Looking for the best halal restaurant in Georgetown?
Hey there, foodies! I recently made a return visit to Irama Dining Penang, and I can’t wait to share my experience with you.
If you’re on the hunt for some delicious halal food in Penang, you’ll definitely want to read this review.
This Malay restaurant is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable dining experience!
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Irama Dining Location
The location is on Lebuh Light (the oldest road in Georgetown) and right across from Padang Kota Lama (Esplanade Park).
Set on the upper levels of the charming heritage building, The Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (1928) Irama Dining offers a great, air-conditioned space for a fine dining experience.
Best Halal Restaurant in Georgetown with a View!
In addition to its exceptional indoor fine dining experience, Irama Dining offers an alfresco dining area with spacious outdoor rooftop dining.
Guests can enjoy the rooftop’s panoramic views of iconic landmarks like Fort Cornwallis, the Jubilee Clock Tower, and Padang Kota Lama (Esplanade Park).
With its dual rooftop setting, Irama Dining offers a unique and picturesque ambiance for a truly unforgettable evening in Georgetown.
The Patio outside the Dining Room overlooks the Padang Kota Lama (Esplanade Park).
The Mural at Irama Dining
The dining space is dominated by a striking mural of a woman, which has become the iconic identity of Irama Dining.
The mural by artist Mandy Maung encapsulates the essence of the restaurant’s charming character and ambiance and leaves a lasting impression on guests.
The restaurant’s interior has an elegant and inviting atmosphere that complements the culinary offerings.
The eatery has established itself as the best halal restaurant in Georgetown as of its genre.
Irama Dining’s kitchen is a cut above others in the city, serving the same cuisine.
The dining space is dominated by a striking mural of a woman, which has become the iconic identity of Irama Dining.
Best Halal Restaurant in Georgetown for Private Events
Indoor seating has a generous capacity of 70 guests, with another 50 at the Rooftop Dining area.
Irama Dining is a perfect venue for a private dinner or a party. Image: Irama Dining
Private Dining area
Best Halal Restaurant in Georgetown with Al Fresco Rooftop Dining
The true highlight of Irama Dining lies in its rooftop al fresco dining area, providing an enchanting and open-air dining experience.
Guests can relax and indulge in their meals while enjoying the indoor refined setting or the opportunity to savor their meals beneath the stars.
Whether it’s a romantic evening or a gathering with friends, there’s an added extra touch of charm to the overall dining experience.
Check out the rooftop al fresco dining area.
Muslim Owners, Halal Food
Irama Dining is a Muslim-run restaurant that strictly follows halal principles.
From ingredient sourcing to preparation and presentation, every dish is prepared in accordance with halal guidelines.
Guests can confidently enjoy their meals, knowing their dietary preferences are respected.
The menu does not include alcoholic drinks, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a halal restaurant in Penang.
Discover Georgetown’s Best Halal Mains
Irama Dining offers visually appealing traditional Malay cuisine infused with authentic spices, creating a captivating experience.
It is a haven for Muslims in Penang, providing diverse, flavorful, and halal-certified dishes.
What sets this restaurant apart is its unwavering commitment to using only the finest halal ingredients for authentic halal cuisine in Penang.
Indulge in various dishes that cater to every palate, from aromatic curries and tender grilled meats to fragrant rice dishes and delightful seafood specialties.
Each dish at Irama Dining is meticulously prepared with love and attention to detail, using fresh ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers.
The chefs take great pride in their craft, ensuring visually stunning and meticulously plated dishes.
At Irama Dining, you can expect an unforgettable culinary journey combining enticing flavors and a visually delightful ambiance from the menu.
Best Halal Restaurant in Georgetown – The Starters
At Irama Dining, get ready to savor an extraordinary culinary experience featuring artfully plated authentic Malay cuisine that bursts with flavors.
I started my culinary journey at Irama Dining, with their signature satays.
The perfectly grilled Chicken and Beef skewers and an incredible peanut sauce provided a burst of flavor.
Have your cameras ready to capture these beautifully presented dishes, perfect for sharing on social media.
Otak-otak (RM12)
Otak-otak is a delightful dish of flaked mackerel and prawns infused with a medley of spices wrapped in fragrant banana leaf parcels.
You can enjoy it as a snack or as a side dish with steamed rice.
Pulut Kelapa Dip With Rendang Kerang (RM20)
Indulge in succulent cockles, aromatic rendang spices, and steamed glutinous rice, all coated with a luscious layer of rich coconut cream.
Image: Irama Dining
Ulam-Ulaman and Kerabu
Enhance your meal with refreshing greens at Irama Dining.
The Kerabu platter (RM26) and Ulam-ulaman (RM10) offer a tantalizing mix of traditional Malay herbs and vegetables, accompanied by spicy sambals.
Kerabu is a prominent side dish in Malay cuisine, creatively combining raw and cooked ingredients.
The Kerabu platter includes Kerabu Pucuk Paku Kerang, Kerabu Kacang Botol Sotong, and Kerabu Mangga.
Alternatively, opt for a single kerabu dish for RM16.
These flavorful choices add a crunchy freshness to your dining experience.
Best Halal Restaurant in Georgetown – The Mains
Elevate your culinary experience with the tantalizing main from Irama Dining’s menu.
The selection of dishes embraces iconic local flavors and ingredients, making them the true menu stars.
