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Penang After Sunset: A Singaporean’s Guide to Penang’s Nightlife and Party Spots

Penang After Sunset: A Singaporean’s Guide to Penang’s Nightlife and Party Spots 


Get set for an exploration into the lively nightlife of Penang – where cultural diversity, culinary delights, and a fascinating history converge. This vibrant Malaysian island offers more than just iconic architecture and street food; it boasts a nightlife that caters to both locals and visitors.


In this comprehensive guide, we'll uncover the top bars, nightclubs, and party destinations in Penang!



Where to Enjoy Nightlife in Penang


George Town, the capital of the island, serves as the focal point for Penang's nightlife, featuring various vibrant districts celebrated for their bustling bars and clubs:


Chulia Street & Love Lane 


Step into the lively heart of George Town, where backpackers and tourists come together for a fantastic mix of easy going bars, lively pubs, and mouth watering street food vendors. The narrow alleys and charming shophouses create an inviting atmosphere for you and your pals to get set for a night of enjoyment. 


And, of course, you can't miss the lively Tipsy Tiger Party Hostel and the Reggae Mansion – a hostel that's not just a place to crash but a hub with a rooftop bar offering stunning city views!


         https://maps.app.goo.gl/JUSMSVMty9aJPKuU8 (Love Lane)


Upper Penang Road 

(Source:penangfoodie) 


If you're looking for a night infused with colonial charm and upscale vibes, George Town's chic district is your go-to destination. As the sun sets, the energy in this area reaches new heights, drawing in locals, expatriates, and tourists alike, all seeking that elevated party vibe. 


Don't miss the allure of Farquhar’s Bar, an elegant gem within the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, and China House, a multifaceted space blending art, culinary delights, and live music. Your night in Penang is about to get sophisticated and unforgettable!



Gurney Drive 


Discover the charm of Gurney Drive along the northern coast of the island, where you’re treated with breathtaking sea views and a relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can choose from a selection of beachfront bars and restaurants, where you can unwind with your favorite drinks and savor delightful conversations. 


As you navigate the area, Gurney Paragon Mall and Gurney Plaza, prominent shopping destinations, stand ready to cater to your diverse cravings for dining and nightlife experiences. Let Gurney Drive be your personal haven, blending tranquility and vibrancy for an unforgettable night in Penang!



Batu Ferringhi

(Source:lunnybb) 


Indulge in the captivating nightlife of Batu Ferringhi, known for its pristine beaches and upscale resorts. While it maintains a serene ambiance compared to George Town, this area unfolds a different kind of charm with laid-back beach bars and lively night markets.


Dive into the night at popular beachfront bars like Bora Bora by Sunset and Beach Blanket Babylon, both nestled in the vicinity, offering you a taste of Penang's enchanting beach scene. Your night out in Batu Ferringhi just got a whole lot more fun!



Straits Quay

(Source:penangsters) 


Seri Tanjung Pinang sets the stage for a night of sophistication! This upscale neighborhood boasts a refined marina complex with an array of dining and nightlife options, featuring waterfront bars and restaurants just for you. 


Let the scenic marina backdrop be your chosen destination for an elevated and refined evening experience with friends and family!



5 Best Bars in Penang 


Backdoor Bodega 

(Source: shen.pdf) 


Experience the true essence of a speakeasy at Backdoor Bodega, a hidden gem discreetly situated at the rear of The Swagger Salon, a clothing store. This covert bar, cleverly disguised as a high-end pin shop, welcomes you with a simple, inviting, and stylishly elegant atmosphere. Perfectly embodying the ambiance of a post-event gathering spot, it's your ideal choice for a night out with your closest buddies. 


Curated by a dedicated group of young and enthusiastic bartenders, this speakeasy earned a spot on the 2022 Asia's 100 Best Bars list for its exceptional cocktails and distinctive creations that skillfully incorporate local flavors – just for you!


