Senior Digital Writer, Entertainment and Dining
Penang is one of Malaysia’s most popular destinations, and for good reason. Just a few hours drive up north from Kuala Lumpur, the state – known for its rich culture and food – offers a trip back in time, with historical buildings at every turn. It’s also a dream for foodies looking for cheap but delicious food. But just like KL, night life on the island is growing rapidly with a noticeable rise of speakeasy-style hidden bars in Penang. Here are the best ones to discover.
Just like popular watering holes in Bangsar, Bukit Bintang, TTDI, and TREC in KL, the speakeasy scene in Penang is also mushrooming. The more hidden the bar is, the more people are intrigued to visit. These hidden bars in Penang really live up to their concept of being secret. Who would’ve thought to use a fridge as a bar entrance?a
Such unique concepts also comes with tastefully decorated interiors (because being #instaworthy pulls in the crowd too). Bars like Magazine 63 stay true to its heritage by implementing Asian decor into their interiors, while Beso Rosado and Out of Nowhere goes for a more modern approach with classy and minimalist interiors.
We’ve listed down the best hidden bars in Penang that are waiting to be discovered. Be sure to put your thinking caps on as the entrance to these bars are quite concealed – although keep in mind that you can always call for directions.
(Hero and feature images credit:@goodfriendsclubpg/Instagram)
Best speakeasies and hidden bars in Penang to visit for some good vibes
Jump To / Table of Contents
- Beso Rosado
- Magazine 63
- Jio Li Xiang
- Backdoor Bodega
- Manchu Bar
- Good Friends Club
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Beso Rosado
Beso Rosado, previously known as Golden Shower by ChinChin, is the brainchild of the culinary team from ChinChin. The establishment is both a bar and eatery, with a focus on Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The menu is designed around small, shareable plates that highlight the natural flavours of fresh ingredients.
In addition to their innovative food offerings, the bar boasts a unique co*cktail menu, curated by their lead mixologist, Francesco Moretti. The interior of Beso Rosado is a sight to behold, featuring a millennial pink and gold colour scheme reminiscent of a Pinterest dream moodboard. From the moment you enter, the stunning decor, even extending to the restroom, provides ample opportunities for Instagram-worthy photos.
Operating hours: 6 PM – 12 AM (weekdays, closed on Mondays), 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 12 AM (weekends)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @beso_rosado)
What to order:
- Penne Duck Bolognese, Grilled Sweetcorn, Purple Rain, Casa De La Pina, and Lychee Martini
Additional Information
Address:
86, Lebuh Bishop, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Phone:
+60 11-2418 4223
Magazine 63 is a pioneer amongst Penang bars in incorporating Asian themes into its space. The staff don traditional Chinese attire, and many of their beverages are served in distinctive Chinese ceramics. Locating the bar itself, however, requires some effort. From the outside, it appears to be a deserted building with no signage. A street food cart outside and a white flag with the Chinese characters for alcohol are your only hints.
Magazine 63 places a strong emphasis on providing an exceptional and unique experience for their guests through innovative co*cktails and events. Drawing inspiration from Chinese cultural symbols and history, the co*cktails served here are designed to delight guests and provide a photogenic addition to their Instagram feed. There’s bound to be a drink here that will suit your taste buds, no matter what you crave. Their in-house signature co*cktails, Nv Er Hong and Bloody tit*, are best-sellers and widely favoured by many. If those don’t hit the spot, classic co*cktails are also on offer.
One of Magazine 63’s intriguing co*cktails is The Legendary Four Beauties which include options like Yang Gui Fei, Xi Shi, Diao Chan, and Wang ZhaoJun, each crafted with a different personality in mind—why have one when you can have four?
Operating hours: 8 PM – 3 AM (closed on Mondays)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @magazine_63)
What to order:
- Bloody tit*, The Legendary Four Beauties, and Apple Manhattan
Additional Information
Address:
63, Jalan Magazine, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Phone:
+60 17-636 3551
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Jio Li Xiang
Previously known as The 12 Senses, Jio Li Xiang is another hidden bar in Penang that is inspired by Chinese aesthetics. Their forte is crafting co*cktails, but the fun begins even before you get to the beverages, as you have to figure out how to navigate through the door. The secret lies with the Wing Chun dummy, but the exact lever to engage is for you to discover.
