Malacca, also spelt as Melaka, has changed a lot since the lockdown and the next time you find yourself in this historical town while on your trip to Malaysia, be sure to check out some of the best, most interesting bars, including a 100-year-old one.
Malacca is known for many things, especially being home to a rich and culturally diverse environment. With travel back in full swing now, a short trip here is always a good idea. There is plenty to discover, from heritage hotels to cafes. And since the historic city is also known as one of the best places to visit to eat to your heart’s content, you might forget that it also has plenty of great bars.
The bar scene in Malacca has recently upped its ante, with names like BUDI that offer more than just potent cocktails. Others, like the 100-year-old Sin Hiap Hin, well, let history do the talking.
There are also plenty of old-school bars readily available, featuring the background of the rich history of one of Malaysia’s oldest states. Checking out these best bars in Malacca may be the perfect reason to plan a trip.
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8 best bars in Malacca to visit:
Jonker Street is one of the more livelier places within the city of Malacca and rightfully so, as there is always something going on. However, Jonker Street is also popular mainly due to the Geographer Café, which cannot be missed as it’s one of the biggest bars around the area. It embodies the term ‘east meets west’ while maintaining its warm ambience and old charm. The Geographer Café also serves up a wide array of dishes, which ranges from your classic Western dishes as well as local delicacies. It also has plenty of beer choices on tap as well as wine and other liquors.
Address: 83, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Phone: +06-2816813
Hatten Hotel is considered to be one of the more luxurious stays you can find when in Malacca. The hotel is set against a picturesque vista of Malacca’s most famous historical landmarks and on the 22nd floor lies Alto Sky Lounge. It brings a whole new definition to the term “a new height of luxury” with a breathtaking view of the cityscape right before your eyes. Alto Sky Lounge also offers a wide variety of drinks, from cocktails to fine wines. Be sure to dress appropriately as Alto Sky Lounge does have a strict ‘smart casual’ dress code.
Address: Hatten Square, Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Phone: +60 6-286 9696
It appears Malacca has also caught up with the times with its very own speakeasy bar known as The Old Merchant. From a first glance, The Old Merchant carries a heavy oriental vibe to its atmosphere as it was evolved from an ancient private bank that dates back to the 1920s. The speakeasy is also located along Jalan Kampung Pantai, which was the original Chinatown back in 15th-century Malacca. The Old Merchant also sticks true to the heritage of being a speakeasy as it will be a bit of a task to locate.
Address: 88, Jalan Kampung Pantai, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Phone: +60 19-627 9020
Image credit: The Old Merchant 滙庄/Facebook
If you’re looking to liven up your evening, the Hard Rock Cafe in Malacca is the place to be. The franchise has been around since the 1970s with its rock & roll themed memorabilia that adorn its walls. Fans of old-school rock & roll are in for a treat as Hard Rock Cafe has plenty of that and more. It also offers a wide spread of dishes and drinks for one to pick from while you go back through the golden years of rock & roll. You can also walk away with Hard Rock Cafe souvenirs from its gift shop, located within the premises.
Address: 28, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Phone: +606-2925188
Image credit: Hard Rock Cafe Melaka/Facebook
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Inspired by the golden days of Dondang Sayangs clubs, BUDI Melaka is a hidden bar that offers more than just a good ol’ Old Fashioned. Sin See Tai cafe by day, and BUDI Melaka by night, the bar serves a bevvy of unique cocktails made using local produce including a vegetable-forward menu that incorporates homegrown ingredients like bittergourd, eggplant, corn and sweet pea into its concoction. The multi-level bar is eccentrically designed, giving a sense of mystery and cosiness at the same time. We recommend that you make a reservation before heading over because seats are pretty limited.
Address: 16, Kampung Jawa, 75100 Melaka
Phone: +6017-7188269
Image credit: Budi/Facebook
If you’re looking for something authentic and old-school, your visit to Melaka will not be complete without a drink at the 100-year-old vintage bar at Java Lane. This drinking hole is a living heritage and is managed by Aunty Doris, the bartender in charge of serving and pouring you some of the most unconventional spirits in the market. She’s been with the bar for over 40 years, and it is raved about for its rustic saloon-style bar that’s unpretentious yet charming. When visiting the oldest bar in historical Melaka, you’ll get more than cocktails and shots, but anecdotes of good ol’ Malacca from the owner herself.
