heritage house that tends to be overlooked by passerbys.

Well known for its exceptional coffee and desserts, it is no wonder this cafe managed to capture the hearts of many. Furthermore, the pocket-friendly prices of these small bites are perfect for the price conscious and those who are just after some finger food.

252A, Lebuh Carnarvon
George Town, 10100 George Town
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 14 303 6647
Sun to Tue, Thu to Sat: 10am – 1am
Closed on Wednesdays

Photo Credit: Matcho Cafe

MATCHO CAFE

In contrary to its “Matcho” name, Matcho cafe exudes  feminine vibes through their pink-coloured neon signage, walls and furniture. The quirky furniture appeals to Instagram-goers who wants something that will brighten their feed.

One of their proudest creations include the Pink Toast which is a must try.—what you can expect is a cloud of pink cotton candy atop the toast.

99B, Lebuh Noordin
George Town, 10300 George Town
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel:  +60 04 261 0031
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm

Photo Credit: Xjunlee

RABBIT X HOLDUP

Rabbit X Holdup is an intimate space where you get to people watch while sipping on a cuppa.

The cafe serves up a range of interesting soft serve flavours from Thai Milk Tea and Baby Blue to Brown Sugar Oolong Tea and they are known to have a milky taste. Have your soft serve accompanied with sweet toppings, definitely the perfect icy treat on a hot sunny day.

Photo Credit: Teels Heritage Cafe

TEELS HERITAGE CAFE

With a fusion of chinese and western-inspired decor, you can even spot this cafe fromafar—thanks to its bright-coloured colonial style exterior.

Don’t forget to try the Teels Special, which is a healthy concoction of pineapples, carrots, apple and mint leaves when you are there.

144, Jalan Burma
10400 George Town
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel:  +60 04 228 8177
Tue to Sun: 11am – 10pm
Closed on Mondays

Photo Credit: Tasty Toasty

TASTY TOASTY

Tasty Toasty has been making rounds on Instagram for its charming vintage vibes, complete with vintage square tile flooring, cement walls and wooden furniture.

In contrast to the traditional breakfast of Kaya Butter Toast with soft-boiled eggs, Tasty Toasty serves up toasts with a refreshing twist. There is even a dedicated menu solely to Toasts and Buns, alongside a small selection of Pasta items. One of the interesting concoction include the Scallop with Ebiko Sandwich.

Jalan Cantonment, Pulau Tikus
10350 George Town
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel:  +60 04 218 9623
Mon to Fri: 8.30am – 6pm
Sat and Sun: 8.30am – 8.30pm

Photo Credit: Fatboijim

THE LAWN CAFE

This beautiful cafe sits at the lawn area of Eco Terrances; it embraces a glasshouse exterior that allows natural sunlight to pass through.

Surrounded by lush greenery, The Lawn Cafe is where you should head to if you want to avoid the hubbub of the city. Do not expect to have a full meal there, but rather small grubs and freshly brewed coffee to perk yourself up.

PT2509,, Jalan Paya Terubong
Paya Terubong, 11060 George Town
Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 16 796 6089
Daily: 10am – 10pm

Written by: Alvina Liew
Edited by: Julee Ooi

Read: 10 Must-Try Local Dishes in Penang

A cafe by day and bistro by night, SHINISE is where you can get hearty food, live music, coffee, beer and baked goods all at one destination. The vintage cafe is housed in a pre-war heritage building centrally located in George Town, Penang.

Their food menu is inspired by Western eats but the creative minds behind the team at SHINISE has incorporated local influences in certain dishes to turn it up a notch. As such, visitors can expect to see fusion creations on their dining table that are mostly priced below RM30/ S$10.

We love how the owner has embodied a personal touch to this cafe (something that is lacking in many cafes nowadays) by displaying handwritten notes, Polaroids, name cards and well wishes from their guests.

The House Chicken Burger (RM26/ S$8.67) comes with a chicken which is marinated for 24 hours before it is ready to be served with a special smoked BBQ sauce made by the chef. Diners also get crispy fries at the side for a complete meal.

While the burger was delicious, we felt that the Oriental Chicken Chop (RM25.90/ S$8.63) was not on par. The garlic rice was decent but the deep-fried chicken chop was bland and its saving grace was the brown sauce which gave it some flavour.

If desserts are your weakness, you will find a selection at SHINISE. We tried their Cheese Fruit Flan (RM12/ S$4) which came with cotton cheese and various fruit toppings. It is interesting to note that the ‘cake’ base is actually a type of soft kueh!

