The Best Batu Ferringhi Food & Restaurants 2024 | Penang

When visiting Batu Ferringhi, one of the biggest challenges is finding authentic, delicious food without falling into overpriced tourist traps. With so many options lining the beach, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure of where to get a true taste of Penang.

As frequent travellers to Penang who have explored the local food scene extensively, we’ve navigated the crowds and tried countless spots, from hidden hawker stalls to beachfront restaurants.

In this Penang food guide, I’ll share the absolute best places to eat in Batu Ferringhi, so you can skip the guesswork and dive straight into the flavours that locals love.

Located within the bustling night market, Long Beach stands as a testament to Penang’s famed hawker culture. The Char Kway Teow here is a masterpiece, with its perfectly charred noodles, fresh prawns, and the unmistakable wok hei that elevates this dish to new heights. The Satay, with its tender meat and rich peanut sauce, and the tangy, spicy Penang Laksa are also must-tries.

If anyone in your group doesn’t like Asian food, there are some western favourites available too. I saw pizza at one stall for example.

I recommend at least one night to experience this Batu Ferringhi hawker centre, but I bet you will return.

The Boatman Restaurant, Batu Ferringhi

We went to the Boatman Restaurant after reading some great reviews but were a bit hesitant as it doesn’t look much from the outside. We were very glad we did. It’s not fancy but the food and service was first class. We had the chicken curry and the Malaysian Rendang curry which was amazing! The best Rendang I’ve ever had and excellent value too. We were made to feel very welcome as everyone was so friendly.

The Living Room Cafe & Bar, Batu Ferringhi

Unfortunately I had tonsillitis towards the end of our holiday and was told by the doctor not to eat spicy food (easier said than done in Penang). This spoilt my meal at The Living Room as I wasn’t able to have any of the recommended dishes although we did try out the squid which was very nice. My husband had the Rendang Curry which was delicious. The service was very good and friendly. I’d like to return and try out some of the other dishes.

Andrew’s Kampung Restaurant

Andrew’s Kampung provides delicious home style local food at a great price. The crispy duck is delicious as is the chicken curry.

I’d recommend booking as it is always busy. It’s on the second floor of Eden Parade so there are stairs to climb.

Feringgi Grill

The Feringgi Grill Michelin restaurant is located in the luxury hotel Shangri-la Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa. The plush furnishings and carpet provide a romantic feel. Their signature tomato soup and the Wagyu beef are both amazing. Not a cheap eat, so save this one for a special occasion.

Spice Market Cafe

The Spice Market Cafe is also in the Shangri-La. This restaurant is more casual with buffets and A La Carte menus. They offer a variety of cuisines, incuding Malay, Chinese, Indian, Western and Seafood.

Helena’s Cafe

Delicious Malay food, including Penang Curry, Mutton Curry, Roti, and Satay. Reminds me of the street food we had in Kuala Lumpar.

Personal Favourites and What to Avoid as a Tourist

While Batu Ferringhi is packed with dining options, not all places are created equal. After several visits to Penang, I’ve discovered a few hidden gems that consistently deliver, as well as some tourist traps that are best avoided.

Personal Favorites: Dishes You Can’t Miss

Char Kway Teow at Long Beach Cafe

• If you’re looking for the best Char Kway Teow in Batu Ferringhi, Long Beach is the place to go. The noodles here have the perfect smoky flavour, and the prawns are always fresh. The hawkers prepare each plate with care, ensuring you get that authentic, wok-fried taste.

Lobster at Ferringhi Garden

• If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, the Lobster at Ferringhi Garden is a must-try. Served with rich butter and garlic sauce, the lobster here is incredibly fresh and cooked to perfection. The upscale ambiance of Ferringhi Garden makes this an ideal spot for a special dinner, and the lobster is the true highlight of the menu.

Massaman Curry at The Living Room

• For a rich, flavorful dish with a Thai twist, the Massaman Curry at The Living Room is an absolute winner. This hearty, slow-cooked curry is made with tender chunks of beef or chicken, potatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, including cinnamon and cardamom. The thick, coconut milk-based sauce has a beautiful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it one of the most satisfying meals you’ll find in Batu Ferringhi.

