11 Best Fine Dining Restaurants In Penang – Top Eats!

Although known for having the best Malaysian street foods, there is also an abundance of innovative and spectacular fine dining restaurants in Penang!

Some of these fine dining establishments serve dishes from all over the world. Or one-of-a-kind fusions! It is no wonder Penang is a go-to for culinary adventurers.

The list below is a troupe of restaurants you won’t regret celebrating your anniversary, a birthday or just having a wonderful dinner!

1. Curios-City Penang

You might just miss the entrance as it’s shrouded in foliage, but almost directly across from China House, is Curios-City – a private dining establishment that opens for dinner every Wednesday to Sunday.

Reservations are necessary even though they have plenty of room inside (collectively, the whole space is FORM Community Center) to host an intimate party of up to 20 pax comfortably.

Inside is all open layout with cozy seating, concrete walls, floors and live trees that reach towards high ceilings. It feels incredibly romantic as the sun sets. Plus, every table has its own set of candles and flowers.

Their team is very polite, amiable and highly attentive – you barely have to ask them for anything as they’ll notice it before you do. They’ll also give a brief rundown of each dish as they serve it.

It’s an 8-course menu (spread out over 2 hours) featuring plenty of freshly caught and imported seafood (e.g. local spotted crab, Japanese Miyagi oysters, etc). Though we highly recommend getting the Japanese Wagyu A5 as your main to give your palate a break from all the seafood.

Each dish is elegantly plated and every bite is generous with flavor and texture. We started feeling full before the main dish arrived. The latter is definitely the pinnacle of the meal!

And the innovative dessert (homemade jujube gelato with rose tea) is the cherry on top!

For wine, they have a modest but tastefully curated selection of natural French wines (e.g. Sons Of Wine, Brumont, Maxime Magnon).

Note: If you have dietary restrictions, let them know when you make your booking and they’ll make the necessary changes to the menu

All in all, Curios-City is a hidden gem worth popping into if you have a special occasion to commemorate. Or want an extremely private dining experience and a very romantic evening with your significant other.

• Dress Code: Not explicitly stated
• Reservation: Required (with a deposit of RM100 per person)
• Cuisine: Modern European with some local influence
• Address: 164A-B, Lebuh Victoria, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
• Opening Hours: 6pm to 12am (Wednesday to Sunday)
• Contact: +6014-2105236

2. Orinea by Farquhar Mansion

Orinea sits on the 18^th floor of the Farquhar Mansion and features a lush blue interior that compliments the Sunrise Gurney Sea view.

To accompany the gorgeous views are delicious meals that are cooked with the best ingredients of the season at peak freshness. There are a number of delicious menus to try here!

Including the Chef’s tasting menu which is a seasonal menu that offers Orinea’s best. While the Bespoke menu is made to wow by catering to the personal tastes of the guests. 

For Table App users you’ll be happy to hear that you can book reservations for Orinea through the app!

Note: You might want to check the table app as some menus aren’t available during certain periods of time.

Furthermore, with parking available on the premises and astounding service by restaurant staff, you are sure to have a good time here in all senses of the phrase.

Note: Only the Couple Dining Area, Family Dining Area, Garden Lounge, Central Hall and Central Hall 2 are available to the public. The rest of the premises are only available to Farquhar Mansion Fine Dining & Lounge House Club Nobleman & Royal Members.

3. Mémoire Moleculer Gastronomy Dining

Decorated with cobblestone walls and wooden interior embellishments, this restaurant is the perfect place for a rustic romantic date.

Being on Beach Street, this establishment is very close to the famous Chinese clan house, Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi. So before enjoying your dinner, you and your partner can explore the historical landmark.

And at this eatery, you can rest assured that your food comes fresh off the stove and onto your plate. They serve contemporary French food. 

After your hearty meal, you can head off upstairs to the restaurant’s bar!

What’s more, if you’d like to hold a private event at this restaurant, they do have a small private dining area available.

Note: The Table Monsieur Bar & Restaurant Live Band is currently not available due to COVID-19 Health and Safety Concerns.

