20 Melaka food spots to check out on your next trip up

If you’re looking to explore beyond the Johor Bahru food scene, how about trying Melaka food for a change? 

Rich in cultural heritage and a diverse culinary scene, Melaka (also known as Malacca) is a food lover’s paradise that’s about a three hours drive away from Singapore. It is famous for the many historical sites and multicultural heritage buildings, and even has a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. 

What makes Melaka food special is its unique blend of influences from different cultures, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Portuguese, giving rise to a distinct culinary identity that sets Melaka apart from other food destinations in Malaysia. 

I frequently visit my relatives in Meleka, and have curated a list of the best eats over time (with the help of my local foodie friends, too) — without further ado, here’s an insider’s guide on the top 20 Melaka food spots you should absolutely explore in your next visit!

1. Patin Claypot House

No 47, Jalan KJ 72, Krubong Jaya, 75260 Krubong, Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (9.30am to 10pm)

Why visit? Patin Claypot House specialises in patin tempoyak curry — a curry dish made from fermented durian paste and patin (or catfish in Malay). This dish is popular in Pahang, a municipality 130 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur. Diners have praised this spot for its exceptional quality and aromatic flavours that rivals what you might even get in Pahang itself. 

Patin Claypot House takes pride in offering the freshest catch of seafood, delivering a sea-to-table experience. You can expect a variety of flavourful seafood curries here, such as the coconut milk-based curry stew gulai (from RM15, or S$4.28) and the slightly sour yet spicy tamarind-based assam (from RM15) curry. If you love catfish and curry, you’ll definitely have to include this place on your list of Melaka must-dos. 

Crowd favourites: New to Pahang-style cuisine? Go straight for its gulai patin tempoyak set (catfish tempoyak curry, RM14), which features tender and silky catfish in a rich curry stew. If you’re into slightly sour sambal, do get its sambal hitam Pahang (Pahang’s black sambal chilli, from RM1.50), to elevate the spiciness of your dishes. For desserts, its bubur cha cha (RM5) has a great balance of creaminess and sweetness, making it the perfect reprieve for a hot day.

2. Eggxcite Cafe

21, Jalan PPPS 1, Taman Sentosa, 75150 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 7pm)

Why visit? Eggxite Cafe is a charming local spot that has been serving bubble tea and coffee with a refreshing, local twist since 2019. It’s owned by the same owners behind Eggxtra Cafe, another popular Meleka cafe. 

Besides locally-inspired beverages, such as the lemongrass pandan tea (RM8) and gula melaka latte (RM12), the cafe also serves up delicious mains that incorporate locally sourced ingredients. The cosy environment makes it a great spot to wind down after a long day of hunting down the best food in Melaka. 

Crowd favourites: Its quintessential breakfast item, the omelette ham sandwich (RM10) is a popular choice. For a more filling option, you can opt for its almond pesto pasta (RM18), which is both nutty and fragrant. If you’re feeling thirsty, there’s its signature harimau tea (RM12), made with locally sourced gula melaka that’s incredibly refreshing and sweet. 

3. King Kunyit

4, Jalan TU 42, Ayer Keroh, 75450 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 9pm)

8593A Bazar MARA, Jalan Manggis 2, Rumah Awam Bertam Malim, 75260, Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 9pm)

Why visit? Located in a popular food district in Meleka known as Ayer Keroh, King Kunyit is a restaurant which rose to prominence for its turmeric dishes. The shop started as a roadside stall, but its dishes have since garnered so much popularity and support that the owner decided to expand his operations to a restaurant to cater to the demand. 

What keeps regulars coming back to King Kunyit are its dishes that are packed with fragrance and flavour; the usage of fresh turmeric also enhances the traditional spices used, creating an absolute mouth-watering experience! 

Crowd favourites: Do try its nasi ayam kunyit (tumeric chicken rice, RM12), featuring crunchy, well-marinated fried chicken that’s flavourful right down to the bone. Regulars also love the boneless version (RM18) that’s perfect for fuss-free eaters. If you’re craving something sweet, the nasi ayam buttermilk (RM11) has the perfect balance of creaminess and fragrance.

4. The Old Mark Cafe

39, Jalan KSB 11, Taman Kota Syahbandar, 75200 Melaka
Open: Wednesday to Monday (12pm to 7pm)

Why visit? If you’re craving for super fluffy and airy souffle pancakes, The Old Mark Cafe is a hotspot in Melaka that you don’t want to miss. This popular cafe in Melaka takes pride in offering a diverse array of fresh souffle pancakes, cakes and pastries — making it a great spot for those with a sweet tooth.

