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. 

Dejeuner Bistro & Lumiere Restaurant @ Victoria Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Located along Victoria Street in George Town, Déjeuner Bistro by Lumiere Restaurant offers a French-inspired bistro experience that reflects the refined approach of its parent restaurant, Lumiere Restaurant. The menu features quality ingredients and well-executed dishes with decent portion sizes, though prices are slightly above average compared to typical casual spots in town. The biggest downside was the service — it took more than an hour for our orders to arrive, which is difficult to justify at this price point.

Kins @ Prangin Lane, Georgetown, Penang.

Kins Penang is a fresh addition to the city’s dining scene, presenting a casual European-styled bistro concept that’s approachable rather than pretentious. While prices sit beyond average compared with typical neighbourhood cafés, they feel justified by the good quality of ingredients and solid dishes that explore bold, interesting flavour combinations. The atmosphere is relaxed and unassuming — perfect for laid-back lunches or dinners without any fuss — and service stands out as genuinely warm and attentive, which makes each visit feel welcoming. It’s also worth noting that the restaurant is pork-free, catering well to diners looking for that option while still enjoying elevated European bistro fare in Penang. 

Double Fold Cafe @ Tanjung Bungah, Penang.

A welcome new addition to Tanjung Bungah’s café lineup, Double Fold Cafe sits just off Jalan Tanjung Bungah, across from Dalat School — a slightly tucked-away find that rewards those who seek it out. The space is surprisingly spacious with a relaxed, casual vibe that draws in afternoon crowds, and its décor leans gently toward a French-inspired aesthetic that feels both chic and welcoming. Inside, you’ll find a menu that goes beyond typical café fare: a selection of freshly baked pastries and desserts, good coffee, and mains that extend from brunch staples to more adventurous dishes with local twists. What makes it interesting is seeing classics sit alongside items like nasi lemak and tom yum — a nod to Malaysian palates while still keeping a continental café spirit. The food quality is solidly above average, the atmosphere easygoing, and the price range remains affordable for the neighbourhood — making Double Fold a nice option for weekend catch-ups or casual bites in the Tanjung Bungah area. 

Solt @ Beach Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Solt Penang is a spacious and stylish restaurant located at 474 Beach Street, right in the heart of Georgetown. With a modern European menu infused with subtle local Malaysian influences, it delivers a creative yet accessible dining experience. The open-kitchen concept adds a lively touch to the cozy, relaxed atmosphere. According to reviews, there’s also a pork-free policy — making it welcoming for a broader crowd. Prices lean a little above average, but the thoughtful food and ambiance help justify it.

Mono Haus @ Sungai Ara, Penang.

Mono Haus is a new café nestled in the quiet neighborhood of Sungai Ara. The space is bright, spacious, and cozy — perfect for casual hangouts or coffee sessions. The menu features a range of familiar café fare, from hearty mains to desserts and coffee, all at reasonable prices. While the food still has some room for improvement, the coffee and desserts make it a pleasant spot to unwind. 

The Clubhouse @ Raja Uda, Butterworth, Penang.

Tucked next to a pickleball court, The Club House Penang offers a cozy ambiance that pairs well with its diverse Western-style menu and a thoughtful selection of pastries and cakes. The space is inviting and comfortable, making it an ideal spot to linger a little longer than your average café. While the menu spans many favourites—think well-executed classics and dessert options—the pricing skews slightly higher than budget eateries. On the upside, parking is ample, which adds to its convenience. 

Gilda @ Lorong Soo Hong, Georgetown, Penang.

Tucked into a refurbished warehouse on Soo Hong Lane, Gilda presents itself as an airy, modern dining destination in George Town. The warehouse-like space allows bright natural light to flood the space, creating a welcoming yet cozy spot for diners to explore their specially concocted flavor-combo. It is definitely a solid pick if you’re looking to step beyond casual bites and into a thoughtful dining experience in Penang. 

[Travel/ Food Guide] Itinerary to Hatyai & Songkhla, Thailand (合艾，泰国) 2025

Just a short three-hour drive from Penang, Hatyai has long been a favorite getaway for Malaysians. The city’s food scene continues to evolve— beyond the familiar Thai staples, you’ll now find a growing number of international eateries and a lively café culture. On this trip, we explored both Hatyai and neighbouring Songkhla, tasting our way through local favourites while checking out a few newer spots. In this post, I’m sharing some of the places we enjoyed for food as well as the hotels we stayed in—simply to document and hopefully help anyone planning a visit. 