Address: 5, Kampung Jawa, 75200 Melaka
Image credit: tripadvisor
They say the best way to explore Malacca city is by foot. If you happen to be around the heritage zone, Tipsy Bridge is a must-go for a tipple. It’s tucked in an alleyway off the main road, along Jalan Kampung Pantai across Kampung Jawa Bridge (where Sin See Tai or BUDI Melaka is). Its neon-lit signage is quite hard to miss. The little street here is quite happening at night, with upbeat music and neighbouring cafes like Tuju Cafe and The Bridge Cafe.
Address: Jalan Kampung Pantai, Dalam Lorong Jabatan, 75200 Melaka
Phone: +6011-2682 3038
Image credit: tipsybridgeauthentic/Instagram
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Located adjacent to the famous Jonker Street, Reggae on the River is a riverside bar that allows you to chill al-fresco style while having a pint of beer or tequila shots. It’s a popular drinking place among the locals and offers a nice view of the vibrant Melaka River.
Image credit: Instagram/ @pthoographyIf you are planning a trip to this food capital in Malaysia and have no idea where to start your food journey the best Malacca street food that you must try.
Melaka or Malacca, as it is also known, is a beautiful city located in the southern part of Malaysia. It is a popular tourist destination that is rich in history and culture. However, one of the main reasons people flock to Melaka is for its food. The city is famous for its unique blend of cultural and colonial cuisine, which can be found right in the heart of the city.
The many specialities of Melaka include ayam pong teh, which is a chicken dish cooked with soybean paste and dark soy sauce. It is known for its rich and savoury flavour that is sure to leave your taste buds tingling. While another popular dish is satay celup, which is a skewer made with either seafood, chicken, beef or vegetables cooked in peanut sauce. This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Melaka and is often considered one of the city’s signature dishes.
Apart from these dishes, Melaka is also famous for its Kristang cuisine, a fusion of Portuguese, Peranakan, Indian, European, and Malay ingredients. It is a unique blend of different flavours and is a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. Melaka also boasts a variety of street food that is not only delicious but also affordable.
So, whether you are a foodie or just someone who loves to explore new cultures, Melaka is the perfect place for you. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine, Melaka is truly a food lover’s paradise.
Must-try Malacca street foods if you’re looking for a scrumptious meal
Low Yong Moh Restaurant
Image credit: Instagram/ @pthoographyA family-run restaurant, this place is known for its tasty old-school dim sum, which has become a popular in Malacca street foods. This compact restaurant serves typical dim sums with sufficient varieties such as Custard Bun or Liu Sha Bao, Char Siew Bun, and glutinous rice. Other dishes include steamed pork ribs, pork buns, pork porridge, steamed bean curd rolls, and many more. Visit this place for a mouthful of tasty and greasy dishes!
Low Yong Moh Restaurant is a well-known and family-owned establishment in Melaka that serves up delicious and authentic dim sum dishes. Its popularity stems from the restaurant’s ability to offer a wide variety of dishes that include traditional delicacies such as custard buns, pork buns, and pork porridge, as well as other mouth-watering options like steamed pork ribs and steamed bean curd rolls. The restaurant is small and compact, making it the perfect spot to grab a quick, satisfying meal. Its cosy atmosphere combined with its scrumptious offerings makes it a must-visit place for anyone exploring the street food scene in Melaka.
Address: 32, Jalan Tukang Emas, 75200 Melaka
Operating hours: 7.30 AM – 11.30 AM (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
Chung Wah Chicken Rice Ball
Image credit: Instagram/ @_maryyongChung Wah Chicken Rice Ball is a renowned Hainanese chicken rice shop in Malacca that has been serving customers for over 50 years. It has gained immense popularity among locals and tourists alike and is considered a must-visit place for anyone exploring the street food scene in Melaka. The restaurant is often crowded on weekends due to its reputation for serving up the most delicious chicken rice balls in the city.