Prefer something less sweet? Beyond pastries and pancakes, The Old Mark Cafe also boasts an equally delicious pasta selection that’s raved by many, making it a memorable Melaka brunch food spot!

Crowd favourites: For mains, the tom yum shrimp fettuccine (RM24) is well-loved for its fresh and juicy shrimps, and flavourful tom yum sauce. For desserts, we’d recommend the yellow peach pancake souffle (RM16) simple yet satisfying and topped with a egg-yolk-looking peach half that’s perfect for the ‘gram.

5. Atlantic Nyona

145, Jalan Kubu, Kampung Satu, 75300 Melaka
Open: Monday (12pm to 8.30pm), Tuesday to Friday and Sunday (11.30am to 3.30pm, 5.30pm to 8.30pm), Saturday (12pm to 3.30pm, 5.30pm to 8.30pm)

100, Jalan Merdeka, Taman Merdeka Jaya, 75000 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 9.30pm)

14 Pangsapuri Dahlia, 3, Jalan Zahir 6, Taman Malim Jaya, 75250 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 9.30pm)

Why visit? Headquartered at Kampung Satu, Atlantic Nyona is well-loved by the Meleka community for serving authentic Peranakan dishes since 2000. It has now opened its third branch at Melaka Raya and still prides itself in serving up the same selection of nostalgic flavours, making it one of the go-to restaurants for the best Peranakan food in Melaka.

Regulars love Atlantic Nyonya for its heartwarming recipes that taste just like home-cooked Peranakan fare. The large selection on its menu and short overall wait times makes this spot rather popular for lunch and dinner, across its outlets.

Whichever branch you’re planning to visit, do note that the Kampung Satu flagship outlet closes briefly in the afternoon, so remember to work around this as you embark on your foodie adventures.

Crowd favourites: The signature rendang chicken (RM18.80), made with desiccated coconut and house blended spices, is a must-try. The spicy stew has a rich coconut milk flavour and comes with a generous portion of tender, marinated chicken. 

Want more spice? The cili padi petai ikan bilis (RM18.80), a fusion of anchovies, chilli and bitter bean (petai) is one of its best sellers — it’s a flavour bomb that’s perfect for any petai lover..

6. Chop Tiang Bee Cafe

Lot 15, Jalan Hang Kasturi, 75200 Melaka
Open: Monday, Thursday and Sunday (11.30am to 8pm), Friday and Saturday (11.30am to 10pm)

Why visit? Chop Tiang Bee Cafe is a quaint spot in popular food area Jonker Street, that camouflages itself as a heritage bungalow. The cafe serves up a remarkable selection of Asian-fusion cuisine, and its tucked-away location means you can enjoy good food without the crowds.

Its relaxing atmosphere and comfortable space also makes it an ideal spot for just resting and spacing out, especially after shopping at the nearby Jonker Street.

Crowd favourites: We recommend trying its CTB curry laksa (RM18.90), which is well-loved for its creamy broth and generous topping of tofu puffs, prawns, and fish balls. If you have space for dessert, we’d recommend Dad’s carrot cake (RM19.90) that comes served with velvety cream frosting and assorted nuts. It’s a dessert that’s slightly sweet and flavoured with spices, and something we hear regulars can’t quite get enough of.

7. The Baboon House

No. 89, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Taman Kota Laksamana, 75200 Melaka
Open: Wednesday to Monday (10am to 5pm)

Why visit? The Baboon House is one of Melaka’s best food spots that has been serving burgers for almost two decades. Located near the famous Jonker Street, this eatery is housed in a colonial building adorned with colourful murals and vintage artefacts, and surrounded by lush greenery. 

There used to be a strict no-photography policy, but it’s since been relaxed. However, given that the cafe is located at such a historic spot, we’d still try to be respectful about photo-taking if we were you! 

Crowd favourites: We recommend ordering the Baboon pork belly burger (RM21.50), which comes with a thick and juicy pork patty. The Aloha beef cheeseburger (RM34) is also a popular choice that is the perfect combination of sweet and savoury. If you’re in need of a caffeine fix, its Vietnamese coffee (RM9) is exceptionally aromatic and has been said to taste close to something you might even find in Vietnam.

