A Penang breakfast is an opportunity for tourists and visitors to sample the best of what the island has to offer.
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 is a fusion of traditional Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine, including Nyonya, British influences, and other cultures.
You can enjoy this diverse cuisine in food courts, hawker centers, and Kopitiam (Chinese coffee shops) around George Town.
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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.
If you want a unique and flavorful dining experience, Penang’s wet markets present a vibrant and memorable world of hawker food you will enjoy.
#1. 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
#2. Air Itam Market
A Kek Lok Si Temple trip is only complete with trying the famous Air Itam Assam Laksa.
If you’re up for a challenge and are okay with dodging traffic, visiting Ayer Itam Market is a must-do.
The street market at the junction of Jalan Air Itam and Jalan Pasar offers a variety of daily provisions, but be sure to arrive early as most shops close before noon.
Food options include the famed Air Itam Market Duck Rice and a small hawker center with noteworthy Laksa Bisu and Char Kway Teow.
If you venture further, you’ll find the famed Sisters Curry Mee and a stall that sells delicious char siew (roast pork).
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.
#3. Pulau Tikus Market
The wet community market is in Pulau Tikus, a bustling suburb in Penang.
There is a small hidden food court with Koay Teow Th’ng, Wantan Mee, Western Breakfast, Char Koay Kak, and Soya Milk.
There’s freshly roasted Char Siu and Sio Bak and many pushcart stalls selling Nyonya home-cooked dishes and snacks, making it 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, and 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 offer a variety of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines, from classic Roti Bakar to packed Nasi Lemak and Kuih.
To help you find the best breakfast spots, here are the top Kopitiams in Penang.
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 prefer hearty noodle dishes or classic favorites like Roti Bakar, there is something to suit every palate.
And remember to accompany your Penang breakfast with the best cup of Kopi O!
#1. Kheng Pin Cafe
For an authentic Penang Kopitiam experience, step into Kheng Pin Cafe, a coffee shop established in 1930.
The cafe offers a range of traditional Hainanese and Chinese breakfast dishes.
Famous stalls are the 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 breakfast experience.
80, Jalan Penang, George Town, 10000 George Town, Penang.
Hours: 7 AM–1:30 PM (closed Mondays & Tuesdays
#2. Bee Hwa Cafe
Bee Hwa Cafe is a popular halal-friendly Hainanese-style Kopitiam that introduced a pork-free menu in 1992 to cater to Muslim visitors.
With over 20 items on the menu, signature dishes include the Penang Hokkien Mee, made with chicken stock.
The cafe’s old-school atmosphere and camaraderie among customers of all races make it a lovely breakfast spot.
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
#3. Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant
If you want something different, head to Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant for an Indian-style breakfast.
Delicious Dosas and soft, fluffy idlis filled with flavorful chutneys and curries are a must-try.
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, making it 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 Kopitiams to market hawker stalls.
For a satisfying brunch, consider a Full American Breakfast.
Are you looking for a large portion of eggs, breakfast meats, potatoes or hashbrowns, pancakes or waffles, toast, and coffee?
Penang has a diverse culinary scene with different cultural influences, providing a variety of breakfast choices.
Depending on your mood – you can enjoy a Full American-style 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 below.
#1. 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.
#2. 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.
#3. 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
As a food lover’s paradise, Penang has 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 some delicious halal food!
#1. Astaka Tun Sardon
Astaka Tun Sardon is a hawker center and halal breakfast spot in Penang that serves a delicious range of traditional Malay dishes, from Nasi Lemak to Roti Canai.
This place is a perfect first stop from Penang Bridge before heading to George Town and Batu Ferringhi when driving to Penang.
Address: Taman Tun Sardon, 11700 Gelugor, Penang
Hours: 6:00 AM – noon
Astaka Tun Sardon, a popular halal food court destination in Penang
#2. Ali Ameir Nasi Kandar
You’ll be surprised to find the regulars heading for a full Nasi Kandar Penang breakfast.
This popular halal breakfast spot serves delicious Malay-Indian cuisine.
The menu includes a range of classic dishes like Nasi Kandar, Roti Canai, and Murtabak.
Regulars love its 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
#3. Roti Chapati Lebuh Queen
If you’re looking for a tasty and affordable halal breakfast in Penang, Roti Chapati Lebuh Queen is the place to go.
This small stall serves delicious Roti Chapati, a thin, crispy flatbread perfect for dipping in flavorful curries.
With prices starting at just a few ringgit, it’s an excellent option for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
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.
From classic dishes like eggs and toast to innovative plant-based creations, vegetarian breakfast options are becoming increasingly diverse and creative.
Whether you’ve been a vegetarian for a long time or are simply looking to explore meat-free possibilities, there are plenty of delicious vegetarian breakfast spots.
#1. 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 such as veggie curries, fried noodles, dumplings, mock meats, tofu dishes, steam-stuffed bread, noodle soups, and a selection of prepackaged items.
With such a diverse array of vegetarian delights, there’s something to please every palate at Evergreen Vegetarian House.
No garlic and onion.
Self-service and pay by weight or size of the plate. Staff needs to speak more English, and vegan dishes may not be labeled.
39-A Cantonment Road, 10250 Penang.
Mon – Tue 7.30 AM – 8.00 PM, Thu – Sun 7.30 AM – 8.00 PM
#2. Ee Beng Vegetarian Food 毅明素食
The Penang restaurant serves traditional Chinese meals such as an economical rice buffet, different fried mee, fried rice, a wide choice of steam buns, banana leaf curry, and more.
It also has a wide selection of other beverages.
20 Lebuh Dickens, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Hours: Mon-Sat 7.00 AM – 8.00 PM
#3. 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
Conclusion
If you plan a trip to Penang, you can’t miss out on the unique and diverse culinary experience of a Penang breakfast.
There’s something for everyone with many options, from traditional Kopitiam breakfasts to Western-style fare, halal or vegetarian food.
Indulge in savory Nasi Lemak and Roti Canai, or satisfy your sweet tooth with Kuih Ketayap and Kuih Talam.
For those who prefer a heartier breakfast, don’t miss out on Penang-style curry mee, a spicy noodle soup filled with various toppings.
No matter where you go in Penang, you’ll find delicious and satisfying breakfast options that will set you up for a great day.
And, of course, a hearty local breakfast in Penang would only be complete with a cup of kopi O or Teh Tarik to start your day off on the right foot.
So, whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a delicious breakfast, try some of Penang’s best breakfast dishes and experience the local food culture on your next visit.
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