Other food options diners have there include Malaysian Rendang Chicken (RM24.90/ S$8.30), Fish & Chips (RM24.90/ S$8.30) and Seafood Aglio Olio (RM 28.90/ S$9.63).

SHINISE
62, Lebuh Melayu
George Town, Penang
Malaysia
Tel: +60 16-469 6859
Daily: 12pm – 11pm

For more recommendations, read our Penang food and travel guides.

Gone are the days where travelling leisurely is reserved for the wealthy. Vacations need not be extravagant and Singapore’s closeness to other Southeast Asian cities have equipped us with the privilege to frequent weekend travels. Why stay at home when you can venture out? Furthermore, Malaysian state Penang is only an 85-minute flight away from Singapore!

After spending a week in Georgetown, Penang, it dawned upon us that a getaway at this UNESCO World Heritage City is really a lot more affordable than what most people think – especially when you would be travelling without having to compromise on comfort. Starving yourselves is absolutely unnecessary and it helps that Penang’s street food is incredibly cheap.

From exploring Ernest Zacharevic’s street art, sampling Penang’s famous assam laksa to riding a trishaw, here is How You Can Travel To Penang For A 3D2N Trip With S$250 (All-Inclusive).

#1 EXLPORE ERNEST ZACHAREVIC’S STREET ART

Lithuanian-born artist Ernest Zacharevic’s street art is located all over Penang, where you can find interesting painted walls and wrought-iron caricatures. Each artwork humorously illustrates Penang’s unique colonial past and these 24 masterpieces are super popular.

$: Free

Various locations

#2 SAMPLE PENANG’S FAMOUS ASSAM LAKSA

The world-famous Assam Laksa encapsulates an interesting myriad of contrasting flavours; each mouthful of the tangy broth packs a punch of sweetness, sourness and even spiciness! Many ingredients – such as chilli, cucumber, mint leaves, onion, pineapple, prawn paste, poached mackerel, shallots and tamarind – are used to create this complex noodle dish.

$: Approximately RM$4 / S$1.30 per bowl

#3 PENANG ROAD FAMOUS TEOCHEW CHENDUL

Chendul (also spelt as chendol) is inherently a bowl of shaved ice dessert drenched in coconut milk and gula melaka. The refreshing treat is topped with kidney beans and pandan worm-shaped rice flour jellies. Eating this ice-cold dessert is a great way to combat Malaysia’s unbearable tropical heat. Chendul can be commonly found in roadside vendors across Penang.

$: RM$2.10 / S$0.70 per bowl

Jalan Penang, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-262 6002
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 7pm
Sat and Sun: 10am – 7.30pm

#4 RIDE OR HOP ON A TRISHAW

Over at Penang, you can either hop onto a trishaw or even rent an entire trishaw to ride it around the city! It may seem a little outrageous but the experience will be a memorable one that you would still remember in years to come. The price varies across each rental company so do look around for the best rate before settling for one.

$: Approximately RM$22.50 / S$7.50 per hour

#5 MACALLUM CONNOISSEURS COFFEE COMPANY

At first glance, one cannot help but to wonder if the industrial-chic Macallum Connoiseurs cafe is actually a warehouse. We soon found out that it was once a factory and has since then retained its container-like vibes. The place is so huge that it even has its own outdoor carpark! Macallum Connoiseurs is also a proud owner of an on-site coffee roastery and coffee academy.

$: Coffees from RM$6; Mains from RM$10

1, Gat Lebuh Macallum
10300 Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-261 3597
Daily: 9am – 12am

#6 CHECK OUT HIN BUS DEPOT ART CENTRE

Hin Bus Depot Art Centre was formerly a bus garage, but has since then evolved into an open-space art venue. Artist Ernest Zacharevic had his first solo exhibition here and the rest is history. Today, visitors can drop by the art exhibits or check out the periodical pop-up shops.

$: Free

31, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-226 5691

#7 CHULIA STREET WANTON MEE

When daylight wanes away, Lebuh Chulia street awakens from her afternoon nap and transforms into a bustling food street. One particular vendor – with no visible signboard – is exceptionally famous for its springy wanton noodles. It is the go-to place for locals and tourists alike, even before celebrity food critic Anthony Bourdain sang praises of this glorious dish.

