Must-Visit Cafes in Penang Island (2025 Guide)

Penang has always been known for its rich food culture, but its cafe scene has blossomed into something just as exciting. From bohemian hideaways and patisserie-style indulgence to rustic sourdough specialists and heritage-area gems, the island offers no shortage of charming places to unwind.

Whether you are seeking a quiet brunch spot, an aesthetically pleasing escape or simply somewhere to enjoy good coffee, this guide highlights some of Penang Island’s most popular cafes and the reasons visitors keep returning.

1. Utoo Boho Cafe & Patisserie

Image Credit: @utoo.bohcafe | Official Instagram Page

Utoo Boho Cafe & Patisserie stands out with its warm bohemian charm and beautifully crafted French-inspired desserts. The cafe is Muslim-friendly and entirely alcohol and pork-free, offering an extensive menu that ranges from sourdough toast and tartines to petit desserts, pastries, pasta and smoothie bowls.

Among the favourites are the signature panna cotta served with passion fruit, granola and edible flowers, the Emerald Ganache made with pistachio raspberry mousse, and their delicate matcha mousses. Coffee lovers will appreciate the well-executed lattes and speciality brews that pair effortlessly with the pastries. The space itself is highly photogenic, filled with vibrant colours, cosy furnishings, and artistic decor elements.

Location: 156 Lebuh Victoria, George Town, Penang

Opening Hours: Daily, 9.30am to 7.30pm

2. Pinwheel Resto Cafe

Image Credit: @pinwheelrestocafe | Official Instagram Page

Situated along the lively Chulia Street, Pinwheel Resto Cafe delivers a creative fusion of Western and Malaysian flavours in a bright retro-inspired setting. This halal-certified cafe is known for inventive dishes such as Carbonara Tomyam Spaghetti, Chicken Rendang Pasta, Butter Chicken Masala Pizza, and the popular Cheesy Meat Bun.

Vegetarian diners will find plenty of options, including salads, sandwich selections, and smoothie bowls. Brunch items such as eggs benedict and gourmet sandwiches are also well-loved. Complementing the food menu is a range of artisanal coffees and specialty teas prepared by skilled baristas. The colourful murals and contemporary interior make it a favourite among those looking for Instagram-worthy moments.

Location: 461 Chulia Street, George Town, Penang

Opening Hours:
Mon to Thu: 8.00am to 11.00pm
Fri: 8.00am to 1.15pm and 2.15pm to 12.00am
Sat to Sun: 8.00am to 12.00am

3. Reggae Cafe Penang

Image Credit: @reggaecafepenang | Official Instagram Page

Reggae Cafe on Beach Street has made a name for itself with an impressive selection of more than eighty cakes and desserts, updated monthly to keep things fresh and seasonal. This pork-free cafe combines Malaysian and Italian influences with generous, flavourful Western dishes.

Beyond crowd favourites such as the Triple Chocolate Cheesecake and Carrot Pineapple Cake, visitors can also expect pizzas, lamb burgers, pasta dishes like Thai Basil Pasta and a popular Nutella and banana chocolate pizza ideal for sharing. The reggae-themed interior offers a laid-back atmosphere suitable for gatherings of all kinds. With generous portions and reasonable prices, it holds a strong reputation among George Town’s dining spots.

Location: 163 Lebuh Pantai, George Town, Penang

Opening Hours: Daily, 10.00am to 12.00am

4. Unknown Cafe & Bistro

Image Credit: @unknown.penang | Official Instagram Page

Unknown Cafe & Bistro has quickly become one of Penang’s best-loved local-inspired cafes, offering a menu that merges Western comfort dishes with Malaysian touches. Since opening in 2021, the cafe has expanded its offerings to include all-day breakfasts, quesadillas, wholemeal baguettes, burgers, lamb shoulder chops, pasta, pizza and crispy chicken chops with multiple sauce options.

Notable highlights include the grilled salmon and scrambled egg on a wholemeal baguette, Mushroom and Egg Quesadilla and fusion dishes such as Japanese Curry Chicken Katsu Don and Salmon Aglio Olio. The spacious interior, spanning two shoplots, features a minimalistic palette of greens and whites with calming fern motifs.

