19 Penang food spots you absolutely cannot miss out on

Wondering where to get the best Penang food? We got you covered!

Penang is a Unesco World Heritage site that is known for its rich and diverse street food culture. The state is split into two parts — the mainland and a small turtle-shaped island — but regardless of wherever you’re at, you’re bound to discover amazing street food vendors around every corner.

I always make it a point to visit Penang whenever I can — the city’s walkability and amazing restaurants and vendors serving local delicacies and authentic Nyonya cuisine never fail to amaze.

If these still aren’t reason enough: Malaysia’s first few Michelin stars were awarded to four restaurants, two of which are in Penang itself — so trust us when we say Penang is an undisputed culinary destination.

Not sure where to start? Why not start here with our list of these 19 outstanding eateries that showcase the best food in Penang, where taste meets tradition!

1. Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery

1, Bishop Street, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Open: Wednesday to Sunday (12pm to 2.30pm, 6pm to 9.30pm)

Why visit? If you’re a downright foodie, then Georgetown, Penang’s food capital, should definitely be on your itinerary. Located right in this foodie district is Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery, a Michelin-starred gem that celebrates nyonya cuisine through treasured family recipes. 

The chef-owner, also affectionately known as Auntie Gaik, is a celebrated local hero, who decided to share her culinary heritage and passion for cooking after her son saw her potential and encouraged her to open the restaurant in Penang. At Auntie Gaik Lean’s, you’ll get to savour the bold flavours that make up nyonya cuisine through the masterful combination of spicy, fiery, sour, and salty elements by Auntie Gaik herself.

Given that it’s now got a Michelin star to its name, it’s gotten exponentially popular and is visited by foodies from around the world; to avoid disappointment, be sure to make your reservation weeks in advance.

Crowd favourites: While all of the dishes at Auntie Gaik Lean’s are great, what we really recommend is its curry kapitan (from RM38 or S$11.50), featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich and creamy curry flavoured with galangal, lemongrass, candlenuts and kaffir lime leaves.

Craving something sweet? Order the bee koe moy (RM10), a delectable black glutinous rice dessert infused with dried longans and coconut milk — a healthy way to end your indulgent meal.

Read our interview with Auntie Gaik Lean herself when she came to Singapore for a pop-up.

2. Penang Road Famous Laksa

5-7, Lebuh Keng Kwee, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 5.30pm)

Why visit? Since it first opened at Joo Hooi Cafe back in 1970, Penang Road Famous Laksa has become a Penang food favourite, finding its way into the hearts (and bellies) of locals and tourists alike with its fingerlicking-good Penang laksa. Its sardine broth is equal parts sour, spicy, and salty, and once you start you really can’t stop — it’s no wonder that this spot has scooped up a well-deserved Michelin Bib Gourmand award.

It may have since moved to a different spot, just a street away at Lebuh Keng Kwee, but this beloved spot still continues to draw in the crowds.

Crowd favourites: Considered by some as the best food in Georgetown Penang, you have to order its assam laksa (from RM7 for a small) that features bouncy noodles and an addictively tangy tamarind and aromatic soup base. 

If that wasn’t enough, complete your meal with the tasty char koay teow (from RM8.50 for the chicken egg version) for a divine Penang famous food duo!

3. Ming Qing Duck Egg Char Koay Teow 

29, Jalan Betek, Sungai Rambai, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday (6pm to 11pm), Friday and Saturday (6pm to 11.30pm)

Why visit? When it comes to famous street food in mainland Penang, char koay teow (or char kway teow to some) easily tops the list. Ming Qing Duck Egg Char Koay Teow is a popular spot at Bukit Mertajam that’s been in business for over 20 years, and has recently been recognised as a Michelin Bib Gourmand listee. 

Interestingly, the stall shares a space with an old-school vehicle factory but that hasn’t stopped its chefs from cooking with dramatic high flames and engaging in acrobatic noodle-tossing — not only will you leave full, but thoroughly entertained and impressed, too!

Crowd favourites: The duck egg char koay teow (from RM7 for a small portion) is a must-try. Cooked over open flames, it boasts a distinct smoky wok hei flavour that’s absolutely tasty. 

