Best French Restaurants in Penang

From a humble stall amidst a bustling food court to a charming restaurant that spells class and comfort all over, La France has to be on your gastronomy bucket list. Predominantly churning out authentic French delicacies, besides the flavour and presentation triumph, another winning point here is the wallet-friendly price tags. Among the mainstay on the menu is their oven-baked ciabatta and croissants which come in various fillings and sauces, assorted pasta and decadent desserts like crème brulee and homemade crepes. The homey vibes and alfresco space with lush greenery surrounds just invites you to let loose and relax after a hearty meal. 

This award winning French restaurant is among the most reputable restaurants in Penang that epitomes elegance and creativity both on the plate and the picture-perfect atmosphere. Backdropped with whitewashed walls, chic decor and charming chandeliers, it would be a little tough to tear yourself apart from your Instagram, till the scrumptious spread of food hits your table. The menu is quite a revelation, where bold flavour combinations and artistic intelligence constantly overlap to have you weak at knees. Think dishes like Pan Seared Hakkaido Scallop with Butternut Squash Mousse and Coriander Gel, Foie Gras Cappuccino, Duck Confit, and Salt & Passion Fruit Brownie, to name a few. Further augment the flavours with their curated wines. 

Farquhar Mansion is a renowned French restaurant with a fine-dining footprint. The revamped two-storey colonial building is a dream come true for photography enthusiasts and foodies who yearn for deluxe dishes that exude adept techniques and inspiring presentations. Their Hard Rolls and Sunflower Bread with assorted butter are the best bet to set the tone for the rest of the meal. The main course menu is pretty extensive but nothing falls below delicious. Think dishes like Oyster Chowder with Scallop, The House Special Duck Confit with Pumpkin Puree, Granny Smith Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Emulsion, Lamb Rack with Mushroom Stuffed Lamb Loin and many more. Match the fine fare with a quality range of wines. You may have to splurge a little more yet the experience is worth each and every penny. 

Hopping over to the mainland to delve down a range of French delicacies that are nothing but spectacular. There is a decent selection of spaghettis and mains available but desserts are the name of the game here, as everything is made fresh daily with lots of attention. Variety of photo-worthy desserts includes Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Cake, French Lemon Start, Crème Brulee, Lychee Panna Cotta, colourful macarons and many more. On top of that, notch your meal with their aromatic teas or coffees. Given the whitewashed interior and attentive staff, it seems to be the best bet to unwind yourself after a long day. 

Arte Restaurant offers more than a gastronomic experience as it draws a fine line between an art gallery and elegant dining space. Upon stepping foot in, the beautiful portraits adorning the walls are sure to tug one’s heartstring straightaway, especially photography enthusiasts. And of course, all these would not matter if the food wasn’t up to mark but fret not as the kitchen downright delivers in style. Options have potential to induce food comatose yet among the best sellers here are the mushroom soup, selection of amuse bouche, duck confit, miso grouper fish and fruit panna cotta. Also, one can clearly see a great deal of love and passion instilled into each dish as they are plated gorgeously. Not forgetting, curated wines sure know how to wrap up your meal delightfully.