Overwhelmed with what to eat in Penang? Penang is often called the kitchen of Malaysia—and for good reason! People from all over the world come here to taste some of the most authentic and mouthwatering Malaysian dishes. From hawker stalls to hidden cafes, the island is truly a food lover’s paradise.
Fu Er Dai – Authentic Dim Sum
Start your morning the local way at Fu Er Dai, one of the most popular dim sum places in Penang. The dining style is fun and lively:
- Grab a seat
- Head over to the pantry to pick your dim sum
- Pay on the spot
⚡ Pro tip: Decide quickly because the line moves fast, and the good stuff runs out early!
Northam Beach Café – Hawker Food with a Sea View
If you want delicious food with a view, Northam Beach Café is the place. This hawker center has plenty of options, from seafood to local Malaysian favorites, all at very affordable prices. The sea breeze and waterfront view make the dining experience extra special.
Kimberly Street – Penang Street Food Heaven
Penang is famous for its street food, and Kimberly Street is the best place to dive in. You’ll find:
- Traditional hawker stalls
- Authentic Malaysian snacks
- Local favorites like char kway teow, a must-try fried noodle dish
The atmosphere here is lively and truly captures the spirit of Penang’s food culture.
Penang Road Famous Chendul
No trip to Penang is complete without trying the iconic chendul—a refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, gula melaka (palm sugar), and green rice flour jelly.
Head to Penang Road Famous Chendul, where you’ll almost always find a queue. Don’t worry—the line moves quickly, and trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Kapitan – Tandoori & Nasi Kandar
Malaysia’s food culture is a mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. For a taste of Indian flavors, try Kapitan, a well-loved chain in Malaysia.
- Their tandoori chicken is a must-try
- Don’t miss the nasi kandar, a Penang specialty of rice served with curries and side dishes
This spot is perfect if you want a hearty and flavorful meal.
Toh Soon Café – Charcoal Toast & Kopi
Looking for another great breakfast option? Head to Toh Soon Café, a Penang institution famous for:
- Charcoal-grilled kaya toast
- Rich local coffee or milk tea
The café has an old-school charm and is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
What to eat in Penang summary
If you’re wondering what to eat in Penang, this list will get you started with some of the best local favorites. From dim sum and char kway teow to cendol and kaya toast, Penang truly lives up to its title as the food capital of Malaysia.
Tour Recommendation in Penang
Pro Tip: We booked our tour through Klook.com and got up to 5% off with these discount codes:
- KLOOKXNESSA
- NESSAHUANGGKLOOK
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