Explore the best restaurants and cafes in Langkawi for a memorable island food adventure.
About Langkawi
Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah, is a tropical island paradise famous for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant food culture. Whether you’re a devoted foodie or casual traveller, Langkawi offers a tantalising array of dining experiences — from traditional Malay cuisine to modern Western delights, all set against the backdrop of the Andaman Sea.
Culinary Highlights of Langkawi
- Sunset dining at beachfront bistros
- Authentic Malay cuisine made from family recipes
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly cafes
- Cooking classes and live music experiences
- Fresh seafood served with island-grown herbs and spices
1. Paloh Restaurant & Bar @ Temple Tree Resort
Cuisine: Malaysian-Mediterranean | Location: Pantai Cenang
Paloh is a gem within Temple Tree Resort offering Malaysian favourites with a Mediterranean twist. Dine in a 100-year-old Ipoh heritage house and enjoy dishes like Daging Kerutuk, Ayam Percik, and Nyonya Laksa.
Must-try: Floating Breakfast, High Tea, Paloh Burger
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
012-800 6730
2. Scarborough Fish & Chips Restaurant
Cuisine: Western Seafood | Location: Tanjung Rhu
Overlooking the turquoise waters of Tanjung Rhu, Scarborough is famous for its crispy dory fish & chips and laid-back atmosphere.
Must-try: Dory Fish & Chips, Chicken Cordon Bleu
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
04-959 4667
3. Yellow Cafe Langkawi
Cuisine: International | Location: Pantai Cenang
This beachfront cafe bursts with energy, live music, and great vibes. Known for vegan options like Jackfruit Burgers and sunset views.
Must-try: Salmon Salad, Margherita Pizza
Operating Hours: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Closed Tuesdays)
012-459 3190
4. The Cliff Restaurant
Cuisine: Malay, Asian, Western | Location: Pantai Cenang
A sophisticated spot perched above the sea, ideal for romantic dinners or events. Enjoy Green Curry Tiger Prawns and Nyonya Assam Curry.
Must-try: Sea Bass with Tamarind Sauce
Operating Hours: 12:30 PM – 10:00 PM
04-953 3228
5. Smiling Buffalo
Cuisine: Cafe/Brunch | Location: Near Cenang Beach
Tucked into the tropical gardens of Panji Panji Resort, Smiling Buffalo is a must for coffee lovers and breakfast seekers.
Must-try: Aeropress Coffee, Big Breakfast
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
011-3592 0786
6. Cili Kampung Restaurant
Cuisine: Traditional Malay | Location: Kedawang
Serving Negeri Sembilan cuisine with bold, spicy flavours. Enjoy classics like Masak Lemak Cili Api and Asam Pedas.
Must-try: Sambal Petai with Prawns
Operating Hours: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Closed Mon & Tue)
019-743 2177
7. Pia’s The Padi
Cuisine: Malay-Indian Fusion | Location: Kampung Padang Gaong
Dine with a view of green paddy fields. Run by Chef Pia, this spot offers cooking classes and hearty homemade curries.
Must-try: Butter Prawn Masala, Beef Rendang
Operating Hours: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
012-493 3713
8. Hidden Langkawi Restaurant & Bar
Cuisine: International | Location: Pantai Tengah
Set right on the beach, Hidden Langkawi is your go-to for tacos, burgers, drinks, and vibrant sunset views — with live music to top it off.
Must-try: Chicken Tacos, Hidden Sunset Mojito
Operating Hours: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
012-557 0570
9. The Kelapa Cafe by TRV Langkawi
Cuisine: Western/Brunch | Location: Tanjung Rhu
This elegant two-storey cafe is known for its five-star presentation and gourmet flavours at reasonable prices.
Must-try: Brunch Platter, Cappuccino, Cakes
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
011-1985 3357
10. The Fat Frog Langkawi
Cuisine: Vegetarian/Healthy | Location: Jalan Padang Matsirat
Langkawi’s best vegetarian restaurant, overlooking the 99east Golf Course. Expect fresh, healthy meals that taste as good as they look.
Must-try: Lentil Stew, Avocado Toast, Smoothies
Operating Hours: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
017-333 1517
How to Get Around Langkawi
Langkawi does not have public transport, so consider:
- Renting a car or scooter
- Using Grab (e-hailing)
- Pre-arranged transport from some restaurants (e.g., Pia’s The Padi)
Pair Your Meals with Attractions
- Pantai Cenang Beach – Near Yellow Cafe, Smiling Buffalo, and The Cliff
- Tanjung Rhu Beach – Just minutes from Scarborough Fish & Chips
- Langkawi SkyBridge – Stop at The Kelapa Cafe en route
- Kilim Geoforest Park – Combine with lunch at Pia’s The Padi
Recommended Stays for Foodies
- Temple Tree Resort (Paloh Restaurant)
- Panji Panji Chalets (Smiling Buffalo)
- Casa del Mar (near Yellow Cafe & The Cliff)
- Tanjung Rhu Resort (near Scarborough & The Kelapa Cafe)
Final Thoughts
Langkawi’s charm extends far beyond its beaches and rainforests — it’s a true culinary treasure trove waiting to be explored. From rustic kampung-style eateries and family-run gems nestled in paddy fields, to chic seaside cafés and vibrant sunset bars, the island offers something for every taste and craving. Whether you’re indulging in rich Malay curries, sipping on artisan coffee in a tropical garden, or enjoying fresh seafood by the sea, each meal in Langkawi is an experience in itself.
