Welcome to our best restaurants list and guide to eating out on the lovely Perhentian Islands, which include Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar.
The food scene here is average, but the relaxed vibe and scenic beach views from most eateries make every meal a memory you’ll never want to forget. If you are new to Malaysia, we will encourage you to try all the local cuisines.
Here is a simple overview of the food landscape you’ll encounter at Perhentian Islands :
- Resorts-connected restaurants: offering varied menus and upscale settings, typically more expensive.
- Local stalls and warungs: where you can savor authentic tastes, economical prices, and traditional dishes.
- Mid-tier eateries: providing a balanced blend of the two.
Now, let’s dive into these amazing islands’ best places to eat. Get ready to drool!
Best Restaurants in Pulau Perhentian Kecil
If you’re hanging out on Perhentian Kecil, prepare for some incredible barbequed seafood. Picture this: plates piled high with fish, prawns, crabs, squids, and lobsters.
Doesn’t that make your mouth water? You can get your seafood fix at simple, chilled-out beach shacks along Long Beach, Coral Bay, or hidden gems in other quiet spots.
However, there’s more than just seafood! Try local favorites like traditional Malay-style fried rice and mouth-watering roti canai. You can find these at local joints found everywhere on the island.
The Perhentian Kecil’s easy-going vibe sets the perfect stage to kick back, relax and munch on some incredible local cuisine amid stunning tropical beauty. Happy eating!
Ewan’s Café
Ewan’s Café is in a cozy spot between Long Beach and Coral Bay. Getting there is part of the adventure:
- Start at Coral Bay.
- Head towards Long Beach.
- Walk past the Ombak Dive Resort.
- Find Ewan’s Café near Mohsin Chalet.
Don’t worry; if you come from Long Beach, it’s just a 15-minute walk on a well-paved jungle path.
What’s on the menu:
Ewan’s Café is all about delicious local food at wallet-friendly prices. Thanks to the super-fast WiFi, it’s a hotspot for backpackers, especially in the evenings. You’ll find a range of yummy dishes like Coffee Shop, Asian, Malaysian, and Thai cuisine. Plus, local families love their fried noodles and tom yam dishes. Their milkshakes or a refreshing mango ice shake will hit the spot if you’re thirsty.
The must-try list:
From squid fried rice and seafood tom yum to banana pancakes and veggie curry, there’s something for everyone here. Please don’t leave without trying their famous Nasi Goreng Pattaya, fried rice with beef, seafood noodles, and a cold fruit salad with yogurt.
What else to expect:
Ewan’s Café welcomes you with a warm atmosphere and friendly service. They’re open from 8 AM to 8 PM, perfect for any meal of the day.
Are you traveling on a budget? They offer satisfying meals in a relaxed setting without breaking the bank. Plus, their strong WiFi connection makes it a great place to work or connect with loved ones back home.
Panaroma Diver Café
Next stop: Panorama Cafe at Long Beach. This friendly café dishes up a delicious mix of Asian and international eats that will surely hit the spot.
What’s on the menu:
One of the stars here is their breakfast buffet (served from 8 AM to 12 PM). It offers a little bit of everything, including pancakes, roti canai, toast, eggs, and cereals. Whether you’re a fan of Asian or Western breakfasts, they’ve got you covered.
The fun continues beyond breakfast, though. The café also serves yummy sandwiches, drool-worthy pizzas, and tasty curries. But what makes Panorama Diver Café stand out is their team’s warm, friendly service.
What else to expect:
There’s more! Besides the delicious food and top-notch service, the café also offers decent WiFi, perfect for staying in touch with the world. And for an extra special touch, they host nightly movie screenings for guests.
Bayu Restaurant
Are you looking for a decent dining spot in Perhentian Kecil? Bayu Restaurant, situated in the stunning Alunan Resort on Petani Beach, serves a delicious mix of Asian, Malaysian, and Thai dishes, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
What’s on the menu:
Get ready for a treat! From local picks like Nyonya Rissa Curry Chicken and Rendang Chicken to Western delights like Grilled Salmon and Pan Seared Rosemary Chicken, Bayu’s menu is a delight. They also host barbecues featuring the catch of the day. Quality and freshness take center stage here, making every meal a treat. Bayu’s got a range of alcoholic options to go with our meal.
What else to expect:
Expect top-quality service at Bayu Restaurant. Their attentive and trained staff serve between 8 AM to 8 PM. While Bayu Restaurant is a bit more expensive than other island eateries, the quality of food and service makes the extra cost worth it.
