The Finest Ikan Bakar in Penang

Step into the aromatic world of Ikan Bakar in Penang, Malaysia, where the tantalizing scent of grilled fish permeates the air, creating a symphony of flavors that embodies the essence of Malaysian street food. Ikan Bakar, translated as “grilled fish,” is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that captures the spirit of Penang’s diverse gastronomic landscape.

As you navigate the vibrant markets and seaside stalls, the sizzle of marinated fish on open grills invites you to indulge in this iconic Malaysian delight. Join us on a journey through the smoky allure of Ikan Bakar, where the art of grilling meets the rich maritime heritage of Penang, delivering a taste that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Best Ikan Bakar in Penang, Malaysia

1

Sham Hammer Ikan Bakar Special

Outstanding Ikan Bakar is served at Sham Hammer Ikan Bakar Special, a fantastic restaurant overlooking the seashore. They also serve fairly priced seafood dishes, and you can still move around even in a congested area.

Highlights:

• Affordable
• Great service
• Well-served

The food really delicious, good service by tge waiter and fast food preparation. even tho it super fast they still able to prepare perfect food. Not only it is super tasty but also have big portion and big fish. the only downside of this place is very limited parking spot. – Mualai

If you’re craving Ikan Bakar, head to Batu Uban. Several eateries are offering grilled fish. One of the restaurants, Idrus Ikan Bakar, has been serving Ikan Bakar for decades and is among the first in the area. Every seafood selection has freshly caught fish that has been skillfully cooked and covered in a banana leaf coating.

Highlights:

• Perfect for family or group gatherings
• Great food
• Good pricing

First time trying. Ikan bakar here not bad but maybe I ordered wrongly so the fish sambal came is sweet and not spicy. Next time come will try order another one and see. The fried sotong is nice too. Very hard to wait until everything come first before finishing it. – Mr Nomad

Ikan Bakar finds refuge in Gerai Ikan Bakar Adnan Hassan – Medan Ikan Bakar Teluk Tempoyak, which has been in operation for about 30 years. They have a seafood feast accompanied by Air Asam dipping sauce while taking in the gorgeous sunset and sea.

Highlights:

• Seaside fresh air
• Good customer service
• Reasonable price

There are 2 Shop with fresh fish to choose..food was superbly delicious. Cucur udang shop/cafe also unique with their cucur udang… cucur udang sauce(kuah) also very delicious. 1 of the best cucur udang in Penang. – Mfr Piduih

4

Dsampan Seafood

Dsampan Fish offers you a wonderful eating experience by preparing delicious meals with fresh fish. Service is rendered quickly. The crew is well-informed and accessible to take orders, keep the place tidy, and answer questions on the menu and costs of the items.

Highlights:

• Great food
• Reasonable price
• Friendly staff

Nice food, the set is at an affordable price, a lot of selections. Great customer service just that they can improve it by having card or e-wallet payment there. Lastly, nice atmosphere, the restaurant is cozy, spacious and really Instagrammable. If I’m not mistaken they are also available for space booking maybe for weddings or any events. – Hafiz Kakashi

The Ikan Bakar Din restaurant in Kepala Batas, Penang, serves ikan bakar. There are also various grilled seafood meals to choose from, such as fish, squid, and shrimp. They always have the freshest seafood available, and it is marinated well before being roasted over charcoal.

Highlights:

• Reasonable price
• Good service
• Satisfying food

Fresh seafood and freshly cooked BBQ beef, chicken, squid, fish. The huge prawn is so fresh and sweet. Wonderful array of spread of dishes. 5 star. – Alan Alaidin

6

Lan’s Corner Ikan Bakar Tg Bungah

The house-made, spicy sambal atop the Ikan Bakar at Lan’s Corner Ikan Bakar is quite flavorful. They also serve their specialty, Ikan Bakar, and Sotong Bakar, which has a sweet-spicy sauce.

