This well-positioned hotel makes a perfect base for exploring George Town’s Unesco heritage district on foot, with our hit list of dining and shopping spots nearby
Soori Penang
Located within the historic Khoo Kongsi compound and just steps from Armenian Street, Soori Penang houses tranquil, contemporary suites set inside restored heritage shophouses – a calming sanctuary amid the bustle of nearby tourist streets. Designed by architect Soo K Chan, who grew up here, the boutique stay is a sister property to Soori Bali. Warm, attentive staff and thoughtfully curated breakfasts make it an inviting base to unwind and experience the area at a relaxed pace. 48 Lebuh Aceh; sooripenang.com
Khoo Kongsi
Ask Soori Penang’s concierge to take you on a tour of Khoo Kongsi, one of the grandest clan temples in Malaysia. Built in 1906, its elaborately carved beams, murals and gilded rooflines reveal the wealth and cultural influence of the Khoo Clan. 18 Cannon Square; khookongsi.com.my
Gilda
A cosy warehouse-turned café run by chef Suffian Salim and Aim Aris, Gilda serves neo-style comfort food with excellent coffee. Don’t miss the Dijon mayo-brined crispy chicken sandwich, prawn linguine, grilled seabass and indulgent flourless chocolate torte. 81 Lrg Soo Hong;@gilda.penang
Firewood Penang
Behind its colonial-style shophouse façade, Firewood presents sleek interiors and bold flavours from the grill. The only Malaysian entry on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list, highlights include Australia Stone Axe full-blood wagyu, pan-seared French foie gras with black sesame sauce, dry-aged Norwegian sea trout and a refreshing lemon posset brûlée to finish. 15 Jln Masjid Kapitan Keling; @firewood_penang
Maha House and Sixth Sense
These aesthetic stores feature slow-fashion clothing and accessories. If you’re into linens, soft pastels, neutrals and understated silhouettes, they’re perfect keepsakes that echo George Town’s relaxed, tropical vibe. 13 Armenian St; 157 Beach St, @sixthsensestores
Gerakbudaya Bookshop
Literary lovers shouldn’t miss Gerakbudaya, an independent bookstore specialising in Southeast Asian writing. It carries fiction, poetry, political essays and hard-to-find titles from regional independent publishers. There’s also a pre-loved book section for more affordable finds. 226 Beach St; gerakbudayapenang.com
My Own Café
Directly opposite Soori Penang, this family-run coffee shop draws regulars and tourists alike for their signature asam laksa and Nyonya laksa, which have earned it a Michelin Bib Gourmand nod for three consecutive years since 2024. Order additional crispy vegetable spring rolls for a satisfying meal. 2 Cannon St; @myown_cafe