Matahari Chalet & Restaurant
Fancy a meal with a view? Enjoy Matahari’s open-air dining, where tasty dishes and tropical beauty are served with a sea breeze.
What’s on the menu:
Matahari’s menu has something for everyone. Offering a wide range of Asian, Malaysian, and seafood dishes, it stands out from other restaurants on the island. Feel like a burger and fries? They’ve got it. Want to try local flavours? Opt for Asian favourites and fresh seafood.
Pair your meal with a refreshing drink from Matahari’s varied menu, including soft drinks, juices, and alcoholic options. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the island ambiance.
What else to expect:
The friendly Matahari staff are always ready to help, ensuring your dining experience is as pleasant as it is memorable. Matahari offers a great dining experience at mid-range prices, so you can enjoy a great meal without stressing about the cost.
Crocodile Rock Bistro
Hidden away near the stunning Rainforest Beach on Perhentian Kecil, Crocodile Rock Bistro is your quiet beach retreat. You’ll get a great sunset view in this wooden shack among trees while dining in the open air.
What’s on the menu:
The menu presents an enticing mix of European, contemporary, and fusion cuisines, with a generous offering of Asian and Western dishes.
There’s an emphasis on vegetarian meals, some of which could be the best on the island. For those with special dietary requirements, the restaurant accommodates gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Every dish is thoughtfully prepared with fresh, locally sourced organic ingredients, from burgers and pizzas to fried rice and noodles. The seafood BBQ and unique dishes like Turmeric Prawn and Beef Rendang are must-tries. And remember to save room for dessert!
Thirsty? Grab a canned beer, coffee, or French wine to go with your meal.
Prices may be higher, but it’s a worthy treat for top-notch food in a unique setting.
What else to expect:
The restaurant radiates a warm and inviting ambiance from its wooden house setting amidst towering trees. Dine on wooden tables on the sandy beach or sink into cozy bean bags on the patio, all under a vast open sky. As you enjoy your meal, soak in the breathtaking views of the spectacular sunset.
Managed by British owners Erica and Atord, Crocodile Rock Bistro boasts a friendly, family-run environment. The restaurant opens for dinner from 6:30 PM to 10 PM, except on Wednesdays.
Awatif Café
Awatif Cafe, situated next to the BuBu Resort in Long Beach, is the go-to place for a quick, delicious meal after a day at the beach. Frequently visited by scuba students in the evenings, this cafe is also close to the scenic Awatif Campsite, adding to its charm.
What’s on the menu:
Open from 9 AM to 8 PM, Awatif Cafe presents a delightful array of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.
Start your day with tempting breakfast choices like fried rice, roti canai, toast, roti titab, and nasi bungkus. Their special three flavour sea bass and nasi kukus are a gastronomic treat not to be missed for lunch.
Alongside its varied food menu, the cafe also offers a wide selection of refreshing drinks that perfectly complement your meal.
What else to expect:
On top of yummy food, you can sip refreshing drinks to accompany your meal. Plus, everything’s budget-friendly, making it an ideal spot on the Perhentian Islands for your wallet and palate.
With its warm and inviting atmosphere, the cafe offers a cosy space to unwind and savour your meal. Its efficient and attentive service ensures a pleasant dining experience every time you visit.
Perhentian Café
This quaint cafe is located on the southeast coast of Perhentian Kecil, nestled among guest houses and offering a magnificent view of the sea.
You’ll be drawn to its welcoming outdoor terrace, perfect for a romantic date or a chilled-out meal with pals. The inviting atmosphere is amplified by friendly and prompt service, enhancing your dining experience.
What’s on the menu:
Try the cafe’s delicious offerings, such as flavourful roti and cool lassi drinks. Even though it might be a bit pricier than other local spots, the top-notch food and beautiful setting make it worth every penny.
Medan Selera Kampung Nelayan
Step into Medan Selera Kampung Nelayan, a bustling food court in the fishing village on the Perhentian Islands. It’s a go-to place for Malaysians and budget-conscious explorers craving genuine local grub.
The food court nestles in a vibrant fishing village with a school, mosque, police station, and residential houses. Here, you can relish your meal while admiring the picturesque view of the sea and the magnificent Perhentian Besar Island, which is just across.
What’s on the menu:
Medan Selera Kampung Nelayan houses various stalls, each offering a unique array of local delicacies. The food court welcomes you from 9 AM to 8 PM, providing the opportunity for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting dinner.
Select your favourite dishes and pair them with a substantial portion of white rice. Alternatively, you could order custom-made rice and noodle-based stir-fried delicacies.
During the hot noon, quench your thirst with freshly squeezed juices available at the stalls.
