Top 7 Unique Cafes To Visit While You're In Penang
Published May 16, 2024
Penang, renowned as a heaven for food lovers and cafe-hoppers, offers a delightful blend of culinary delights and a vibrant cafe culture. The island's food scene is a fusion of diverse flavors influenced by its multicultural heritage. Amidst the bustling streets of George Town and beyond, you'll find an abundance of charming cafes tucked away in every nook and cranny, each with its own alluring charm and delectable offerings.
Not only do these cafes serve mouthwatering dishes, but they also boast Instagram-worthy backdrops that will elevate your social media game. With so many choices, it can be overwhelming, but fear not! We've curated a list of the top 7 unique cafes that you must explore while visiting Penang.
1. Wheeler's Cafe & Bar
In the heart of Penang's bustling George Town, Wheeler's Cafe & Bar stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of art, coffee, and culinary delights. Its bicycle-inspired art, vintage decor and warm ambiance offer a unique experience, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. From its signature Espresso Chicken to the captivating Creme Brulee, every aspect of Wheeler's leaves an impression, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking not just a meal, but an artistic and culinary adventure.
As one of the longest operating cafes on Love Lane, Wheeler's has earned a reputation as a go-to spot for brunch enthusiasts. However, due to its popularity, it can get quite busy, especially during peak hours. To ensure you have a spot, it's best to book a table in advance.
Address: 67, Lorong Love, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 8:00am – 12:00am daily
Contact: +6019-524 7703 | Email
2. Ice Cafe
Escape the tropical heat of Penang and step into a winter wonderland at Ice Cafe, a mesmerizing destination that promises a unique and chilly experience. Nestled in the heart of George Town, Penang's Ice Cafe offers a unique and enchanting experience like no other. From the moment you step inside, you'll be transported to a magical ice castle where frozen delights and snowy ambiance reign supreme. Here at Malaysia’s first ice-themed cafe, treat yourself to their Bubble Waffle With Ice Cream and the delectable Cream Puff with Ice Cream.
Whether you're seeking a refreshing treat, a captivating backdrop for your Instagram feed, or a haven to escape the tropical heat, Ice Cafe has it all. So, the next time you find yourself in Penang, be sure to immerse yourself in the frosty wonderland of Ice Cafe, where sweet dreams and icy delights await.
Address: 193, Lebuh Victoria, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10:00am – 7:00pm daily
Contact: +604-262 1193 / +6016-474 9153
3. Caffeine Chemistry Coffee
Penang is renowned for its vibrant cafe culture, offering a plethora of delightful destinations for coffee enthusiasts. Among the many contenders, one cafe stands out as one of the best cafes in Penang for its unique blend of art, science, and a passion for coffee - Caffeine Chemistry Coffee. Step into a world where chemistry meets coffee, and where every sip takes you on a journey of flavors and innovation.
As the name suggests, Caffeine Chemistry Coffee elevates coffee brewing to an art form akin to scientific experimentation. The cafe's interiors are decked with chemistry lab-themed decor, including beakers and flasks used to serve cold beverages. This unique touch brings a dash of excitement to the coffee experience, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable and interactive cafe journey. When you visit, don't miss out on their Frozen Tiramisu and the refreshing Gula Melaka and Coconut Ice Cream ice blended.
Address: 27, Nagore Square, Jalan Nagor, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 3:00pm – 11:00pm daily (Closed on Wednesdays)
Contact: +604-305 5468
4. Matcho Cafe
Among the many hidden gems that dot the vibrant streets of George Town, Matcho Cafe stands out as a tropical oasis for matcha lovers and food enthusiasts. As soon as you step into Matcho Cafe, you're greeted by a delightful tropical vibe, with shades of Millennial pink and lush greens adorning the interiors. The captivating decor creates a refreshing ambiance, making it a perfect spot to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and is a must-visit destination to capture memories and create envy-worthy Instagram posts.
Matcha lovers can enjoy a wide array of matcha-infused creations alongside innovative delectable pink-themed treats including Pink Toast, Pink Flamingo and Signature Burnt Cheesecake. So, if you find yourself in Penang and crave a taste of matcha paradise, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the delightful world of Matcho Cafe.