We recommend also adding an order of steamed okra with garlic (RM8), a refreshing and fibre-filled complement to the savoury star.

4. Ah Boy Koay Teow Th’ng

Lebuh Clarke, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Wednesday to Monday (7am to 2pm)

Why visit? Located in an alleyway, Ah Boy Koay Teow Th’ng is a family-run eatery that has been around for two generations. Serving one of the best rice noodle dishes around, this eatery, too, has recently received recognition as a Bib Gourmand listee for its hearty Teochew-style noodle soup. 

While the chicken may be slightly tougher due to the eatery’s choice of older hens, it results in a deeper flavour profile that makes this hearty, comforting dish a local favourite. 

Crowd favourites: For the best of both worlds, do try both its dry and soup koay teow th’ng (RM6) — the soup’s hearty broth pairs well with thin rice noodles, while the dry version is doused with a rich soy-based gravy that coats silky noodles well. 

The bean sprout chicken (RM9) is a great side dish, too, offering a delightful combination of crunchy and juicy textures that can be taken up a notch with its add-on options, starting from just RM0.50 for chicken liver.

5. Rasa Rasa 

59, Gat Lebuh Chulia, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday (8.30am to 3.30pm), Saturday (9am to 3.30pm) and Sunday (9am to 5pm)

Why visit? Rasa Rasa is another Michelin Bib Gourmand gem serving up popular traditional Malaysian cuisine from within the walls of a vintage building. It is best known for its nasi lemak (from RM18.90) that comes with ju hu char, a Penang classic stir-fried dish of yam bean and cuttlefish.

Inside the vintage building, you’ll find many charming age-old furniture that might just remind you of your grandparent’s place — making you feel right at home. If you happen to be looking for souvenirs to bring home after your trip, it is also home to a small marketplace with old-school silverware and pottery.

Crowd favourites: If you’re looking for a no-frills traditional dish, do order its nasi lemak sambal udang (RM16.90), featuring an indulgent blend of rich prawns and flavourful sambal that hits the spot just right. 

For another tasty option, the nasi lemak lobak ayam (RM18.90) comes with a delicious chicken roll and ju hu char side. Be wary of the spice from the sambal though, it creeps up fast!

6. Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow

82, Jalan Siam, George Town, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Tuesday to Saturday (12pm to 6.30pm)

Why visit? Siam Road Charcoal Char Koay Teow is more than just a famous Penang street food — it’s a legacy passed down from father to son. The first-generation owner Uncle Tan’s skilful operation of the charcoal-fired wok is always a sight to behold. 

Though Uncle Tan has since retired, the stall continues to draw regulars, eagerly waiting to savour the scrumptious and sinful plate of char kuey teow. If you do decide to dine here, be prepared for its fiery sambal that will probably knock your socks off! 

Crowd favourites: At this spot, there’s just one dish you’ve gotta try — the amazing signature char koay teow (from RM8 with no egg). Loaded with succulent prawns and a hearty helping of pork lard, every bite is a delicious flavour bomb. 

Complete your meal with a glass of cold, tangy red nutmeg juice (RM1.80), a refreshing beverage to savour alongside your scrumptious plate.

7. 3888 Fried Oyster

4-70, Lebuh Presgrave, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Friday (5.15pm to 9pm), Saturday to Wednesday (4pm to 9pm)

Why visit? Fried oyster omelette, locally known as “orh jian”, is a delicacy that’s enjoyed in various forms across southeast Asia. If you’re looking for one in Penang, most locals would likely direct you to 3888 Fried Oyster at Lebuh Presgrave for one of the city’s best renditions. 

What makes 3888’s fried oyster omelette a standout is its perfect mix of textures: A yummy, gooey inside and a crunchy exterior that’ll have you hooked. The real draw? Its fresh, juicy and plump oysters, all of which add a deliciously briny flavour to the savory omelette — it’s this taste that keeps regulars coming back for more.

Crowd favourites: There’s just one item on the menu, which you’ll spot on every table there — the fried oyster omelettes (from RM11 for a small portion) comes expertly cooked with an impressive dose of wok hei that’ll have you wishing you ordered more.

