Café Alert: The Best Cafes in Penang You Need to Visit in 2025
Café hoppers, this one’s brewed just for you.
Love finding latte spots before they blow up?
This 2025 Penang cafe guide is made for you.
Here’s where to go now for Instagrammable cafes in Penang, strong coffee, and photo-worthy cake.
Plus, some helpful tips for ordering like a pro—even if the café just opened last week.
Contents
Dior Café – Macalister Mansion
📍 Macalister Mansion, George Town, Penang
The Café That Had Penang Talking
For a month in 2025, Dior Café became the most talked-about spot in town.
From 13 June to 11 August, this pop-up at Macalister Mansion drew crowds eager for fashion, coffee, and Instagram-worthy moments.
Expect pink-hued lattes, designer pastries, and a vibe that felt straight out of the Dioriviera world.
Every table was filled, every angle curated, and every latte photographed.
The lavender latte and strawberry mille-feuille weren’t just pretty—they tasted as dreamy as they looked.
This café wasn’t just a place to sip coffee—it was an experience, a month-long buzz that Penang still remembers fondly.
Would you order this?
Alunan Rasa – Bayan Lepas
📍Setia Triangle, Bayan Baru, Penang
The New Café Taking Bayan Baru by Storm
Looking for a brunch spot that balances calm vibes with bold flavours?
Alunan Rasa is the café everyone’s talking about.
The space is airy and bright, with cozy corners that make each meal feel like a mini escape.
Some spots catch the morning sun perfectly, ideal for a quiet coffee or catching up with a friend.
Plates are thoughtfully assembled but never fussy.
The menu changes frequently, so asking the staff what’s fresh is always worth it.
The Sambal Butter Chicken Toast has become a must-try—comfort food with just the right kick.
☁️ Whether you’re reading, chatting, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, it’s a calm oasis—but arrive early. This café is packed daily.
Perfect for new cafe hunters in Penang.
Brunch, coffee, and Instagram-worthy corners all in one spot.
Roots Dessert Bar – George Town
📍 Jalan Pintal Tali, George Town, Penang
The Playful Dessert Café Everyone’s Talking About
Looking for dessert that makes you grin from the first bite? Roots Dessert Bar is your spot.
Fun, cheeky, and creative, it balances sweet treats with surprising savoury options.
The Smoked Duck Carbonara is rich and indulgent—a perfect example of why this café stands out.
🎈 Grab a window seat for the best natural light.
The shophouse setting in George Town’s UNESCO heritage zone adds charm and character to every visit.
Desserts here are playful.
The Watermelon Sponge looks like fresh fruit but tastes like soft, fluffy cake.
The Garlic Pull-Apart Bread is perfect for sharing—or sneaking a few pieces on your own.
Roots is more than a dessert bar—it’s a spot where creativity meets flavour.
And every visit feels like a small adventure in George Town.
Talk Talk Kopi @ Sunshine Central Mall
📍 Sunshine Central Mall, Jalan Thean Teik, Ayer Itam, Penang
Looking for a modern kopitiam that hits all the right notes?
This is it.
Talk Talk Kopi brings classic Malaysian flavours to the table—with a modern twist.
Think crispy cucur udang, Roti Bakar with butter and kaya, Ramen Udang, and smooth, aromatic kopi.
The vibe?
Cozy and welcoming with booth seats and warm smiles—it feels like home, even in the middle of the mall.
If you’re unsure what to order: Start with a cup of hot or iced Talk Talk Kopi.
Then pair it with Cucur Udang or Sambal Udang Toast for a nostalgic, flavour-packed bite.
🍲 Comfort food that feels familiar, rich kopi that hits the spot, and a space where everyone feels welcome. Bring an appetite.
dré Penang – George Town
Chocolate lovers, this one’s made for you.
Dré Coklat brings rich, bold cocoa to the table—with a few curveballs.
Think laksa pizza, chocolate croissants, and Sarawak-style drinks.
The vibe? Cool and industrial but cozy enough for a long chat.
If you’re unsure what to order: Start with the classic ganache hot drink.
Then ask the staff for something unique—they love sharing their off-menu favs.
🍫 Smells like heaven. Tastes like home. Bring a sweet tooth.
Final Sip
Still scrolling? You’ve got good taste.
These new cafes in Penang 2025 are more than pretty pictures.
They bring new ideas, cozy spaces, and a sense of discovery to the café scene.
Here for the coffee, the cakes, or just the vibe, this list gives you a solid place to start.
Want more local food finds?
Check back soon or follow our trail of caffeine crumbs—there’s always something new brewing in Penang.
