Think Penang and the first thing that probably comes to mind is the street food, from char kuey teow to Hokkien mee to assam laksa. Aside from the mouth-watering street food scene, the colourful Northern Malaysian state also has plenty of quaint cafes worth visiting.
Thanks to the rich history, landscape, and heritage of Penang, the local cafe scene is quite distinctive from that in other regions of the country, such as KL and Melaka, for example. To immerse in the unique architecture and charming vibes, here’s our roundup of the best cafes in Penang to add to your cafe-hopping list.
1. Norm Micro Roastery
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You can say it’s the ‘Norm’ for serial cafe hoppers to make this a pit stop when in Penang, thanks to its unique, minimalist interiors. Featuring high ceilings, polished cement floors, and skylights that allow ample sunlight to illuminate the space, this rustic cafe’s aesthetic makes it a photogenic spot for social media. The menu has a decent variety of options too, including, pastas, risotto, waffles, and the must-try signature tiramisu, alongside a range of coffee (from their own roastery) and crafted beverages.
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Address: 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: 9am to 6pm (Sundays to Thursdays) | 9am to 10pm (Fridays and Saturdays)
2. Mangga at The Blue Mansion
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Nestled within George Town’s iconic heritage mansion, Mangga at The Blue Mansion offers a laid-back spot to break for coffee and comfort food amid exploring the storied city of Penang. It has an al-fresco concept with vibrant yet nostalgic furniture that provides a welcoming ambiance for sun-speckled conversations under the old mango tree on its grounds. The pork-free restaurant serves both classic and contemporary dishes such as Nasi Lemak, Eggs Benedict, and Miso Mushroom Spaghetti, in addition to coffee and colourful refreshments.
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Address: Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion, 14, Leith Street, 10200 Penang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 8am to 6pm daily
Contact: 016 884 4578
Website | Facebook | Instagram
3. Lunabar Coffee
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Matcha and dessert lovers should not miss Lunabar, a cosy little nook in George Town serving artisan cakes, ice cream and coffee. Located inside Moonshop, a design lab selling ornamental plants and terrariums, this lush cafe is also popular among budding plant parents and avid collectors. Come for a sip of matcha latte, stay for the serene garden-like setting.
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Address: 10D, Jalan Clove Hall, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening hours: 11am to 6pm
Contact: 010 932 2810
Website | Facebook | Instagram
4. Kopi Hutan
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Standing at the top of the Penang Hill at 730 metres above sea level, Kopi Hutan is easily the highest cafe in Penang. As the name suggests, customers can enjoy a freshly brewed cuppa Joe in a beautiful space surrounded by the verdant forest—perfect for nature lovers. However, the menu here is limited to mainly cakes and light bites aside from the selection of coffee and tea, so don’t expect to sit down for a meal. But if you happen to visit Penang Hill, this place is definitely worth a stop.
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Address: Summit Road, Penang Hill, 11500 Penang
Opening hours: 9am to 5pm daily
Contact: 012 428 9585
5. Ang Ang’s Roastery
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Ang Ang Roastery has several outlets all around Malaysia, but has just opened its first outpost on Penang Island this July. Situated in Tanjung Bungah, the newest outlet is also the first pet-friendly branch from the roastery, featuring an airy, outdoor area for customers with furry companions. Inside, the modern cafe boasts clean, minimal interiors with a neutral colour palette. In addition to its quality drip coffees, the menu includes a variety of sandwiches, mains, sides, and desserts.
Address: 523C, Jalan Tanjung Bungah, 11200 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: 10am to 12am daily
Contact: +604 893 0728
6. Nada Natural Farming
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If you’re looking for an escape from the bustling George Town, check out Nada Natural Farming in Balik Pulau. Set in the middle of an organic farm overlooking a pond, this hidden gem offers a breath of fresh air (literally) and a warm, charming spot to catch the sunset. The kitchen serves a small range of dishes made with ingredients sourced directly from the farm, with options including pasta and sandwiches, as well as coffee and homemade kefir. The menu also changes from time to time, depending on available ingredients. (Tip: check their socials for updates!)
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Address: Lot 646 & 647, Jalan Kuala Sungai Burung, Kampung Sungai Burung, 11000 Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: 3pm to 9pm, Friday to Sunday
Contact: 013 403 0988
7. Narrow Marrow
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Narrow Marrow is one of the more established cafes on this list, having launched in 2014. Since then, the old school cafe has relocated to a bigger space along Beach Street to cater to more loyal fans and new visitors. Due to the cafe’s popularity, it has a strict policy of one order per customer. If you’re unsure what to order, you can start with the crowd-favourite selection of Tiramisu cakes, paired with your preferred coffee.
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Address: 312, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: 3pm to 11pm Thursday to Monday (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday)
Website | Facebook | Instagram
8. Ome by Spacebar Coffee
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Tucked away in a secluded alley along Lorong Toh Aka, Ome by Spacebar Coffee is a cosy place for specialty coffees and cakes made completely in-house. The cafe features a narrow layout with exposed brick walls and vintage-inspired decor, exuding a rustic charm. As for what to order, Ome is known for its Olive Oil Zucchini Loaf, best enjoyed with your choice of freshly brewed coffee.
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Address: 1, Lorong Toh Aka, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: 7.30pm to 4pm, Saturday to Wednesday (closed on Thursday and Friday)
Contact: 019 690 8259
9. Utoo Boho Café
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Utu Boho is one of the newer additions to this list, joining Penang’s cafe scene in late 2021. What makes Utoo Boho stand out from the rest is its Bohemian theme, complete with rattan furniture, cute teepees, textured cushions, and colourful rugs. Matcha addicts can indulge in an assortment of matcha desserts and beverages, on top of other brunch options like pasta, toast, and croissant sandwiches.
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Address: 156, Lebuh Victoria, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: 9am-7pm, Sunday to Thursday | 9am to 11pm, Friday and Saturday
Contact: 012 423 7147
10. Temu Coffee
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Established in 2020, Temu—which means “meet up” in Malay—quickly rose to fame for its stripped down interiors and calm atmosphere. The cafe’s facade is covered in creepers, with a large reflective art piece at the entrance where many stop for a quick photo for the gram. Contributing to its popularity is the signature burnt cheesecake as well as the in-house Temu coffee blend, alongside croffles, pastries, and crafted beverages.
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Address: 62, Lebuh Melayu, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: 10am to 7pm daily
Contact: 04 226 1863
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