SmartDory’s Penang Breakfast Guide invites tourists and visitors to sample the island’s best offerings.
My eyes light up whenever I travel and mention that Penang is my hometown.
If I bring up an eating trip to Penang, the smiles on people’s faces broaden to grins.
George Town began as a port and is now a dynamic city renowned for its diverse street food.
Penang food is a delicious culinary experience, with different cultural influences stirred into its literal ‘melting pot.’
Recognized as the birthplace of Malaysian street food, Penang has been voted the best in the world.
In 2014, Lonely Planet ranked Penang as the #1 Best Food Destination.
Huffington Post also named Penang Char Koay Teow one of the must-try dishes in the world in 2016.
Penang’s food culture blends traditional Malay, Chinese, Indian, Nyonya, and British cuisines.
You can enjoy this diverse cuisine in food courts, hawker centers, and Kopitiam (Chinese coffee shops) around George Town.
Start Your Day Right With A Penang Breakfast [2024 Guide]
Whether you are in the mood for traditional Kopitiam fare, Western-style Breakfast, or halal food, Penang has a wide variety of delicious breakfast options that will satisfy any palate.
In this article, we’ll list the best places to find each type of Breakfast in Penang.
Travel tips: Don’t just stick to your hotel breakfast or room service when there’s so much to eat in Penang.
We’ll look at the options available and include Kopitiam, Western, Halal, and Vegetarian food that you can try.
Take a look at these options on where to go!
The best Breakfast in Penang is at the wet markets where the locals hang out.
Here are the top 5 Penang Breakfast places with Local, Western & Halal Options!
A. Wet Market Breakfast
B. Kopitiam Breakfast
C. Western Big Breakfast
D. Halal Breakfast
E. Vegetarian Breakfast
Discover the top breakfast spots in Penang, offering a variety of options including kopitiam classics, Western dishes, and halal cuisine
A. Wet Market Breakfast
If you want to experience the daily life of Penang locals, head to one of the city’s wet markets.
Air Itam Market, Chowrasta Market, and Pulau Tikus Market are some of the best.
These markets are bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, and spices.
But what makes them truly special are the hawker stalls serving delicious, authentic (and cheap) Penang food.
From the classic Penang Hokkien Mee to Char Koay Teow, Curry Mee, Apom, and Western Breakfast sets, these stalls present the taste of Penang’s diverse culinary heritage.
Penang’s wet markets offer a unique and flavorful dining experience. You will enjoy a vibrant world of hawker food.
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Chowrasta Market
Chowrasta Market is a bustling wet market in the heart of George Town, known for its greenery and Chinese and Indian spices.
Divided into two sections, the wet market vendors sell everything from fresh produce to live poultry.
The stalls on the side facing Penang Road offer interesting local Penang food and snacks.
Hidden in Jalan Chowrasta is a small open-air food court.
Further along Jalan Kuala Kangsar and Jalan Kimberly, Chinese Kopitiams sell fresh noodles.
There are Indian Muslim warungs and pushcart stalls on Jalan Tamil.
Despite being a wet market, the complex is clean and spacious.
It is a great place to watch and try local food while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.
Lot 124, Jalan Penang, 10100 George Town, Penang
Hours: 6.30 AM – 6.00 PM daily.
Local shoppers bustle through Chowrasta Market, buying fresh produce, household goods, and clothing
Air Itam Market
A trip to Kek Lok Si Temple isn’t complete without trying the famous Air Itam Assam Laksa.
If you’re up for a challenge, visit Ayer Itam Market.
This bustling street market is at the junction of Jalan Air Itam and Jalan Pasar.
It offers a variety of daily provisions, but arrive early.
Most shops close before noon.
Food options include the famed Air Itam Market Duck Rice and a small hawker center.
Here you will find the noteworthy Laksa Bisu and Char Kway Teow.
If you venture further, you’ll discover Sisters Curry Mee and a stall selling delicious Char Siew (Honey BBQ Pork).
Don’t miss these delicious breakfast spots in Penang!
Tip: If you’re in the area, stop before going to the Kek Lok Si Temple or go after your visit. Along the way, shops sell hats, clothes, and souvenirs.
Jalan Air Itam, Air Itam, 11500, Penang, Malaysia
Hours: 7.00 AM – 12.00 PM daily.
Pulau Tikus Market
The wet community market in Pulau Tikus is a bustling hub in Penang.
Inside, you’ll find a hidden food court offering Koay Teow Th’ng, Wantan Mee, Western breakfast, Char Koay Kak, and soya milk.
Enjoy freshly roasted Char Siu and Sio Bak, along with many pushcart stalls selling Nyonya home-cooked dishes and snacks.
