Sip and Savor in These 12 Fantastic Kopitiams in Penang!
I’ll never forget that time I was wandering around Penang as a teen, haggard from studying for my finals, desperately needing a caffeine fix and some fuel. That’s when I stumbled upon the wonderful world of kopitiams, and guys, it was love at first sip!
So, after a whirlwind tour (and a few jittery days), I’ve rounded up the absolute best kopitiam spots in Penang just for you! You gotta keep reading!
OO White Coffee Waterfall
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Address: 29 & 31, Jalan Gottlieb, 10350 George Town
Contact details: +6042263949
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 8:30 PM
Cost: $$
OO White Coffee Waterfall has this super rich and aromatic white coffee that people are always raving about. But drinks aren’t the only thing making waves here; their food menu is packed with all kinds of goodies too.
From classic toast with kaya and butter to hearty curry chicken, they’ve got your typical Kopitiam staples covered. Now, let’s talk about their must-tries. The nasi lemak here is a standout.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, go for the chicken popcorn; it’s perfectly crispy and comes with a tangy sauce that compliments it perfectly. And you can’t skip their various noodle dishes; trust me, the curry mee is an absolute treat.
Pro tip: OO White Coffee Waterfall tends to get quite busy, especially during breakfast hours. If you’re not a fan of waiting, try dropping by after the morning rush or in the late afternoon.
Bee Hwa Cafe
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Address: 10, Lebuh Dickens, George Town
Contact details: +60128540005
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 7 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $$
Okay, so Bee Hwa Cafe is this gem in George Town you’ve got to check out, especially if you’re a fan of halal Penang street food. They’re pretty famous for their char koay teow, probably because it’s fried to perfection—you know, all that smoky flavor.
They do mean Hokkien mee too—spicy, full of prawn flavor, and just so satisfying. Their menu offers a lot more than just the usual suspects.
The pasembur here is another must-try, with crunchy prawn fritters and a rich peanut sauce. And for something a bit different, the mee goreng mamak is packed with flavor and comes with all the trimmings you’d expect.
Pro tip: Space is limited, so if you can’t snag a table, try ordering takeout and enjoying your food at the nearby park or Esplanade. It’s quality street food at a great location.
Genting Cafe
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Address: Lorong Delima 3, Taman Island Glades
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $$
Genting Cafe is particularly known for their super affordable and delicious traditional Malaysian breakfast options. Their chee cheong fun is incredibly popular; those silky smooth rice noodle rolls drenched in a savory sweet sauce are always a crowd-pleaser.
You won’t go hungry with the variety on offer here. Their Penang laksa is also pretty legendary, coming with this tangy, fish-based soup that’s full of punchy flavors.
If you’re in the mood for some classic, no-fail spring rolls or even some richly flavored curry mee, Genting has you covered. Oh, and don’t sleep on their roti babi—these deep-fried pork-stuffed rolls are to die for.
Pro tip: This place gets seriously busy, especially on weekends. If you’re planning a weekend visit, it’s best to go early in the morning to grab a seat and avoid the lines.
GoodTaste Kopitiam Penang
— Media credit: goodtastekopitiam.penang
Address: 18, Lebuh Dickens, George Town
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: Monday and Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $$
GoodTaste Kopitiam Penang, tucked away on Lebuh Dickens, is another jewel you shouldn’t miss. They’ve built a solid reputation for whipping up fantastic traditional kopi and kaya toast that’s as comforting as it gets.
But seriously, the stars here are their extensive menu options that can take you from breakfast to dinner without missing a beat. Here’s what you gotta try: their bak kut teh is a soulful bowl—it’s herbal, hearty, and just what you need on a rainy day.
Also, their char koay teow is packed with flavor and seafood, truly making the dish sing. If you’re swinging by for breakfast, their soft-boiled eggs and kaya toast are the classic combo you never knew you needed.
Pro tip: GoodTaste Kopitiam is a hidden gem and could easily be overlooked, so keep an eye out for it when you’re in the area. Also, they don’t open super early, so it’s perfect for a late breakfast or brunch session.
Kheng Pin Cafe
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Address: 80, Jln Penang, George Town
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 7 AM to 1:30 PM
Cost: $$
Kheng Pin Cafe is all about classic Penang street food that hits all the right notes without trying too hard. The star here has to be their loh bak—think marinated pork roll wrapped in bean curd skin.
They also serve a mean curry mee—a spicy noodle soup that’s bursting with coconut flavor, shrimp, and a healthy dose of chili paste. And don’t sleep on their super tasty Hainanese chicken rice or char koay teow either.
One thing to look out for—if you’re there early in the morning or around brunch time, you’re probably going to see a line. But trust me, it moves fast and is totally worth the wait.
Pro tip: Heads up! Space is somewhat limited, so you might be sharing your table with fellow foodies.
To get the best experience, aim to visit either early in the morning or just before they close in the afternoon to avoid the heavy crowds and get a more personalized service.
Luan Fong Kopitiam
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Address: 17, Lorong Bagan Luar 3, Bagan Luar, 12000 Butterworth
Contact details: +60124094042
Operating hours: Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $$
Luan Fong Kopitiam is a dream come true for toast and coffee lovers. Their kaya toast is a must-try—slathered with their house-made kaya and a generous pat of butter.
