Top 10 Hipster Cafés in Penang

Top 10 Hipster Cafés in Penang
Image Credit: Macallum Connoisseurs Facebook

Penang is a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike – for the rich heritage and lovely sights. Thus, it’s not surprising that many hipster cafes have popped up on the island of late, celebrating the best that Penang has to offer. If you have decided on a trip there, drop in and visit one of these Top 10 Hipster Cafés in Penang to unleash your inner hipster.


1) The Mugshot Café

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This café is located on Chulia Street, Georgetown. This lovely café claims to have the best bagels in Georgetown, so that is a must try for sure! Interior wise, it is charming indeed, with that vintage shophouse feel still very much intact – perfect for your next Instagram shot. This is definitely a good choice for a quick breakfast pit-stop or a tea-time stopover.

FB: themugshotcafepenang

2) China House

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Social media addicts are bound to recognize China House – a legend in its own right. Located on Beach Street, they are most known for their astonishing array of cakes, all laid out in the prettiest fashion for everyone to see. But they’re more than just a place to get your sweet tooth satisfied, the huge space houses several shops, cafes, restaurants, galleries and even a theatre, and it’s all comprised of 3 heritage buildings.

chinahouse.com.my | FB: ChinaHousePenang | IG: @chinahousemy

3) Macallum Connoisseurs

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Coffee lovers will appreciate Macallum, which not only brews up a good cuppa, but houses a coffee academy and roastery too! If you need more than a caffeine fix, fret not. Macallum also dishes up some yummy meals and sweet treats that they promise are definitely Insta-worthy. Head on over to Gat Lebuh Macallum and try it for yourself.

FB: Macallum | IG: @macallumcoffee

4) PIK NIK

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For those who prefer their hang outs to last a little longer, PIK NIK can indulge. They open at 3pm and close at the stroke of midnight (1 am on Fridays and Saturdays), making it a great hangout spot for after-work get-togethers. A popular hangout spot for Penangites, PIK NIK serves up delicious food as well as fresh coffee, cold beers, and feel good music to help you unwind.

FB: PIKNIKEVERYDAY | IG: @piknikeveryday

5) Awesome Canteen at Sekeping Victoria

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Awesome Canteen has its origins in Petaling Jaya, but recently expanded to the Pearl of the Orient. And so it was that Sekeping Victoria became home to yet another Awesome Canteen. Here, you’ll find pork-free paleo inspired meals for the health-conscious Malaysian. You will be able to order burgers, Japanese dons, and sip on specialty coffee in this gorgeous location.

FB: awesomecanteenpg | IG: @awesome_canteen

6) The Alley Café

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As the name suggests, The Alley Café is pretty unassumingly tucked away on the quiet Stewart Lane street. They are known for their churros and cheesecakes, best paired with a cup of steaming hot coffee. The Alley Café is open daily, from 12 noon until midnight, meaning you have ample time to slot in a visit here.

FB: thealleypenang | IG: @thealleypenang

7) The Safe Room

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Lovers, rejoice. Love locks have been seen in many countries all over the world, where couple solidify their unions by getting a lock together that remains at a certain location. Penang has their very own version at The Safe Room. So come for the food (liquid nitrogen desserts available!) and drinks and before you leave don’t forget to hang up a lock of love on their Love Lock Tree.

FB: thesaferoompenang | IG: @thesaferoom_penang

8) Behind 50. Love Lane

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If you’ve ever wanted to experience Penang during a simpler time, this is the closest you’ll get to a time machine. With retro decorations and interior design, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a past era. They have a selection of meal options and beverages to choose from. This café is located at the junction of Love Lane and Muntri Street.

FB: Behind50LoveLane

9) The Big Fat Hen

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For hearty comfort food in a welcoming space, head on over to The Big Fat Hen at Jalan Bawasah. Besides providing a space for people to relax and unwind over a hot meal or delicious beverage, this café also supports Penang’s diverse art scene, with live performances by local musicians on weekends.

FB: bigfathen | IG: @thebigfathen_tbfh

10) The Twelve Cups

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If you like crepes, both sweet and savoury, then The Twelve Cups should be on your list to visit. If you have a heftier appetite, worry not, they also have other dishes on offer, like pastas, sandwiches and their brunch all day meals, that are sure to keep you full and happy. Check them out at The Whiteaways Arcade on Beach Street.

FB: TheTwelveCups | IG: @thetwelvecups

That’s not all! More Top 10s in Malaysia are waiting to be discovered!


The compilation of this list was made from accumulation of Public Votes on TallyPress.com.

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