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Penang’s Industrial Charm: 5 Cafes Where Aesthetics Meet Appetite

Siaw Ming Zhe
Siaw Ming Zhe
October 6, 2023
Penang’s Industrial Charm: 5 Cafes Where Aesthetics Meet Appetite

Penang has recently embraced the trend of industrial-style cafes. These cafes are not only known for their delectable offerings but also for their captivating designs, which provide a stylish backdrop for your culinary adventures. In this article, we’ll introduce you to five distinct industrial-style cafes in Penang that combine excellent taste with captivating aesthetics, promising not just a delightful meal but also Instagram-worthy moments.

In recent years, the industrial chic trend has gained significant popularity in the design world. It draws inspiration from raw and unfinished interiors, featuring elements like exposed brick walls, metal fixtures, and, of course, concrete. This aesthetic not only provides a unique dining ambiance but also serves as an excellent setting for trendy photos.

Penang is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights, but it’s also a place where you can explore diverse cafe cultures. From aromatic coffee brews to tantalizing pastries, these cafes offer a blend of flavors and textures that cater to different palates. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado, a dessert lover, or someone seeking a unique dining experience, Penang’s industrial-style cafes have something special to offer.

So, let’s dive into the world of Penang’s industrial chic cafes and discover how they combine culinary excellence with captivating design. These spots not only promise a delightful treat for your taste buds but also create a stylish atmosphere for you to capture memorable moments. Let’s embark on this flavorful and visually appealing journey through Penang’s cafe scene.

The Sandwich Bar by Mokozoyo (Pet Friendly)

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Photo Credit: Kok Meng

Our journey through Penang’s industrial-style cafes begins with “The Sandwich Bar by Mokozoyo.” This unique cafe, nestled within Mokozoyo hotel, promises an extraordinary culinary experience accompanied by captivating industrial aesthetics. Located on the ground floor, this cafe offers a delightful selection of desserts and beverages that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

One aspect to keep in mind is that, while The Sandwich Bar offers a superb experience, it may lean towards the higher end in terms of pricing. However, the value it provides in terms of ambiance and quality more than justifies the cost. The design of this cafe is characterized by its pristine cleanliness and a comforting atmosphere. The industrial chic elements blend seamlessly with modern furnishings, creating a welcoming environment that’s perfect for both work and relaxation.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the sandwiches. As soon as your sandwich arrives at your table, you’ll be greeted by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread. Each bite is a delightful blend of freshness and fullness, with the fillings perfectly complementing the bread. What sets these sandwiches apart is their simplicity; they’re not overloaded with excessive condiments, allowing the flavors of the ingredients to shine through.

What makes The Sandwich Bar by Mokozoyo even more special is its pet-friendly policy. Feel free to bring along your furry friends to join you for a meal or a coffee. This thoughtful touch adds an extra layer of charm to this already exceptional cafe.

Wooden Wagon

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Photo Credit: Patrick Soon

Tucked away in a charming little alley off Bank Street in Penang, Wooden Wagon offers a spacious and welcoming environment that’s sure to delight patrons.

Walking into Wooden Wagon feels like entering a serene oasis, far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its industrial chic decor is thoughtfully complemented by expansive spaces, creating an atmosphere that encourages relaxation. Whether you’re planning a get-together with colleagues or a cozy rendezvous with friends, this cafe has the perfect ambiance for it all.

One of the standout features of Wooden Wagon is its photogenic quality. Every nook and cranny seems designed with Instagram-worthy aesthetics in mind. From the minimalist furniture to the subtle play of light and shadow, there are countless opportunities for snapping beautiful photos to commemorate your visit.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the food. Wooden Wagon takes pride in crafting each dish with meticulous care, and it shows. If you’re a fan of pizza, you’re in for a treat. Each pizza is painstakingly handmade, ensuring a freshness and quality that’s hard to beat.

The menu offers a variety of delectable options, but there are a couple of standouts that are often recommended. First is the “Mushroom Soup,” a delightful blend of earthy flavors in a rich and non-greasy broth. Then, there’s the classic “Beef Bolognese,” an Italian staple done to perfection.

