Hidden Bars in Penang Worth a Visit
Penang’s hidden bar scene is a phenomenon! It was non-existent until a few years back. In a short space of time, speakeasy bars start popping up like mushrooms and before we knew it, there was too many for our fingers to count. The fact that their exact location are discreet makes them a mystery and even the more reason for the curious to be inquisitive. Their facade is anything but an entrance to a bar. Here are 5 of our favorite hidden bars in Penang worth a visit, based on our assessment. We are in no way affiliated to any of the outlets mentioned here.
Manchu Penang
Manchu Penang transports us back to the old Qing dynasty era where opium and brothels are in the abundance. As you make your way through the heavy timber door, you will be greeted by a timeless almost overwhelming interior decor that is sure to spice up your mood.
They have live music performance on selected days and don’t miss the opportunity to watch a live Chinese Opera show. Usually Chinese Opera shows are held on makeshift stages across Georgetown during the Hungry Ghost festival to appease the spirits and entertain the living. So consider yourself fortunate to catch it live here.
Their signature drink is the Five Omakase cocktails for RM188. Just leave it to the bartender to decide on which best suit your mood. Don’t forget to pair it with their sumptuous dim sum. Order their siew mai and char siew pau to keep you sober for longer as you drown yourself with alcohol through the night. Gin by the bottle with tonic is also popular here as you may witness many patrons put their mixology skills to the test.
Manchu keeps innovating and that may be the reason they are still attracting huge crowds. Their latest innovation is the Bubble Milk Tea Cocktail in trend with the Bubble Tea craze here in Penang. So come check them out with your besties and you will be guaranteed for a great night out.
Manchu Penang
38 & 40 Jalan Pintal Tali, George Town
Penang, Malaysia 10100
Tel: 012-500 7588
Facebook: www.facebook.com/manchupenang
Beso Rosado by ChinChin (Formerly known as Golden Shower by ChinChin)
Formerly known as Golden Shower by ChinChin, Beso Rosado is a restaurant and bar focusing on Mediterranean flavors and influences, partly inspired by their Executive Chef Jack Yeap, and his former El Faro Tapas Bar. Beso Rosado by ChinChin will feature a variety of small plates design for sharing among the table, all created around the idea to let fresh ingredients speak for themselves. The bar also features a quirky, playful and unique cocktail menu, curated by head mixologist Francesco Moretti; inspired by memories, nature and art, with a focus on homemade syrups, spices, herbs and infusions, paired with advanced mixology techniques and attractive presentations.
Although no longer “so hidden”, this place feels better after the revamp. The vibe is still there, with more food and wine options available. Ordered the set menu 9-course for sharing amongst 4 pax. Food was excellent and reminiscent of those old El Faro days. Loved the seafood paella, croquet, clams in wine sauce, aubergine bruschetta…The great playlist made for an even a more enjoyable experience. If only the courses could be paced a little better, we would not have to rush through to accommodate for the limited table space. Overall, still a very delectable experience and we had made it back only to find out they no longer serve the set menu. Too bad 🙁
Beso Rosado by ChinChin
Address: 86, Lebuh Bishop, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 12AM
Phone: 04-263 6868
Facebook
Read my latest review here.
The Mandarin (甘) Bar
The Mandarin (甘) is the latest speakeasy bar & kitchen to hit George Town’s nightlife scene. Opening its doors in September 2019, this new drinking establishment occupies two-floors that draw crowds in the night days. The Mandarin serves signature local western food with various selection of local snack in a cozy environment. They also serve various types of Spirits & Liqueur like Gin, Rum, Vodka, Tequila, Brandy and Whisky liquor by the glass with tasting notes by the bartender as guides.
The Mandarin (甘) Bar Penang
Address: 3B, Jalan Irving, 10450 Georgetown,Penang , Malaysia.
Phone: 016- 526 2850 (leen) / 019- 4658887 (wei)
Facebook: www.facebook.com/themandarinbar