Pair this with their robust, aromatic coffee, and you’re all set for a great start to your day or an afternoon pick-me-up. Outside of toast and coffee, Luan Fong also excels at serving traditional Malaysian breakfast items.
Their nasi lemak is a local favorite, so if you’re in the mood for something more substantial, go for that.
Pro tip: Mornings and lunch hours can get packed quickly, so arrive a bit early if you don’t want to wait. They open super early, so it’s perfect for those early risers looking for a solid breakfast.
Bring cash because they don’t accept cards.
Seng Thor Coffee Shop
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Address: 160, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town
Contact details: +601128595624
Operating hours: Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 7 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $$
Known primarily for its Hokkien Mee, Seng Thor Coffee Shop is where you go when you’re craving a bowl of hot, savory soup filled with prawns, eggs, and noodles. It’s a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect at any time of the day.
In addition to the Hokkien Mee, you won’t want to miss out on their classic Penang-style char koay teow—stir-fried noodles with prawns, eggs, bean sprouts, and Chinese sausages.
They also have a good selection of dim sum, if you’re in the mood for a more varied breakfast.
Pro tip: Because of its well-known food offerings, Seng Thor can get crowded, especially during the breakfast rush. And parking around the area can be a bit tricky, so plan accordingly.
Dong Guan Kopitam
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Address: 16, Jalan Irrawaddi
Contact details: +6046887197
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $$
Dong Guan Kopitiam is a favorite among locals for its wide range of delectable offerings. Known especially for its traditional kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs, this cafe is perfect for those who appreciate the classic Kopitiam experience.
Beyond the usual suspects of kaya toast and coffee, Dong Guan offers quite a spread. You’ve got to try their nasi lemak, or if you’re into something more savory, aim for their mee siam.
Pro tip: Don’t be surprised if it gets a bit hectic during meal times; this place has a loyal local following. However, the service is quick and efficient, so you won’t be waiting long to get your food.
Just remember, seating is limited and tends to fill up fast.
Kim Seng Kopitiam
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Address: 20, Jln Sungai Air Putih, Bandar Baru Air Putih
Contact details: +60124286235
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 4 PM
Cost: $$
Kim Seng Kopitiam is full of delights, especially their Hainanese chicken rice and curry laksa, which are both absolute must-tries. They also do a great toast and egg set, which works wonders if you’re there for a light breakfast or brunch.
For drinks, their kopi is exactly what you need to start your day—or any time you need a caffeine boost, really. If you’re not in the mood for coffee, their selection of teas and other beverages is also excellent.
They also have options like noodles and various rice dishes, so there’s practically something for everyone to enjoy here.
Pro tip: Make sure you head there early in the morning to avoid the crowd and snatch the best freshly baked items before they run out.
Sungai Ara Kopitiam
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Address: 2G, 1, Tingkat Kenari 6, taman Desaria
Contact details: +60165558543
Operating hours: Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Cost: $$
If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of traditional and modern, Sungai Ara Kopitiam should be on your list. Their nasi lemak is a crowd favorite here, along with a variety of seafood dishes.
They also do a killer prawn mee—it’s flavorful and full of succulent prawns. Drink-wise, you won’t be disappointed either.
Their iced Milo is incredibly satisfying, especially on a hot day. The kopi ais is another great option, a smooth and refreshing pick-me-up.
Pro tip: You’ll want to check out their nightly specials, which often include seafood options like grilled fish or squid.
The place gets pretty busy, especially during lunchtime, so if you’re in a hurry, call in advance to place your order for takeout.
Lok Kee Kopitiam
— Media credit: zhen_hochiak
Address: 19, Jalan Chow Thye, George Town
Contact details: +60175231523
Operating hours:
- Monday – 7:30 AM to 4 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 7:30 AM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 7:30 AM to 12 AM
Cost: $$
Talking about Lok Kee Kopitiam is such a joy because it’s a place that marries heritage and taste perfectly. Their laksa is one of the best you will ever have—tangy, spicy, and incredibly delicious.
Their char kway teow also deserves a spotlight, with its smoky flavor and generous servings of prawns and Chinese sausage. You can’t go wrong with their dim sum either; ranging from siew mai to har gow, each bite is just an explosion of flavors.
On the beverage front, their herbal teas are worth your attention. They also make a really good iced coffee that pairs well with their kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs.
Pro tip: While you’re there, don’t miss out on trying their daily soup specials. These are often packed with nourishing ingredients and really hit the spot.
The place is a bit of a hidden gem located off the busier streets, so look out for its subtle signage.
Khim Kuih Kopitiam
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Address: 122E, Jalan Hutton, George Town
Contact details: +60175463045
Operating hours: Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
Cost: $$
When it comes to Khim Kuih Kopitiam, just know that their menu reads like a greatest hits collection of Penang cuisine. Laksa and Hokkien mee are staples here, and they do them exceptionally well.
But it’s not just about noodles here. Their range of steamed buns—char siew bao and lotus paste bao—are popular for a reason.
Moreover, the selection of snacks here is just as impressive, with items like yam cake, lor bak, as well as bento boxes. If you’re headed there for breakfast, the toast with kaya and butter, along with the half-boiled eggs, is a local favorite.
Pro tip: This place tends to fill up quickly, but if you arrive just before lunchtime, you’re more likely to find a good spot and a more extensive menu selection before the lunchtime rush.