Highlights:

• Fast delivery
• Large menu
• Scenic views

Went here for dinner. The price was quite reasonable. Got a playground for kids. Make sure your kids eat first or they might want to play for the whole time without eating! Very strong wind here. Wear the necessary clothes when dining here. The menu in the picture was delicious. We had medium size siakap for only RM28. This restaurant is located by the side of the road. Didn’t see a specific area for parking. – Elifa Ismail

7

East Coast Grill Seafood Ikan Bakar (Pork Free) Bayan Lepas

East Coast Grill Seafood Ikan Bakar has four locations in Penang: Goodall Cafe, Sungai Pinang Food Court, Red Garden, and its newest restaurant in Bayan Lepas. If you’re craving Ikan Bakar, East Coast Grill Seafood is one of the best locations to get it. It is well known for its fresh seafood, which is prepared using a unique marinade and served with hot dipping sauce on the side.

Highlights:

• Outdoor and indoor dining
• Large menu
• Healthy options

The seafood was quite fresh.. they gave a good recommendation on the dish too.. overall its was quite a valued-for-money place to go if you’re looking for seafood. – Jonathan Koay

8

Nurul Ikan Bakar Special Kulim

Nurul Ikan Bakar Special Kulim has a fantastic assortment of grilled fish, which is best savored with the sour-spicy Air Asam dipping sauce. There are also tasty Tom Yam and other stir-fried treats here to complete a hearty lunch.

Highlights:

• Superb food
• Nice environment
• Fast service

Really tasty food. I’ve ordered Pari Bakar, Telur Dadar, Sambal Udang and Kailan Ikan Masin. All the dishes are so tasty. The price is also reasonable. – Captariva

9

Abg Jit Ikan Bakar Permatang Nibong

In Penang, Abg Jit Ikan Bakar Permatang Nibong has two sites. One is in the stadium area, where you can savor delicious sambal and freshly cooked seafood. The Permatang Pauh store is decorated with fairy lights, a bamboo fence, and a rattan canopy to create a lovely ambiance.

Highlights:

• Great food
• Reasonable price

Nice places,the most good thing about it it’s they’re services .. they serve your meal so fast .. otherwise, you’ve got a nice view while eating over there .. their meals so delicious and reasonable prices. importantly, they got parking places for you .. that’s why I’m giving it 5. Keep it the good work. – Abdul Latif

10

Bahtera Santai Cafe

Excellent Ikan Bakar and a selection of seafood are served in the Bahtera Santai Cafe. They feature a simple menu with neatly packed goods, and they provide prompt service. Their staff members are friendly and kind. They include air-conditioned rooms, a play area for kids under three, and karaoke for entertainment.

Highlights:

• Friendly staff
• Reasonable price
• Great amenities

The food is delicious and what’s available is worth it, tom yum is the best even grilled fish. – Fatini Husna

As our flavorful odyssey through Penang’s Ikan Bakar comes to a close, the lingering essence of grilled perfection and maritime traditions continues to tantalize the senses. Ikan Bakar, the soulful embodiment of Malaysian street food, has woven its way into the heart of Penang’s culinary identity.

The symphony of sizzling fish, marinated to perfection and grilled over open flames, resonates as a culinary masterpiece. Each bite is a celebration of the art of grilling and a homage to the coastal charm that defines Penang. The savory legacy of Ikan Bakar mirrors the rich tapestry of Malaysian flavors, inviting both locals and global food enthusiasts to partake in this gastronomic experience.

As the smoky allure dissipates, may the memories of savoring Ikan Bakar linger, an invitation to revisit the vibrant markets and seaside stalls that contribute to the unique culinary allure of Penang. Until the next encounter with the mouthwatering aroma and taste of grilled fish, may the spirit of Ikan Bakar continue to ignite a passion for the exceptional flavors that grace this Malaysian haven.

Do check out our list of Roti Canai and have time to check their best dining services.