With its storied shophouses, famed hawker food, and multicultural soul, Penang has long charmed international travellers as one of Malaysia’s most colourful heritage cities. When it comes to the bar scene, the country’s capital of Kuala Lumpur often takes the spotlight for its modern concepts and its diverse cocktail offerings, but Penang’s George Town is quietly carving out its own identity – one that’s intimate, inventive, and deeply rooted in local flavour.

A new generation of bartenders is leading this spirited transformation, blending native ingredients like nutmeg, torch ginger, and pandan with modern mixology techniques. In the last few years, Penang’s bars have also earned global recognition from respectable institutions like Asia’s 50 Best Bars and The Bar Awards. Needless to say, don’t skimp on the nightlife here after exploring its historic sites and foodie spots! 

To make your night out even easier, we’ve mapped out a bar crawl through some of George Town’s best cocktail dens, from backdoor speakeasies to a dessert-themed bar that serves its booze by the scoop! 

6:00 p.m. – Good Friends Club  

Start your evening at Good Friends Club near Hin Bus Depot (perfect for a pick-me-up after exploring the vibrant arts and culture hub). Tucked behind teal doors with an old shophouse sign reading “Good Friends Never Bojio”, this cocktail bar puts a cheeky spin on tradition, serving cocktails inspired by kopitiam culture and local ingredients. The atmosphere is unpretentious and fun, with every guest being treated as a “good friend” in reflection of Penang’s warm hospitality. Led by Head Bartender Kelvin Wong, the current menu pays homage to the state’s food scene, featuring gastronomy-led cocktails like Penang White Curry and Laksa Negroni.  

Good Friends Club
39, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 Penang 
Opening Hours: Monday, Wednesday to Thursday, Sunday: 7PM – 1AM | Friday to Saturday: 7PM – 2AM 
Instagram | Facebook 

7:30 p.m. – Backdoor Bodega 

Right next to Good Friends Club is Backdoor Bodega, literally hidden behind the backdoor of a clothing store. This award-winning speakeasy – which earned the No. 52 spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list – has an ever-changing menu that pays homage to Penang’s local culture. Self-taught bartender-owner Koh Yung Shen helms the bar, alongside a dedicated young team that keeps the good vibes and great drinks flowing. Expect imaginative concoctions like Georgetown Gimlet and Pearl of the Orient, as well as “Hall of Fame” drinks that have previously won cocktail competitions.

Backdoor Bodega
37, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 Penang 
Opening hours: 8:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. (Thursday to Sunday)
Website | Instagram | Facebook 

9:00 p.m. – No Bar Here  

Despite what the name suggests, there’s definitely a bar here – and it’s one worth finding. Just a few doors down from its sister spot Backdoor Bodega, No Bar Here is a retro-inspired cocktail haven that pays homage to the ‘80s and ‘90s. With cassette tapes, neon signs, and a menu full of nostalgic nods, it’s a playful trip down memory lane. Signature drinks like the Megumi Highball and Ovaltini blend local flavours with pop culture flair, making each sip as fun as it is flavourful. 

No Bar Here
25, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 Penang 
Opening hours: 8:00 p.m. until late (Tuesday to Saturday)
Instagram | Facebook

10:30 p.m. – Drunken Gelato 

Think of Drunken Gelato as a dessert bar for those who have both a sweet tooth and appetite for tipples. This playful haunt serves up boozy gelatos alongside dessert-inspired cocktails paired with decadent bites, making it a go-to for those who like their tipples with a sweet twist. Think indulgent creations like the Rum & Raisin Old Fashioned or Vodka Espresso Affogato. With its neon glow and lively atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where fun drinks and Insta-worthy moments go hand in hand. 

Drunken Gelato
166, Lebuh Presgrave, George Town, 10300 Penang 
Opening hours: 8:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. (weekdays) | 3:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. (weekends)
Instagram | Facebook 

12:00 a.m. – SO-OD Bar 

Injecting a jolt of vibrance into George Town’s cocktail landscape, SO-OD Bar blends bold Thai flavours with creative mixology for a fun drinking experience. Perched above SO-OD by Chef Ton, this dynamic venue brings together high-energy nightlife – think live music and DJ sets – with expertly crafted cocktails. Expect signatures like the Sood Old Fashioned and Gin Laksa, each bursting with unexpected character and flair. It’s the ideal spot to end the night on a high! 

SO-OD Bar
33, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 Penang 
Instagram | Facebook 

Side note: If you’re feeling peckish in between rounds of cocktails, check out 888 Hokkien Mee in Lebuh Presgave, located just a five-minute walk away from four of these bars! This local-favourite hawker stall has been serving Hokkien-style noodles in prawn soup for over 30 years. Customers can also add braised pork ribs or roasted pork to enjoy with the rich, umami soup and noodles.  

Bonus: Penang Cocktail Week 2025 

This September 1–7, 2025, George Town will set the stage for the third edition of Penang Cocktail Week – a spirited celebration featuring international guest bartenders, bar takeovers, exclusive menus, and hands-on cocktail workshops. For discerning drinkers and curious newcomers alike, it’s the ideal time to sip, savour, and explore the island’s vibrant cocktail culture. 

Find more places to discover in Penang, Malaysia here.

All photos taken by Global Citizen Club