A Foodie’s Paradise: Best Places to Eat in Malacca


Savor the flavours of Malacca – a foodie paradise with every bite! Shutterstock: Derek Teo

Calling all food lovers! Malacca is the place to be if you’re dreaming of an epic culinary adventure. Known for its unique blend of Chinese, Malay and Portuguese influences, this city serves up bold and unforgettable flavours. From iconic dishes to hidden foodie gems, this guide will help you find the top food in Malacca. Get ready for an adventure that’s as mouth-watering as it is memorable!

Jonker Street: Malacca’s Foodie Hotspot

First stop? In and nearby Jonker Street, the beating heart of Malacca’s food scene. This bustling area is a foodie playground, lined with vendors, cafés and hidden gems serving up some of the best local food in Malacca. Every weekend, Jonker Street comes alive as a night market, with mouth-watering aromas and food stalls at every turn. Trust us, this is where the food magic happens!

  1. Chicken Rice Balls
    One of the most popular places, Hoe Kee Chicken Rice Ball, is beloved by both locals and tourists alike for its flavourful and aromatic rice balls. These perfectly pressed little rice spheres pair beautifully with tender, juicy poached chicken. Here’s a tip—get there early! This crowd-pleaser sells out fast, so you’ll want to beat the rush for a taste of this iconic Malacca treat!
  2. Nyonya Dishes
    For a relaxing dive into Peranakan flavours, Straits Affair is the place to be! This cosy restaurant seamlessly combines modern Nyonya dishes with beloved classics, serving up an unforgettable culinary experience. Beyond their delectable Nyonya specialities, they offer an irresistible selection of freshly made Peranakan “kuih”, including pastries, biscuits and cakes—all crafted with exceptional quality and served in a clean, welcoming setting. Highlights include the chewy Ondeh-Ondeh, crispy Fried Ang Koo Kuih, spicy Nyonya Laksa, tangy Mee Siam and the must-try Peranakan pancake with banana and Gula Melaka.
  3. Satay Celup
    Satay Celup is a must-try in Melaka, with Capitol Satay being one of the most popular spots—although you might wait an hour on regular days and up to four hours on long weekends! This unique dish features skewers of raw and semi-cooked seafood, meat and vegetables dipped into a bubbling pot of rich satay gravy, creating an unforgettable flavour experience that’s well worth the queue.
  4. Cendol
    Feeling the heat? Cool down with a bowl of cendol, Malacca’s signature refreshing and oh-so-sweet dessert. This treat is a cool break from spicy food, made with shaved ice, coconut milk, pandan-flavoured noodles and drizzled with rich gula Melaka (palm sugar syrup). And if you’re feeling adventurous, try the Durian Cendol for a creamy, fruity twist! Head to Jonker 88 or Bibik House to experience the best cendol in town.

Portuguese Settlement: Seafood with a Twist

Want to taste something truly unique? Visit the Portuguese Settlement, where Malacca’s Portuguese-Eurasian community serves up flavours you won’t find anywhere else in Malaysia. The seafood here is incredible, especially the ikan bakar (grilled fish) and sambal prawns. With its festive atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes, this area is especially vibrant during festivals. For seafood lovers, it’s a must-visit among the best places to eat in Malacca.

Plan Your Culinary Adventure

Ready to eat your way through Malacca? Wondering how to get to Malacca from Singapore? Start your adventure with a comfy, luxury bus ride from Singapore to Malacca with KKKL. Relax, enjoy the views and arrive ready to dive into Malacca’s foodie paradise. With so many fantastic places to eat, it’s no wonder this city is a must-visit for foodies from all over.

So, why wait? Grab your appetite, book your bus and prepare to experience all the recommended food in Malacca. From Jonker Street’s tasty bites to the cosy Nyonya spots and the lively Portuguese Settlement, Malacca has something to satisfy every craving. Bon appétit and happy exploring!