What to Avoid: Common Tourist Pitfalls

Overpriced Western Food

Many beachfront restaurants cater to tourists by offering Western dishes like burgers, pizzas, and pasta. While these menus may be tempting after a few days of local food, the quality often falls short, and the prices are steep. You’re in Penang, so stick to the local cuisine, which is not only more authentic but also much more affordable.

Pre-Cooked Hawker Stall Food

• Some hawker stalls, especially at more tourist-heavy locations, pre-cook their dishes and leave them sitting for hours. This can lead to food that’s not as fresh, and in some cases, it may not meet your expectations in terms of flavour. Always look for stalls where the food is cooked to order; this ensures the freshest and most authentic experience.

Seafood by the Beachfront Promenade

• While seafood is a big draw in Batu Ferringhi, many beachfront restaurants along the main tourist promenade tend to overcharge for mediocre fare. The ambiance is nice, but the quality doesn’t always justify the high prices. For a more authentic seafood experience, head to smaller, locally owned spots away from the tourist crowds.

Penang Street Food: A Culinary Adventure

Here are a few must-try Penang street food dishes that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey:

1. Char Kway Teow

One of Penang’s most famous dishes, Char Kway Teow is a flavourful plate of stir-fried flat rice noodles tossed with prawns, eggs, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts. The magic lies in the “wok hei” (wok heat) that gives the dish its smoky, caramelized flavor. Look for stalls where the noodles are cooked over high flames by seasoned hawkers for the most authentic experience.

2. Penang Assam Laksa

For a tangy and spicy treat, Penang Assam Laksa is a must. This noodle soup is made with a tamarind-based fish broth, which gives it a unique sour kick. It’s typically served with thick rice noodles, shredded fish, cucumber, pineapple, and a spoonful of spicy shrimp paste. The contrast of flavours is what makes this dish so memorable.

3. Rojak

Rojak is a popular street food salad that offers a refreshing combination of sweet and savory flavours. Made with fruits like pineapple and cucumber, it’s tossed with a thick, dark shrimp paste sauce and topped with crushed peanuts. Some versions also include crispy fried tofu, adding another layer of texture to the dish.

4. Satay

A street food staple throughout Malaysia, satay consists of skewers of marinated and grilled meats, typically served with a side of spicy peanut sauce, cucumber slices, and rice cakes. Whether it’s chicken, beef, or lamb, satay is perfect for a quick, tasty snack while exploring Batu Ferringhi’s vibrant streets.

5. Nasi Lemak

Though typically enjoyed as a breakfast dish, Nasi Lemak is popular throughout the day at street stalls in Penang. The dish features fragrant coconut rice, served with spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, and a boiled egg. Many hawker stalls also offer additional toppings like fried chicken or beef rendang for a heartier meal.

Exploring Batu Ferringhi’s Street Food Scene

Explore Penang Street Food at Batu Ferringhi’s Night Market

The best way to experience Penang street food is to head to Batu Ferringhi’s night markets, which come alive in the evenings. Here, you’ll find hawker stalls offering a wide range of dishes, from local favorites to unique treats. Be sure to go with an empty stomach, as the variety of flavors and aromas will make it impossible to try just one dish!

Penang street food is not just about filling your belly—it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, where every dish tells a story of the island’s rich culinary heritage.

Food Tours

Food Tours are a great way to experience the food and culture of a country with a local guide to show you the best places.

Tip: If you go on a food tour at the start of your holiday, you can ask the guide for food recommendations for the rest of your trip.

We use Viator or Get Your Guide to book our tours due to their free cancellation policy, instant confirmation, and competitive pricing.

Where To Stay in Batu Ferringhi

We stayed at Pan Pacific Park Royal in Batu Ferringhi. It’s in a great location with direct access to the beach. The pool has slides which provided much entertainment for our children. We found the rooms a bit dated but they have all been refurbished now and the photos of them look stunning. The staff were friendly and happy to help. Breakfast was delicious as was lunch. We would stay here again.

A cheaper alternative that has great reviews is the Rasa Motel or HUPO Resort Pool Villa.

For a large family, two families or a large group, consider By The Sea Duplex Penthouse, it looks incredible.