Tis’ the season to be jolly! As December rolls around, the restaurants and cafe in Penang transforms into a Christmas wonderland filled with dazzling lights and festive cheer. To make things easier for all Penangites and tourists, we’ve compiled some of the places, restaurants and cafes for you to celebrate Christmas 2024!
15 Merry Places To Celebrate Christmas & New Year’s Eve In Penang
1. Peninsula House
Let’s start with one of the most hyped restaurants in George Town this year – Peninsula House! The owner turned this 87-year-old colonial building into a casual dining restaurant that serves contemporary modern Australian dishes. Though the food are on the pricier side, the classy and romantic ambience here plus open kitchen concept makes it a popular place for gatherings and celebrations! So, it’ll be a great spot to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve with your loved ones~
Address: India House (historical building, 1st Floor, India House, 25, Beach St, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm (Closed on Wed)
Status: Pork-free menu, serves alcohol
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram
Photo Credits: @peninsulahouse (official Facebook)
If you prefer heading over to the mall for your Christmas celebration, then check out this Nordic-style restaurant set under the trees in Central@Gurney! To celebrate the jolly occasion, Halzan has been glammed up with Christmas decorations and is giving that winter wonderland kind of vibe. They’ve also launched a special 3-course Christmas Set from RM118 that comes with a soup, main course and dessert of your choice to make this Christmas extra special~
Here’s a sneak peek of their special Christmas menu: Roasted Turkey Meat with Homemade Cranberry Sauce, Turkey Lasagna, Halzan Seafood Pie, X’Mas Star Pizza, X’Mas Beef Wellington and more~
Address: No 168A, Central@Gurney Unit G08, Halzan Penang, Persiaran Gurney, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 10am – 12am (Mon – Fri), 8am – 12am (Sat & Sun)
Status: Pork-Free, Serves Alcohol
3. The YardHouse Kitchen and Bar
Next, we have this new charming cottage cafe that’s been all over the gram since they’ve opened their doors in November! The YardHouse Kitchen and Bar serves Italian food and sweet treats, but what keeps everyone coming is the cosy, whimsical and charming decor. Dining here feels like you’re walking into a fairytale cottage home, which makes it the perfect place to enjoy a warm celebration with loved ones on Christmas or New Year’s eve~
Address: 57, Jalan Magazine, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 8am – 11pm (Sun – Thurs), 8am – 1am (Fri & Sat)
Status: Non-Halal
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
4. Firewood Restaurant
Of course we have to include Firewood Restaurant, a well-recognised restaurant (Michelin Selected Restaurant 2025, Tatler Dining Best Restaurant 2024 and Asean Food & Travel Award 2024) that is popular for everyone who loves steak and grills! Helmed by chef-owner Yang Hao, this place is unique in the sense that they have an open-flame dining concept where customers are able to see through the whole kitchen. Hence, celebrating the merry occasion here means you’ll be able to enjoy a special Christmas experience!
Address: 15, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, , George Town, Malaysia
Operating Hours: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm (Closed on Mon)
Status: Pork-Free, Serves Alcohol
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram
Photo Credits: @firewoodpenang (official Facebook)
5. Beach St. Bistrot by David & Brian Chin
Next, we have this upscale restaurant helmed by Chef Patron David & Brian Chin that serves modern European dishes with a mix of Asian influences and is a popular celebration spot for all occasions! From gourmet pies, burgers, signature paellas to hearty mains cooked in their binchotan fired Mibrasa oven, the dishes here are all great for sharing with your loved ones this Christmas! Don’t forget to check out their Blackboard Specials for seasonal dishes like Wagyu Filet Mignon w/ Foie Gras, Black Truffle Pasta made with Black Winter Truffles, Lobster Coral Pasta and more~
View this post on Instagram
Address: 240, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm (Closed on Tue)
Status: Pork-Free, Serves Alcohol
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram
6. PARKROYAL Resort Penang
Hop into the festive spirit with PARKROYAL Resort’s special Christmas BBQ Feast Buffet! From classic roasts to sweet treats, indulge in a festive feast that’s served with a sprinkle of holiday cheer. Psst that’s not all, they’ve also dropped a special offer: for every 2 paying adults, the 3rd person dines for FREE!
Address: PARKROYAL Penang Resort Batu Ferringhi Beach, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang
Status: Cinnamon Asian Kitchen – Halal | Gustoso or Gustoso By The Beach – Pork-Free, Serves Alcohol
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram
Photo Credits: @parkroyalpenangresort (official Facebook page)
7. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang
No doubt, Rasa Sayang is one of the best places to enjoy Christmas buffet this jolly season! They’ve got an amazing spread waiting for you at Spice Market Cafe featuring dishes like Turkey, Beef Wellington and more~ There’s also plenty of merry decorations to light up the night so you’ll get to have a joyous celebration with your loved ones!
