Where To Eat In Melaka
With Melaka having such a rich and varied cultural history, it is little wonder that its culinary scene is a mirror image of that. No matter what you’re in the mood to eat, Melaka has more than enough dining options for you to get your teeth stuck into.
Here are my tried and tested recommendations of where to eat, snack and drink in the city…
Jonka Street Night Market
Open on Friday to Sunday from 6pm to 12am every week, Jonka Street’s Night Market is a must visit, whether you are feeling peckish or just want to experience what nightlife in the city is like. It’s super busy and chaotic but great fun to see at least once during your stay.
Expect a mish-mash of stalls selling everything from traditional chinese favourites, to fruit flavoured jelly balls, every type of meat and fish on sticks, potato based snacks and MUCH MUCH MORE. We tried some sweet potato balls and char-grilled cheesy corn. Both had pretty unique textures but were tasty.
I would use the market as an opportunity to sample some fun new snacks, as opposed to visiting for a full meal (it seemed relatively expensive and was very, very busy), so keep that in mind if you’re really hungry.
Address: Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Calanthe Art Cafe
This cute little eatery located just a minute’s stroll off of Jonker Street is a place we kept coming back to during our short stay in Melaka. The decor is whimsical and quirky, made with recycled bits and pieces that add fun and character to the half indoor, half outdoor space. You get free wifi and order online with the food brought over to you promptly.
They serve traditional Malaysian cuisine and their own coffee. Take my advice and be sure to order the house laksa here – it’s a super affordable big bowl of deliciousness that you will be dreaming about forever!
Address: 11, Jalan Hang Kasturi, 75250 Melaka, Malaysia
Waree Thai Restaurant
This is probably some of the best thai food I have had (outside of thailand which we are visiting soon!). The unassuming restaurant front, open kitchen and hand-written menu on sheets of cardboard has an unpretentious, home-cooked comfort food feel.
We tried the green curry and sambal prawns which were richly flavored and spiced to perfection.
Just be sure to bring cash with you as they do not accept card payments!
Address: 7, Jalan Tukang Besi, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Humble Ground Cafe
If you fancy something sweet or need a little caffeinated pick-me-up while exploring Melaka, this Bali-esque style cafe is a great choice to chill out and restore your energy levels.
The cakes here are mostly matcha-flavored so if you are a fan of matcha like I am then you MUST pop-in and have a slice (or two!). We had the layered matcha and strawberry cake and the matcha crumble cheesecake – both were divine.
Address: 24, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
LouKot
Hidden behind a dense layer of foliage, it can be easy to pass by LouKot if it weren’t for the aroma of spices floating through the air from the kitchen. The menu here is succinct (biryani or curry bread for mains only!) and the decor is no-frills, aside from a wall decorated with inspirational quotes left behind by travelers from all over the world.
We tried both a biryani (chicken) and curry bread (lamb) and it came with raita, a mint/coriander dip and dahl. We also had to try the chai which was spicy, strong and not very sweet which makes a change to other variations I am more familiar with.
Address: 15, Jalan Tukang Emas, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Coconut Shake Batu Berendam
On a stonkingly hot day, a cold and creamy coconutty beverage from Coconut Shake Batu Berendam is the perfect way to cool-off and rehydrate. Think of it as a bitty coconut milkshake topped with a scoop of rich, smooth ice-cream. It is glorious.
Address: No. 7-1, No.5, Tingkat Bawah, 7-2, Jalan Kanan 1, Taman Ria, 75350 Batu Berendam, Melaka, Malaysia
TOP TIP: Be sure to carry tissues/napkins/wet wipes with you when going out to eat in Melaka as most of the places we ate in didn’t have any. It’s always best to come prepared!
In my opinion, some of the best restaurants in Melaka can be found just off of and surrounding Jonker Street so be sure to take your time and see what other hidden gems you can find tucked out of sight in the surrounding area.
Until next time,
Lica xoxo