The interior is adorned with leather sofas and black-and-white photos of Western celebrities adorning one corner. Even the washroom has its own flair, with pictures of Daisy from The Great Gatsby hung beside the mirror. While the decor might seem disjointed at first glance, with its unusual fusion of Asian and Western elements, it definitely adds to the place’s unique charm.
As for their drinks, the Jungle Bird co*cktail, served in a Tiki mug, is a delightful blend of Campari, Phraya Rum, fresh lime juice, and pineapple juice. If co*cktails aren’t your thing, they also offer wine and beer, ensuring there’s a drink to suit everyone’s preference.
Operating hours: 6.30 PM – 2 AM (closed on Tuesdays)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @kafekaki)
What to order:
- Jungle Bird
Additional Information
Address:
12, Lebuh Presgrave, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Phone:
+60 16-405 9697
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Backdoor Bodega
Backdoor Bodega is a secret spot within the Hin Bus Depot that you shouldn’t overlook during your bar exploration. The hint to its location is subtly hidden in its name, leading you to an unmarked door at the back of Good Friends Club, which is also another place worth visiting. Emphasising its speakeasy tradition of concealing their alcohol sales, they actually sell pins. These ‘overpriced’ pins are later swapped for your drinks at the bar.
This highly secretive speakeasy, bathed in warm orange lighting, operates with a mix of style and sass. Although the space is not vast, its relaxed atmosphere is ideal for you and your friends to unwind and socialise, while sampling their inventive array of co*cktails that are cleverly infused with a local spin.
Operating hours: 8 PM – 1 AM (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @a.mander)
What to order:
- Georgetown Gimlet, Matcha Magic, and Kepala Hotak
Additional Information
Address:
37, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
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Manchu Bar
Manchu Bar is a hidden gem for those who admire the historic culture and architectural style of the Qing dynasty. To find the entrance, look for a shop front adorned with Chinese inscriptions and miniature stone statues. Once you spot it, navigate through the lush red curtains on the right and push past the inconspicuous heavy wooden door behind them to enter the speakeasy bar.
Drawing inspiration from the Manchus of Northeast China, the bar is artistically decorated with classic furniture and elements of Oriental architecture that reflect the Manchurian culture. Choose your drink from their creative menu and enjoy the unique experience of being served by staff dressed in traditional costumes.
Manchu Bar offers live music with bands performing a mix of classic and contemporary songs to enhance the ambience. If you’re fortunate, you might even witness their special performance – a Chinese Opera.
Their Five Omakase co*cktails and Yuzu Whiskey Sour are a must-try, promising to take your drinking experience to a new level. If you’re feeling hungry, the bar also serves small appetisers like sweet potato fries and dim sum.
Operating hours: 7 PM – 3 AM (closed on Mondays)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @manchupenang)
What to order:
- South Side and Tangerine Teals
Additional Information
Address:
38 & 40, Jalan Pintal Tali, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Phone:
+60 12-500 7588
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Good Friends Club
Situated adjacent to the popular Hin Bus Depot, home to some of Penang’s finest art galleries and unique pop-up markets, hides another true gem like Backdoor Bodega that invites with its enticing charm. Good Friends Club is more than just a bar; it’s a relaxing, local hangout masquerading as a Chinese medicinal hall, radiating a sense of comfort and fellowship. Attracting a group of ‘good friends who always remember to invite each other’, this speakeasy bar skillfully combines the character of a traditional Chinese Kopitiam with a cosier, dimly lit room, securing its place as a must-visit destination for Penang’s nightlife enthusiasts.
Decked out with retro wooden seating and storage units reminiscent of the ’80s, Good Friends Club excels at concocting innovative co*cktails that incorporate local Penang flavours. The Ban Chang Kuih co*cktail is a must-try, paying tribute to the much-loved street snack of peanut pancakes, adding a distinctive spin to the overall drinking experience.
Operating hours: 8 PM – 1 AM (Sundays to Thursdays), 8 PM – 2 AM (Fridays and Saturdays)
(Image credit: Instagram/@goodfriendsclubpg)
What to order:
- Ban Chang Kuih, Coconut Shake, and Super Keat-Lahh
Additional Information
Address:
39, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Phone:
+60 10-568 0527
(The information in this article is accurate as on the date of publication.)
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