Apart from its signature dish, the chicken rice balls, Chung Wah also serves super soft chicken that is cooked to perfection and served with homemade chilli sauce. The combination of the fluffy rice balls and succulent chicken meat makes for a mouth-watering experience that is sure to leave you craving more.
Address: 20, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Operating hours: 9.30 AM – 2 PM (closed on Mondays to Wednesdays)
Image credit: YouTube/ Food Hunter 探食Restaurant Chuen How is a casual eatery that specializes in chap fan or economy rice, a popular local dish that consists of packed rice with various sides. Despite being located outside the city centre, the restaurant offers a comfortable kopitiam-style seating area, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a tasty meal. For those seeking a taste of the local cuisine, Restaurant Chuen How is definitely worth a visit.
One of the must-try dishes at this eatery is the char siew, a unique roasted BBQ pork that is both tender and flavourful. In addition to this signature dish, the restaurant also serves scrumptious roast pork and assam gulai fish that are best enjoyed with economy rice. The combination of these dishes creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please any food lover.
Address: 347, Jalan Merak, Taman Melaka Baru, 75350 Melaka
Operating hours: 11 AM – 1.30 PM (closed on Thursdays)
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Capitol Satay Restaurant
Image credit: Instagram/ @foodieonabittenappleCapitol Satay Restaurant is a well-known eatery in Malacca street foods that is highly regarded for its delicious satay celup, which is one of the city’s most famous street foods. The restaurant is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is often crowded due to its unique self-service pattern. Customers can choose from a wide range of 80 different skewered seafood and vegetables from refrigerated counters, assisted by a waitress.
This self-service feature allows patrons to customise their meals according to their liking, making it an excellent venue for those who have specific dietary requirements or preferences. The hot satay celup is served with an aromatic peanut sauce, which makes it a must-try dish for anyone visiting Malacca. The combination of the succulent skewered seafood and vegetables with the rich and flavourful peanut sauce creates a taste sensation that is sure to delight any food enthusiast.
Address: 30, Jalan KPKS 3, Kompleks Perniagaan Kota Syahbandar, Kota Syahbandar, 75200 Melaka
Operating hours: 4 PM – 11.30 PM (Sundays to Thursdays, closed on Mondays), 4 PM – 12 AM (Fridays and Saturdays)
Aunty Koh Cendol
Image credit: Instagram/ @foodiefrommalaysiaAunty Koh Cendol is a small food stall tucked away inside the Nyonya house compound in Bukit Rambai, and while it may be a little challenging to find, it is undoubtedly worth the effort. The compact stall offers a range of healthy and hygienic dishes that are specially prepared by Aunty Koh herself, using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients available.
However, what Aunty Koh Cendol is truly famous for is their Nyonya cendol, a dessert that has won the hearts of thousands of visitors to the town. The dish is made with a combination of ice, coconut milk, palm sugar, rice flour jelly, and a hint of ginger, resulting in a creamy and refreshing dessert that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Despite its simple appearance, the Nyonya cendol is a complex blend of flavours that perfectly captures the essence of Melaka’s culinary heritage. The dish is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike and is considered one of the best desserts that Malacca street foods has to offer.
Address: 183, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Taman Kota Laksamana, 75250 Melaka
Operating hours: 8 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays)
Image credit: Instagram/ @waniencsRestaurant Ming Huat is a popular, yet budget-friendly eatery that offers a taste of both Asian and Malaysian cuisines to both locals and tourists. As one of the most well-known restaurants in Melaka, it has gained a reputation for serving up delicious, authentic dishes that reflect the city’s unique blend of cultural influences.
Among their many offerings, Restaurant Ming Huat is particularly renowned for its signature dish, the nasi lemak, which is known as Malaysia’s national dish. This fragrant rice dish is cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaf and is prepared with the influence of Nyonya style, which adds a unique flavour and spice to the dish. The dish is served with the typical Melakan sambal gravy and spices, which perfectly complement the rich, savoury flavour of the rice.
