Discover the Best Places to Eat in Downtown Georgetown

Located in Penang, Malaysia, Georgetown is a vibrant city that boasts of a rich culture and a diverse culinary scene. With its array of street food, hawker centers, and high-end restaurants, Georgetown is a foodie’s paradise. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s always something to tickle your taste buds in this city. But with so many dining options available in Georgetown, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to visit. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best places to eat in downtown Georgetown to make your dining experience easier and more enjoyable.

Top Picks for Foodies in Georgetown 🍴

The Top 3 Hawker Centers in Georgetown

Georgetown is famous for its hawker centers, where you can find a variety of local and international dishes at affordable prices. Here are our top three picks:

New Lane Hawker Centre 🍜

If you’re looking for a lively and bustling hawker center, then New Lane Hawker Centre is a must-visit. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of Chinese and Malay dishes, including char kway teow, curry mee, and satay. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.

Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls 🍢

Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. It’s located in the heart of Georgetown and offers a variety of street food options, including Hokkien mee, oyster omelet, and grilled seafood. You can also enjoy live music performances while you dine.

Lorong Selamat Char Kway Teow 🍤

Char kway teow is one of the most popular dishes in Penang, and Lorong Selamat Char Kway Teow is said to serve the best in town. The dish consists of flat rice noodles stir-fried with prawns, cockles, and bean sprouts in a sweet and savory sauce. The queue can be long, but it’s definitely worth the wait.

Best High-End Restaurants in Georgetown

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, then Georgetown has plenty of high-end restaurants to choose from. Here are our top picks:

Indigo at The Blue Mansion 🍷

Indigo at The Blue Mansion is a fine-dining restaurant that serves a fusion of Western and Asian cuisine. The restaurant is located in a beautifully restored mansion and offers a romantic ambiance that’s perfect for couples. Some of their must-try dishes include the pan-seared scallops and beef cheek rendang.

China House 🍰

China House is a popular restaurant and cafe that’s known for its desserts and coffee. The restaurant occupies three heritage buildings and offers a unique dining experience. Their menu includes a range of international and local dishes, and their cakes and pastries are to die for.

Ferringhi Grill at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa 🍖

Ferringhi Grill is a fine-dining restaurant that specializes in grilled meats and seafood. The restaurant is located in a luxurious resort and offers stunning views of the sea. Their menu includes a variety of premium cuts of beef, lamb, and seafood, as well as a selection of wines and cocktails.

Best Cafes and Bars in Georgetown ☕🍸

Georgetown has a thriving cafe and bar scene that’s perfect for those who want to relax and unwind. Here are our top picks:

The Alley 🍹

The Alley is a trendy bar that serves a variety of cocktails, beers, and wines. The bar has a laid-back ambiance and is a great place to hang out with friends. They also have live music performances on weekends.

Macallum Connoisseurs Coffee Company ☕

Macallum Connoisseurs Coffee Company is a popular cafe that’s known for its specialty coffee. The cafe has a modern and minimalist design and offers a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for studying or working. They also have a food menu that includes sandwiches, pastries, and cakes.

China House Cafe 🍰

China House Cafe is the sister cafe of the China House restaurant and is known for its desserts and coffee. The cafe has a cozy and eclectic design and is a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee while indulging in one of their famous cakes.

Complete Guide to Best Places to Eat in Downtown Georgetown

Whether you’re in Georgetown for a day or a week, you’ll definitely want to try some of the city’s best food spots. Here’s a complete guide to the best places to eat in downtown Georgetown:

Type of Restaurant
Name of Restaurant
Specialty

Hawker Center
New Lane Hawker Centre
Char kway teow, curry mee, satay

Hawker Center
Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls
Hokkien mee, oyster omelet, grilled seafood

Hawker Center
Lorong Selamat Char Kway Teow
Char kway teow

High-End Restaurant
Indigo at The Blue Mansion
Pan-seared scallops, beef cheek rendang

High-End Restaurant
China House
Desserts, coffee

High-End Restaurant
Ferringhi Grill at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa
Grilled meats, seafood

Cafe/Bar
The Alley
Cocktails, beers, wines

Cafe/Bar
Macallum Connoisseurs Coffee Company
Coffee, sandwiches, pastries, cakes

Cafe/Bar
China House Cafe
Desserts, coffee

FAQs About Best Places to Eat in Downtown Georgetown

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Georgetown for Food?

The best time to visit Georgetown for food is during lunch or dinner hours. Most of the hawker centers and restaurants open in the late morning and close in the evening.

2. Is It Safe to Eat Street Food in Georgetown?

Yes, it’s safe to eat street food in Georgetown as long as you choose reputable hawker stalls that follow proper hygiene practices and have a high turnover of customers.

3. What is the Average Price of a Meal in Georgetown?

The average price of a meal in Georgetown varies depending on the type of restaurant and the dish you order. A typical hawker center meal can cost between RM5 to RM15, while a high-end restaurant meal can go as high as RM200 per person.

4. Is It Necessary to Tip in Georgetown Restaurants?

Tipping is not mandatory in Georgetown, but it’s appreciated. A 10% service charge is usually included in high-end restaurants, but it’s always a good idea to check the bill before paying.

5. What is the Best Dish to Try in Georgetown?

One of the must-try dishes in Georgetown is the char kway teow, a stir-fried rice noodle dish that’s packed with flavors. Other popular dishes include laksa, nasi lemak, and satay.

6. Are Vegetarian and Halal Options Available in Georgetown?

Yes, there are many vegetarian and halal options available in Georgetown. Most of the hawker centers and restaurants offer vegetarian and halal-friendly dishes, and some specialize in vegetarian and halal cuisine.

7. Can I Reserve a Table at High-End Restaurants in Georgetown?

Yes, it’s recommended to reserve a table at high-end restaurants in Georgetown, especially during peak hours. You can make a reservation by calling the restaurant or booking online.

8. What is the Dress Code for High-End Restaurants in Georgetown?

The dress code for high-end restaurants in Georgetown is usually smart casual. Avoid wearing flip flops, shorts, and tank tops, and opt for dressier outfits instead.