Curious and on the hunt for more delightful cafes to spruce up your cafe hopping adventures? From a trendy Insta-famous cafe in Gat Lebuh Gereja, a rustic nature retreat themed cafe at Jalan Gurdwara to a cosy coffee nook in the famous Hin Bus Depot are some must-visit cafes that caught our eye. Scroll on to discover our list of top must-visit cafes in Penang that are guaranteed to spark joy for all your upcoming cafe hopping outings.
20 Best Cafes In Penang
1. Norm Micro Roastery
Photo: @thoughtsofping (Instagram)
We’re starting strong with a real winner on our list of Penang cafes! Set in a spacious industrial looking shophouse, there’s lots of bright natural sunlight that shines through high glasshouse-style ceilings at Norm Micro Roastery. Check out their stellar coffee and bold signatures like the Norm Essential, Prawn & Pumpkin Risotto, Chicken Karaage Burger and Citrus Passion Waffle with Earl Grey Ice Cream that’s all plated to perfection. It’s definitely the trendiest cafe to take all your Insta-worthy food snaps and OOTDs.
Photo: @claudnomnom (Instagram)
Norm Micro Roastery
Address: 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday (9 am – 11 pm)
Status: Non-halal
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
2. Urban Daybreak
Second on our list of the best cafes in Penang has got to be Urban Daybreak. This OG Melbourne-inspired cafe in Penang that’s known for serving exceptional brunch has relocated to Lebuh Bishop. Here, you will be pampered with a selection of all-day breakfast choices and signatures including Big Breakfast, House-cured Salmon Tartine, Avocado & Ricotta on toast, Steak Sandwich, French Toast, Overnight Oats and more. The place is spacious yet cozy with ample seatings on both floors. Art works and paintings from local artists are also showcased inside the establishment. In fact, Urban Daybreak is considered one of the best places for brunch in Penang.
Address: 34, Lebuh Bishop, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday (7.30 am – 5.30 pm)
Status: Non-halal
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
3. Reggae Cafe
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Known as a cafe serving the most cakes in Penang, we’re talking about Reggae Cafe. Not only do they serve the most cakes, but everything here is HUGE. From their 100+ types of cakes to the interior itself that spans 4,000 square feet to the Calzone Pizza that weighs almost 1kg, there are so many reasons why this cafe is worth visiting. You can find a variety of fusion dishes here and signatures include Mushroom Chicken Galantine, Seafood Thai Green Curry Pasta, Seafood Pizza and more. You can also drop by for their lunch sets that start from RM19.90 inclusive of a main and a drink.
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Address: 163, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday (10am – 12am)
Status: No pork, no lard and no alcohol
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
4. The Founders Hutton
Probably the coolest cafe to check out in 2024 is none other than The Founders Hutton, a renowned cafe originating from Johor. Back in Johor, The Founders Cafe even hosted the Malaysian Royal Family as well as international and local celebrities like Jay Chou, Mizz Nina and more. Their first outlet here sees the place retaining Penang’s historical culture via both the facade and interior. As for their food, you’ll be pampered with an array of brunch items, the World’s Best Bagels, and freshly-baked pastries.
Address: 17, Jalan Hutton, Georgetown 10050 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Operating Hours: 9am-1am (Daily)
Status: Pork-free menu, serves alcohol at night
4. Kopi Hutan
Photo: @coffeeinforest (Facebook)
Next up we have Kopi Hutan, also known as the highest cafe in Penang as it’s located 700+ meters above sea level. Take the funicular train up to Penang Hill and you’ll find Jeeps ready to transport you to this hidden cafe tucked amidst nature. Sip on brewed coffee paired with homemade bakes accompanied by the forest breeze and melodious birdsong; we challenge you to name us something more tranquil than this experience.
Photo: @coffeeinforest (Facebook)
Photo: @coffeeinforest (Facebook)
Address: Penang Hill, Penang, Malaysia
Operating Hours: 9am-5pm (daily)
Status: No pork, no lard and no alcohol
5. Biru Biru By The Island
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Done with taking a trip up the hill? Let’s check out this breathtaking cafe perched by the sea in Batu Ferringhi. Biru Biru By The Island is a Balinese-themed cafe that’s so strategically located that you can get sun-kissed skin and dine with an extraordinary sea view. They offer a few selections of mains such as Pasta, Pancakes, and Soda drinks. Do keep in mind that this cafe is located within the precinct of a resort, hence photo taking spots are only limited to a few for cafe patrons.
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Address: 260, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah, 11100 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 8am-10pm (Closed on Tuesday)
Status: No pork, no lard and no alcohol
6. Joies Sourdough Cafe
Next up on our list of the best cafes in Penang is Joies Sourdough Bakery Cafe, one of the must-try meatless cafes in Penang. They’ve been around for some time, serving up some lip-smacking options such as Creamy Carbonara, Vege Ragu Pasta, Tempeh Bolognese Pasta which are all made using homemade sauce. Not a fan of pasta? Try out their Sourdough Bread paired with different toppings such as Onion Jam, Creamy Egg Mayo, Vege Ragu Melt and more. Oh, and don’t forget a cup (or two) of Joies’ Milkshakes too, our personal favourite is the Berry Beet Smoothie.