$: RM$3.50 / S$1.20 per small bowl, RM$4.80 / S$1.60 per large bowl

Lebuh Chulia, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

#8 LIVE MUSIC AT CHINA HOUSE

China House is arguably one of the most famous cafes in Penang. The multi-concept venue features 14 different spaces and spans across 16,000 square feet; it is simply amazing how they can actually coexist together harmoniously. Think live band entertainment, Australian-style cafe, outdoor Chinese courtyard, a local art gallery and more! A definite must-visit in Penang.

$: Beers from RM$12 

153, Lebuh Pantai, George Town
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-263 7299
Sun to Thu: 9am – 12am
Fri and Sat: 9am – 1am

#9 HIKE UP PENANG HILL

Penang Hill -otherwise known as Bukit Bendera – stands at 2,732 feet and boasts the highest point in Penang. Situated six kilometres away from the city centre of Georgetown, the forested area comprises a number of hills and could be accessed by the funicular railway or foot.

$: Free

#10 BANGKOK LANE MEE GORENG

Bangkok Lane Mee Goreng has been unanimously coined by natives as Penang’s very best. The stall can be easily missed if you do not look hard enough. It is found inside Seng Lee Coffee Shop, where the cook whips up fragrant plates of sweet and spicy fried noodles.

$: From RM$3 per plate

Seng Lee Café, 270, Jalan Burma, Georgetown, 10050, Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang Malaysia

#11 QUEUE FOR CHAR KWAY TEOW

As its name implies, Siam Road Char Kway Teow is located along Siam Road and you can opt for takeout or dine at the nearby coffee shop. The locals love him so much that many have nicknamed him as the God of Char Kway Teow. Each aromatic plate of stir-fried noodles is served with beansprouts, Chinese sausage, chives, cockles, eggs, fried pork lard and prawns.

$: Small – RM$5 / S$1.70, Medium – RM$5.50 / S$1.85, Large – RM$6.50 / S$2.20

Siam Rd. (off Jalan Anson), 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

#12 TELUK KUMBAR

For an unforgettable dining experience, head over to Teluk Kumbar, a tiny fishing village at the south of Penang Island. The remote area is where Penangites visit for the freshest mouthwatering seafood; in fact, you can see many sampan boats floating atop the waters! The deserted village also boasts a breathtaking views of the sunset, so don’t forget your cameras.

$: From RM$20 per person

#13 NEW LANE HAWKER CENTRE

New Lane Hawker Centre is a stretch of road with vendors lined up on both sides of the street. This is the one-stop destination where you get to savour a plethora of Penang local delicacies such as char kway teow, char koay kak, nutmeg juice and whatnot at very budget prices.

$: From RM$5.50 per dish

Lorong Baru, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Mon and Tue: 4pm – 10pm
Wed: Closed
Thu to Sun: 4pm – 10pm

#14 GRAVITY ROOF TOP BAR

Perched atop G Hotel Kelawi is Gravity Roof Top Bar, a stunning bar featuring alternative vantage points of Penang. Opened throughout the day and into the night, it is a great place to chill out with friends over a drink or two.

$: From RM$26 per cocktail

2 Persiaran Maktab, 10250, Penang, Malaysia

Daily: 12pm – 11pm
+60 4-238 0000

#15 BRUNCH AT BLACK KETTLE

Black Kettle only opened its doors for less than half a year, but has already become a popular brunch destination amongst locals and expats alike. The bakery-cum-cafe offers a plethora of freshly baked goods as well as sumptuous mains. Our favourite items were hands down the Smoked Duck Pasta (RM$28 / S$9.15) and Ramen with Slow Braised Beef (RM$24 / S$7.85).

$: Coffees from RM$7 ; Mains from RM$18

105, Beach Street, Georgetown
10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-251 9270
Daily: 8.30am – 12am

TOTAL EXPENSES PER PERSON FOR 3D2N (ALL-INCLUSIVE)

4-Star Hotel Stay (2 nights): S$148 (for 2 persons)
Return Tigerair tickets: S$68** (per person)
Transportation + Return airport transfer: S$58
Food: S$50
Attractions: Mostly free
TOTAL: S$250 per person (all-inclusive)

** This fare is based on Skyscanner’s flight booking platform with no check-in baggage.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Penang is a food haven visited not just by the locals living in other parts of Malaysia but also tourists from abroad. Penang has seen a significant increase in tourists who make a special trip there just to indulge in delicious Penang street food.