Address: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Tanjung Huma, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang
Status: Spice Market Cafe – Muslim-Friendly
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
Photo Credits: @rasasayangresort (official Facebook page)
8. Jazz Hotel
It’s all about gingerbread at Jazz Hotel this Christmas! They’ve launched special gingerbread-themed hotel rooms and the cutest Jolly Jamboree Christmas buffet dinner this merry season. Not only will dine in guests get a complimentary festive mocktail, you’ll also get to decorate your very own gingerbread during their gingerbread making workshop! Oh and don’t forget to enter their lucky draw for a chance to WIN a Premier Room stay worth RM639 and more surprises~
Address: 1, Jalan Seri Tg Pinang, Seri Tanjung Pinang, 10470 Tanjung Tokong, Pulau Pinang
Status: Pork-Free, Serves Alcohol
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
9. Hai Di Lao
Craving for some warm and soupy hotpot with your loved ones this Christmas? Then, Hai Di Lao is where you should go for the jolly celebration! They’ve launched a special Christmas menu that’s suitable for up to 4 pax that comes with Bamboo Shoots, Seafood Platter, Kitty Pudding and more! You’ll also get 2x limited-edition HDL Christmas merch along with the set meal, how cute! It’s only available at selected outlets, so remember to check before heading over~
Address: Available at Hai Di Lao Queensbay Mall & Hai Di Lao Sunway Carnival Mall
Available Hours: Now – 31st December, 11am – 5pm & 10pm onwards (Mon – Fri)
Status: Non-Halal
Photo Credits: @haidilaomalaysia (official Facebook)
10. Nero Nero
Buongiorno! For those who’d like to celebrate Christmas in Italian style, Nero Nero is luxurious and romantic restaurant that focuses on vibrant South Italian cuisines paired with exclusive wines! One of the most popular and interesting dishes here are their handmade pasta that are exquisitely made from scratch. Check out their special Christmas menus below~
Address: No 4, Lebuh King, George Town, Malaysia
Operating Hours: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Status: Pork-Free, Serves Alcohol
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram
Photo Credits: @neroneropenang (official Facebook)
11. Chorus By The Sea
Situated at Queens Waterfront, Chorus By The Sea is a place where you get to savour delicious charcoal-grilled dishes while enjoying a beautiful sea view! This Christmas, they’ve launched some special jolly menus including a HUGE Christmas grilled platter for you to enjoy it with your loved ones~
Pro-tip: Remember to pre-order the platter 2 days in advance to avoid disappointment!
Address: Q1, 1-G-11, Persiaran Bayan Indah, Queens Waterfront, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 11.30am – 1am (Mon – Fri), 11.30am – 2am (Sat & Sun)
Status: Non-Halal
12. Captain Morgan Kitchen & Bar / Marina De Captain Food Hall
For those who want to experience something a little different this Christmas, then you should check out the new Captain Morgan Kitchen & Bar! What’s so special about it? Well, it’s the FIRST floating ferry food hall and restaurant in Penang where you can even enjoy the stunning Penang Bridge view while dining! You’ll be greeted by the Marina De Captain Food Hall serving international cuisines when you first head in. For those who want to enjoy some live music, head to the top deck for Captain Morgan Kitchen & Bar! They are also hosting a buffet dinner featuring over 40 dishes, live music, games and giveaways this Christmas Eve~
Address: Queens Residences Q2, Persiaran Bayan Indah, Bayan Indah, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 4.30pm to 10pm (Marina De Captain), 4.30pm to 2am (Captain Morgan)
Status: Pork-Free
13. Wheeler’s
Wheeler’s is one of the well-loved OG cafes we have in Penang that dates back to 2014! It’s always everyone’s go-to spot for fusion modern dishes, and this Christmas, they even have a 3-course meal from RM98++ only with a choice of soup, main course, dessert and beverage! You can choose your mains based on their special Christmas options like Roasted Turkey Meat with Homemade Cranberry Sauce, Turkey Lasagna and more~
Address: 67, Lorong Love, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 8am – 12am (Daily)
Status: Pork-Free, Serves Alcohol
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram
14. Christmas Beach Bazaar @ Ferringhi Bay
Bring your furry friends over for some tail-wagging festive fun at this Christmas Beach Bazaar! It’ll be happening at the new Ferringhi Bay from 19th to 22nd December. Besides exploring the weekend market and getting a dose of vitamin sea, you can also celebrate the jolly occasion with special activities like furkids run, pet cruise, pet fashion show and more. Talk about cuteness overload aww~
View this post on Instagram
Address: No.1, Ferringhi Bay, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Batu Feringgi, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: Christmas Beach Bazaar – 3pm – 11pm (19th to 22nd December 2024)
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram
Photo Credits: @laibazaar (official Facebook)
15. Snowfall Session @ Gurney Plaza
Embrace that “Let It Go” moment this Christmas at Gurney Plaza as there’ll be a snowfall session happening every Saturday & Sunday from 7th to 22nd December at 6pm! Their central atrium has transformed into an arctic-themed snowy village featuring Christmas trees, cosy cottages and adorable animals like polar bears~ Yes, it’s just like you’re stepping into a winter wonderland snow globe!
View this post on Instagram
Address: 170, Gurney Dr, Pulau Tikus, 10250 George Town, Penang
Operating Hours: Snowfall – 6pm, every Saturday & Sunday (7 – 22 December 2024)
Link(s): Website | Facebook | Instagram
Photo Credits: @gurneyplazapenang (official Facebook)
Merry Christmas And Happy New Year Everyone!
Fam, time to put on your Santa hat and make reservations for a jolly good Christmas celebration with your loved ones as we bid goodbye to year 2024! Wishing everyone Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year~
Also read: Top 15 Places For Gatherings And Celebrations In Penang (2024 Edition)
Check out our documentary series – Foodie Originals
–
We would like to invite you to join our New Telegram Group! We will regularly post about good food, casual promos, giveaways, and interesting findings in Malaysia.