When anyone speaks of Penang, many often rave about their unparalleled street food and, of course, resorts that are dotted along the Batu Feringghi coastline. There’s also the historical buildings and art spots. But perhaps one of this state’s best-kept secrets is its bustling cafe scene. So much so that the cafe shopping culture has become a part of Penang’s identity.
Each boasting its own theme and unique take on serving you coffee, tea, and other cafe staples, you’ll always have places to get your caffeine or sugar fix when in Penang. Check out our ginormous list of 23 cafes to visit in Penang in 2023.
1. More by Arang Coffee, George Town
Located in Livingston Tower, this cafe is the perfect spot to relax from the hustle and bustle of the city or to catch up with friends over a cup of coffee or tea. They’re well known for their Squid Ink Aglio Olio Pasta, Nasi Lemak, and Chicken Parmigiana, so be sure to add these to your order when visiting.
Address: 170G-2 Livingston Tower, Argyll Road, 10050 George Town, Penang
2. Click and Brew, George Town
Click and Brew is a custom mechanical keyboard store and cafe; it’s certainly the first of its kind in Malaysia. Whether you are newly interested or an expert at mechanical keyboards, this quirky cafe is for you. Here, you can chat with others with similar interests and bond over the fun keyboards while indulging in some coffee and food!
Address: Unit 4, Lebuh Acheh,10300 George Town, Penang
3. Higher Ground, George Town
Located in a building that was once a century-old horse stable, Higher Ground opened its doors to customers not too long ago in 2022. With a modern-industrial setting, this cafe has various Insta-worthy spots you can take advantage of. What’s also lovable about this establishment is that it’s furkid-friendly.
Address: 19-19A, Lebuh Leith, 10200 George Town, Penang
4. Utoo Boho Cafe, George Town
Located on Victoria Street, this picnic-style cafe is the perfect place for those looking to catch up with loved ones over a gorgeous backdrop. Utoo Boho Cafe serves up a variety of mains, dainty desserts, cakes, and drinks. Their signature tiramisu is a must-try, and we highly recommend getting some food snaps for your ‘Gram!
Address: 156 Lebuh Victoria, 10300 George Town, Penang
5. La Vie En Rose Patisserie, George Town
This quaint little pink cafe may be small, but its massive range of French pastries has garnered itself a loyal fan base. While La Vie En Rose Patisserie is better known for its madeleines, the beignets and croissants are absolute must-tries! Don’t say we didn’t tell you so.
Address: 19 Lebuh Melayu, 10100 George Town, Penang
6. Soul Cafe, George Town
Calling all pasta lovers out there — this one is for you. Soul Cafe offers its customers a wide variety of pasta dishes that can help satisfy any craving. To end your visit here on a sweet note, be sure to order their homemade ice cream from their sister company, The Craftisan.
Address: 12 Jalan Kek Chuan, 10400 George Town, Penang
7. Ang Ang’s Roastery, Bukit Mertajam
Featuring lunch-box-style food, Ang Ang’s Roastery is a minimalist cafe loved by the locals for its coffee and pastries. With outlets at various locations throughout Penang, including Bukit Mertajam, Kulim, Tanjung Bungah, and soon Greenlane, this cafe chain is perfect for those looking for light bites!
Address: 48 Lorong Seri Alma, Taman Selesa, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang
8. Level 2 Coffee & Food, Butterworth
This industrial-futuristic cafe is worth checking out for the usual cafe bites, and especially so if you’re a Kaws or sci-fi movie fan. Aside from their unique theme and fantastic food, they also offer picnic-style seating in their al fresco dining area.
Address: No 1, Butterworth Business City Centre, Jalan Raja Uda, 12300 Butterworth, Penang
9. Langit Senja Kopi, George Town
Designed to emulate the concept of a warung (food stall), customers of Langit Senja Kopi can get a complete 360 experience. Serving up warung-style food, such as porridge, laksa Johor, rice bowls, and potato-stuffed fried bean curd, you’ll find yourself planning your next visit before even leaving. There’s also coffee available here, with a wide variety of coffee beans to choose from.
Address: 93 Lebuh Armenian, 10200 George Town, Penang
10. Sweet Palace Patisserie Cafe, George Town
Sweet Palace Patisserie Cafe is the perfect spot for those with a sweet tooth. All sorts of sugary treats are available here, including cream puffs, waffles, and beignets. However, if you’re not a dessert fan, fret not because there are a variety of mains, including Nasi Lemak, Squid Ink Pasta, and their signature Palace Breakfast.
Address: 19 Jalan Nagor, Road, 10050 George Town, Penang
11. Kraffmen, George Town
For you who prefer a more hearty selection of brunch staples, the Melbourne-style Kraffmen in George Town is a perfect pick. Here, customers are spoiled for choice with various burgers and pasta dishes. Their red wine pork ribs are a must-try, and their homemade kombucha too. They even have an event hall above the cafe should you want to host an event or gathering.
