Penang’s diverse and vibrant food scene goes beyond street food offerings. Here are some alternatives
When one tires of Penang’s hawker food and Asian flavours, these are some other options for a memorable meal.
Penang is more than just street food. There are plenty of options if you look hard enough. (Photos: Un Poco Loco & Tong)
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Much has been written about the variety, quality, and sheer deliciousness of Penang’s street food, whose reputation is mighty enough to draw visitors to this island just to eat. For these intrepid foodies who brave Penang’s now infamous traffic (both of the vehicular and human variety), no queue is long enough for them to partake of the recently Michelin-endorsed delights.
However, there is always such a thing as too much of a good thing, and Penang's diverse and vibrant food scene goes beyond street food offerings. Here are some options when one needs a break from hawker food.
For those whose sweet tooth craves the refinement of patisserie, JT Patisserie in Pulau Tikus has been making waves among local dessert aficionados. Established by pastry maestro Jeffrey Tan, this temple to confectionary stands out for its exquisite range of pastries that blend traditional French techniques with modern culinary innovations.
Tan brings a wealth of experience and creativity to JT Patisserie with a commitment to perfection evident in every creation – from delicate macarons and buttery croissants to artfully realised cakes and tarts crafted using only the finest ingredients.
This unwavering attention to detail and refined flavour profiles make JT Patisserie particularly enticing. The patisserie offers an array of options that cater to discerning palates, including unique flavour combinations that are both bold and balanced. The yuzu-infused creations, for instance, provide a zesty twist to classic desserts, while the use of Valrhona chocolate guarantees a rich, luxurious creaminess.
Moreover, the ambience of JT Patisserie enhances the overall experience. The elegant yet cosy setting provides a perfect backdrop for savouring these gastronomic delights, making it ideal for both casual visits and special occasions. The patisserie's high tea service, a decadent affair featuring an array of sweet and savoury bites, is always fully booked, requiring reservations well in advance — it speaks volumes about its status as a must-visit destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
36, Jalan Cantonment, Pulau Tikus, George Town, Malaysia 10350
BOTTEGA PENANG
Set in a charming pre-war shophouse on Muntri Street in the heart of the George Town UNESCO Heritage Core zone, Bottega Penang is an offshoot of the restaurant with the same name in Kuala Lumpur (KL). Its KL outlet started as a deli in an old bungalow, supplying a wide range of imported groceries like delicatessen items, flour, various sauces, coffee, wine and other cooking ingredients to restaurants and hospitality brands in Malaysia. It then grew into a popular cafe serving Italian sandwiches and dishes.
Like its KL predecessor, Bottega Penang has an easy-going casual vibe, combining a trattoria, pizzeria and grocer within its premises. However, the menu in Bottega Penang is far more extensive than KL’s, serving various delicious antipasti, risottos, salads, and main courses – all made with the finest imported Italian ingredients. Nonetheless, the pizzas and pasta remain firm favourites and range from the classics like Margherita and Carbonara to the more specialised pizzas topped with Speck and Scamorza (a pasta filata-style cow's milk cheese) and pasta like Malloredus featuring Sardinian gnocchi.
The wine list is extensive, and there’s always a suitable accompaniment if you wish to assemble a charcuterie board from the deli tailored to your tastes. Desserts are homemade and a must-have is the tiramisu.
A warm, convivial space adorned with colourful floor-to-ceiling murals, Bottega Penang's downstairs houses the retail portion in front, a dining area with an open-concept kitchen towards the back, and an additional outdoor seating area for those cooler days. The upper floor, with a bigger seating capacity, caters for functions and gatherings of up to 40 pax.
76 Muntri Street, George Town, Malaysia 10200
UN POCO LOCO
Located in the more suburban Fettes Park neighbourhood, don’t let Un Poco Loco’s location in a mall fool you; this hidden gem has swiftly become a beloved spot for aficionados of Spanish cuisine.
Established by chef Su Kim Hock, of the one-star Michelin-starred Au Jardin fame, this restaurant offers an innovative take on traditional Spanish tapas, blending authentic flavours with modern culinary techniques.
Inspired by his extensive travels through Spain, Su’s goal was to transport diners to Seville's vibrant tapas bars and the picturesque Rioja vineyards through the menu and wine list. The restaurant’s ambience, characterised by cosy rustic decor, lively Spanish music, and attentive service, creates an inviting atmosphere that mirrors the warmth and vitality of Spain.
The menu at Un Poco Loco features an array of meticulously crafted tapas, such as Patatas Bravas and Gambas al Ajillo, with each dish highlighting the simplicity and quality that define Spanish cuisine. Indeed, the restaurant’s culinary philosophy, drawing from Spain’s diverse regions, is evident in its use of the freshest local ingredients and traditional techniques to create authentic and innovative dishes.
Additionally, Un Poco Loco is wholeheartedly committed to sustainability and community engagement. The restaurant sources ingredients locally whenever possible, supports sustainable fishing practices, and manages waste responsibly. The restaurant also participates in community outreach programs, sharing Su’s passion for Spanish cuisine and culture with the broader community.
2-3-6 (Lot A) @ City Junction (Level 3 Atrium B), Persiaran Lengkuas 2, Bandar Tanjung Tokong, Mukim 18 (Tanjong Tokong) 10470
TONG
Tong is set on the street level of a beautifully restored Straits Eclectic building, which houses the chic 88 Armenian boutique hotel in the heart of George Town. Previously called Copper Bar, Tong fully uses the unique location while adding its stamp of sophistication as a modern European restaurant.
The restaurant’s design seamlessly blends modern concrete with weathered brick walls crowned by an exposed ceiling, revealing the building’s fascinating history. The dining area’s walls, adorned with Shou-sugi ban burnt wood, eloquently recount the building’s fiery past, where the original building was razed many years ago. The burnt wood elements now create an atmospheric and reflective ambience.
Beyond this architectural tour, Tong invites guests on a gastronomic journey with an experiential menu offering small plates and dishes suitable for sharing – underlining their intention to forge meaningful connections over a meal. Intriguing combinations that are sure to spark conversations are available, the likes of Baked Brie with Salted Egg Tomato Salsa, Cauliflower Steak with White Chocolate, and signature Flaming Foie Gras Claypot Rice with Serrano Ham.
88, Lebuh Armenian, George Town, Malaysia 10200
FIREWOOD
From Johor’s famous Firepitz restaurant comes Firewood, which has quickly become a destination for those seeking an unforgettable open-flame dining experience in Penang. Housed in a historic building, Firewood's open-kitchen concept creates a warm and engaging atmosphere. Diners can see the chefs masterfully wield the flames to coax out the natural flavours of the ingredients. The restaurant's commitment to open-flame cooking is evident in every bite, as each dish is infused with the smoky essence of the Bakau (mangrove) and Binchotan charcoal blend used in their grills.
Under the guidance of Ker Yang Hao, the founder and head chef who cut his teeth working at Gordon Ramsay’s Singapore outpost, Firewood offers a menu that celebrates diversity, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. From premium imported steaks, including Australian Angus, Japanese A5 Miyazaki, and Korean Hanwoo, to comforting sharing plates like salads, pasta, and risottos, there is something to delight every palate.
What truly sets Firewood apart is its dedication to elevating the open-flame dining experience, which has garnered accolades from Tatler Dining Malaysia and the ASEAN Food & Travel Awards in 2024.With its cosy and casual ambience, Firewood invites diners to gather with friends and family, savour the flavours of expertly crafted dishes, and create lasting memories around the warmth of the open flame.
15, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
