What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Penang? For many, it’s char kuay teow, Hokkien mee, and Penang laksa. While those are definitely Penang street food staples, there are also many wonderful cafes to explore in the area. So, if you’re going cafe-hopping in Penang, here’s our selection of the most Instagrammable cafes in the Pearl of the Orient:
Kōyō Coffee
A recent addition to Penang’s vibrant cafe scene, kōyō coffee is a minimalist Japanese-style cafe that serves a variety of curated drinks and coffees, as well as Japanese desserts. For a reasonable price, you can indulge in some classic Japanese delights such as theh warabi mochi and dango. The cozy and welcoming environment makes it the ideal place for a group hangout, as well as aesthetic shots for the gram!
Location: 2-2-6, Tingkat Mahsuri 4, Bayan Baru, 11950 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 9am-6pm. Opens Daily.
Jo Gourmand
Get transported to the other side of the world at Jo Gourmand in George Town! Inspired by Parisian bistros, the interior is dominated by big glass windows, mosaic floors, and rattan chairs – something you’d see in quaint French cafes. The cafe serves a galore of pastries and cakes with a wide range of drinks that all have their own unique twist. So if you’re craving some delicious cakes, you gotta check this place out!
Location: 203, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10300, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 9am-6pm. Opens Daily.
Cherie
Cherie is another minimalist cafe with a picture-perfect setting perfect for your Instagram feed. The cafe serves a variety of signature drinks, each with impeccable presentation and taste. The star of the show, however, is their food menu, which features delicious bites for brunch as well as hearty main courses. If you’re there for dessert, then you gotta try their signature Earl Grey Milk Tea Mini Cake with an adorable teddy-bear face design, as well as their signature Greek Yogurt Cheesecake!
Location: 206, Jalan C.Y. Choy, George Town, 10300, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 1pm-8pm. Opens Daily.
Over And Above
Cafe in the day, bar at night, Over And Above does it all in their industrial-themed space located in the heart of George Town. The tall ceilings, unfinished walls, and simplistic furniture are illuminated by the huge windows and warm lights, creating an inviting environment. During the day, they offer a selection of Japanese-centric bites, as well as experimental beverages that bring a unique twist to the classics. Visitors who are looking for a fun night out should also check out their bar, in which they offer specialty cocktails as well as classic alcoholic beverages.
Location: 3, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 9am-midnight. Closed on Tuesdays.
Norm Micro Roastery
You might have heard of this cafe, ever since it opened its doors post-MCO, it has become the go-to destination for cafe-hopping! It’s adorned with high ceilings, sky lights, and ample space, which makes it ideal for group gatherings. Upon entering the cafe, you’d feel as if you’re walking through a Zen garden, with grey pebbles on the ground and beautiful greenery scattered in the corners of the space. They serve excellent coffee, alongside an impressive menu of main courses and desserts, all at a super reasonable price point.
Location: 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 9am-11pm. Opens Daily.
Urban Daybreak
If breakfast is your favourite meal of the day, then you gotta visit Urban Daybreak, located at Lebuh Bishop. The cafe’s modest and cosy atmosphere will make you feel right at home. From waffles to a ‘Really Big Breakfast’, they serve authentic Australian breakfast and brunch for the whole day. Not to mention the enticing displays of the food, all of which are presented beautifully, perfect for the gram! While their food menu is definitely the highlight, their artisan coffees are also highly recommended.
Location: 34, Lebuh Bishop, George Town, 10200, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 7.30am-5.30pm. Opens Daily.