Address: 32, Jalan Moulmein, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 8am-9pm (closed on Thursday)
Status: Meatless
7. Lea Beans & Living
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
A unique cafe tucked right inside an interior design firm, managed by a husband-wife duo, we’re talking about the ultra aesthetic Lea Beans & Living. Fun fact, the cozy cafe is named after the couple’s daughter, how heartwarming! Get your morning coffee run early as Lea Beans & Coffee only operates from 7am to 10am. We love everything about this cafe, from the carefully thought-out landscaping which features gravel and a touch of green, all the way to its minimalist and simple space.
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Address: 17, Lengkok Moulmein, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 7 am-10 am (closed on Sunday)
Status: Serves coffee only
8. The Farm @ Lake Cafe
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
This next cafe in Penang comes with several wow factors. First, when dining here, you’ll get an uninterrupted lake view. Second, there’s even a mini zoo here so after your meal, you can take a stroll and play with the adorable free-running animals like peacocks, billy goats, and more. As for its menu, you can get options such as English Breakfast, Ham & Cheese Omelette, Spaghetti Aglio Olio and more. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures while you’re here.
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Photo: @PenangFoodie
Address: 465, Pantai Acheh, Mukim 1, 11010 Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 10.30am-6pm (Monday-Friday) | 9am-6.30pm (Saturday & Sunday)
Status: Muslim-friendly
9. Forest Cloud Coffee Company
Photo: @forestcloudbev (Facebook)
Are you a coffee lover? If it’s a strong yes, then you absolutely need to check out Forest Cloud Beverage Company located in the heart of George Town, Penang. They’re a specialty beverage company as well as a coffee roaster and best of all, it’s one cozy space where you can sit back, chill and sip on freshly-brewed coffee. There are some cakes up for order here as well and before you go, make sure to bring home a packet or two of their freshly ground coffee beans.
Photo: @forestcloudbev (Facebook)
Photo: @forestcloudbev (Facebook)
Forest Cloud Coffee Company
Address: 132, Jln Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 10am-6pm (opens daily)
Status: No pork, no lard, no alcohol
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
10. TEMU Coffee
Photo: @kelvinoooi (Instagram)
With a modern coffee bar and zen-like atmosphere, stepping into TEMU Coffee will soothe your soul at first sight. Treat yourself to some of their hearty waffles, croffles, lemonade, cold brews and tiramisu cake, which are all crowd favourites. Good food, good mood!
Photo: @food.raeservation (Instagram)
TEMU Coffee
Address: 62, Lebuh Melayu, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday (10 am – 7 pm)
Status: Pork-free
11. La Vie En Rose
If you’re looking for classic French pastries paired with a cup of freshly-brewed coffee in Penang, then look no further than La Vie En Rose. This patisserie is easy to spot from afar due to its pastel pink exterior. La Vie En Rose is home to some of the best croissants, beignets, and madeleines you can find in Penang. Their must-tries are almond croissant and raspberry beignet. Did we say just how cute and pretty their pastries are? One for the ‘gram please!
La Vie En Rose
Address: 19, Lebuh Melayu, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 10.30 AM-6.30 PM (Sunday-Thursday)
Status: Pork-free
12. Rumah Kacha
Photo: @rumahkacha (Instagram)
We’re brunchin’ and munchin’ next at Rumah Kacha! Where excitement meets deliciousness, come on and satisfy all your lunch cravings with their flavourful local and Western dishes. Set in a gorgeous brick-walled shoplot, the vintage outdoor seating environment here will have you saying WOW too!
Photo: @rumahkacha (Instagram)
Rumah Kacha
Address: 31a, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Thursday (12 – 3 pm, 5 – 9.30 pm), Friday & Saturday (11.30 am – 3 pm, 5 – 10 pm), Sunday (11.30 am – 3 pm, 5 – 9.30 pm), Closed on Mondays
Status: Muslim-owned
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
13. Narrow Marrow
Next on our list of Penang cafes, when you think of vintage and aesthetically pleasing ambience, you’ll get Narrow Marrow. Having been around for years, Narrow Marrow has relocated to a more spacious place along Beach Street while still serving its signature line of cakes, coffees, and toddy. Narrow Marrow is best known for its Tiramisu, Coconut Clitoria Cheesecake, and not forgetting, handcrafted coffee.