What else to expect:
The food price here is Super affordable. Perfect for budget travellers seeking a mouth-watering meal amidst the scenic backdrop of the beautiful local culture.
Amelia Café
Fancy eating on the beach? This cafe’s got you. Find it at Coral Bay in Amelia Chalet – It’s open all day, breakfast to dinner, and BBQ fires up after 6 PM.
What’s on the menu:
Amelia Cafe serves a variety of food. Seafood, barbecue, and Asian dishes are on the menu. Try their special fish and chicken BBQ or a hearty seafood barbecue. They also make fresh rotis that are available anytime.
For those with a sweet tooth, the banana cake is a must-try. If you prefer something savory, go for the tom yam soup. They also have a range of drinks like shakes, ice blends, banana lassi, fresh juices, and their popular mango juice.
What else to expect:
Amelia Cafe prices are set to suit everyone’s budget. So, anyone can enjoy a good meal by the beach. Visit Amelia Cafe for a meal, excellent service, beautiful views, and a relaxed atmosphere.
World Café at Bubu Villa
This remarkable restaurant provides a classy and romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a memorable evening. Nestled in Bubu Villa on Pulau Perhentian Kecil Island, the restaurant is known for its pristine cleanliness and welcoming environment.
What’s on the menu:
What sets the World Cafe apart is its Italian chef, who is known for crafting delicious Italian and seafood dishes. While the rest of the food at World Cafe is typically seen as average, the emphasis is on Italian cuisine and seafood.
They also have an impressive variety of alcoholic beverages, including wines and cocktails.
What else to expect:
The attentive staff here got your back, making your meal enjoyable. Drop in anytime between 7 AM and 11 PM to savour their cuisine.
The prices at World Cafe may be steep, but the fusion of Italian cuisine, excellent service, and the beachfront location make it worth it.
Santai Restaurant
Santai Restaurant is a spot you can’t miss. Located at Long Beach, part of BuBu Resort, this restaurant has one of the most scenic locations in Perhentian Kecil.
With a design that blends effortlessly with its surroundings, the restaurant has a relaxing and well-decorated space as part of BuBu Resort. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while admiring the sunlight dancing on the blue waters.
What’s on the menu:
Santai Restaurant’s menu caters to diverse tastes, serving Western and Asian cuisines. Signature dishes include Seaside BBQ, Filet Mignon, Seafood Pasta, Phad Thai, and the popular BuBu Nasi Goreng. Their extensive menu ensures you’ll enjoy exploring different flavours.
If you’re in the mood for a drink, Santai Restaurant has you covered, as they serve alcohol. So you can sip a cool beverage while watching the sunset over the beach.
What else to expect:
During busy times, service may be a bit slow. But don’t let this stop you from coming. Open from 8 AM to 8 PM, Santai Restaurant allows you ample time to experience its tasty dishes.
Prices are above average, but the tasty food, beautiful setting, and unique features make Santai Restaurant worth the splurge.
Keranji Café
Don’t miss Keranji Cafe at Keranji/Mira Beach, known for its chill vibe and tasty eats. Just remember that they might be closed due to island power issues – check their opening hours!
Keranji Cafe offers a sweet beachfront dining spot with top-notch service from friendly staff that ensures a smooth visit.
What’s on the menu:
Open 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, there’s loads of time to dig into their delicious Asian, Thai, and Indonesian dishes. Cashew Nut Chicken and Chicken Kari (gulai) are must-tries! Plus, they’ve got options for vegans and vegetarians too.
Thirsty? Their Coconut Shake is a crowd-pleaser. And the pricing? It’s reasonable considering the quality and variety of their dishes, making it a solid pick for budget-conscious diners.
What else to expect:
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy a meal by the beach amidst the tropical island vibes of the Perhentian Islands, Keranji Cafe is perfect.
Tiara Café
Tiara Cafe is conveniently situated on vibrant Long Beach, remaining open for your service from 8 AM to 8 PM daily. This modest and welcoming cafe serves local food at budget-friendly prices, offering a great chance to explore Malaysian cuisine.
What’s on the menu:
Tiara Cafe’s menu revolves around traditional local dishes. A few standout items include Sotong Masak Kunyit (turmeric-fried squid), Siakap 3 Rasa (three-flavours sea bass), Tomyam Seafood, and Barbecued King Fish. A BBQ sea bass dish of medium size is typically priced around RM40.
What else to expect:
While the service at Tiara Cafe requires patience as your meal is prepared, the staff’s efforts are directed toward making your dining experience pleasant.