8. 888 Hokkien Mee (Lebuh Presgrave) 

67-A, Lebuh Presgrave, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Friday to Wednesday (3pm to 9.30pm)

Why visit? Located right opposite 3888 Fried Oyster is 888 Hokkien Mee, a go-to spot for — you guessed it — Hokkien mee. (Singaporeans might better recognise this dish as prawn noodles, not to be mistaken with the dry, wok-fried Hokkien mee in Singapore.)

This eatery’s claim to fame comes from its rich seafood broth, which comes from the use of prawn heads and shells, simmered over hours to form the ultimate base — a distinctive, flavourful red broth that’s downright addictive.

Be prepared for a swift-moving crowd — it’s a self-service setting where you’ll need to take your steaming bowl to your table before diving into this delicious dish.

Crowd favourites: The star dish, Hokkien mee (RM7) is a must-try — which can be customised with dark starchy “loh” gravy if the prawn broth is too strong. For an extra layer of texture and taste, add an extra dose of roasted pork (RM3) and a spoonful of its irresistibly tangy chilli for a delightful kick.

9. Kimberley Street Duck Kway Chap

135, Lebuh Kimberley, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Friday to Wednesday (2pm to 10pm)

Why visit? Hailed as one of the OGs selling this dish, Kimberley Street Duck Kway Chap is a popular joint that has been dishing out duck kway chap for decades.

Think silky-soft rice noodle rolls swimming in a rich dark soy sauce broth, accompanied by generous helpings of duck, intestines, pork ear, pork skin, blood jelly, and more — truly a treat for daring offal enthusiasts!

Crowd favourites: The must-try kway chap (RM12) is typically served in large portions, with well-balanced seasoning and generous meat that provide a rather satisfying mouthfeel. If you prefer a lighter meal, get the smaller portion for RM10. 

If you’re looking for more protein, consider adding the tasty duck breast (RM15) for a delightful mix of textures.

10. WhatSaeb Boat Noodles in Penang

173, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Wednesday to Monday (12pm to 10pm)

Why visit? For those looking to switch things up with a different cuisine, WhatSaeb Boat Noodles is a Michelin-selected eatery that specialises in serving up authentic Thai fare. The kitchen is staffed with Thai cooks who prepare each meal to order, making it a no-brainer option for foodies looking for authentic Thai flavours.

Aside from the boat noodles, the menu has many other tempting traditional Thai dishes, such as premium pad thai with river prawn (RM26.80), refreshing som tum salads (RM12.80), and the beloved mango sticky rice (RM12.50). 

Crowd favourites: A standout dish is the tom yum hot pot with river prawn (RM32.80), boasting a creamy soup and fresh prawns that maintain their shape during cooking. 

Do also try its refreshing som tum original (RM12.80), a traditional sour smashed salad that delivers a satisfying sweet and sour kick.

11. Hameediyah Restaurant

164 A, Lebuh Campbell, street, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 10pm)

Why visit? Rocking an iconic green and yellow entrance, Hameediyah Restaurant is a popular eatery with a strong legacy dating back to 1907. It’s easily one of Malaysia’s oldest nasi kandar establishments and traces its roots to Tamil Muslim traders who introduced this now-famous northern Malaysian dish. For the uninitiated, nasi kandar is a spicier and more aromatic version of nasi padang, but just as, if not, more yummy! 

The secret at Hameediyah? Flavorful curries, simmering for hours with spices, and an array of meats, seafood, and veggies. One bite of curry-coated rice and you’ll know why patrons keep coming back for more.

Crowd favourites: Dining at Hameediyah Restaurant is similar to ordering economic rice or “cai fan”, where you can pick and choose whichever you’d like.

We highly recommend trying its briyani ayam (chicken briyani, RM16) and briyani kambing (lamb briyani, RM17), both of which are cooked over hours to achieve the yummiest blend of spice and flavour. 

