Nestled amidst the serene waters of the Andaman Sea, Langkawi beckons not only as a haven for beach lovers or nature enthusiasts but also as a culinary paradise that captivates with its diverse, exquisite cuisine. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, this Malaysian jewel invites you on a unique culinary voyage.
Prepare to embark on a sensory journey through Langkawi's must-try restaurants and cafes, where every dish celebrates a blend of taste, tradition and innovation. Langkawi's dining landscape promises an unforgettable symphony of flavours, from chic waterfront bistros to secluded gems nestled amidst lush greenery. Here are some standout establishments currently trailblazing the island's vibrant gastronomic scene:
Paloh Restaurant & Bar is nestled within the enchanting Temple Tree Resort, beckoning patrons to embark on a gastronomic journey amidst a rustic Malaysian kampung setting. This culinary oasis celebrates Malaysia's diverse culinary tapestry, offering breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner with a contemporary twist.
Adorned with an indoor dining room and inviting outdoor seating, Paloh exudes a charm that complements its location within the splendid 100-year-old Ipoh House, which is meticulously restored to retain its allure.
Paloh’s unique setup serves as a sanctuary for guests of the Temple Tree Resort who are seeking a bespoke dining experience. Paloh Restaurant & Bar, with its all-day dining ethos, now unveils a revitalised, opulent menu selection designed to tantalise every palate. This extraordinary offering features a lavish array of celebrated Malaysian alongside Mediterranean dishes, each inspired by the exotic charm of the island or resort settings. Revel in a feast of locally sourced, exquisite ingredients, from the freshest seafood to vibrant, homegrown herbs and spices, masterfully prepared to elevate your dining experience to unprecedented heights. Guests can indulge in unique culinary offerings such as Floating Breakfasts by the pool, alfresco Dining Under the Stars, or High-Tea overlooking breathtaking sunsets on the resort grounds. You are welcome to enjoy the Live band performances on Monday nights, further elevating the dining atmosphere while ensuring each visit is imbued with rhythm and melody. Paloh continually refreshes its menu, promising a dynamic dining experience with every visit.
Paloh’s renowned bestseller menu invites diners to savour authentic traditional dishes, each inspired by heritage houses and showcasing the kitchen’s exceptional prowess. Delve into the richness of Daging Kerutuk, where beef is tenderly cooked in spiced coconut milk gravy, savour the Ayam Percik; grilled chicken slathered in a spicy coconut sauce, or opt for the Paloh Burger—a perfect union of beef or chicken patty with caramelised onions, honey mustard, cheddar and crispy fries. Both cuisines represent the state of Kelantan. You are also recommended to experience the aromatic Malacca traditional cuisine, Nyonya Laksa, which is a hearty dish featuring spicy coconut milk soup with yellow noodles, beansprouts and a choice of protein, served with sambal for a fiery kick. For a taste of local flavour from Perak, Nasi Goreng Paloh offers a delightful fusion of belinjau crackers and ‘devil's sambal’, also paired with your protein of choice.
To reach Paloh, enjoy a five-minute stroll from the Smiling Buffalo that will lead you to this culinary haven. Alternatively, guests can arrive by rental car, motorcycle, or through a convenient e-hailing service such as Grab, as public transportation is not an option on the island.
Scarborough Fish & Chips, ensconced within a charming blue house, offers a quaint dining experience with breathtaking vistas of the Andaman Sea. While the ambience leans towards simplicity, its panoramic views compensate generously. 
A culinary gem renowned for its signature fish and chips, its menu boasts a decent selection of fish ranging from dory to halibut or barramundi, each battered and fried to a lustrous golden brown. The batter, exuding a delicate aroma, encases the fish, which is then cooked to perfection—firm yet yielding under the gentle pressure of a knife. Complementing these delights are other tantalising options such as chicken chop with black pepper sauce and chicken cordon bleu.
Reigning supreme here is the dory fish and chips, which is served alongside thick-cut fries, it was a favourite amongst patrons seeking the ultimate taste of the sea. Whether seated outdoors or inside, patrons can enjoy Wi-Fi connectivity and the added convenience of being adjacent to a chalet. The allure of Scarborough extends beyond its culinary prowess to include a stunning view of the Andaman Sea, setting the stage for a truly memorable dining experience.
Access to Scarborough Fish & Chips is best by renting a car or motorcycle, as securing a taxi can be challenging here. Alternatively, guests can opt for an e-hailing service such as Grab, as public transportation is not an option on Langkawi Island.
Yellow Cafe Langkawi is a vibrant beachside sanctuary exuding a cheerful yellow-themed decor, nestled in the coveted locale of Pantai Cenang. This inviting cafe has something for every discerning foodie with a diverse selection of culinary delights from main dishes, pizzas and salads to an assortment of beverages, desserts even shisha offerings, ensuring every preference is catered to, including vegan dining options.