Address: 37, Jalan Gurdwara, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Opening Hours: 20:00-01:00 (Thursday-Sunday, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)


Good Friends Club 

(Source: sandyyylyt) 


Step into the unique ambiance of The Good Friends Club, setting itself apart from other bars in Penang with a clever concept reminiscent of an old-school Chinese kopitiam. To easily spot it, just keep an eye out for the neon sign proclaiming "Good Friends Never Bojio," reminding you that a true friend never forgets to invite the uninformed. Like a neighborhood hawker spot, this bar radiates a relaxed atmosphere, creating a welcoming space for you and your friends. 


In a softly illuminated space furnished with metal chairs and tables, adorned with wooden cabinets featuring vintage trinkets and walls covered in retro posters, it might be easy to forget you're in a speakeasy. The subtle reminder comes from the array of cocktail bottles neatly arranged on the shelves near the bar and the ever-present crowd, each person holding a drink in hand.


Address: 39, Jalan Gurdwara, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Opening Hours: 08:00-01:00 (Sunday-Thursday) 08:00-02:00 (Fridays and Saturdays)


Over & Above 

(Source: cindynnnnn) 


As soon as you enter Over & Above, you'll quickly notice it's not your typical dimly lit bar – think bright, spacious, and a view that'll take your breath away. Nestled on the second floor of a shophouse, it not only offers a well-lit and spacious interior but also presents a stunning view of jetties and the island's seas. The bar embraces a minimalist theme with track lights illuminating the space, partitions defining unassuming furniture, and a counter neatly adorned with arranged alcohol bottles.


Now, these guys keep it real – no crazy additions to their drinks. Just good ol' classics and some unique sips like brandy, whiskey, champagnes, and a top-notch pint of beer. So, when you're in the mood for a laid-back drink with a killer view, Over & Above has your back. Cheers to that!


Address: 3, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Opening Hours: 08:30-17:30, reopens 20:00-02:00 (Wednesday-Monday, closed on Tuesdays)


Beso Rosado 

(Source: beso_rosado) 


Get ready for a Beso Rosado adventure that starts even before you walk through the door. Imagine punk-rock graffiti setting the outside vibe – edgy and full of promise. But, here's the surprise: step inside, and it's a complete transformation.


Beyond the entrance lies a world of vibrant pink walls, plush velvet chairs, and lively neon lights, creating a lavish and feminine escape. The highlight? A chic pink and gilded bar, where talented bartenders work their magic. Beso Rosado isn't just a place to visit; it's an immersive experience, offering a night of sophistication and style that's pretty in pink. Let the upscale fun begin!


Address: 86, Lebuh Bishop, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Opening Hours: 18:00-00:00 (Tuesday-Friday) 12:00-15:00, reopens 18:00-00:00 (Saturdays and Sundays)


Er Yi Tai 

(Source: bernardgoh82) 


Discover the hidden gem adored by locals – Er Yi Tai, the playful "second wife" in Chinese. Far from any shady connotation, this Japanese izakaya-style bar adds a sophisticated twist to your night out. As you step into this mysterious yet inviting space, you'll be enveloped by a dark and moody ambiance, featuring elegant leather couches, ambient lighting, and rich wood panels in warm tones of brown and deep orange.


At Er Yi Tai, relish Japanese starters paired with an array of alcoholic delights. Think spirits, sake, and Japanese Highballs as your go-to choices. But here's the kicker – their cocktails have names as playful as the bar itself. Here’s to a night of mystery sophistication, and a touch of whimsy to remember!


Address: 56, Jalan Kuala Kangsar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang

Opening Hours: 17:30-01:00 (Monday-Sunday)



Have an exciting nightlife experience in Penang that you’d like to share with us?


Whether you've stumbled upon secret speakeasies or reveled in lively bars, your Penang nightlife stories are worth sharing. Be part of our community and subscribe to our blog page for the latest in travel, most-talked eateries, hangout spots, and more at gomalaysia@uee.com.sg.

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