Here are some menus that you can’t miss out on if you do drop by:

• Chef Tasting Menu
• Vegetarian Set Menu – that has to be ordered 2-3 days in advance

4. The Indigo Restaurant @ Blue Mansion

Situated in one of the three UNESCO Heritage Award winning buildings in Penang, The Indigo Restaurant promises to be an outstanding culinary experience.

As the name suggests, this restaurant features indigo accents and is filled with hints of heritage everywhere you look.

Fun Fact: The Mahjong scene in Crazy Rich Asians was actually filmed in the courtyard of the Blue Mansion!

Headed by Chef Jack Yeap who studied classical French cuisine, The Indigo Restaurant showcases his expertise in Western style dishes with hints of the Asian flavors he grew up with.

And you have the option to pair his decadent fusion foods with wines of your choice. So sit back, relax, sip some wine whilst you enjoy the historic yet contemporary ambiance of the restaurant.

This eatery is available for Lunch, Dinner, Private events and has a Delivery/Pick-up Menu! One added bonus is that parking is available for restaurant-goers!

If you stop by this restaurant, you can’t leave without trying their:

• Sundowners
• Indigo Set
• 3 Course Lunch Menu
• Whole Roasts
• Work From Home 3 Course Menu
• 7 Course Tasting Menu
• Vegetarian Menu

5. Kebaya Dining Room

Headed by their Swiss-trained chefs Zac and Kent, Kebaya Dining room is where legendary modern Nyonya dishes are born.

Together with The Seven Terraces owner Christopher Ong, they have created an innovative space where Peranakan, Malaysian, French, Vietnamese, and Thai flavors are married together.

They don’t only have flavors that will tickle your taste buds though, their décor here is also a feast for the eyes:

Traditional Indo-Chinese elements can be seen in the chairs used, drapes, signboards, and cutlery!

But be warned, parking here is limited, and it may be difficult to find the building as it’s situated a little off the main road. However, that shouldn’t deter you from trying this place out!

Note: They only serve set menus with a minimum order of one person per set.

If you aren’t deterred and are ready for a modern interpretation of Nyonya cuisine adventure, then you have to try these crowd favorites:

• Otak-otak
• Achar
• Tamarind Glazed Beef

6. Suffolk House

Built during the early 1800s, Suffolk House is Malaysia’s only surviving Georgian Mansion. This handsome building is an icon among Anglo-Indian Garden House Architecture in Penang.

Hence, it is a must-see restored historic landmark. Much like its heritage, the restaurant has a traditional elegance as well. The interior is decorated with chandeliers, large potted plants, and black accents.

Moreover, photographers will be delighted to know that there’s a spot for gorgeous sunset opportunities here! Just make sure to wear bug repellent as there can be many mosquitoes in the evenings.

You’ll also be happy to note that with their beautifully plated and crafted foods including their:

• High Tea (Afternoon Tea)
• Harry Boy Cocktail
• Early Bird 3 Course Dinner Menu

Suffolk House also offers a myriad of wonderful wines and cocktails. The menu features White Wines, Red Wines, Champagnes, Proseccos, Rosés and House Pour Cocktails.

Note: The food here is pork-free and the meat is sourced from Halal-certified suppliers, however, the restaurant itself is not Halal-certified.

Unfortunately, this is another establishment where parking may be difficult to find.

7. Feringgi Grill at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa

The thought of grilled food may bring up images of backyard portable/DIY grills and lots of smoke.

But Ferringgi Grill at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa – one of the longest surviving grill rooms in Penang – proves that grilled foods can be elevated and elegant.

If you dine at Feringgi Grill, you should be ready to be spoiled by their distinct signature dishes, and vast selections of traditional wines and fine cigars.

Menu recommendations:

• “Serve to You Table Breakfast” *Only available for guests of the resort
• Wagyu Tenderloin
• Wagyu Rib-Eye Steak
• Lamb Cutlets

Note: Smoking in Feringgi Grill isn’t permitted

Their food is phenomenal and with the homely ambience, the experience is both comfortable and calming.

Additionally, the staff here provide world-class service. And this location is wheelchair-friendly!

8. Restaurant Au Jardin

Au Jardin is a gorgeous artisanal fine-dining spot tucked behind Hin Bus Depot in Penang.