Ombak Café
Located within the Ombak Dive Resort on the beautiful Long Beach of the Perhentian Islands, the cafe promises a delightful meal and an awe-inspiring view of the setting sun.
Relax in the cafe’s laid-back beachside ambience, enjoying the panoramic vista of the sea. The cafe’s friendly and attentive staff ensure a pleasant experience from when you arrive until you bid goodbye.
What’s on the menu:
Open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, Ombak Cafe serves a diverse menu with local and Western dishes; all made fresh. To accompany your meal, you can choose from various beverages, including alcoholic drinks.
Although the prices may be slightly higher than other local eateries, the combination of quality food, serene location, and distinctive dining experience justifies the cost.
What else to expect:
Every night, you can enjoy a movie screening right on the beach, and on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the cafe hosts a fire show starting at around 7:30 PM.
Best Restaurants in Pulau Perhentian Besar
Compared to Perhentian Kecil, Perhentian Besar offers a hushed and serene ambiance perfect for food lovers. Many restaurants and eateries are here, many of which are tied to a resort or hotel.
Nia Café
Ideally situated on the beach, the cafe provides an incredible view to accompany your dining. It features a straightforward setup – plastic chairs, tables, and umbrellas for a laid-back feel.
What’s on the menu:
The menu leans toward Asian and Malaysian cuisine but also includes a good selection of Western dishes. We highly recommend trying the 3 Rasa and Squid Fried Rice. To drink, choose from various refreshing options, like Lassi, Smoothies, and a delightful Watermelon Shake.
What else to expect:
While slightly pricier than local stalls (typically 10-15 Malaysian Ringgit), Nia Cafe ensures value for money with its diverse and tasty offerings. And as a bonus, the cafe even provides laundry services, enhancing your convenience when exploring the Perhentian Islands.
Run by a local family, Nia Cafe offers a warm, friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere. Open until sunset; it’s your go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or brunch.
The Barat Perhentian Restaurant & Café
Set against the stunning seaside and a stone’s throw away from Mama’s Restaurant, The Barat Perhentian Restaurant & Café showcases breathtaking vistas and a soothing ambiance, perfect for dining throughout the day.
What’s on the menu:
Their diverse menu caters to breakfast, lunch, and dinner alongside an enticing array of beverages.
The restaurant serves all day, with the dinner rush occurring from 7 PM to 9 PM. For a seamless dining experience, consider an early evening visit. Their BBQ stall, a haven for grill lovers, fires up at 7 PM.
Prices are between RM5-15, and the menu boasts a vast range of ala carte, finger food, international, Asian, Malaysian, seafood, BBQ, and vegetarian dishes. Despite its roots in Chinese cuisine, The Barat caters to diverse tastes.
For breakfast, sample their Malaysian dishes, waffles, or toast. Dinner standouts include grilled squid and barramundi, while prawns and satay are enticing. Just remember to order early during peak hours. However, the chicken butter might need to live up to expectations.
Their drinks menu includes RM15 large cans of beer, cocktails, and the must-try coconut shake – a perfect refresher for a sun-soaked island day.
What else to expect:
Featuring WiFi, the restaurant doubles as a cozy hub for digital nomads.
Bask in their friendly service and enjoy outdoor seating under a tree, offering a picturesque island scene. While service can be a tad slow during peak hours, remember – you’re soaking in the laid-back island vibes.
Mama’s Place Restaurant
Mama’s Place is a charming, family-run restaurant in the northern part of the island, near Barat. Open daily until 9:30 PM, this cosy diner has a friendly village ambiance and efficient staff.
What’s on the menu:
The menu at Mama’s Place mainly features seafood, Asian, and Malaysian dishes. Locals and visitors alike love it for its reasonable prices and tasty food.
The breakfast selection is a crowd-pleaser, with options such as pancakes, French toast, and local specialties like roti canai, banana fritters, and teh tarik.
The restaurant’s lunch and dinner menus offer BBQ seafood and fresh fish, which are crowd favourites. Each BBQ meal has rice, stir-fried veggies, fruit slices, and sauces. All served perfectly. Other popular dishes include nasi goreng (fried rice), kerabu (local salad), and Thai-style black pepper beef.
To complement your meal, Mama’s Place serves a variety of drinks, like coffee, espresso, and refreshing coconut shakes.
There’s no alcohol served here, keeping it Muslim-friendly.
What else to expect:
Mama’s Place is budget-friendly and offers customers free WiFi for added convenience.
Watercolours Resort Restaurant
Located near Reef Chalet on Perhentian Besar Island, Watercolours Resort Restaurant offers a delightful dining setting.