Address: 99B, Lebuh Noordin, Georgetown, 10030 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 12:00pm – 8:00pm daily (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: +604-306 9099
5. PIK NIK
hipsters, youngsters, students and friends. The café itself resembles an art gallery, offering visitors at least five different backgrounds - from a delightful pastel pink corner to a captivating black backdrop adorned with striking lightning - to capture those picture-perfect moments. Beyond its visually stunning interior, PIK NIK takes pride in its artfully crafted dishes.
Among the must-try dishes include the Kimchi Pork Bulgogi Fried Rice, Spicy Mala Smoked Duck Aglio Olio and Waffle Bae-con. With its artistic interior design, delectable dishes, and cozy ambiance, PIK NIK has rightfully claimed its position as one of the best cafes in Penang.
Address: 15, Jalan Nagore, 10500 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 12:00pm – 10:00pm daily (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: +6016-448 1517 | Email
6. Macallum Connoisseurs
Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO-listed George Town, Macallum Connoisseurs is a charming coffee haven that has earned a reputation for serving exceptional brews while redefining the art of coffee appreciation. With a total space of 8,000 square feet, this 4-in-1 industrial-chic spot which features a coffee academy, roastery, cafe and restaurant, is the largest cafe in Penang.
One of the hallmarks of Macallum Connoisseurs is their impressive selection of coffee beans sourced from different corners of the globe, ranging from the highlands of Ethiopia to the fertile regions of Colombia. The menu offers an array of brewing methods, allowing patrons to explore various flavor profiles and aromatic experiences, together with their signature dishes such as Macallum Breakfast, Ocean Obsession and Carbonara with Truffle Paste pasta.
As a hub for coffee education, the team takes pride in sharing their knowledge with visitors, offering insights into the origins of different beans, the roasting process, and the art of coffee brewing. Enthusiasts can participate in coffee workshops and masterclasses, elevating their appreciation of coffee to new heights. With its devotion to serving exquisite coffee, dedication to education, and commitment to fostering connections, this coffee haven has undoubtedly carved its niche in the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
Address: 1, Gat Lebuh Macallum, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9:00am – 10:00pm daily
Contact: +604-261 3597
7. Kopi Hutan
Tucked away in the heart of Penang's lush rainforest at Monkey Cup Garden in Penang Hill, Kopi Hutan (which translates to "Forest Coffee" in Malay) is a hidden gem that you must not miss out on if you’re on the hunt for the best cafe experience in Penang. Discover the captivating world of Kopi Hutan, where nature's beauty and exceptional coffee blend harmoniously, while being surrounded by a symphony of chirping birds and the calming rustle of leaves.
At 730 meters above sea level, Kopi Hutan is the highest cafe in Penang and boasts spectacular views of Penang Hill and the neighboring city of Georgetown. It prides itself on sourcing the finest coffee beans from local plantations and carefully crafting each cup to perfection. Make sure to try their signature ‘Kopi Hutan’, a harmonious blend of five distinct coffee beans, tailor-made to give your taste buds a journey they won’t forget! Apart from the exceptional coffee, Kopi Hutan offers a delectable selection of homemade pastries and scrumptious dishes made from locally sourced, organic ingredients.
Complement your coffee session by venturing to a myriad of attractions encircling Penang Hill, including Monkey Cup Garden - a botanical wonder to a vast variety of plants and flowers, such as the monkey cup plant, recognised for its medicinal properties; and the historic Penang Hill Railway Station.
Address: Penang Hill, Bukit Bendera, 11300 Bukit Bendera, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia (Located at the pinnacle of Penang Hill, reaching Kopi Hutan requires a funicular ride or a challenging hike. Alternatively, you can ride a buggy to get there in style)
Opening Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm daily (Walk-In Only)
Contact: +6012 428 9585 | Email
Penang's cafe scene is an enchanting blend of delectable food and Instagram-worthy settings. While exploring this culinary haven, make sure to visit these unique cafes that will delight your taste buds and provide the perfect backdrop for your social media feed. Happy cafe-hopping!
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