A culinary revolution is quietly taking place in the heart of Penang, providing a sanctuary for plant-based enthusiasts. The island offers a wide range of dining alternatives that are suitable for both vegans and vegetarians, from charming cafes hidden away in little alleyways to busy dining establishments along bustling streets.
Come along as we explore Penang’s plant-based dining scene, with its mouthwatering flavours and inventive creations awaiting your enjoyment.
1. The Garden Banana Leaf
Located on Free School Road, The Garden Banana Leaf is a popular vegetarian spot serving South Indian and Tamil dishes. Surrounded by lush greenery, the eatery is built in a modest tin-roofed structure, creating a serene environment for a peaceful meal.
Its unique lunch thali set, which changes daily based on what’s available at the market, attracts customers who want to explore new dishes and experience authentic flavours.
Address: 50 Jalan Free School, 11600 George Town, Penang
Contact: +6017 896 2331
2. SUSU Vegan Mylk Bar Penang
SUSU Vegan Mylk Bar Penang is a one-of-a-kind cafe situated in a creative arcade close to the iconic jetties. Reminiscent of the times between the 1960s and 1980s, the cafe evokes nostalgia in its guests.
The menu is small, but all dishes are plant-based and come in ample servings that are perfect for sharing. Discover an inviting mix of taste and ambience as you take a trip down memory lane into this cafe, where simplicity meets retro flair.
Address: 209 Jalan Hutton, 10050 George Town, Penang
Contact: +6016 416 4937
3. Sincerely Crafted Cuisine
Sincerely Crafted Cuisine, tucked away on Chow Thye Road, stands out from the norm with its creative take on vegetarian cuisine. This cafe goes against the grain by expertly blending ingredients in unusual ways to create dishes with flavours you won’t find anywhere else.
While the exterior might not immediately draw your attention, inside, you’ll find a simple yet warm dining area. Soft lighting creates an inviting space ideal for savouring a thoughtfully and creatively prepared meal.
Address: 21 Jalan Chow Thye, 10500 George Town, Penang
Contact: +6019 498 2018
4. Pinxin Vegan Cuisine
Pinxin Vegan Cuisine, housed in an old house on Lebuh Tye Sin in Penang, offers a charming and elegant atmosphere with a hint of retro charm. This restaurant quickly became well-known for its inventive take on vegetarian cuisine, which includes a menu entirely free of meat, dairy, eggs, and other animal products in addition to specific ingredients like MSG, garlic, and onions.
As part of its objective to promote environmental responsibility while offering delicious and nutritious dishes, Pinxin Vegan Cuisine is committed to sustainability and uses organic vegetables whenever possible.
Address: 38 Lebuh Tye Sin, 10300 George Town, Penang
Contact: +604 261 0043
5. Neko Vegan House
Neko Vegan House is a vegan sushi cafe in Penang that serves vegan picnic platters, vegan sushi terrariums, and weekly distinctive vegan dishes prepared by expert chefs.
In addition to omitting dairy, eggs, garlic, and onions in their dishes, the cafe prioritises using premium, nutritious ingredients. With a focus on plant-based dining, Neko Vegan House offers a healthy and delightful culinary experience for both vegans and people with dietary restrictions.
Address: 375H, Chulia St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang
Contact: +6012 471 1150
6. Brown Poodle Cafe
With a varied menu influenced by world cuisines, Brown Poodle Cafe is a charming vegetarian and vegan spot. From inviting rice dishes like Curry Rendang Rice to savoury noodles and pasta alternatives like Japanese Kitsune Udon Soup and Vegan Pasta al Pesto, there’s something for everyone’s preference.
The cafe also provides a selection of snacks, side dishes, and pizzas to go with your meal. Its inviting ambience makes it the perfect place to enjoy tasty plant-based food while relaxing and taking it easy.
Address: B-G-8, Vantage, Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang 1, 10470 Tanjung Tokong, Penang
Contact: +6012 664 8414
7. Yun Shan Ge Vegetarian House
At Yun Shan Ge, you can enjoy authentic Nyonya food without the dairy, garlic, or onions commonly found in meat-based dishes. To keep food waste to a minimum, the restaurant’s exquisite Nyonya meals are cooked using fresh ingredients in small quantities prepared only for the day.
In addition to offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience for vegetarians who crave Nyonya flavours, Yun Shan Ge is a great location for family dinners and special events owing to its calm setting.
Address: 16 Penang St, 10200 George Town, Penang
Contact: +6010 400 1098
