5 Best Authentic Italian Restaurants in Penang
Buongiorno! One of the main characteristics of Italian cuisine is its simplicity, with many dishes made up of few ingredients, and therefore cooks often rely on the quality of the ingredients, rather than the complexity of preparation. You may wonder if Italian restaurants in Penang have what it takes to bring Italian authenticity to the discerning palate of Penangites. Well, you may be surprised by what some of these restaurants could offer and they could probably evoke some beautiful memories of your travel adventures. Chin Chin!
If you think there are other Italian restaurants that I may have missed out, feel free to mention them in the comment section.
Nero Nero Penang
The latest venture from KL-based Cinnamon Group has opened its maiden restaurant in Penang. They have been operating the Nero Nero KL at Damansara Mall for a while now so I’m sure they know a thing or two about the business.
Nero Nero Penang is located at King Street, housed in the 18th century shophouses of the Georgetown UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along with its signature contemporary style and design, diners will be impressed with its elegant indoor design space.
Guests can expect a gastronomic journey through signature tastes of Italy. Plates for sharing and passing around the table are the true experiences of traditional Italian dining. With quality and freshest ingredients, Chef Marco Petriacci and his team will present you the regional tastes of traditional Southern Italian dishes and their distinctly Mediterranean flavors.
The food is excellent and matches the interior decor, however be prepared to pay a premium as compared to the other restaurants in this list.
Nero Nero Penang
Address: No 4, Lebuh King, George Town, Malaysia
Tel: 012 207 0794
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Bottega Penang
Bottega Penang is a similar to an Italian Trattoria, more casual and generally less formal than a Ristorante but more formal than an Osteria. It is a sister branch of its more established Bottega KL who has been around for some time.
Bottega Penang is located along the old shophouses of Muntri Street, very closely to Mutri Mews Cafe. It has an outdoor seating, while indoors there is the open concept kitchen with bar seating. The open concept kitchen may not be a favorite of many as its poor ventilation causes guests to be soaked in smoke and odors.
Nevertheless, many people still throng the place for its delectable food, charcuterie board and unique selection of wines. They also have a grocer store where you can stock up on food and imported groceries from Italy, Spain and France.
Bottega Penang
Address: 76, Jalan Muntri, George Town, Malaysia
Tel: 017-456 2676
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IL Bacaro at Campbell House
IL Bacaro is a Venetian-style tavern or hostaria, typically found in the back streets of Venice where friends meet up to enjoy a glass of wine while sharing “cicchetti” (small plates of food) and simple Italian dishes.
IL Bacaro is housed in the luxury heritage-inspired boutique hotel of Campbell House, located in the heart of Georgetown. Its beautiful Victorian-style floor tiles stands out and spreads across the outdoor seating by the sheltered walkway. Check out the ever changing Specials board by Chef Mauro, or take comfort in traditional favorites such as homemade Gnocchi and delicious Tiramisu. They offer good, honest, freshly cooked Italian food using locally sourced seafood and vegetables combined with 100% Italian products and recipes from Mamma.
A must try signature dish is the Venetian Cicchetti. Pronounced “chee-KET-eeh,” cicchetti are Venice’s answer to Milan’s aperitivo and to Spain’s tapas. They’re small plates of food, usually nibbled over with glasses of wine and among friends in the evening or at lunchtime.
One of my favorite Italian restaurants, the service and food quality has been consistent over the years.
IL Bacaro Campbell House
Address: 106 Campbell Street, George Town, Malaysia, 10100
Tel: +60 4-261 8290
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Rossi Italian at Penaga Hotel
Rossi Italian is located inside the heritage boutique of Hotel Penaga at Clark Street in Georgetown. The restaurant overlooks both the swimming pool and straight down the garden path. Rossi Italian offers a range of handcrafted Italian culinary options ranging from handmade pasta and pizza.
The restaurant may seem unassuming but it definitely serves delectable cuisine at affordable prices. The restaurant is Muslim-friendly, it doesn’t serve alcohol and pork.
Rossi Italian at Penaga Hotel
Address: 38, Lebuh Clarke, George Town, Malaysia, 10050
Tel: +60 10-284 6995
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Gustoso by the Beach at Parkroyal Resort Penang
Gustoso by the beach at Parkroyal Resort Penang has the most picturesque and romantic setting out of all the Italian restaurants mentioned here. There is the indoor dining and also the extraordinary beachfront dining experience with mesmerizing sunset view as you indulge in authentic Italian cuisine. I’m sure your other half will be impressed.
Been here a couple of times despite the long journey to Batu Ferringhi. Love their food and their impeccable service, it is definitely worthwhile.
Gustoso by the Beach
Address: PARKROYAL Penang Resort Batu Ferringhi Beach, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang
Tel:04-886 2288
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