Address: Jalan Ujong Pasir, Melaka, 75050 Malacca
Operating hours: 7 AM – 10 PM (closed on Fridays)
Geographer Cafe
Image credit: Instagram/ @harrytan_nGeographer Cafe is a highly sought-after restaurant located in the bustling Chinatown district of Malacca. This eatery is well-loved by both locals and travellers alike, and it’s easy to see why. Their menu boasts an impressive array of Asian fusion dishes that are both healthy and delicious, making it a top choice for foodies looking for a satisfying meal.
One of the standout items on their menu is their signature dish, the nasi lemak. This fragrant rice dish cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaf is served with a mix of Nyonya-style spices and sambal gravy, which adds an extra kick of flavour to the dish. Another popular item is their kangkung fried rice, which is a healthier take on the classic fried rice dish, featuring water spinach as the main ingredient.
In addition to their delectable food, Geographer Cafe also offers a wide selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This makes it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a cold drink after a long day of exploring the city.
Address: 83, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Operating hours: 12 PM – 10 PM (Sundays to Thursday, closed on Wednesdays), 12 PM – 12 AM (Fridays and Saturdays)
Tengkera Duck Noodles
Image credit: Unsplash/ Melanie LimTengkera Duck Noodles is a well-known and popular local restaurant in Malacca street foods that is famous for its signature dish, the delicious and crispy duck drumstick noodles. This dish is a combination of crispy duck drumstick and rice vermicelli that are cooked together with a robust gravy and served with spicy herbs. In addition to this popular dish, the restaurant also offers other scrumptious dishes such as crispy pig ears with gelatinous skin, braised duck meat, pork slices, and eggs. The restaurant’s offerings are a true testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage, and anyone looking for an authentic local dining experience in Melaka should definitely give this place a try. With its cosy atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes, Tengkera Duck Noodle is a must-visit restaurant that is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling satisfied and happy.
Address: Taman Kota Laksamana, Jalan Kota Laksamana 1/1, 75200 Melaka
Operating hours: 7 AM – 1.30 PM (Mondays to Sundays, closed on Tuesdays)
Image credit: Instagram/ @the_chef_sisters_msiaJonker 88 is a well-known and beloved local eatery situated in the vibrant city of Malacca. This popular hotspot is renowned for its diverse selection of mouth-watering local cuisine and desserts, making it a must-visit destination for any food lover exploring the street food scene in Melaka.
The restaurant’s vintage style and historical theme create a unique and charming ambience, with different sections for food and desserts that are self-served. This allows customers to have the freedom to customise their meals according to their preferences, making it an excellent choice for those with specific dietary requirements or preferences.
Among the many dishes on offer, their assam laksa and cendol are standout choices that are highly recommended by locals and tourists alike. These two dishes are a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Malacca, combining unique and complex flavours that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
However, due to its immense popularity, Jonker 88 can get quite crowded during peak hours, so be prepared to wait for a table. Despite this, the restaurant’s delectable food and charming ambience make it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the diverse of Malacca street foods.
Address: 88, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka
Operating hours: 9.30 AM – 6 PM (Sundays to Thursdays), 9.30 AM – 7.30 PM (Fridays and Saturdays)
Restaurant Tong Sheng
Image credit: Instagram/ @kamlaijiakRestaurant Tong Sheng is a well-known restaurant in Melaka that has gained a reputation for its seafood delicacies. As a popular zi char-style establishment, it offers a great variety of seafood dishes at reasonable prices. Their signature dish is the cheesy prawn served with rice vermicelli, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant. In addition to this popular dish, they also serve other mouth-watering delicacies such as fried fresh squid with garlic, salted egg yolk bean curd, and fresh milk crabs, among others. The restaurant’s extensive menu ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you are a seafood lover or not.
Despite its popularity, Restaurant Tong Sheng can get very crowded during peak hours due to its delectable offerings. However, the long wait is worth it as the food is always fresh and cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s cosy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to enjoy a satisfying meal with family and friends.
Address: 377 & 378, Jalan Melaka Raya 6, Taman Melaka Raya, 75000 Melaka
Operating hours: 11.30 AM – 2 PM, 5.30 PM – 10 PM (closed on Mondays)
This story first appeared here.
