Penang’s food scene is a delightful mix of cultures, and for Indian travelers, the island offers a comforting array of authentic Indian cuisine — from Tamil vegetarian meals to rich Punjabi gravies and North Indian tandoori. Whether you're in George Town, Batu Ferringhi, or Little India, you're never far from a satisfying Indian meal.
1. Sri Ananda Bahwan
Why visit: A popular South Indian chain offering both veg and non-veg options with consistent quality.
Highlights: – Banana leaf meals, masala dosa, and butter chicken. – Ideal for families and large groups. – Multiple locations across Penang.
Location: George Town, Little India, and Tanjung Bungah
Timing: 8 AM – 10 PM
2. Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant
Why visit: A pure vegetarian haven known for authentic South Indian meals.
Highlights: – Thali, idli, dosa, and chapati sets. – Jain-friendly and very budget-friendly. – Peaceful, no-frills setting.
Location: Penang Street, George Town (Little India)
Timing: 8 AM – 9:30 PM
3. Gem Restaurant
Why visit: A fine-dining North and South Indian restaurant with modern interiors.
Highlights: – Paneer tikka, fish curry, and naan combos. – Comfortable ambiance for romantic dinners or meetings. – Good vegetarian variety and clean service.
Location: Bishop Street, George Town
Timing: 11:30 AM – 3 PM, 6:30 PM – 10 PM
4. Kapitan Restaurant
Why visit: Known for its legendary tandoori chicken and late-night meals.
Highlights: – Tandoori platters, naan, and biryani. – Fast service and open till midnight. – Loved by both locals and tourists.
Location: Chulia Street, George Town
Timing: 10 AM – 12 AM
5. Thali NR Sweets Café
Why visit: A vegetarian North Indian spot known for thali meals and sweets.
Highlights: – Daily veg thali with changing curries. – Indian sweets like gulab jamun and laddoo. – Affordable lunch option in Little India.
Location: Penang Street, George Town
Timing: 9 AM – 9 PM
6. Karaikudi Restaurant
Why visit: Offers bold, spicy Chettinad cuisine with a homestyle touch.
Highlights: – Mutton curry, pepper chicken, and Chettinad biryani. – Cozy atmosphere with banana leaf meals. – Good for spice lovers.
Location: Jalan Penang
Timing: 11 AM – 10 PM
7. Sri Subham Restaurant
Why visit: A friendly, budget South Indian vegetarian restaurant great for breakfast or light dinners.
Highlights: – Pongal, vada, dosa, and sambar. – Quick bites and filter coffee. – Mostly local crowd, very authentic.
Location: Market Street, Little India
Timing: 7 AM – 9:30 PM
8. Tandoor Grill Penang
Why visit: Upscale dining for North Indian cuisine with great service and presentation.
Highlights: – Butter chicken, dal makhani, kebabs, and kulfi. – Elegant ambiance, ideal for celebrations. – Air-conditioned comfort and soft background music.
Location: Precinct 10, Tanjung Tokong
Timing: 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 10:30 PM
9. Shobana’s Kerala Kitchen
Why visit: Penang’s only restaurant dedicated to Kerala home-style cuisine.
Highlights: – Appam, fish molee, and avial. – Small, family-run setup with daily specials. – Unique flavors not found in typical Indian eateries.
Location: Gelugor
Timing: 11 AM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 9 PM
10. Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant
Why visit: A solid vegetarian option popular among local Indian residents.
Highlights: – South Indian thali, chapati sets, and lassi. – Affordable and spacious seating. – Good for regular travelers or long stays.
Location: Market Street, Little India
Timing: 8 AM – 10 PM