But apart from eating, what else can you do there? In the past decade or so, the Malaysian government has been putting in extra effort to turn Penang into a place of interest with plenty of activities for everyone.

And if you are on a budget trip, here are 7 Free Things To Do In Penang.

Photo Credit: Make My Trip

#1 VISIT THE CHINESE TEMPLES

If you have visited Penang before, you would know that Chinese is the predominant race there. With its rich Chinese history, there are many places of worship catering to believers.

Two of the most well-known temples there are Kek Lok Si and Snake Temple where you get to see real snakes coiling on tree branches. Although you may feel sceptical about visiting such a place, rest assured that the snakes are pretty docile and appear to be half asleep most of the time.

Photo Credit: Asia Places To See

#2 HIKE UP PENANG HILL

Formerly used as a retreat during the colonial periods, Penang Hill is now a popular tourist destination. Escape from the sweltering heat of Georgetown by hiking up the hill to enjoy the cooling temperatures.

Chill your day away in a tea kiosk or have lunch at one of the restaurants up on the hill. Of course, you should also take plenty of pictures of the magnificent view overlooking the Penang Bridge.

Photo Credit: Penang

#3 WALK ALONG GURNEY DRIVE

Many will tell you that Gurney Drive is a touristy area you should avoid but we feel otherwise. Even if you are not a fan of crowds, this is a place that you have to go—especially if it is your first time in Penang.

The long stretch of road is flanked by a beach on one side and grand shopping malls on the other. You can visit the place in the early morning or night time when temperatures are cooler and there is a gentle sea breeze.

#4 EXPLORE PENANG STREET ART

Now, this is something you must not miss. Georgetown is famous for having beautiful wall paintings that reflect the culture and life of the locals and they are protected under the UNESCO Heritage Site.

And you might recall seeing many OOTDs taken against this iconic “wall of Penang”.

Photo Credit: Best Place Vacation

#5 TAKE A STROLL AT BOTANIC GARDENS

Located on Jalan Air Terjun in Georgetown, the Botanic Gardens is also referred to as the Waterfalls Gardens. This huge nature space contains plants of many species and has been around since 1884 when the British first set it up for the public to enjoy.

Photo Credit: Justgola

#6 TOUR STREET OF HARMONY

As its name suggests, Street of Harmony brings together different religions at one place. You will be able to spot places of worship and devotees from various religion groups walking around there.

Wander around and have a look at St. George’s Church, the Goddess of Mercy Temple, Sri Maha Mariamman Kovil and Masjid Kapitan Keling.

Photo Credit: The Road to Anywhere

#7 HEAD DOWN TO LITTLE INDIA

When you visit Street of Harmony, you have to make time for Little India as well which is just across the street. Expect to see scores of shops selling the most colourful saris and fragrant spices.

The place is most lively during Hindu festivals such as Deepavali and Thaipusam.

Located in a compound of three heritage buildings, China House is a multi-concept venue spanning across 16,000 square feet. It features 14 unique spaces, including a bakery, cafe, live music performances, local art gallery and outdoor courtyard.

China house is arguably one of the most famous places in Penang and its interesting concept is worth a special detour.

Whether you are after an Australian-style wholesome brunch or great live jazz, China House – which opens from 9am till late daily – has all your varying preferences covered.

Till date, we find it mind-blowing how these different concepts can actually coexist together harmoniously. China House in Penang has indeed challenged the notion of a typical cafe.

China House’s Beach Street Bakery section is a head-turner and is extremely popular amongst patrons. Those with a sweet tooth are spoilt for choice; the long table boasts a splendid selection of 30 mouthwatering cakes!

After heeding the recommendation of China House’s regulars, we decided to order the Tiramisu Cake (RMB15) which has been infused with kahlua. Crunchy, sweet and moist, the large portion of cake is indeed one of the best we’ve ever had.

Cakes aside, the numerous spaces at China House each offers interesting spreads of gourmet food and beverages. From bento sets, hearty Western classics, international wines to aromatic coffees, the options are aplenty and there is definitely something that will please.

Coffee beans used at China House are on a rotational basis, but the primary roasts that are used in preparing caffeinated drinks are namely El Primero Blend and Single-Origin Fazenda Ambiental Fortaleza that are imported from Singapore’s reputable Nylon Coffee Roasters.

If you ever intend to visit China House, do make it a point to walk through the entire complex – there are many great photographic opportunities and exciting discoveries awaiting you.

