7 Bars In Penang You Need To Check Out

By Nizam Zaini  •  05 Aug 2025 in Bars

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When people think of Penang, it is usually all about the food, the heritage spots, or those scenic hikes. But honestly? The nightlife here deserves some love too. If you are someone who enjoys bar-hopping, vibey music or just catching up with friends over a drink, Penang has a bunch of cool spots that are lowkey but worth checking out.

Here are 7 bars in Penang you’ve got to check out:

1. The Pokok

This place is quite literally a bar under a big tree. It is located along Chulia Street and it’s one of those spots that looks super simple but somehow feels really inviting.

You will find fairy lights, wooden tables, and a mix of locals, backpackers, and students just vibing.

The drinks are pretty affordable too which makes it a good choice if you don’t want to spend too much.

It is not loud or fancy, just a nice open-air spot to chill and have conversations, definitely one of the more popular bars in Penang!

Location:

Lot 227, Chulia St, 

10200 George Town, Penang

Operating Hours:

4 p.m. – 2 a.m. (Every Day)

2. Micke’s Place

Located on Love Lane, Micke’s Place is one of those bars that has a bit of everything. Music, art, good vibes, and cheap drinks.

The walls are pretty much covered in customer signatures and doodles. At night, live bands play and give the place a lively feel, and once in a while there are even special shows like stand-up comedy.

The crowd is very mixed. You will see lots of locals, tourists, creatives, and just people who want a laid-back night. It is not too loud but still lively so you can either join the crowd or sit back and just enjoy your night.

Location:

94, Love Lone,

10200 George Town, Penang

Operating Hours:

12 p.m. – 12 a.m. (Every Day)

3. Bora Bora Beach Bar

If you are up for a short drive to Batu Feringghi, this beach bar is worth the trip. Bora Bora sits right on the beach so you can literally sip your drink with your feet in the sand. It has that tropical vibe, especially during sunset.

Picture yourself as Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City, sipping on a Cosmopolitan, staring out at the ocean, listening to the waves, and quietly overthinking your entire life. It’s that kind of place.

The best part of this place is their fire shows at night. It adds a bit of excitement to the laid-back beach vibes.

As the performers light up the night with flames and music, the whole place turns into a mini beach party that you didn’t know you needed. Just don’t sit too close to the performers or you will definitely feel the scorching heat!

The drinks might cost a bit more than what you’d pay in town but with that view and atmosphere, it is  totally worth it. It is a great place to just relax, enjoy the beach vibes, and wind down after a stressful week. 

Location:

72D, Jalan Batu Ferringhi,

11100 Batu Ferringhi, Penang

Operating Hours:

12 p.m. – 12.30 a.m. (Sunday – Thursday)

12 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. (Friday & Saturday)

Closed on Wednesdays

4. Magazine 63

This one is a bit of a hidden gem. Located on Jalan Magazine, the entrance does not really look like a bar, it is just a wooden door with red lights but once you step inside, it is a totally different world.

The place is dark, moody, and decorated with old-school Chinese elements, kind of like a Shanghai speakeasy.

The crowd is usually a bit more dressed up and the drinks are a bit more premium, but it is worth it if you’re into hidden bars with cool vibes. Definitely one of the more unique spots in town.

Location:

63, Jalan Magazine,

10300 George Town, Penang

Operating Hours:

8 p.m. – 2 a.m. (Every Day)

5. Holy Guacamole

Holy Guacamole is located on Love Lane, on the same street as Micke’s Place and just a short walk from Chulia Street.

They serve classic Mexican food like tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, all the good stuff. The portions are big enough to share and everything comes out hot and flavourful.

The guac tastes fresh, the salsa has a bit of a kick, and it’s the kind of food that’s best eaten with friends while chatting and making a mess.

The drinks are strong (try the margaritas) and the music gets louder as the night goes on. It is usually packed, especially on weekends, but in a fun way.

You will see people dancing, laughing, and just enjoying themselves. If you are looking for something energetic and don’t mind a crowd, this one’s for you.

Location:

65, Love Lane,

10200 George Town, Penang

Operating Hours:

12 p.m. – 12 a.m. (Every Day)

6. Nomad

Nomad is quite new and located around the Lebuh Kimberly area. It has a more modern and minimalist look. Lots of neutral tones, soft lighting, and a very “curated” feel. The crowd here is usually on the quieter side, but the cocktails are honestly great.

It is a nice spot for a date or a proper catch-up with friends when you want to talk and not shout over music.

The bartenders really know their stuff, and you can ask for recommendations if you’re not sure what to order.

Location:

243, Lebuh Kimberley,

10100 George Town, Penang

Operating Hours:

8 p.m. – 1 a.m. (Tuesday – Saturday)

Closed on Sundays and Mondays

7. Gloglo by Over&Above

Last on the list is Gloglo by Over&Above, a cool little spot near Hin Bus Depot. During the day, it is a cafe but at night, it turns into a mini nightclub with cocktails, DJs, and good vibes all around.

It’s affiliated with Over&Above, a full-fledged nightclub in Kuala Lumpur, known for its focus on underground and electronic music. In Penang, Gloglo brings that same energy but in a more laid-back setting. 

It is open until 3 a.m. so if you’re looking for a place to dance without dealing with a packed club, this one’s worth checking out.

Location:

3, Pengkalan Weld,

10300 George Town, Penang

Operating Hours:

9 p.m. – 3 a.m. (Wednesday – Sunday)

Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

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