Astaka Kota Selera Returns with Penang Favourites

Astaka Kota Selera used to go by the name Esplanade Park Food Court before its glow-up.

If you grew up in Penang, you probably remember it as the place for Mee Sotong, after-school snacks and cheap eats by the sea.

I still remember eating there in the 70s when I was knee-high to a grasshopper.

We Baby Boomers didn’t make a fuss about it back then.

It was just there.

Reliable, familiar and part of the everyday.

Now it’s back, and it looks completely refreshed.

Astaka Kota Selera officially reopened on June 2. It feels modern, brighter and much cleaner, yet it hasn’t forgotten its roots.

Heritage Meets Modern Simplicity

The space feels fresh but still familiar.

It’s simple, clean and easy to walk through.

The floor is even now, so there’s no need to skip over puddles like before.

One of the nicest touches is the use of red brick.

It clearly takes inspiration from the old Fort Cornwallis walls nearby.

That small detail helps tie the space back to the area’s heritage.

The old tree in the centre is still there, standing tall and thriving.

It adds shade, character and a sense of continuity.

You can sit under it and look out over the green lawn, with the colonial Penang City Hall just beyond.

You might even catch a sea breeze.

It’s only steps from George Town, yet somehow it feels quiet and tucked away.

Looks Great but It Gets Hot

The new design looks good, but the lower ceiling tends to trap heat.

It feels warmer compared to more open layouts like New World Park and Food Baynana.

That said, it’s understandable.

The architect kept the height low to stay in line with the height of the Fort Cornwallis next door.

 

It’s a thoughtful gesture to be a good neighbour, even if it means sacrificing some ventilation.

Ceiling fans are in place, but they only help if you’re seated right beneath one.

The kitchen crews have it worse.

It’s hot and humid all day.

One fix could be to allow parts of the glass roof to open.

That might help the heat escape and bring better airflow.

Clean, Accessible and Thoughtful

The facilities are solid.

There are proper ramps for OKU users, so it’s easier for wheelchair users and the elderly to move around.

Toilets are clean.

There’s also a surau.

Small things that make the place more welcoming for everyone.

Travel Tip: Take note that you still need to pay to use the toilets.

What to Eat at Astaka Kota Selera?

Good food is still the main reason many stop by for a meal.

Some of the best-loved stalls are back, still dishing out crowd favourites.

• Hameed Pata Mee Sotong is spicy, sweet and still one of the best in Penang. That sticky sauce hits all the right notes.
• Coconut Shake is cold, creamy and perfect after a hot walk by the sea.
• Nasi Ayam Hainan is everything you want it to be—simple, comforting and satisfying.
• Ayam Golek is smoky, juicy and packed with flavour.
• Pasembur and a cup of strong, local kopi round things off nicely.
• Western and Hainanese food for families or when you want something familiar and fuss-free.

I didn’t get around to trying every stall.

I was mostly hunting down my usual favourites.

There’s nothing fancy here.

Just food that’s easy to enjoy and fairly priced.

Why It’s Worth Visiting?

You’re right beside the Esplanade Seaside Heritage Trail.

There’s a steady sea breeze with colonial landmarks nearby.

And now a clean, refreshed food court to enjoy it all.

Astaka Kota Selera still has its old charm.

The update feels respectful.

It keeps what mattered, fixes what didn’t and makes room for new memories.

Bring your friends.

Bring the kids. Grand kids.

Or just drop by for a cup of Kopi O and a chit-chat with your old buddies.

I saw quite a few Baby Boomers doing just that.

It’s that kind of place.

A local hangout that feels familiar again.

Astaka Kota Selera
Jalan Padang Kota Lama
George Town, 10450 George Town
Pulau Pinang

Business Hours
Open: 11.00 AM to 8.00 PM
Closed on Sundays

Blog Disclosure: This blog is written independently. No compensation, such as free meals, monetary payment, or services, has been received from featured establishments. These are some of the old places that the editor likes to buy favorite food in Penang.