153, Lebuh Pantai, George Town
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-263 7299
Sun to Thu: 9am – 12am
Fri and Sat: 9am – 1am

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Black Kettle is not a spin-off from popular Melburnian establishment, but an impressive up-and-coming independent Malaysian cafe that is set to raise the bar for other Australian-style bistros in Georgetown, Penang.

Located in a restored heritage shophouse, the 5-month-old cafe is within walking distance from famous attractions Pinang Peranakan Museum and Chew Jetty.

The all-encompassing dining menu features a mouthwatering selection of Western classics, Asian fusion gourmet and freshly baked confectionery which are available till midnight daily. Black Kettle is also where talented German Master Pastry Chef Lutz – who had the honour to serve breads and cakes to the King of Bahrain and King of Saudi Arabia – is currently based at.

Black Kettle’s Ramen with Slow Braised Beef (RM$24++) might not be the most photogenic dish, but was clearly the highlight of our meal. So much so that we devoured it in no time! The piping hot bowl of springy ramen noodles – served in a hearty white radish stew alongside a myriad of condiments – is completed with generous portions of fork-tender braised beef.

The Smoked Duck Breast Spaghetti (RM$28++) and Benedict Poached Eggs (RM$25++) are two of Black Kettle’s bestselling dishes and we decided to give them both a shot.

The former is a rich cream-based pasta infused with roasted garlic, loaded with parmesan cheese, mushrooms and a runny yolk; while the latter is your ubiquitous breakfast staple eggs royale done right.

Coffee connoisseurs will be pleased to hear that award-winning Dimattina’s Gusto Oro coffee blend – imported from Down Under – is used to prepare Black Kettle’s espresso beverages.

Sourced from India and South America, these medium-dark roasted beans are characterised by a series of unique traits – distinctive dark chocolate aroma, hints of nuts and creamy finish.

The in-house patisserie is quite a showstopper with its incredible variety of freshly baked treats such as Cinnamon Rolls, Eclairs and Pain Au Chocolat etc.

These delicious confectionery are prepared lovingly by Lutz, who has been in the baking industry for nearly four decades. His past working stints have seen him working in many countries before settling in Penang.

Black Kettle
105, Beach Street, Georgetown
10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Tel: +60 4-251 9270
Daily: 8.30am – 12am

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Assam Laksa is a dish duly loved by many for its distinct spicy fish broth which brings about a complex burst of flavours, making it unbelievably satisfying and appetising. Every tourist who visits Penang is bound to be looking for a taste of this bowl of goodness. Locals too, treat this as a staple in their daily meals or even as a comfort food.

There is nothing more gratifying than slurping on the tangy and spicy broth for lunch or dinner, and it only makes you crave for more. The Assam Laksa is often served topped with an array of chopped vegetables with a spoonful of hae koh – a spicy shrimp paste dip.

Walk through any street in Penang, and you will be greeted by many stall vendors serving up bowls of this piping Assam Laksa to many of its patrons. It is addictive and is bound to get your stomachs churning in delight.

HOW IS IT PREPARED?

Though the flavours found in the Assam Laksa can be intense, its ingredients can be easily assembled and sourced from the wet markets. As derived from its name, one of the main ingredients found would be Tamarind, also known as Assam in Malay to give it a needed punch of tartness. Other than that, polygonum leaves, tamarind juice, lemongrass and mackerel are used to create a distinct sweetness in the Assam stock.

A spicy paste consisting of diced chilli, belachan and shallots are then poured into the stock before completion. Rice noodles are added in before garnishing it with chopped mint leaves, polygonum, lettuce, cucumber, pineapple and kantan.

HOW MUCH IS IT SOLD FOR?

The Assam Laksa is incredibly affordable, and can be purchased at RM5 – which amounts to less than S$2. Being one of the most famous hawker food in Penang, we are confident to say that one bowl is simply not enough. We always leave Penang with thoughts of having another serving of this spicy and appetising dish on our next visit.

WHERE CAN YOU FIND IT?

It can be found everywhere, and we really do mean everywhere. Since it is a commonly enjoyed hawker fare, we would recommend you to savour this from one of the street stalls for the most authentic flavours and a knoll of fresh ingredients. Who else is up for this great bowl of Assam Laksa?

About the writer:
Cassandra is a staff writer for ladyironchef. During her free time, she fuels her passion for fashion through shopping and indulges in all things food. She loves anything egg related and is always ready for a cafe-hopping adventure.