Melaka is not only rich in history, but it is also a ‘paradise’ for food lovers. From authentic asam pedas to heritage dishes and viral Western food, this Historical City offers a variety of satisfying culinary choices.
If you are planning a vacation or just stopping by in Melaka, here are 5 interesting halal dining spots, complete with their locations, that you must include in your itinerary:
1. Asam Pedas Claypot Kota Laksamana
A trip to Melaka wouldn’t be complete without trying its signature dish, Asam Pedas. This restaurant in Kota Laksamana is highly popular for serving asam pedas in a claypot, which effectively retains the heat and rich aroma of the broth.
- Specialty: The broth is thick, spicy, and perfectly seasoned. You can choose from various types of fish, such as stingray, mackerel, or red snapper.
- Location: Taman Kota Laksamana, 75200 Melaka (Near Jonker Walk and the city center).
- Operating Hours: Open until late at night, making it an ideal spot for a hearty dinner.
2. Melantak Steak Hub
For Western food enthusiasts, especially when it comes to steaks and grilled meats, Melantak Steak Hub is a must-visit destination if you are in Melaka. It offers premium Western dishes in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
- Specialty: Serving a wide selection of high-quality, juicy steak cuts cooked to perfection according to your preference, drenched in a rich black pepper or mushroom sauce. The portion sizes are generous and offer great value for money, making it the perfect choice for a large meal with family or friends.
- Location: Taman Kota Laksamana Jaya, 75200 Melaka.
3. Medan Ikan Bakar Parameswara, Umbai
For seafood lovers, Umbai is the ultimate destination. This grilled fish food court, located near the sea, offers a relaxing open-air dining atmosphere complemented by a gentle sea breeze.
- Specialty: You can handpick fresh seafood like sea bass, squid, and prawns to be cooked to your liking (such as grilled with petai, batter-fried, or sweet, sour, and spicy style). While waiting for your seafood to be prepared, you can order traditional dishes from the small surrounding stalls. Enjoying freshly grilled satay with soft pieces of ketupat (rice cakes) and thick peanut sauce here is a highly satisfying, classic culinary experience.
- Location: Medan Ikan Bakar Pernu-Umbai, 77300 Merlimau, Melaka.
4. Cendol Kampung Hulu @ Makan Avenue
After a heavy meal, cool down with Melaka’s most famous dessert, cendol. Located along the Melaka River, Makan Avenue offers a beautiful and vibrant atmosphere, especially at night.
- Specialty: Cendol Kampung Hulu offers a unique twist by serving cendol over finely shaved ice, generously drizzled with thick, authentic palm sugar (gula Melaka). You can also add various exciting toppings such as ice cream, palm seeds (buah kabung), and even durian!
- Location: Makan Avenue, Jalan Kampung Hulu, 75200 Melaka (Next to the Melaka River).
5. Roti Canai Kayu Arang Melaka (Bachang)
If you are looking for a unique and highly recommended breakfast spot, this place is always the talk of the town. The eatery features a rustic village concept and is consistently packed with visitors in the early morning.
- Specialty: The roti canai is tossed and toasted over a charcoal stove, giving it a crispier texture and a distinctive smoky aroma that you won’t find in regular roti canai. Besides that, they also serve chicken and beef satay, nasi lemak, and various traditional Malay kueh to complete your breakfast. Occasionally, festive delicacies like lemang (bamboo rice) can also be easily found at stalls around the Melaka area in the morning for those craving classic traditional flavors.
- Location: Jalan Padang Lallang, Mukim Bachang, 75350 Melaka.
Disclaimer: Information such as operating hours, prices, menu availability, and halal status displayed in this article is accurate at the time of writing. Any changes are subject to the management of the respective restaurants. Readers are advised to verify the latest status through the official website or social media platforms of the restaurants before visiting.