Despite its quaint size – the restaurant sits up to 18 pax – Au Jardin packs a punch and sets itself apart as one of the best among many fine dining establishments in Penang. 

From the outside, the striking glass walls will catch your eye whilst the inside keeps it clean with minimalistic furniture.

This eatery prides itself on using the freshest of local seasonal ingredients. This philosophy was passed onto the restaurant by its incredibly talented head chef, Chef Kim.

Being a well-traveled culinary adventurer himself, Chef Kim infuses many of his artisanal dishes with a European flair.

It’s truly an adventure to dine here and if you get the chance you have to try some of these show-stopping dishes:

• Tiger Prawns
• Balik Pulau Free-Range Duck
• Tart Au Citron Vert
• The “Green” Degustation

Note: During the week there is a 3-course lunch menu available, and in the evenings there is a 4-course menu/degustation. On weekends, there is a brunch list of a la carte choices.

9. Le Venue

Le Venue by Chef Petr Fehér pulls out all the stops by offering not only an a la carte menu but a multi-course progressive menu as well.

This premium establishment like many on this list, also uses the freshest ingredients to create its masterpieces.

The interior of Le Venue exudes excitement with its red walls and cobble stone accents. This gives the establishment an energetic flare that is perfect for some fun family dinners.

That’s not all! Although small, Le Venue still has an excellent selection of wines and well-crafted cocktails.

Enjoy some of these zesty drinks as you feast on fresh oysters and enjoy the curated music.

Dishes here are made with love as Chef Petr is often seen proudly showcasing and introducing Le Venue goers to his work.

And not just the Chef, but the staff as well know lots about the foods they put out and provide attentive service.

Some of their must-try dishes:

• Chilean King Crabs *When they are in Season
• Signature soft boiled Kampung Egg
• Any of their Scallop Dishes
• Sweet Corn Bisque
  * If you enjoy their soups you may want to ask about their “Soup Blocks” which are homemade soup packets ready to be taken away to eat at home.

10. Beso Rosado by Chin Chin

Formerly known as Golden Showers by Chin Chin, this modern restaurant and upscale bar’s motto is to let the fresh ingredients speak for themselves.

This restaurant proves that fine dining can be classy and fun!

The interior here is unlike any other on this list. It features artwork, flirty pink walls, lush red carpeting, and a bright neon sign with its name. And thus, this is the right spot to hang with close friends!

Furthermore, the small plates are actually intentional! The concept behind this restaurant is that the dishes are designed to be shared among the table.

And thanks to head mixologist Francesco Moretti you’ll be able to enjoy these various bites with a quirky specialty drink in hand.

Besa Rosado’s Mediterranean-influenced menu tempts you with its tangy and spicy treats. Like some of the must-trys below.

• Lamb Tacos
• 1/2 Morrocan Chicken
• Seafood Paella

11. II Bacaro at Campbell House

II Bacaro is inspired by typical Venetian hostarias and taverns. It serves as an Italian oasis among the local delights of Penang.

Stepping into this restaurant feels as if you’re no longer in sunny Penang but instead under the cool skies of Italy. The décor is elegant with classic wood furniture and elaborately tiled floors.

The authentic Italian food is served in large portions that doesn’t skimp on the luxurious cheeses, creams, and meats.

You will surely have a hearty meal here that will leave you feeling satisfied and most likely in a good food coma. And of course, you can’t have an Italian meal without a lovely glass of wine.

Which luckily II Bacaro has plenty of:

The wine menu offers a selection of White Wines, Rosés, Sparkling wines, Red Wines and Premium Red Wines.

And if wine isn’t your thing, they also offer a variety of beers, liquors and cocktails.

So head on over to II Bacaro for an authentic Italian culinary experience and try out these specialties:

• Signature Venetian Cichetti
• Chef’s Special (Changes Weekly)
• Any of their pizza’s
• Riggatoni Cacio Pepe su Salso Genonese

Conclusion

So whether you’re looking for a fine-dining spot with a view, with history, or at the heart of Georgetown, Penang has a multitude of options for you!

You may not be able to cover all the best foods spots in one trip, but you should definitely try the ones on this list at least once!

Other Articles:

• 13 Best Restaurants In Penang For Lunch & Dinner
• 11 Best Western Restaurants In Penang