Refined Tasting Menus and Thoughtful Semi Fine-Dining in George Town
Curios-City Penang offers a polished semi fine-dining experience in George Town that feels both refined and comfortably approachable. The tasting menus are carefully paced and beautifully plated, taking diners through thoughtful progressions from delicate starters to richer mains and a memorable dessert finale. A seven-course meal here highlights the kitchen’s knack for balanced flavors, precise seasoning and elegant presentation.
Guests praise dishes like sourdough with truffle spread, scallop tartare, and seafood chowder for their freshness and depth, while mains such as cod with a herby broth and XO-accented preparations show restraint and technical skill. The 14-day aged duck is often noted for its tender texture and well-developed flavor, and the risotto with tiger prawn and cured egg yolk hits a comforting yet elevated note. Palate cleansers like lemon sorbet provide thoughtful transitions between courses, and desserts — including inventive combinations like black tea gelato with bird’s nest and cocoa nibs — leave a lasting impression.
The atmosphere is warm, with soft lighting and comfortable seating that make it ideal for date nights or intimate gatherings. Service is friendly and well-paced, and the team adapts smoothly to private events; one group specifically highlighted the staff’s ability to meet event requirements without fuss. Cocktails and beverage pairings are crafted to complement the menu, lending a cohesive flow to the overall dining journey.
Curios-City has become a dependable pick for those seeking semi fine-dining that’s refined without being stuffy — trusted by over 130 diners who appreciate creative tasting menus, polished service and a welcoming ambiance. If you enjoy thoughtful, well-executed multi-course meals in Penang, Curios-City is well worth a reservation.
✨ AI Review Highlights
Exceptional Culinary Experience
Great Value for Money
Inviting Atmosphere
Service Needs Improvement
Inconsistent Main Courses
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Amin Zakir
a week agoThe vibe is totally worth it. We got served by one of the short hair boyish style chinese lady. A superb hospitality was given during my time with my family. Really appreciate it. No wonder you guys wont straight for few years of michelin title.
Cynthia Ng
2 weeks agoCurios-City Penang (formerly Awesome Canteen) Visited for our 25th wedding anniversary and left genuinely impressed. The restaurant has come a long way from its earlier days — new name, new menu, and a noticeable step up in quality. Standouts: The Roasted Half Chicken (RM78) with aji verde was exceptional — juicy, well-seasoned, and honestly one of the best I've had in Penang. The Baileys & Whiskey Chocolate Gelato (RM30) was a gorgeous finish to the meal. The Sourdough with Truffle Spread (RM10) is great value, and the Fried Grouper bites were tasty, though slightly on the oily side. Minor notes: the aji verde sauce was a touch salty, and the sourdough slices were a little thin. But these are small gripes. Overall, a lovely dining experience in a charming setting. Would recommend for a special occasion dinner. Will definitely return.
Claire
3 weeks agoI had hight hopes for this place. It is definitely not fine dining, with paper serviettes and grubby tables. We went for lunch. We had to wave over the wait staff when you wanted anything. You go up to the till to pay at the end. The shredded beef sandwich was lovely. The scallop pasta was bland, with one scallop. The truffle fries were not hand cut. The white wine was delicious. There is only one type available by the glass or the house wine. The setting itself was nice. It would look more atmospheric at night. It's a shame that the service and food didn't live up to the hype.
Paul Fung
3 weeks agoThe environment and service were top-notch. The food quality was excellent. They even prepared a small surprise for our anniversary.
Ashley Teow
a month agoGood service and nice environment.