Adding to the allure of the Yellow Cafe is its unparalleled views of the Andaman Sea, especially at sunset, setting the stage for a truly mesmerising dining experience. With ample outdoor seating, guests can bask in its lively ambience enhanced by live music, creating a welcoming atmosphere alongside the warmth and hospitality of its friendly staff. Whether it is for intimate gatherings or grand celebrations, Yellow Cafe proves to be more than an ideal venue.
In addition to its wide offerings, Yellow Cafe boasts a bestseller menu, showcasing locally-sourced vegetarian delights. Indulge in the Jackfruit Burger, a flavourful testament to plant-based ingenuity, or savour the Margherita Pizza, a classic favourite featuring some of the freshest ingredients. For seafood enthusiasts, the fresh Salmon Salad promises a delectable harmony of textures and flavours, celebrating the bounty of the sea with every bite.
Accessing Yellow Cafe is relatively easy due to its strategic location being right on the beach, which is within walking distance from Pantai Cenang or between a two- and five-minute walk depending on where you are on the beach. Alternatively, guests may opt for the convenience of a rented car or motorcycle, or an e-hailing service such as Grab, as public transportation is not an option on the island.
The Cliff Restaurant is a culinary haven where a fusion of Malay, Asian, and Western cuisines meets the serenity of the sea. This exquisite dining spot boasts outdoor seating that offers panoramic sunset views facing the majestic Andaman Sea and requires that you make a reservation ahead of time to secure a table.
Ideal for any celebration, event or private romantic dinner, The Cliff enchants with its ingenious contemporary design, captivating views and beautiful surroundings, which are picturesque by day, stunning come sunset truly magnificent at night. With 120 comfortable seats on the Cliff terrace and a dedicated D’Reef section seating up to 40 people, patrons can kick back with a variety of drinks at the middle island bar while basking in breathtaking sea views. When it comes to food, bestsellers include the delectable Deep-fried Sea Bass with Sweet Tamarind Sauce, the flavourful Green Curry Tiger Prawn and the tantalising Nyonya Assam Curry Fish.
Accessing The Cliff is a breeze. The restaurant is located near Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah, making it a short stroll to get to. Rent a car or motorcycle or opt for an e-hailing service such as Grab, as public transportation is not an option on the island.
Smiling Buffalo is a delightful cafe that beckons with its delectable selection of speciality coffee, breakfast delights, sandwiches, pasta and rice dishes. Nestled within the charming boutique chalet property of Panji Panji, this enchanting cafe is surrounded by a lush tropical garden, exuding a relaxed and tranquil vibe that promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Smiling Buffalo is every coffee connoisseur’s dream featuring bestselling drinks including expertly brewed V60 and Aeropress coffees, as well as a range of espresso-based delights like lattes. For those who prefer non-coffee options, the refreshing Lemon Pomegranate Soda is a must-try. The cafe prides itself on sourcing coffee from local roasters and premium single-origin beans, ensuring a satisfying cup every time. Guests staying at the connected chalet, Panji Panji, have the opportunity to savour its delicious all-day breakfast. Free Wi-Fi is also available, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and work.
Finding your way to Smiling Buffalo is a breeze. The Smiling Buffalo Cafe also happens to be situated near Langkawi's Cenang Beach. It is located on Jalan Pantai Cenang, the main road running parallel to the beach. From there, it is approximately a five to 10-minute walk depending on where you start on Pantai Cenang. Alternatively, you can rent a car or motorcycle, or opt for an e-hailing service such as Grab, as public transportation is not an option on the island.
Cili Kampung is a beloved local Malay restaurant that takes pride in delivering authentic homemade Malay flavours, crafted with fresh local ingredients and served with warm heartfelt hospitality. This cash-only restaurant boasts outdoor seating, also offers a wheelchair-friendly for easy access.
Cili Kampung’s charm lies in its traditional family recipes from Negeri Sembilan, bringing a taste of heritage to every dish. Their bestsellers are truly a testament to their culinary prowess: the Gulai Masak Lemak Cili Api features a sumptuous yellow coconut gravy infused with turmeric plus homemade chilli paste, with options of beef, chicken, mackerel, seabass, squid, hornshell, or prawn. The Spicy Sambal Petai offers a fiery experience with its homemade red chilli paste along with the unique flavour of stink bean, paired perfectly with your choice of beef, chicken, mackerel, seabass, squid, or prawn. Additionally, the Asam Pedas provides a tantalisingly spicy yet sour gravy made with tamarind and homemade chilli paste, featuring delectable options of beef, chicken, mackerel, or sea bass.
Cili Kampung is not only ideal for family dining but also caters to private events, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Finding your way to Cili Kampung is easy. Rent a car or motorcycle; paid parking is available. E-hailing service such as Grab is also an option, though public transportation is not available on the island.
