8 Must-Try Nyonya Eateries in Melaka: A Culinary Journey Through Peranakan Heritage

Melaka is the heart of Nyonya cuisine, a unique blend of Chinese, Malay and Indonesian traditions shaped by the Peranakan community over centuries. Eating here is not just about flavour. It is a glimpse into history, identity and culture. These eight restaurants offer some of the best Nyonya food in the city, each with its own atmosphere, specialities and interpretation of this treasured culinary heritage.

1. Wild Coriander: Riverside Dining with Modern Nyonya Flair

Image credit: 吃货小妖怪 Monster Foodie

Wild Coriander’s riverside setting, greenery-filled interior and soft natural light create one of Melaka’s most attractive dining spaces.

Diners praise its consistently executed Peranakan dishes, including Pai Tee, Udang Masak Lemak Nenas and a four-style speciality rice. The coconut ice cream with Gula Melaka is a must-try.

Location: 40 Jalan Kampung Pantai

Hours: 12.00 pm to 10.00 pm, closed Wednesdays

2. Atlantic Nyonya: Central, Reliable and Well-Loved

Image credit: Atlantic Nyonya Melaka Raya

Atlantic Nyonya offers practical comfort with river views from the upper floor. Guests appreciate the warm service and reliable quality, even during peak hours. The Ayam Ponteh, Nasi Pandan and Sambal Belacan stand out. It is popular, so reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.

Locations: Multiple, including Melaka Raya, Kampung Satu, and Malim Jaya

Hours: 11.30 am to 9.30 pm daily

3. The Kam Cheng: Modern Excellence in a Heritage Building

Image credit: The Kam Cheng 感情

Set within a historic building, The Kam Cheng blends authenticity with modern touches. Much-loved dishes include Paku Lemak, Eggplant Duo Sambal and Ayam Panggang. Portions are generous, and flavours lean toward refined interpretations of classic recipes.

Location: Kota Syahbandar

Hours: Lunch 11.30 am to 3.00 pm, dinner 5.00 pm to 8.30 pm daily

4. Peranakan Mansion: Dining in a Living Heritage Home

Image credit: Peranakan Mansion 僑生府

Peranakan Mansion is set in a beautifully preserved heritage house filled with antique furniture and intricate woodwork.

The experience feels like dining in a traditional family home. Signature dishes include Pie Tee, Fish Maw Soup, Ikan Asam and rich, slow-braised classics like Ayam Buah Keluak and Babi Pongteh. Cendol Gula Melaka is the perfect finish.

Location: 108 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock

Hours: 12.00 pm to 2.00 pm, 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm, closed Wednesdays

5. Nenijee’s Nyonya Kitchen: A Local Favourite in Ayer Keroh

Image credit: NeniJee's Nyonya Kitchen

This small family-run restaurant sits away from tourist areas and draws both locals and curious travellers. The setting is simple, the service warm, and the food deeply comforting, offering a homely introduction to Nyonya cuisine.

Location: Ayer Keroh

Hours: 11.00 am to 3.00 pm, 5.00 pm to 8.30 pm, closed Tuesdays

6. Cottage Spices: Chef-Owned and Ingredient-Focused

Image credit: Cottage Spices Nyonya Restaurant

Cottage Spices is known for its homemade-style dishes, prepared with care and fresh ingredients. Signatures include Asam Pedas fish and Ayam Pongteh, while its Cendol with rich Gula Melaka is a favourite. The restaurant is small, intimate and refreshingly traditional.

Location: Taman Melaka Raya

Hours: 11.30 am to 3.30 pm, 6.00 pm to 8.30 pm, closed Wednesdays

7. Restoran Aunty Lee: A Well-Loved Melaka Institution

Image credit: restaurantauntylee

Aunty Lee’s humble setting belies its reputation as one of Malaysia’s most iconic Baba Nyonya restaurants. Its long-standing family recipes shine in dishes like Cili Garam fish, Lemak Nenas prawns and Sambal Petai Bilis. It is almost always full, so reservations are highly encouraged.

Location: Ujong Pasir

Hours: Lunch 11.30 am to 3.00 pm, dinner 5.30 pm to 9.00 pm daily

8. Siew Tin’s Nyonya Kitchen: Jonker Charm with Creative Signatures

Image credit: siewtinsnyonyakitchen

Located in a traditional Nyonya house near Jonker Street, Siew Tin’s offers a bright and nostalgic dining space. The Gula Melaka Fried Chicken Wings are a standout, alongside classics like Ayam Buah Keluak, Sambal Prawns and Chendol. Its central yet quieter location makes it ideal for visitors exploring Jonker’s surroundings.

Location: Jalan Hang Lekir

Hours: 11.00 am to 10.00 pm on weekends, 11.00 am to 8.00 pm on weekdays