The restaurant features plastic tables and chairs, a dart machine, and fast WiFi. The outdoor space with a thatched roof and wooden furniture adds a tropical touch. Newly renovated under fresh management, the restaurant now has a modern appeal.
What’s on the menu:
The restaurant operates daily from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, serving an assortment of pizza, seafood, and international dishes. The menu offers Western and local food, fresh seafood, and great BBQ options, ensuring something for everyone.
Don’t skip the island’s best fried bananas when you drop by!
As for beverages, Watercolours stocks a variety of alcoholic drinks to go with your meal. The prices, ranging from RM 15 to RM 35 per dish, accommodate different budgets.
What else to expect:
The restaurant’s popularity among divers visiting the Perhentian Islands is an added bonus. It’s a great place to swap stories over a tasty meal.
While the staff at Watercolours can be friendly, be prepared for the occasional slow service.
Coral View Island Resort Restaurant
Coral View Island Resort Restaurant is a must-visit dining spot. The restaurant is beautifully positioned to offer stunning sunset views. Imagine feasting on your meal as the sun sets over the horizon.
Coral View Island Resort Restaurant allows you to dine indoors or relax on a beachfront terrace.
What’s on the menu:
Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant is an easy choice for meals at any time of the day. The menu offers a range of tasty Asian dishes, including fried rice and fish curry. Don’t miss the lime-infused seabass, a spicy delicacy.
However, it may not be their strong suit if you’re looking for Western cuisine.
Coral View Island Resort Restaurant doesn’t serve alcohol, but you can enjoy a selection of non-alcoholic beverages.
What else to expect:
Note that this restaurant is on the expensive side, with a price range of $$ – $$$. Factor this in when planning your dining schedule during your visit.
For variety, Barat, located approximately 100 meters away, could offer a different dining experience.
Perhentian Island Eating Guide & Tips
Choosing Local Cuisines Over International Flavours
When discovering the best restaurants in Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar, we recommend focusing on the scrumptious local Malaysian dishes, as the international cuisine might not always meet expectations.
Some popular establishments, such as Ewan Cafe and Matahari Chalet, serve dishes that showcase the rich flavours of Malaysian cuisine.
One dish you must try is Nasi Campur. This popular Malaysian meal includes white rice served with various side dishes, allowing you to pick and choose your favourites for a personalised plate. It’s a great way to sample many flavours in one sitting.
Of course, your culinary journey would only be complete with trying the islands’ grilled seafood. Freshly caught fish, squid, and prawns are expertly prepared and cooked to perfection. Many Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar restaurants offer delicious seafood dishes, showcasing the amazing local produce.
In the mood for some comfort food? Try classic Malaysian favourites like fried rice and noodles. You can enjoy these dishes at many local eateries, satisfying your hunger after a day of exploring the islands.
For breakfast, you should indulge in Malaysian staples like Roti Canai and Nasi Lemak, both widely available on the islands.
Roti Canai is a flaky, buttery flatbread often served with curry. At the same time, Nasi Lemak is a dish of rice steamed with coconut milk and served with various accompaniments such as anchovies, peanuts, and a spicy sauce called sambal.
Finally, wrap up your meals with a hot Teh Tarik, a famous Malaysian tea beverage. This frothy, sweet tea is both comforting and energising, making it the perfect companion to your culinary adventures on the Perhentian Islands.
Vegetarian and Vegan Food Options at Perhentian
The top three veggie-friendly spots are:
Ewan Cafe (Perhentian Kecil) – Serving Asian and Malaysian cuisines
Nia Cafe (Perhentian Besar) – Serving Asian and Malaysian cuisines
Crocodile Rock Bistro (Perhentian Kecil) – offers tasty plant-based dishes. Double-check the opening time, though.
Alcohol Guidelines
While alcohol is served at a few island dining establishments, be mindful of local customs and traditions. If the restaurant you choose is a non-alcohol-serving or a Muslim-friendly establishment, refrain from bringing your own alcoholic beverages. However, some places do allow you to bring your own drinks as long as you order food.
Perhentian Food Prices
Compared to the mainland, food prices in the Perhentian Islands are somewhat steeper but remain affordable. Local dishes, as they require fewer imported ingredients, are typically friendlier for your pocket.
You’ll discover diverse dining options, from posh resort-connected restaurants to quaint local stalls and warungs.
Remember that resort-based restaurants tend to be pricier but offer a varied menu and an upscale ambiance. For a genuine flavor of local cuisine at more economical prices, head to local stalls and warungs like Mama’s Place Restaurant, known for its delicious local dishes at unbeatable prices.