Beton Dining @ Mokozoyo Hotel, Georgetown, Penang.

Set against the understated backdrop of Mokozoyo Hotel Georgetown along Argyll Road, Beton Dining presents a modern French menu that draws from classic foundations while weaving in subtle contemporary touches. The cooking leans refined yet approachable, with flavours that are clean and composed rather than overly experimental. Seating is intentionally limited, giving the space a more intimate, almost private dining feel—though it does mean larger groups may find it less accommodating, so reservations are best made in advance. Prices trend slightly above the average, but remain aligned with the quality and overall experience. Open only in the evenings, it naturally suits a slower, more deliberate dinner setting rather than a quick, casual stop. 

Korean Cafe Shwimpyo @ Victoria Street, Georgetown, Penang.

After 10 years of building a loyal following, Shwimpyo Korean Cafe has expanded to a new outlet along Victoria Street, bringing its familiar pork-free, Muslim-friendly Korean fare closer to the Georgetown crowd. The menu is slightly broader, featuring staples like tteokbokki, dakgalbi and hearty stews, with flavours that lean bold and comforting rather than refined. The space is simple yet comfortable, and prices remain reasonable, making it an easy, casual spot for a satisfying Korean meal. 

Seed & Mi @ Sungai Petani, Kedah.

A short drive from Sungai Petani's industrial zone, Seed & Mi is especially suitable for diet-watchers. The cafe offers healthy food options like Poke Bowl (customization is available), All Day Breakfast, Japanese Onigiri and Smoothie Bowls. While there are other wallet-friendly options in Sungai Petani, Seed & Mi seems to be a popular spot with many returning regular patrons. The Poke Bowl is their signature dish, though they do not offer fresh Fish options, they do offer a good substitution for protein (like Chicken or Tofu for Vegan). Delicious healthy food in a comfortable setting, no wonder this place is gaining attention amongst the young cafe hoppers. 

Chillis And Cheese @ Arena Curve, Bayan Lepas, Penang.

The name of this place seems convincing... blending both Malaysians' all times favorite- Chilies and Cheese. Operating in one of the shop lots at Arena Curve, Chillis And Cheese is manned by a local Malaysian, who is adventurous enough to tweak local Malaysian delicacies with playful elements. You will find familiar names on the menu but once you read the description, you will find something is different. The air-conditioned cafe is simple and clean with casual setting; one of the places where you can fill your tummies without putting a dent on the wallet.

Viva Victoria @ Victoria Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Fancy a meal with a dash of personality? Make your way to Viva Victoria (at Victoria Street, central Georgetown)- an eclectic, quirky space that offers good drinks and delicious food. It's hard to describe this place- the facade hardly tells about the place but once you are in, you will find yourself in a mysterious place with a shelf of books, eclectic knick-knacks and oddly, a whiff of Indian scents. The menu is equally interesting- cleverly blends in elements from the East and West, with a playful local touch... complemented by an impressive specialty drinks menu. The place has a casual dining atmosphere, which is suitable for casual lunch or to relax and enjoy an evening sip.

Many Thanks to Viva Victoria for hosting us.

Black Kettle Launches New Food Menu @ Georgetown, Penang.

Having collected regular patrons' feedback on the food offering, Black Kettle has decided to do some minor upgrade to the menu and has since, rolled out its new food menu. Bright and cozy with a good doze of soft furnishing and slight greenery, the cafe is one of the busiest cafes in the heart of Georgetown. With the joining of a new Michelin-trained head Chef, the newly launched food menu sees stronger influences from local flavors. Keeping "mindful eating" in mind, a few healthier additions have also been included in the food menu. In line with that, all sauces and bread are made-in-house by Black Kettle. Need more to celebrate? There is also a bakery counter near the entrance (they do sell bread and pastries for walk-ins) and excellent Coffee.

Many Thanks to Black Kettle for hosting us.

Aboong- Korean Taiyaki Ice Cream @ Queens Street, Queensbay Mall.

Aboong, one of the famous Korean Ice Cream brands has finally landed Penang, few months after their first outlet here in Malaysia (SS15, Subang Jaya). Penangites have surely professed their love for Soft Serve and with this new addition to Queens Street, Queensbay Mall, I was not surprised to see the long queue. Aboong specializes in serving Fish-shaped Waffles with their Frozen Yogurt Ice Cream. Commonly known as Taiyaki in Japan and Bungeoppang in Korea, the fish-shaped Waffles are filled with Azuki Bean filling or Custard. Waffles are made on the spot so do expect a minimum 10 minute-wait; as for me, I was not that fortunate. Due to the overwhelming responses, I had to wait for an hour....

Paper Lobster Bistro @ Bayan Baru, Penang.

Surfing the tide with one of the latest dining concepts- serving Seafood on the table, Paper Lobster Bistro is one of the latest associates that supports this messy affair. The new seafood restaurant is located at Olive Tree Commercial lots, those shop houses right beside Olive Tree Hotel and same row as Arang Cafe. The concept is similar to Crab & Lobster's but the menu's slightly different, as well as the offering on sauces and dips. The restaurant is brilliantly spaced with comfortable seating while the ambiance sets the correct tone. As far as balanced diet is concerned, Paper Lobster has a Salad Bar for diners to fill in the diet-gap, everything's free-flow and complimentary but choices are limited. 

[Revisit] The Twelve Cups @ The Whiteaways Arcade, Beach Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Back to The Twelve Cups, one of the oldest cafe establishments in town; was closed for a one-month renovation and has since, resumed its business operation. Not only that the cafe has enhanced its interior decor but introduced a newly revamped menu that furnishes a sprawling collection of shareable small and large Brunch, savory and sweet crepes as well as the regulars' all time favorites. The cafe is now more hipstery and brighter with younger vibe but seats are still limited, so for those coming in a big group, be sure to secure a table by making advance reservation. Ambiance-aside, we were impressed with the food quality and endless options. If you are seeking for a cafe that serves solid-promising food, give this place a try.