It’s a great place to sample Penang’s culinary delights!
Address: 3, Jalan Pasar, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Penang
Hours: 6.00 AM – 2.30 PM daily.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Pulau Tikus Market in Penang, known for its delicious breakfast options.
B. Kopitiam Breakfast
As the sun rises over George Town’s charming streets, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air.
The irresistible smell of Char Kway Teow catches your attention.
The bustling streets offer many breakfast options, including traditional Chinese Kopitiam dating back to the early 20th century.
These coffee shops provide a variety of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines.
You can enjoy classic Roti Bakar with soft-boiled eggs.
There’s also packed Nasi Lemak and Kuih.
To help you find the best breakfast spots in Penang, here are the top Kopitiam.
These old-style Chinese coffee shops offer a slice of the local lifestyle.
They have a nostalgic and charming ambiance, and everyone is welcome to eat and share tables.
Whether you like hearty noodle dishes or classic Roti Bakar, there’s something for everyone.
And remember to accompany your Penang morning eats with the best cup of Kopi O!
Kheng Pin Cafe
For an authentic Penang breakfast, step into Kheng Pin Cafe, a coffee shop established in 1930.
The Kopitiam offers a range of traditional Hainanese and Chinese breakfast dishes.
Famous stalls include Lor Bak, Hainanese Chicken Rice, and crispy Roti Bakar with Kaya, Butter, and Eggs.
The cafe’s old-school atmosphere and affordable prices have made it a firm favorite for locals and visitors.
Kheng Pin Cafe is a gem for a satisfying Penang Food Culture experience!
80, Jalan Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Penang.
Hours: 7 AM–1:30 PM (closed Mondays & Tuesdays
Bee Hwa Cafe
Bee Hwa Cafe is a popular halal-friendly Hainanese-style Kopitiam.
It introduced a pork-free menu in 1992 to cater to Muslim visitors.
With over 20 items on the menu, signature dishes include Penang Hokkien Mee made with halal chicken stock.
The cafe has an old-school atmosphere.
Customers of all races enjoy a sense of camaraderie here.
It’s a lovely breakfast spot in George Town.
Muslims looking to experience authentic Chinese hawker food can try the food here.
Opening hours Mon-Sat; 7 AM-3 PM
Address 10, Lebuh Dickens, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Bee Hwa Cafe in Penang, known for its delicious local dishes
Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant
If you want something different, head to Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant.
Join the locals for an Indian-style breakfast.
Delicious Dosas and soft, fluffy idlis are breakfast favorites.
Devour these with flavorful chutneys and curries.
The Masala Dosa, which is served with spicy potato filling, is popular among the locals.
You can also try the Vada, a savory donut-shaped snack made from lentil batter.
The restaurant is entirely vegetarian.
It is an excellent option for halal or vegetarian breakfasts.
Order a Masala Tea or Bru Coffee to wash it all down.
60 Lebuh Penang, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang
Hours: 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant offers a diverse range of vegetarian dishes
C. Western Big Breakfast
Penang offers a range of Western breakfast options, from Kopitiam Weatern to early morning cafes.
For a satisfying brunch, consider a Full American Breakfast.
Craving a large portion of eggs, breakfast meats, potatoes, pancakes, or waffles?
You’ll find it all in Penang!
The culinary scene is diverse, with various cultural influences providing plenty of breakfast choices.
Depending on your mood, you can enjoy a Big Breakfast, innovative fusion creations, or something in between.
If you’re starving in the mornings, these cafes have filling options perfect for brunch.
Check out our shortlist of Penang breakfast spots below!
Wheeler’s Coffee
WHEELER’S Big Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, chicken and mushroom jumbo sausage, hash browns, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, mixed salad, and sourdough bread with butter.
Address: 67, Lorong Love, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Monday, Thursday – Sunday); Closed (Tuesday & Wednesday)
Enjoy the cozy ambiance of WHEELERS Cafe on Love Lane.
PACE Coffee
PACE Breakfast includes eggs, smoked salmon, English sausage, hash browns, and bolognese sauce served with toast and greens.
Address: 397 Beach St, 10300 George Town, Penang
Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday – Tuesday, Thursday – Friday); 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Saturday – Sunday); Closed (Wednesday)
Experience the contemporary vibes of PACE Coffee on Beach Street.
Daily Dose
The Big Breakfast dose here comprises sausages, bacon, beans, toast, egg, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and mashed potatoes.
Address: 36, Stewart Lane, 10200 George Town, Penang
Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Monday); 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Wednesday – Sunday); Closed (Tuesday)
D. Halal Breakfast
Penang is a halal food lover’s paradise.
It offers plenty of halal breakfast options for Muslim visitors.