1) The Second Hatyai

Address: 200, 13 Nipatuthit 2 Rd, Tambon Hat Yai, Amphoe Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand

Business Hours: 11 am to 10 pm. Opens Daily.

The Second Hatyai Facebook Page

Kopi Pasta Club @ Teluk Kumbar, Penang.

Nestled deep in a Malay fishing village at Teluk Kumbar, Kopi Pasta Club is a hidden seaside gem that might give drivers pause— those narrow alleys are not for SUVs or D-segment cars. But once you arrive, the relaxed village vibe meets ocean views in a charming waterside café atmosphere. The menu leans Western, specializing in pasta and homemade pizza alongside decent coffee offerings. Despite its tucked‑away location, it delivers good food at fair prices in a rustic, no‑fuss setting—perfect for unwinding after beach strolls or catching the sunset by the shore. 

Yesteryears Old Time Favorites Buffet Dinner @ Eastern & Oriental (E&O) Hotel Penang.

Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang is bringing back a taste of nostalgia with its Yesteryears Old Time Favorites Buffet Dinner, running for a limited time until the end of September. The spread takes inspiration from classic Malaysian favorites— think comforting dishes like Hainanese Chicken Pie, Hainanese Chicken Chop, and Penang Char Koay Teow— alongside the usual international offerings. Seafood lovers won’t be disappointed either, with a solid selection ranging from fresh Sashimi to poached Seafood on Ice. It’s a buffet that blends local heritage flavors with quality seafood highlights, making it a delightful option for those who want both familiarity and variety in one sitting.

Yesteryears Old Time Favorites Buffet Dinner

- 1 July 2025 to 30 September 2025 6:30 PM to 10 PM

- Sunday to Thursday: RM178 nett per adult & RM108 nett per senior citizen and child

- Friday and Saturday: RM198 nett per adult & RM128 nett per senior citizen and child

- Add RM188 nett for free flow of Wines, Beers and House Pouring Spirits

- Add RM388 nett for free flow of Prosecco, Wines, Beers and House Pouring Spirits

- For every 4 Paying Adults in a group, One person dines for FREE (Dine 4 Pay 3)

Many Thanks to E&O Hotel for hosting us. 

Moo Point Steaks @ Hutton Lane, Georgetown, Penang.

Located on Jalan Hutton in a beautifully restored heritage lot, Moo Point Steaks brings a modern, no-fuss steakhouse concept to Penang. Run by a couple returning from overseas, the menu is refreshingly straightforward: a variety of steaks—such as Angus ribeye and Wagyu sirloin—paired with their house-made sauces and thoughtfully crafted sides. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between lively and comfortable, with a communal dining table seating up to 10 people and a cozy upper floor for a more intimate steak experience. It’s a solid spot for relaxed, honest-to-goodness steak, without any pretense.

Many Thanks to Moo Point Steaks for hosting us.

Kenny Hills Bakers @ Penang Road, Georgetown, Penang.

Kenny Hills Bakers, a familiar name among Klang Valley’s café-goers, has recently made its way to Penang, bringing along its signature artisanal bakes and cozy ambiance. Strategically housed in a bungalow near upper Penang road in the heart of Georgetown, the interior exudes a rustic charm, with wooden furnishings and warm lighting creating an inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of options, from hearty mains to delicate pastries; though the prices lean towards higher end. Nevertheless, it is still a welcoming spot for both casual brunches and indulgent dessert sessions.

Hard Rock Hotel Penang Launches Golden Hour Grill at LEÑA at Pizzeria

Hard Rock Hotel Penang introduces Golden Hour Grill, a Saturday-only semi-buffet dinner at LEÑA at Pizzeria, available from July to September 2025. Featuring fire-crafted rotisserie meats and a rotating blackboard menu built on seasonal ingredients, the spread also includes stir-fry dishes, sushi, soups, breads, salads, and desserts. Priced at RM180 nett per adult, the open-air dinner comes with live band or DJ entertainment, making it a laid-back yet flavor-packed way to enjoy the Batu Ferringhi sea breeze.