Narrow Marrow
Address: 312, Beach St, Georgetown, 10450 George Town, Penang
Operating Hours: 3 pm-11 pm (Thursday-Monday)
Status: Cakes contain alcohol
Link(s): Instagram
14. Le Petit Four Patisserie
Photo: @thejumpingtravellers (Instagram)
Penangites must’ve definitely heard of Le Petit Four Patisserie. Previously, they were located along Hutton Lane and are now tucked along the bustling Beach Street. One can easily spot this pastry haven with its dark blue exterior and golden cursives that read Le Petit Four Patisserie. Known for serving handcrafted French pastries ranging from Croissants, Escargots, and more, the other must-try items here are definitely the cinnamon rolls as well as scones!
Photo: @lepetitfourpatisserie (Facebook)
Le Petit Four Patisserie
Address: 310, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 9 am-6 pm (Friday-Tuesday)
Status: No pork, no lard, no alcohol
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
15. Bricklin Cafe Bar
Photo: @bricklincafebarbyrbc (Instagram)
Blooming in the heart of George Town, Bricklin Cafe Bar is next on our list of Penang cafes cultivates a cosy and warm ambience to fill your mornings with smiles. Kickstart your day with crowd favourites such as the Big Breakfast, Spicy Creamy Tuna Bagel, Eggs & Toast, Beefy Pasta In Tomato Sauce and “Banzai!!” Jumbo Hot Dog. Rise and grind!
Photo: @jowiepeace (Instagram)
Bricklin Cafe Bar
Address: 31A, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: Monday (10 am – 6 pm), Wednesday to Sunday (9 am – 7 pm), Closed on Tuesdays
Status: Muslim-owned
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
16. Ome by Spacebar Coffee
Photo: @paradeenoon (Instagram)
As a humble barista-driven multi roaster coffee bar and cafe, Ome thrills patrons with their aromatic brews and wholesome bakes. Sharing sweet treats in Ome’s calming nature environment with lots of greenery is also like a breath of fresh air. It’s certainly a sanctuary for the soul, definitely a must-visit when in Penang!
Photo: @bloop.eats (Instagram)
Ome by Spacebar Coffee
Address: 1, Lorong Toh Aka, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday (7.30 am – 4 pm)
Status: Pork-free
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
17. Macallum Connoisseurs
Next up is a cafe in Penang that spans 8,000 square feet of space, Macallum Connoisseurs. Before being turned into a cafe, this place was actually a warehouse. Of course, with a space this wide, this spot is more than a cafe as it also houses a roastery, a restaurant, and an academy all under one roof. Here, you can have a hearty breakfast with their Eggs Benedict or a fulfilling lunch and dinner meal with some burgers or pasta.
Macallum Connoisseurs
Address: 1, Gat Lebuh Macallum, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 9am-10pm (daily)
Status: Non-Halal
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
18. The Alley
Photo: @wweinmy (IG)
Let’s get comfortably lost in the city as we venture to The Alley next. Tucked away on 5 Stewart Lane, the Key Lime Pie, Churros with Chocolate Dip, Burnt Cheesecake and exclusive coffee here will have you smiling from ear to ear. Their Half/Half, 5 oz Flat White, Alley Freddo, Grilled Lemonade, Pinky Guava Frappe and Uji Matcha drinks are must-trys to quench your thirst!
Photo: @nasiegs (Instagram)
The Alley
Address: 5, Stewart Ln, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday (10 am – 6 pm)
Status: Pork-free
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
19. China House
One of the OG cafes that needs no introduction is definitely China House for it is deemed as the longest cafe in Penang. Plus, ChinaHouse occupies three heritage buildings combining a cake house, a restaurant, a bar, an art gallery as well as a mini library. Most of us usually drop by for an after-meal treat as they serve over 30 types of whole cakes. When you walk in, it’s almost always very difficult to make a decision as all the cakes are enticingly displayed in glass panels. Let us help, the must-order cakes here are the Signature Tiramisu as well as Chocolate Decadence. Oh, you can also doodle away while enjoying their cakes.
Address: 153, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang
Operating Hours: 9.30am-1am (Daily)
Status: Pork-free menu, certain cakes contain alcohol
Link (s): Facebook | Instagram
20. Black Kettle
Photo: @blackkettlemy
Black Kettle comes with a huge space so if you prefer to unwind and chit chat over good food, then this is the place to be. You’ll find assorted items on their menu including Seafood Risotto, Hainan Chicken Chop, Truffle Alfredo and more. Oh, and they also have an in-house bakery here offering their very own Sourdough bread and pastries so you know pastries and coffee here are not to be missed.
Photo: @blackkettlemy
Photo: @blackkettlemy
Address: 105, Beach St, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang
Operating Hours: 11 AM-8 PM (Closed on Wednesday)
Status: No pork, no lard
Cafe Hoppers, Let’s Go!
So, which cafes in Penang will you be visiting? We hope you’ve found a new favourite from our guide! Let’s create unforgettable memories while enjoying irresistible bites at all these must-visit cafes in Penang
READ MORE: 10 Best Spots In Penang For A Hearty Brunch
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