The aromatic curries highlighted a harmonious blend of spices, while the creamy, fragrant gravy delighted my palate.
I could not resist savoring their Udang Masak Lemak Tempoyak, a comforting dish of fragrant rice and succulent fresh prawns in a creamy gravy.
It truly embodied the essence of Malay cuisine in each mouthful.
Ikan Bakar Sambal (RM32)
Indulge in the fragrant and appetizing Ikan Bakar Sambal at Tamarra.
The fish is seasoned with a spice marinade, wrapped in banana leaves, and expertly charcoal-grilled.
Smoked Massaman Curry (RM32 for duck/beef, RM28 for chicken)
A velvety Thai-style curry infused with aromatic lemongrass and enriched with local spices with a harmonious blend of local spices.
Choose meat options and indulge in a truly memorable dining experience.
Beef Rib Rendang (RM38)
Delight in the tender beef rib cooked perfectly in a rich and aromatic rendang curry.
This dish is an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Lamb Shank Kurma (RM38)
Experience the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of lamb shank immersed in a luscious kurma curry.
This dish is a true delight for meat lovers.
Udang Masak Lemak Tempoyak (RM35)
Savor the unique combination of turmeric gravy, fermented durian, and a generous serving of succulent prawns.
It’s a seafood lover’s dream come true.
Sotong Sumbat (RM32)
Delight in squid stuffed with glutinous rice, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
This dish will satisfy your cravings for seafood and aromatic rice.
L: Ikan Bakar Sambal R: Udang Masak Lemak Tempoyak
Fragrant Rice
A hearty Malay feast is incomplete without rice, and there are three types available (RM5 per plate):
- Nasi Bunga Telang: Steamed rice tinted blue by butterfly pea flowers.
- Nasi Beringin: Infused with lemongrass and pandan.
- Nasi Ulam: Flavored with a mix of herbs and spices.
Nasi Bunga Telang, Nasi Beringin, and Nasi Ulam (RM5/plate)
Enhance your meal with three enticing rice options. Experience Nasi Bunga Telang’s vibrant blue hue, the fragrant infusion of lemongrass and pandan in Nasi Beringin, or the aromatic blend of herbs and spices in Nasi Ulam.
Laksa Spaghetti (RM26)
Embark on a fusion adventure with this unique cafe-style pasta dish, marrying the best Malay and Italian flavors—the perfect choice for those seeking a delightful twist.
Irama Dining Drinks
Quench your thirst with a range of refreshing drinks that complements the authentic flavors of Malay cuisine at Irama Dining.
Choose from a unique blend of flavors that perfectly complement your meal, priced at RM10 per glass.
• Pandan Gula Melaka
• Lemongrass Pandan Mint
• Bandung Lychee Cincau
There are other mocktails to take you on a captivating and immersive experience.
Best Halal Restaurant in Georgetown – Dessert
The dining experience at this Malay restaurant continues beyond the main courses.
Conclude your meal with a sweet touch.
Two top desserts provide a satisfying end to your dining experience at Irama Dining.
I always order the Bubur Sum Sum (RM12), a soft creamy rice flour pudding, and the Churros Keria (RM15), a local twist on Churros, accompanied by a delectable coconut pandan dip.
L: Bubur Sum Sum, R: Churros Keria Image: Irama Dining
Top Notch Service
Aside from the delectable food, the service at Irama Dining is exceptional.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff are dedicated to providing an incredible dining experience.
Their warm smiles and helpful recommendations made me and my Mama feel welcome.
As a food blogger who has visited numerous restaurants, this halal gem in Georgetown truly stands out.
We even chose it for our Chinese New Year’s Eve dinner as Mama wanted satay for her reunion dinner.
Best Halal Restaurant in Georgetown With Private Dining Rooms
Irama Dining offers a private room and a semi-private dining area, perfect for those seeking privacy and exclusivity.
Comfortably accommodating 14 people, this space can be exclusively booked for special events, providing a stylish and memorable dining experience.
Irama Dining offers a private room and a semi-private dining area.
Disability-Friendly
Irama Dining is a culinary gem that is also disability-friendly.
A convenient lift takes patrons to the first floor, ensuring easy accessibility for older individuals and those with disabilities.
Nearby disabled parking facilities further enhance inclusivity.
At Irama Dining, everyone can enjoy an exceptional dining experience, irrespective of their mobility needs.
Car Parking
Irama Dining may have challenging roadside parking during office hours in the central banking district.
However, private car parks are within walking distance, such as the multi-story parking at Union Street.
Alternatively, guests can opt for convenient transportation options like Grab.
In conclusion, Irama Dining in Penang shines as the best halal restaurant in Georgetown.
Its authentic flavors, welcoming ambiance, and exceptional service leave a lasting impression.
This Malay restaurant is a must-visit if you crave an authentic halal dining experience in Penang.
Your taste buds will thank you as you savor the most delicious and authentic halal cuisine.
So, gather your friends, bring your appetite, and embark on your next culinary journey at Irama Dining.
It’s an experience you will want to experience!
Irama Dining
Address: 2nd Floor, 2, Penang St, 10200 George Town, Penang
Hours: 12–10 pm (Closed Tuesdays)
Phone: 012-622 9251
Google: https://g.co/kgs/HdoJNiX
Blog Disclosure: This is a NOT sponsored blog post. All opinions are mine. The writer’s friend paid for their meal.