12. Deens Maju Nasi Kandar

170, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Saturday to Thursday (12pm to 10pm)

Why visit? A long queue for any food outlet is usually quite telling of its standard. Head to Deens Maju Nasi Kandar and you’ll not only see a snaking line, but an irresistible selection of curry sauces, and a range of side dishes at reasonable prices. The menu here is also kept fresh and dynamic, with a rotating selection of flavorful dishes.

Crowd favourites: Looking for a balanced meal with curries, meats and vegetables? Opt for its nasi kambing telur bendi (lamb rice with eggs and okras, RM12) and the nasi ayam bendi telur sotong set (chicken rice with okra, eggs, and cuttlefish, RM16). 

Each bite of these dishes is infused with rich, spicy gravy, creating an explosion of flavours and a truly mouth-watering experience.

13. Nasi Kandar Sulaiman

739, Jalan Air Itam, 10460 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Monday to Sunday (6.30am to 2.30pm)

Why visit? Nasi Kandar Sulaiman is an establishment that holds its own among the other nasi kandar shops within this guide, having operated for over 60 years. This gem of a restaurant is known to “flood” your plate with a concoction of curries — also known as “banjir” in Malay — ensuring that you have as much of its delicious curry as possible..

What sets Sulaiman apart is its spicier curries and wide variety of affordable seafood options, available at the crack of dawn at 6.30am — making it a go-to spot for early risers. Just a heads up, though — food tends to run out by noon, so make sure you get there early to snag a plate of their deliciousness!

Crowd favourites: We recommend ordering its ayam bawang, sotong, telur mason and bendi combo (RM17) for a mix of tomato-based onion chicken, cuttlefish, salted egg, and okra. Opt for the “banjir” style for extra curry goodness! 

Seafood fans will also love the double sotong, ayam, and ikan combo (RM27.50) —  a loaded plate of double cuttlefish, chicken, and fish at an unbeatable price.

14. Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang

Sri Weld Food Court, Beach Street, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Open: Monday to Friday (7am to 2pm), Saturday (7am to 1pm)

Why visit? Simplicity is the name of the game at Ali Nasi Lemak Daun Pisang with its no-frills rice cooked in coconut milk, topped with sambal. Located right at the entrance of Penang’s Sri Weld Food Court, you’d definitely be tempted to grab one of this delicious banana leaf-wrapped goodness if you ever pass by on your travels. 

Here, you have a choice of six different proteins to spice up your meal with — chicken, prawns, fried fish, squid, salted fish, or an egg and anchovy combination — to take this dish to the next level. Good luck at trying to resist getting more than one of these addictive parcels. But with prices starting at RM3, we don’t think your wallet will mind either.

Crowd favourites: We highly recommend grabbing the fish, shrimp, and chicken nasi lemak (RM3 each) each to try — there’ll be space as the portions aren’t big. 

For those who are spice-adverse, you can opt for the egg nasi lemak (RM3) that comes with half of a boiled egg to pad out the spicy sambal.

15. Lagenda House & Cafe

2, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday (12pm to 10pm), Friday to Sunday (12pm to 11pm)

Why visit? Originally located at Campbell Street, Lagenda House & Cafe is a charming eatery that has been serving up Malaysian-Indonesian and Western fusion cuisines on traditional Malaysian platters since 2014. It previously ran as both a guesthouse and cafe, but it moved to Lebuh Carnavon for a bigger space to cater towards diners.

Aside from its unique menus, another highlight of Lagenda House comes from its interior, which pays homage to the late Malaysian music legend, P. Ramlee, who also hails from Penang. Not only are there many framed pictures of him around the space, his timeless music plays in the background, making for a soothing yet nostalgic ambiance while you feast.

Crowd favourites: One standout dish is its salmon asam pedas (RM32), featuring tamarind-based curry that makes for an appetising main course. 

Additionally, regulars love its gado gado (RM20) dish, a harmonious salad filled with fried fritters and crisp vegetables that offers a good crunch.

16. Wheeler’s

67, Lorong Love, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Monday to Sunday (8am to 12am)

Why visit? If you’re looking for a comfortable retreat from the heat, Wheeler’s is a popular cafe that has been operating since 2014 at Lorong Love, and is absolutely worth a visit. It is most known for its carbonara pasta (RM28.90), which is what keeps the crowds coming back. 

