Top 5 Places to Eat in Malacca City

Captivating view of heritage buildings and traffic in Malacca, Malaysia.
Sự Minh, Pexels

Malacca City's dining scene presents a vibrant blend of historical influences and local flavors, inviting visitors to explore a range of authentic and unique culinary experiences.

1. Amy Heritage Nyonya Cuisine

Cuisine: Authentic Nyonya/Peranakan cuisine

This restaurant provides an authentic taste of Peranakan heritage. Visitors can expect meticulously prepared dishes such as Ikan Gerang Asam (fish in sour tamarind stew), Ayam Pongteh (braised chicken with fermented bean paste), and Udang Lemak Nenas (prawns in coconut milk with pineapple). The atmosphere is cozy, making for a pleasant dining experience with rich, traditional flavors.

Price: MYR 30-60+ per person (approx. USD 6.50-13+)

Getting There: Located on Jalan Melaka Raya 24, it is typically accessible by a short walk or taxi/ride-hailing service from central Malacca.

2. Pak Putra Restaurant

Cuisine: Pakistani and Indian cuisine

A visit here offers a flavorful detour into Pakistani and Indian dishes, most notably their soft, fluffy naan bread and succulent tandoori chicken. Other popular choices include butter chicken, garlic naan, and biryani. The restaurant has a lively, unpretentious atmosphere, sometimes featuring a local musician. Service is quick, and all ingredients used are halal.

Price: MYR 15-30 per person (approx. USD 3.20-6.50)

Getting There: Situated in a double shop lot with a prominent tandoor oven at the entrance, it is easily reachable by walking or a short taxi/ride-hailing service.

3. Restoran Tong Sheng

Cuisine: Chinese-style seafood

This establishment is highly popular for its fresh seafood, with the signature cheesy prawn mihun being a must-try dish. The restaurant maintains a cozy environment, often featuring photos of famous visitors. Due to its popularity, especially on weekends, long queues are common, so making a reservation beforehand is advisable. Other recommended dishes include buttermilk crabs and salted egg yolk bean curd.

Price: MYR 50-100+ per person (approx. USD 11-21+), depending on seafood choices

Getting There: As a well-known local eatery, it is easily accessible by taxi or ride-hailing services from most areas of Malacca City. No specific public transport details are typically required.

4. Monterios Portuguese Seafood Stall

Cuisine: Portuguese and Chinese seafood fusion

This venue, which has evolved from a stall into a comfortable restaurant, offers a unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese seafood flavors. The signature chili crab and salted egg crab are highly recommended. Portuguese baked fish, particularly stingray, and prawn omelette are also notable choices. The environment is clean and spacious, providing a bustling atmosphere that offers a glimpse into local culture.

Price: MYR 30-40 per person (approx. USD 6.50-8.50)

Getting There: Located at the Portuguese Settlement, it can be a 20-minute taxi or ride-hailing journey from central Malacca due to the city's one-way road system. Search for 'Monterio's Portuguese Seafood' on ride-hailing apps.

5. Jonker 88

Cuisine: Nyonya Laksa and Cendol

Located directly on the vibrant Jonker Street, Jonker 88 is a bustling spot renowned for its Nyonya Laksa and diverse cendol options, including Durian Cendol. Expect a casual, lively atmosphere and be prepared for queues, especially during peak hours. The Nyonya Laksa offers rich, flavorful broth, while the cendol is known for its strong gula melaka (palm sugar) taste.

Price: MYR 10-25 per person (approx. USD 2.20-5.50)

Getting There: Its prime location on Jalan Hang Jebat (Jonker Street) makes it easily walkable from many central Malacca attractions.