8. The Daily Fix Cafe

55, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (8.45am to 5.30pm)

Why visit? Founded in 2014, The Daily Fix Cafe is a popular cafe that’s artfully hidden within an antique memento shop along the popular Jonker Street. The comfortable cafe is known for its pandan pancakes and wide variety of brunch options, as well as its freshly brewed coffee.

Don’t say we didn’t warn you though — the cafe can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. A hack would be to come early, write your names down first to “reserve” your spot and take a stroll around the area while you wait for your turn into the cafe.

Crowd favourites: A trip to The Daily Fix wouldn’t be complete without ordering its pandan gula melaka pancake (RM15) — its slightly charred exterior gives the pancakes a slightly savoury-smokiness which complements the pandan’s sweetness perfectly. You should also try its smoked duck aglio olio (RM21), which comes with tender slices of smoked duck dressed in fragrant garlic oil — simple yet decadent.

9. Salud Tapas

94, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, 75300 Melaka
Open: Wednesday to Sunday (4pm to 12am)

Why visit? Helmed by a Spanish chef, Salud Tapas is a tapas bar in Jonker Street that offers authentic Spanish fare. Part of the allure of this widely raved spot lies in its open kitchen, which offers you a glimpse of the chef’s remarkable culinary skills, as well as the infectious dynamic of the kitchen crew. 

Though the menu is slightly on the pricier end, it comes with the promise of an authentic Spanish meal, coupled with great hospitality from none other than the owners themselves. The restaurant also prides itself in using fresh ingredients imported directly from Spain — so you can be sure you’re still getting top-notch Spanish fare even in the heart of Melaka. 

Crowd favourites: Its tabla de jamon Iberico (Iberico ham table, RM55.90) offers a lovely selection of Spanish hand-cut Iberico ham that’s great to start your meal with. If you’re a seafood lover, get its pulpo or octopus dish (RM82.90), a commonly served Spanish dish which features grilled octopus served atop a bed of boiled potatoes.

10. Coconut Shake Batu Berendam

No. 7-1, No.5, Tingkat Bawah, 7-2, Jalan Kanan 1, Taman Ria, 75350 Batu Berendam, Melaka 
Open: Sunday to Tuesday (9am to 10.30pm), Wednesday to Saturday (9.30am to 10.30pm)

Why visit? It’s not uncommon to see tourists holding onto cups of fresh coconut shakes while walking around central Meleka, and these are all likely to come from Coconut Shake Batu Berendam. The shop is a welcome reprieve in Meleka’s heart, serving up thirst-quenching coconut shakes. 

Though you may encounter a crowd in the afternoons (when it is usually the hottest), the line moves fast, thankfully. If there’s anything you need to know, its that you should get more than one if you’re gonna be spending all that time queuing — the ice-blended drink is extremely addictive and it’s hard to just stop at one once you start!

Crowd favourites: It goes without saying that the original coconut shake (RM4.50) here is an absolute must-have — each coconut shake comes with sprinkles of chocolate rice, adding a hint of cocoa flavour. If you’re craving for something more decadent, a double coconut shake (RM5.50) comes with a double scoop of vanilla ice cream, making the drink even creamier but yet still not overwhelmingly sweet. 

11. Margaret T. Melaka

16, Jalan KSB 12, Taman Kota Laksamana, 75200 Melaka
Open: Tuesday to Sunday (12pm to 11pm)

Why visit? Margaret T. Melaka is a steakhouse at Taman Kota Laksamana that is known for its generous meat platters. With a wide variety of meat and seafood options, its extensive menu includes a bit of everything for everyone. 

Meleka locals also head to this fancy spot to celebrate important events or for weekend get-togethers — so you can expect no less than high-quality food and a vibrant crowd when you’re visiting during festive periods.

Crowd favourites: For a unique appetiser choice, try the eryngii in olive oil (RM19.90), a simple dish that’s plenty flavourful and whets your appetite for the meal ahead. The red wine-braised lamb shank (RM59.90) is a must-try and features tenderised lamb packed with tangy yet fruity flavours. 

If you’re here with a crowd, do order the Iberico platter (RM179.90) to share — it includes popular items such as Iberico pork ribs, collars, jowls, aglio olio, all in in a single platter, giving you the best bang for your buck. 

12. Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice Ball

275, Jalan Melaka Raya 3, Taman Melaka Raya, 75000 Melaka
Open: Monday to Friday (11.30am to 9pm), Saturday and Sunday (9.30am to 9pm)

Why visit? If you’re looking for a spot to have Melaka’s iconic chicken rice balls, then look no further than Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice Ball. The halal restaurant serves up delicious bite-sized chicken rice balls that pairs well with its local-style Hainanese chicken. 

In case you’re wondering why the chicken rice balls seem quite small — it is so made for easy consumption and for diners to enjoy the fragrance of the rice — it is not meant to constitute a whole meal. In fact, the restaurant recommends you order a plate of its regular chicken rice set (RM14.40) if you want to have more. 

Crowd favourites: As the eatery’s name suggests, the most popular item here is its chicken rice balls (RM0.50 per piece). Though both steamed chicken or roasted chicken options are popular (from RM20 for a half-chicken portion), we recommend that first-timers opt for half-and-half to enjoy the best of both worlds.

13. Botanist Cafe

41&43, Jalan Melaka Raya 8, Taman Melaka Raya, 75000 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 9.30pm)

Why visit? Botanist Cafe is a well-loved vegetarian eatery that serves nostalgia-inducing Malaysian cuisine in the heart of Melaka. Offering everything from meat-free skewers to curry noodles, the diverse selection of dishes at Botanist Cafe attracts both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike, eager to try its plant-based menu.

The inviting atmosphere and attention to detail when it comes to dietary restrictions makes Botanist Cafe a go-to spot for those in search for the best food in Melaka, dietary restrictions or not.  

Crowd favourites: The stir fried sambal glass noodle (RM14) is a popular choice that is simple and comforting. The Botanist “satay” (RM18) is also well-loved for its well-marinated and tender take on meat, using instead ingredients such as mushrooms and yam bean.

14. Tengkera Duck Noodle

33, Jalan Kota Laksamana 1/2, Taman Kota Laksamana, 75200 Melaka
Open: Wednesday to Monday (7am to 1.30pm)

Why visit? Ask a local and you’re likely to find one who counts a hot bowl of duck noodles as their favourite when it comes to Melaka food — we won’t be surprised, too, if it comes from Tengkera Duck Noodle. 

For the uninitiated, each serving of this beloved noodle dish comes with thinly-sliced duck meat, doused in an addictive, robust broth. You can also choose from bee hoon, kuey teow, or egg noodles for your noodle of choice. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, you can add a side of duck intestines (from RM5), a memorable dish with a satisfying mouthfeel.

Crowd favourites: If you’re expecting a strong broth, you won’t be disappointed — the broth here is flavourful and has herbal hints. Definitely get the duck noodles with kuey teow and broth (RM7) if it’s your first visit. You can also opt for the dry duck noodles (RM7), which offers less sauce, but with a more concentrated flavour, if you’re with team “dry”.

15. Me’nate Steak Hub

185, 186, 187, Jalan Merdeka, Taman Melaka Raya, 75000 Melaka
Open: Saturday to Thursday (11am to 11pm), Friday (11am to 12.30pm, 2.30pm to 11pm)

Why visit? With 13 branches all over Malaysia, Me’nate Steak Hub is a quality-first steakhouse that has received numerous food awards for its dedication to quality and for its curated selections of premium meat. 

From premium wagyu to angus ribeye steaks, the choice of meat available at Me’nate Steak Hub is impressively extensive — it’s easy to see why this is one of Melaka’s famous food spots, among locals and tourists alike. Its staff is also knowledgeable and attentive, making for an enjoyable dining experience that matches its price point. 

Crowd favourites: We get it, it can be daunting to choose the right cut of meat, especially if you’re not familiar with steaks. As steak lovers, we recommend ordering either its black angus ribeye (from RM160) or grass-fed steaks (from RM70) — you won’t go wrong with either. Keen for something more indulgent? Get its Japanese wagyu (from RM200) which will absolutely melt in your mouth. 

16. Mamasita Mexican Restaurant & Tapas Bar

3 & 5, Jalan Hang Lekiu, 75200 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (12pm to 12am)

Why visit? Mamasita Mexican Restaurant & Tapas Bar is a casual eatery known for its soulful Mexican cuisine and great cocktails. Its colourful interior stands out from the more muted heritage buildings commonly seen in Melaka, creating a lively yet inviting atmosphere that stands out in this historical part of town.

The attractive decor might be what draws you in, but its Mexican dishes such as its burritos (from RM27.50) and tacos (RM30 for 2 pieces) are equally impressive. Don’t be surprised too if you spot a live performance — these usually take place on weekend evenings, making it an ideal spot for a memorable night-out after a long day of shopping at the nearby Jonker Street. 