Aside from being great for brunch and or simply a laid-back place to chill, Wheeler’s exposed brick walls make for great Instagram-worthy backdrops while providing respite from the heat. The menu also features a range of Western delights, from succulent steak sandwiches (RM38.90) to refreshing soursop yoghurt smoothies (RM17.90), perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Crowd favourites: The truffle spaghetti carbonara (RM28.9) is raved for its creamy base, that’s pleasantly elevated by its fragrant truffle oil. 

Its tiramisu (RM16.90) is also said to be the best on the island, with strong hints of espresso.Its non-alcoholic substitute, its mocha-misu (RM15.90) offers similar flavours in an earthier, and more chocolatey variation.

17. The Mugshot Cafe

302, Chulia Street, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Open: Sunday to Thursday (8am to 10pm), Friday and Saturday (8am to 12am)

Why visit? Established in 2013, The Mugshot Cafe is a quaint spot that serves as both a cafe and optometry. Expect delectable pastries coupled with a quirky interior decked with books, firewood and a wall full of personal photographs by shop owners — this is an ultimate location to rest your legs and enjoy a good ol’ bagel!

It’s also conveniently located across from the popular Lebuh Carnarvon food street, offering a comfortable break to unwind before resuming your food-hunting journey.

Crowd favourites: Regulars love its smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel (RM19) — a nice warm fluffy goodness that looks simple but absolutely delivers on taste. Pair it with its homemade mango and walnuts yoghurt (RM17) for a refreshing dessert.

18. Norm Micro Roastery

13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Open: Thursday to Tuesday (9.30am to 5.30pm)

Why visit? If you’re not actively searching for Norm Micro Roastery, you might just miss this place! Its entrance, a large swivel door, isn’t as conspicuous and you might only see if someone is exiting the cafe. Once you enter, you’ll be greeted with a spacious nook, complete with natural light and trees that makes for a serene escape from the bustling Penang city.

Here, you can expect exceptional cafe fare and waffle-ice cream delights. Its winning combination of ambience, cuisine, and coffee, makes this relaxing spot a must-visit for both cafe enthusiasts and foodies alike.

Crowd favourites: The slow-cooked pork ragout pasta (RM33.90) is a must-try, featuring juicy pulled pork with salty, flavourful gravy alongside al-dente pasta. 

We also recommend ordering the Little Prince (RM27.90) — a delectable chocolate waffle made with buttermilk for a soft, chewy texture; topped with banana slices and indulgent chocolate ice cream for a creamy finish.

19. Jason Nyonya House

27, Lebuh Bishop, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Open: Thursday to Tuesday (11am to 2.30pm, 6pm to 9.30pm)

Why visit? Located at Lebuh Bishop, Jason Nyonya House is an eatery that specialises in serving up some of the best Peranakan food in Penang, with its meals triggering fond memories of grandma’s cooking. Initially located at Lebuh King, the restaurant has since moved to a larger space to accommodate its growing popularity — a testament to its great reputation.

The set lunches available from 11am to 2.30pm (excluding weekends and public holidays), are an excellent way to discover the delightful flavours of Peranakan cuisine at Jason Nyonya House. Its sets start at RM18.90, and you can enjoy a variety of comforting dishes such as kapitan ayam (chicken kapitan curry, RM18.90), and tu ka chor (black vinegar pork, RM18.90). 

With the heart of Peranakan dining being about sharing plates with your friends and family, remember to come with a large party to enjoy its wide variety of comforting dishes!

Crowd favourites: The ayam pongteh (RM25 for small) is a must-have Nyonya chicken and potato stew dish. It stands out from your common soy sauce-based chicken stew for rich flavours and aromatics, pairing well with a bowl of steamed rice (RM3). 

Additionally, its assam prawn (RM14 per piece) is also well-loved, comprising juicy, fresh prawns marinated well in the tangy tamarind soup — an appetising delight, indeed.

For more cafes around the world to explore, check out our guide to cafes in Kuala Lumpur, Saigon, and Bangkok. 

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Looking to get around in  Penang? You can also book a ride to these places in Penang.