Address: 80, Jalan Zainal Abidin, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang
12. The Mugshot Cafe, George Town
At the beginning of Penang’s cafe culture, The Mugshot Cafe was one of the first few to open and were known for serving good coffee, fresh bagels, and delicious homemade yoghurt. Thanks to their consistency, they’ve gained a very loyal fanbase.
Address: 302 Chulia Street, 10200 George Town, Penang
13. The Lake Cafe @ The Farm, Balik Pulau
Located within an aquaponics farm, patrons can drink and dine the usual cafe offerings with a serene view of the lake. Besides having plenty of educational and photographic spots, there’s also a mini zoo located nearby the cafe!
Address: 465 Pantai Acheh, mukim 1, 11010 Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang
14. Woody Cafe, George Town
It’s impossible to miss Woody Cafe, the new kid on the block with its avocado-green exterior. Located right along Armenian Street, opposite the famous ‘Kids on Bicycle’ mural, this cafe offers delicious drinks and desserts to help escape the hot Penang weather. With its picturesque interior and setup, you’ll be hard-pressed not to take some photos for your Instagram.
Address: 5 Lebuh Armenian, 10200 George Town, Penang
15. Coffee Lane, George Town
If you’re a coffee connoisseur or someone who appreciates high-quality coffee in general, then Coffee Lane is the spot for you. The owner and founder of this cafe is a coffee philosopher who has dedicated their time and effort to finding some of the best beans while also roasting them in-house.
Address: 435 Chulia Street, 10200 George Town, Penang
16. Nada Natural Farming, Balik Pulau
If you love nature, good food, and dogs, then step foot into Nada Natural Farming. This unique establishment will surround you with lush greenery as you enjoy your meal. And another major plus is, of course, the fact that your furkid can comfortably dine with you. Pro tip: Apply some mosquito repellent if you’re prone to getting attacked.
Address: Lot 646 & 647, Jalan Kuala Sungai Burung, Kampung Sungai Burung, 11000 Balik Pulau, Penang
17. Ome by Spacebar Coffee, George Town
For a non-Penangite, locating this cafe may be a challenge, as it is not only hidden but also located along one of the most narrow roads in George Town. That said, it’s still worth the effort to visit, especially if you love a quality brew.
Address: 1 Lorong Toh Aka, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
18. Forest Cloud Beverage Company, George Town
Forest Cloud is a renowned coffee roaster in Penang that partners with over 300 cafes nationwide. Grab and enjoy a cup of coffee at their minimalist cafe that boasts zen vibes, despite being located on a busy street of George Town. If you’re not a coffee drinker, opt for their many variations of the matcha latte.
Address: 132 Jalan Penang, 10000 George Town, Penang
19. Temu Cafe, George Town
If you’re unfamiliar with Bahasa Malaysia, the direct translation for ‘temu’ is ‘meet up’. The design concept of this cafe is minimalist with a touch of the futuristic. A great hang-out spot if you’re looking for somewhere to catch up with your friends and family over a cup of coffee and dessert.
Address: 62 Lebuh Melayu, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
20. 65 Ondo Bakery Cafe, George Town
No stranger to those living in Simpang Ampat, 65 Ondo Bakery Cafe is one of the busiest establishments in the area, and with that success, they’ve opened a second branch in George Town. The team prides itself on their Japanese baking techniques paired with the latest technology and imported ingredients. There is a wide variety of pastries and desserts to choose from here, so come with an empty stomach.
Address: 165, Jalan Burma, 10050 Georgetown, Penang
21. Les Grains, Pulau Tikus
Looking for a comfortable breakfast or brunch spot at Pulau Tikus? Check out Les Grains — known for their Japanese-influenced pastries and bread made with premium ingredients. While their menu may be limited, the quality of their offerings certainly makes up for it.
Address: 9-1-01 Moulmein Rise Shoppes, Jalan Moulmein, 10350 Pulau Tikus, Penang
22. Flora Cafe @SpedaHub, Teluk Bahang
If you’re spending some time exploring the well-known Tropical Spice Garden, be sure to look out for this hidden gem. Frequented by many nature enthusiasts and cyclists, this simple but incredibly charming cafe serves up light bites and the usual cafe fare.
Address: Lot 595 Mukim, 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Teluk Bahang, Penang
23. The Ais, George Town
This family-owned business serves up a variety of homemade ice cream made in-house. Located at the heart of George Town, this cosy establishment is the perfect escape from the city’s heat. Their variety of ice cream includes local-inspired flavours, such as Cendol, Hor Ka Sai, Horlick KitKat, and more! If you’re hungry for more, you can even treat yourself to an order of waffles to pair with your ice cream.
Address: 65 Lebuh Campbell, 10100 George Town, Penang