Golden Hour Grill @ LEÑA at Pizzeria

• Every Saturday from Jul 2025 to Sep 2025 (6:30 PM to 10:00 PM)
• RM180 nett/adult and RM118 nett for children (aged 6 to 12 ) or senior citizens (above 60 years old)

Many Thanks to Hard Rock Hotel Penang for hosting us.

Alfresco Dining @ Island 88, Tanjung Tokong, Penang.

A new addition to Island 88, Alfresco Dining is the latest culinary venture by renowned Chef Petr Feher, a Czech-born chef whose impressive portfolio includes stints at E&O Hotel Penang, The Datai Langkawi, Siam Kempinski Bangkok, and Four Seasons Hotels around the globe.  

Bringing his years of international experience to the table, Chef Petr curates a menu that fuses Western and Asian flavors—featuring some of his all-time favorite creations. The concept here is modern yet casual, with a focus on serving quality food at accessible prices. One part of the space embraces an outdoorsy, laid-back ambiance, perfect for those looking to unwind with good food and a drink or two. 

Many Thanks to Alfresco Dining for hosting us.

The FOUNDERS Hutton @ Hutton Lane, Georgetown, Penang.

Housed in a restored Indo-Malay bungalow along Hutton Lane, The FOUNDERS Hutton offers a calm and inviting space for casual dining. The interior features a clean and modern design, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The place has been gaining popularity among locals for its laid-back atmosphere and versatile menu, which consists of a mix of Western and Asian-inspired dishes. Prices are reasonable, and the offerings are pork-free, making it suitable for Muslim diners. On weekends and public holidays, live band performances are held in the evening, adding a little extra to the overall dining experience.

SmokePapa BBQ @ Bishop Street, Georgetown, Penang.

From humble beginnings at a food court near Weld Quay back in 2018, SmokePapa BBQ has since found a new home at Bishop Street, continuing its mission of bringing Texas-style smoked barbecue to the heart of Penang. Helmed by Pitmaster Chef Hong, the restaurant focuses on barbecued meats done low and slow—its signature smoked ribs being a crowd favorite. The menu spans across various cuts, from poultry to heartier meats, all crafted with smoky depth and bold flavors. 

Many Thanks to SmokePapa BBQ for hosting us.

Peninsula House @ Beach Street, Georgetown, Penang.

Hidden in one of the heritage buildings along Beach Street, Peninsula House has been around for quite some time. Word of mouth has it that the place serves some really delicious Aussie-inspired dishes. On its official website- Peninsula House is a modern Aussie restaurant with casual contemporary Dining. Make your way up the stairs from the unassuming entrance (opposite to The Whiteaways Arcade) and you will be welcomed by a well-spaced, modern-casual restaurant with high ceiling... as well as fog machine setting the mysterious tone. They serve different menus for lunch and dinner, our visit was on a fine Saturday Noon. Not overly crowded but if you are visiting in a large group, early reservation is suggested. 

BreakX Cafe @ BreakX Hotel, Gelugor, Penang.

Housed in the newly opened BreakX Hotel at Bukit Dumbar or Udini (next to Stallion Apartment), BreakX Cafe is the in-house cafe under the hotel and it shares the same floor as the hotel lobby or check in concierge at Level 9. The cafe occupies half of the floor and offers a minimalist-chic interior decor in shades of grey. It is also a co-working space at the same time. The cafe offers a rather big menu, featuring both Western and Oriental dining options. Great ambiance with reasonable prices; a decent spot to enjoy a meal. At the time of writing- BreakX Hotel offers free parking at its multi-storey car park. 

Breath Cafe @ Tanjung Bungah, Penang.

A pet-friendly cafe hidden in the Lebuh Permai (Tanjung Bungah) neighborhood, Breath Cafe is a fairly new spot for the fur-kids to enjoy a leisure meal with the owners. It is easy to miss this place as the cafe is housed inside a residential bungalow without a huge signage. The facade makes it feel like entering someone's home but once inside, you will feel the warm-homey welcoming. There is limited food offering with a handful of main options; there are also some homemade desserts but subject to availability. More like a community cafe that serves the local neighborhood and a space that allows the paw pals to mingle around.