Ang Ang Roastery

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Photo Credit: Kuanchuen Ng

Our exploration of Penang’s industrial-style cafes leads us to “Ang Ang Roastery.” What sets Ang Ang Roastery apart is its commitment to providing unique atmospheres in each of its branches. Today, we’ll take you on a journey to its Beach Street outlet, which conduct a more industrial-style design.

Ang Ang Roastery is the perfect spot to wind down after indulging in a meal at Wooden Wagon. Here, you can savor a cup of expertly brewed coffee and pair it with delightful cakes. The variety of coffee and coffee beans on offer means you can always ask the friendly staff for their recommendations.

Speaking of cakes, one standout option is the “Earl Grey Burnt Cheese.” With its subtle Earl Grey tea flavor and silky-smooth texture, it’s a dessert that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a dedicated coffee connoisseur or simply in search of a cozy spot to enjoy some cake, Ang Ang Roastery has you covered.

The ambiance here, especially on weekdays, is incredibly peaceful, making it an ideal place for both quiet introspection and focused productivity. So, if you’re a digital nomad, a student studying for exams, or just someone who loves working from cafes, Ang Ang Roastery offers an inviting and relaxed environment for you to do your best work.

R COFFEE CO

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Photo Credit: V Yao

This cafe effortlessly blends industrial aesthetics with a delightful touch of rustic nostalgia, creating a space that’s as inviting as it is visually appealing. As you step inside, you’ll be immediately struck by the clever juxtaposition of concrete-like textures and the warm embrace of vintage wooden accents. The cafe’s design has been meticulously thought out, ensuring that nearly every nook and cranny offers something unique to discover. It’s the kind of place where you can easily while away the hours, resting your feet and soaking in the atmosphere after a day of exploring.

What sets R COFFEE CO apart is its focus on beverages and sweets. While you won’t find substantial meals on the menu, you’re in for a treat with their selection of delectable pastries and croissants. One standout option is the “Matcha Tonic Lemonade.” This delightful concoction marries the slightly bitter notes of matcha with the zesty tang of lemon, resulting in a refreshing and invigorating sip that’s perfect for perking up your day.

One of the cafe’s unique features is the natural light that filters in from the skylight above, bathing the interior in a soft, welcoming glow. It’s an element that elevates the overall ambiance and makes every visit to R COFFEE CO feel like a special occasion.

So, if you’re in Penang and yearning for a cafe experience that seamlessly blends the charm of yesteryears with contemporary flair, R COFFEE CO should be your next destination.

Addict.BM

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Photo Credit: engseng teh

In the heart of Bukit Mertajam, Penang, you’ll discover the trendy hotspot known as “Addict.BM.” This cafe has been creating quite a buzz lately, thanks to its unique blend of industrial aesthetics with a camping twist.

Addict.BM is more than just a cafe; it’s a multi-dimensional space that transforms from a cozy daytime coffee retreat to a vibrant barbecue and bar experience as the sun sets. It’s the perfect embodiment of Penang’s creative and ever-evolving cafe scene.

During the day, you can indulge in a variety of coffees and explore their specialty drinks. One particular standout is the “Black Sugar Matcha Latte.” The rich aroma of black sugar combined with the slight bitterness of matcha creates an enticing and memorable flavor profile that’s bound to captivate your taste buds.

As evening descends, Addict.BM transitions into an exciting barbecue and bar destination. It’s where locals and visitors alike come together to savor grilled delights and enjoy the nightlife.

Conclusion

Penang has an abundance of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. From cafes to eateries, and from cultural experiences to natural wonders, there’s so much more to explore. To discover these hidden treasures and share your experiences with others, consider downloading Reviewbah. It’s your passport to the best that Penang has to offer.

So, as you immerse yourself in the intriguing fusion of industrial aesthetics and culinary delights, remember that the adventure doesn’t end here. Penang is full of surprises, and with Reviewbah in your pocket, you’re equipped to uncover them all. Happy exploring, and may your Penang adventures be as rich and diverse as the flavors of its cuisine!

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