Nestled amongst verdant paddy fields, Pia's The Padi is a family-run culinary gem offering an exquisite fusion of Malay, Indian and Asian cuisine, masterfully crafted by the esteemed Chef Pia. This charming eatery boasts outdoor seating and a dedicated kids' menu in addition to its main offerings, ensuring a delightful experience for the entire family. For an immersive culinary adventure, partake in Pia’s Cooking Class from 10:00AM to 12:00PM, where you have the opportunity to prepare your lunch under the expert guidance of Chef Pia.
At Pia's The Padi, diners are treated to a beautiful panoramic view, with lush valleys, a serene sunset and a peaceful dining experience in the heart of the paddy fields. Its bestsellers are a testament to Pia’s culinary expertise: spring rolls, butter prawn masala featuring succulent prawns in a rich creamy sauce, beef and spinach curry with roti offering a harmonious blend of tender beef and vibrant spinach, as well as the beef rendang, which delivers a deep, aromatic taste complemented by the hearty potato spinach curry.
Pia's The Padi is a seven-minute drive from the Langkawi International Airport and just six minutes from either the Four Season Resort or the Tanjung Rhu Resort. Pia's The Padi also offers pick-up and drop-off services upon request, with prior bookings necessary. Additionally, renting a car or motorcycle is an option, with paid parking available on-site. An e-hailing service such as Grab is another alternative, though public transportation is not available on the island.
Hidden Langkawi Restaurant and Bar, with its signature white building accented with hints of turquoise, is perfectly situated beside the water sports hub in Pantai Tengah. This charming establishment exudes a rustic ambience, ensuring that both locals and tourists feel relaxed and right at home in no time. Serving lunch, dinner, or snacks, customers can enjoy their meals by the beach while soaking in the stunning sunset views or enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. The menu features a good selection of pizzas, tacos, salads, burgers, pasta and desserts, along with an assortment of drinks, making it an easy choice for all.
In addition, its unrivalled sunset views facing the Andaman Sea provide a stunning backdrop of natural beauty to complement the great food and lively atmosphere. This place buzzes with energy, which is enhanced by live music performances. Hidden Langkawi caters to various needs with outdoor seating, parking availability, wheelchair accessibility, free Wi-Fi, and an overall welcoming vibe.
Getting to Hidden Langkawi is easy. Hidden Langkawi Restaurant and Bar is also located in Pantai Cenang. It lies slightly inland from the beach; a walk from Pantai Cenang to Hidden Langkawi Restaurant and Bar takes about five to 10 minutes, depending on your starting point. Alternatively, you can rent a car or motorcycle. An e-hailing service such as Grab is also available. However, public transportation is not available on the island.
Situated within this tropical paradise is The Kelapa Cafe by TRV Langkawi, offering a dining experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. This hidden gem is famed for its gourmet Western cuisine, delightful desserts and aromatic brews, serving up breakfast, brunch, lunch and tapas. Reservations are required. With outdoor seating available, diners can enjoy their meals al fresco whilst basking in the warm tropical breeze.
The Kelapa Cafe is well-known for its welcoming atmosphere; quiet and comfortable with free Wi-Fi making it the ideal place to unwind. Breakfast here is particularly remarkable and also well-known for using high-quality ingredients. Every detail down to its plating here is impressive and inventive, akin to what you might find at a five-star resort but at much friendlier prices.
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This two-storey cafe has ample seating set within pleasant tropical surroundings, making it the perfect place to unwind even during the hottest parts of the day.
Despite public transportation not being an option on the island, you can still use Google Maps as a point of reference to easily find your way here.
The Fat Frog truly embodies the concept of sustainable dining and is renowned as the island's top sustainable vegetarian restaurant. Located on Jalan Padang Matsirat, along the road that connects Kuah to the airport, this vegetarian hideout offers some of the most amazing views of the 99east Golf Course, the ocean and the cliffs beyond.
Staying true to its ethos, The Fat Frog delivers a tempting choice of rich, healthful cuisines that even the most dedicated meat eaters will fall for. Between 4.00PM to 6.00PM, the menu is limited to coffee, smoothies, or desserts, allowing guests to unwind for the day while enjoying the breathtaking views, playing a game of boules on the grass, or relaxing at the bar with a cool sundowner. Prices are reasonable, ranging from RM 20 to RM 44 and the restaurant offers outdoor seating plus a fascinating blend of Italian, Bar, Pub and Healthy cuisines, as well as vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options.
Aside from its sustainable menu, the restaurant also offers free Wi-Fi along with off-street parking. The staff is courteous, assuring wonderful service for an enjoyable dining experience. The ambience, service and food quality are likely to exceed expectations, ensuring each visit is unforgettable.
Getting to The Fat Frog is easy with Google Maps. Public transportation is unavailable on the island, however, if you have a rented vehicle, you will find ample free parking near the main entrance for cars and motorbikes. An e-hailing service like Grab is also a convenient option to get here.
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