[Penang] This is one Penang cafe I kept on my bookmark list for a long time.”
The Alley at 5 Stewart Lane opened in 2012, at a time when Penang’s coffee culture was starting to boom.
Back then, Third Wave coffee wasn’t as big on the island, and the cafe also stood out by offering churros, something not many places around here were doing.
Over time, it gained a following, especially among younger crowds looking for something different from the usual kopitiam.
However, if you weren’t consciously looking for it, you may just miss it.
The café sits in a shophouse that’s over 100 years old, with roots tracing back to its days as a gaharu (agarwood) shop.
Oh, that old “Kedai Gaharu Keat Seang” sign still hangs out front, a nod to its past life.
Coffee options include Espresso (RM 10), Americano (RM 11), Cold Brew Black (RM 14), Filter Coffee (RM 14), Piccolo (RM 11), Cappuccino (RM 12), Flat White (RM 12), Latte (RM 13), Cold Brew White (RM 16), Caramel (RM 16) and Mocha (RM 16).
I opted for the house “Underdog” blend. The blend is a mix of Nicaragua Los Ciprises and Ethiopia La Lesa beans.
It brought a mellow body with a touch of molasses sweetness upfront, followed by soft berry notes and a light floral hint at the end.
Well-balanced, easy to sip and perfect for lingering over while watching the world outside.
Desserts highlight Churros served with dip and side (RM 15), Key Lime Pie (RM 15), Kahlua Valrhona Chocolate Mousse (RM 17), Supreme Burnt Cheesecake (RM 18) and Affogato with Häagen-Dazs ice cream (RM 17).
There’s also an option to add Häagen-Dazs ice cream to any dessert for RM 7.
I asked for a recommendation, and the server didn’t hesitate before suggesting the Key Lime Pie.
No regrets. It packed a bright punch from the first bite.
The lime filling hit with a sharp tang that cut through the creamy base, giving it a bold, citrusy kick. The texture was smooth and custardy, set just enough to hold its shape without feeling too dense.
The Alley is a familiar part of George Town’s café landscape now, quietly doing its thing while the city changes around it.
The Alley
5 Stewart Lane, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm (Mon – Sun)
Google Maps – The Alley
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