Main Location: 35 Jalan Pahang, George Town, Penang

Other Outlets: Queens Waterfront Q2 and C10 Riverpark Autocity

Opening Hours:
Jalan Pahang: Daily, 9.00am to 10.00pm
Waterfront and Autocity: Daily, 9.00am to 9.30pm

5. Yin’s Sourdough Bakery

Image Credit: @yinssourdough | Official Instagram Page

Yin’s Sourdough Bakery has earned loyal fans through its dedication to naturally-leavened sourdough bread made without preservatives. The bakery’s sourdough features heavily across its menu, from breakfast plates and wholesome sandwiches to sourdough-crust pizzas prepared using traditional hand-tossed techniques.

Favourite pizzas include the simple yet flavourful Italian Margherita, the Egg Benny Sourdough Pizza topped with chicken bratwurst and sunny-side egg and a zucchini and eggplant option for vegetarians. Yin’s also focuses on healthy offerings such as salads, smoothie bowls, sourdough croissants and the much-loved Carrot Walnut Cake. The bright, modern interior and friendly family-run service add to its comfortable charm.

Locations:
11 Pesara Claimant, George Town, Penang
13F Gurney Walk, 18 Gurney Drive, George Town, Penang

Opening Hours: Daily, 8.00am to 4.00pm (some outlets until 6.00pm)

6. Caro Caro Cafe

Image Credit: @carocarocafe| Official Instagram Page

Caro Caro Cafe is a vibrant, bohemian-style retreat in the heritage district of George Town, known for its European rustic aesthetic and lush greenery reminiscent of a countryside villa. The menu brings together Western favourites and Asian comfort dishes, with crowd-pleasers such as shakshuka, chicken curry pie, hearty breakfast plates, pasta dishes, and an assortment of desserts.

The cafe also takes pride in its speciality coffees and refreshing beverages, including mocktails. Natural sunlight floods the space, making it a warm and inviting spot for relaxed meals at any time of day.

Location: 22 Kampong Malabar, George Town, Penang

Opening Hours: Daily, 8.30am to 10.00pm

7. The Lighthouse Cafe

Image Credit: @the_lighthouse_cafe | Official Instagram Page

Hidden within the St Francis Xavier Church compound, The Lighthouse Cafe offers a peaceful and homely dining experience just steps away from the bustle of Jalan Penang. The menu blends Asian and Western comfort dishes, prepared with care and served in generous portions.

One of the cafe’s charming touches is its complimentary ice cream and salad for diners. The Lighthouse Cafe also operates with a charitable purpose, contributing a portion of its earnings to support those in need, which gives added meaning to every meal enjoyed here.

Location: 52D Jalan Penang, St Francis Xavier Church compound, George Town

Opening Hours: 11.30am to 2.00pm and 5.30pm to 8.00pm. Closed on Tuesdays

8. Bricklin Cafe Bar

Image Credit: @bricklincafebarbyrbc | Official Instagram Page

Bricklin Cafe Bar by Rasta Brew Co. is a stylish coffee destination located within the Hin Bus Depot creative hub, making it a favourite among cafe hoppers and art enthusiasts. The baristas are known for their passion and precision, preparing specialty coffees with great attention to detail. The menu features Australian-inspired brunch plates alongside local-Western fusion dishes such as creamy jalapeno pasta, gourmet burgers and chicken poke bowls.

The high ceilings, exposed brick walls and abundant natural light create a modern industrial atmosphere that pairs well with the surrounding art exhibitions. Visitors also enjoy the Sunday pop-up markets hosted within the compound.

Location: 31A Jalan Gurdwara, George Town

Opening Hours: Daily, 9.00am to 7.00pm. Closed on Tuesdays

With Penang’s cafe landscape growing more diverse each year, the challenge is simply deciding which spot to visit first. Whether you are after a good cup of coffee, a beautifully plated dessert or a tranquil brunch setting, these favourites offer something for every kind of cafe lover. Enjoy exploring the island’s best bites and brews.