Pasar Karat, affectionately called Bazar Karat, is a must-visit destination in Johor Bahru that’s just a stone’s throw away from the JB Checkpoint.
This charming night flea market (or pasar malam as locals call it!) on Jalan Segget offers a wide array of products, from clothes and electronics to yummy treats for the foodies.
Read on to discover all this market has to offer – what to buy and what to eat – for a memorable offbeat shopping experience in JB!
Originally known for antiques and used items, Pasar Karat or Bazar Karat, which translates to “rust” in Malay, is now a walking street filled with shoes, gadgets, and local street food vendors.
With approximately 500 meters of bustling stalls, this lively market spans across Jalan Segget and Jalan Tan Hiok and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
What You’ll Like:
Great ‘pasar malam’ vibe
Variety of street food and local delights
Shop for various knock-off goods, electronics, clothes, etc
Open til late night – great for an after dinner stroll or shopping
Very affordable prices
Good place for bargain shopping
Good To Know
Many vendors at Pasar Karat JB night market accept both cash and TnG (Touch ‘n Go) payments
Pasar Karat JB can get crowded especially on weekends, so be aware of your belongings and keep an eye on your purse or wallet
While haggling is a common practice in night markets, food items generally have a fixed price
Parking could be a hassle, so consider ride sharing options
Pasar Karat Night Market is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 6:00pm til midnight.
While most shops open by about 6:00pm, head to the market a little later for a better night market vibe as the it only truly comes alive around 8:00pm!
If you’re a fan of vintage treasures, don’t miss the antique stall selling treasures like old cameras, brassware, enamel pots, and street vendors selling vintage t-shirts.
4.2 Clothes
Numerous stalls offer a range of clothing items, including jeans, tourist-themed t-shirts, and the always-popular crowd favorite, batik shirts!
4.3 Fashion Accessories
Pasar Karat is also famous for a wide selection of affordable knockoff handbags and shoes resembling popular high-end brands in malls.
Shopping Tips For Pasar Karat
Exploring the stalls can be an exciting adventure, with the potential to discover one-of-a-kind gems
Goods can be similar from stall to stall, so don’t buy from the first shop you come upon as you might find a better deal elsewhere!
Feel free to haggle down the prices, but keep in mind that these vendors are also trying to make a living!
A definite must-eat at the market is their ‘lokching’ or skewered fish satays and sausages that are grilled then dunked and smothered into the most delectable homemade Thai chilli sauce!
5.2 Mee Siput
While the name suggests that you’ll be eating a bowl of noodles, mee siput is actually a deep fried flour dough that spirals like a shell of a ‘siput’ or snail and served with tasty sambal!
Cap off your visit to Pasar Karat with their yummy Kunafa, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert of shredded dough soaked in sugar syrup layered on top of a delicious cream cheese base!
6. How To Reach Pasar Karat JB?
Pasar Karat JB is a quick 10 minute drive away from the JB Checkpoint.
The easiest and most convenient way to get to Pasar Karat from the JB Checkpoint is to hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Grab.
If you’re driving to Pasar Karat yourself, parking can be a bit of a challenge due to the busy area and lack of designated parking facilities.
Most shoppers choose street parking, but be sure to avoid double lines, yellow lines, and hydrants – it may be risky, but it does add to the excitement of shopping at a pasar malam!
8. Pasar Karat FAQs
Q1. What time does Pasar Karat JB open?
Most stalls in Pasar Karat JB are set up and open by around 6:00pm.
Q2. Are there any differences between Singapore’s and Pasar Karat JB’s night market?
Singapore’s night markets are more food-centric offering more ‘hot food’ options, while Pasar Karat sells clothes, vintage ware and street snacks that are super budget friendly!
Q3. Is Pasar Karat JB worth visiting?
Yes! Pasar Karat JB is definitely worth a visit for its unique ‘pasar malam’ atmosphere, great bargains, and delicious street food!
[…] the main reasons people flock to Melaka is for its food. The city is famous for its unique blend of cultural and colonial cuisine, which can be found right in the heart of the […]
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[…] the main reasons people flock to Melaka is for its food. The city is famous for its unique blend of cultural and colonial cuisine, which can be found right in the heart of the […]