There’s something for everyone, from traditional Malay dishes to Mamak and Nasi Kandar.
Let’s check out the Penang breakfast spots for halal-friendly eateries.
Get ready to start your day off right with delicious halal food!
Astaka Tun Sardon
Astaka Tun Sardon is a great halal breakfast spot in Penang.
If you’re driving to Penang, this is a must-visit.
Before heading to George Town or the beach, stop here for breakfast.
The hawker center offers a delicious range of traditional Malay dishes, from Nasi Lemak to Roti Canai.
There is even a halal Chinese food section here.
It’s the perfect first stop after crossing the Penang Bridge.
Address: Taman Tun Sardon, 11700 Gelugor, Penang
Hours: 6:00 AM – noon
Astaka Tun Sardon, a popular halal food court destination in Penang
Ali Ameir Nasi Kandar
Penangites enjoy a hearty Nasi Kandar breakfast, and I kid you not!
You’ll find regulars heading to this popular halal breakfast spot for delicious Malay-Indian cuisine.
The menu features classic dishes like Nasi Kandar, Roti Canai, and Murtabak.
Regulars love the variety of flavorful curries, perfect for dipping your Roti.
Address: 569, Jalan Jelutong, 11600 Jelutong, Penang
Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM, 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Roti Chapati Lebuh Queen
If you’re looking for a tasty and affordable halal breakfast in Penang, visit Roti Chapati Lebuh Queen.
This small stall serves delicious Roti Chapati.
It’s a thin, crispy flatbread perfect for dipping in flavorful curries.
With prices starting at just a few ringgit, it’s a great option for a quick and satisfying breakfast in Penang.
Address: 41 Queen St, 10200 George Town, Penang (Located in Penang’s Little India)
Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
E. Vegetarian Breakfast
Finding a breakfast spot with delicious and filling options can be challenging for vegetarians.
However, with more people embracing a plant-based diet, many Penang breakfast spots cater to vegetarians.
Vegetarian breakfast options are becoming more diverse and creative.
You can enjoy classic dishes like eggs and toast.
There are also innovative plant-based creations.
Whether you’ve been a vegetarian or just exploring meat-free possibilities, you’ll find plenty of delicious Vegetarian Restaurants in Penang.
Evergreen Vegetarian House 长青素食之家
Evergreen Vegetarian House offers an extensive buffet featuring over 30 delectable dishes.
Their spread includes various options.
You’ll find veggie curries, fried noodles, and dumplings.
There are also mock meats and tofu dishes. Enjoy steam-stuffed bread and noodle soups.
A selection of prepackaged items is available too.
With such a diverse array of vegetarian delights, there’s something to please every palate here.
Enjoy a garlic- and onion-free dining experience with self-service, where you pay by weight or plate size.
The friendly staff is ready to assist, and you may find unlabelled vegan dishes to try.
39-A Cantonment Road, 10250 Penang.
Mon – Tue 7.30 AM – 8.00 PM, Thu – Sun 7.30 AM – 8.00 PM
Ee Beng Vegetarian Food 毅明素食
The Penang restaurant serves traditional Chinese meals.
You can enjoy an economical rice buffet.
There are various types of fried mee and fried rice.
The menu also features a wide choice of steam buns and banana leaf curry.
Additionally, there is a selection of beverages available.
20 Lebuh Dickens, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Hours: Mon-Sat 7.00 AM – 8.00 PM
Jian Jian Vegetarian Food
Vegetarian shop with two vegetarian stalls.
One stall offers an a la carte menu with various noodles and rice dishes; the other is Economy Rice, bao (dough), and noodle soups.
Address: 58, Lebuh Tye Sin, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang.
Hours: 7.00 AM – 2.00 PM
Jian Jian Vegetarian Food, a popular eatery in George Town, Penang
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip to Penang, don’t miss the unique culinary experience of a Penang breakfast.
The options are diverse, ranging from traditional Kopitiam breakfasts to Western-style fare.
Whether you prefer halal or vegetarian food, there’s something for everyone.
Indulge in a savory packet of Nasi Lemak or crispy Roti Canai, washed down with a Teh Tarik.
If you have a sweet tooth, try a dessert breakfast of Kuih Ketayap or Kuih Talam.
For those craving a heartier meal, Penang Curry Mee is a must.
This spicy, coconut noodle soup is filled with various toppings.
Delicious Penang breakfast options are available at every corner.
These meals will energize visitors to Penang for a great day ahead.
Of course, no local breakfast in Penang is complete without a cup of kopi O or Teh Tarik to kickstart your morning.
Whether you’re a foodie or just in search of a tasty breakfast, explore Penang’s best breakfast dishes.
Experience the vibrant local food culture on your next visit!
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