Crowd favourites: The Mexican beef pizza (RM35) is a definite must-try — it comes with a generous serving of loaded ingredients, crispy thin crusts, and a gooey cheese pull. If you need more for the table, its fajitas (from RM33), which you can choose between beef, chicken or seafood, are also a favourite. Wash everything down with its frozen margarita (RM25) — it’ll be great in this heat, we promise. 

17. Sharing Plates

143, Jalan Bendahara, 75100 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday(12pm to 9pm)

Why visit? From the same team behind the popular Daily Fix Cafe, Sharing Plates is a Meleka eatery that wants to spread the joy of a communal dining experience through its — you guessed it — sharing plates. It’s located centrally in the vicinity of the tourist spot Jonker Street so it makes for a great pre- or post-shopping location to relax over a meal. 

Crowd favourites: If you’re looking for a filling lunch option, we recommend trying its teriyaki smoked duck rice (RM19), which comes with tender duck slices, glazed in a sweet teriyaki sauce. For drinks, we’d recommend its signature salted gula melaka coffee (RM13 for hot, RM14 for cold) which offers a unique blend of salty and sweet with your caffeine.

18. Beh Leh Hainam Satay

315, Jalan Gajah Berang, 75200 Melaka
Open: Wednesday to Monday (12.30pm to 7.30pm)

Why visit? When considering one of the best Melaka food spots, Beh Leh Hainam Satay is a spot that can’t be missed. This family-run restaurant has been using the traditional technique of open-fire charcoal grill over generations to ensure its satays are juicy and tender.

Each pork skewer comes skilfully charred, giving it a tasty, smokey crunch. The chunky peanut sauce is what seals the deal at this spot — it incorporates pineapple giving it a light tartness that cuts through the greasiness of the satay.

Crowd favourites: The signature pork satay (RM1.20 each) is a must-have. Every order of satay comes with a generous serving of its unique pineapple puree peanut sauce. Regulars swear by Beh Leh’s tangy and sweet dipping sauce, claiming that it is highly addictive. Need something to wash it down with? Try the Long Chan sarsi (RM2.50), which is a locally manufactured soda, served in an old-school glass bottle. 

19. GravyBaby Melaka

2, Lorong Hang Jebat, Melaka City, 75200 Melaka
Open: Monday to Thursday (8am to 12am), Friday to Sunday (8am to 1am)

Why visit? GravyBaby Melaka is a popular bistro that is situated at the bank of the Melaka River. It is known for serving good food with a view — depending on your luck for the day, you might even be able to land a window side seat where you can get an obstructed view of the boats cruising by.

If you’re planning to book this spot for a special occasion, you’re in good hands — the staff are friendly and engaging, making for a memorable experience overall. 

Crowd favourites: Get the Korean cauliflower (RM19), which features tempura-style fried cauliflowers, served with spicy gochujang sauce — it’s the perfect finger food with a spicy kick.  The lamb shepherd’s pie (RM28) is also a well-loved item that’s comforting and plenty flavourful. 

20. Klebang Original Coconut Shake

Lot 130, Solok Kampung Bahagia, Klebang Besar, 75200 Melaka
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 6.30pm)

Why visit? If you don’t think you can squeeze another dish in, how about a drink instead? Klebang Original Coconut Shake is widely regarded as the pioneer of the coconut shake trend in Melaka, having been around for over a decade. 

The creamy coconut shakes offered here are creamy, thirst-quenching and delightfully sweet. Regulars also love the consistency of the shakes here — thick but still easy to drink. It’s really no surprise at all that Klebang has stood the test of time, given the quality of its shakes. If you’re peckish, Klebang Original Coconut Shake also offers a wide variety of traditional kuehs,

Crowd favourites: Trust us, the regular coconut shakes (RM4.50) is a must-order, along with a serving of its keropok lekor (fish cracker snack RM1.05 for 3 pieces) for an ideal afternoon snack combination. For those with a sweet tooth, the coconut shake special (RM4.90) includes an additional scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating an even smoother and creamier texture than the already-creamy regular version — just the perfect drink to take along to Klebang Beach. 

Hungry for more places to explore in Malaysia? Read our guide to the best cafes in Johor Bahru, and where to go for a great cuppa in Kuala Lumpur. 

You can also book a ride to get to these Meleka food places.