Melaka is famous for its impressive variety of local culinary delights—rich in flavour, diverse in heritage, and loved across all taste preferences. From fiery dishes to sweet traditional treats, the state promises a memorable food journey for every visitor.
While you may find similar dishes elsewhere in Malaysia, nothing compares to the authentic, distinctive flavours that Melaka is known for.
Peranakan Food
Peranakan, or Nyonya cuisine, is one of Melaka’s most celebrated culinary treasures. Visitors from across the country and overseas flock here to savour authentic Peranakan dishes that are truly one-of-a-kind.
This cuisine stands out for its perfect blend of Chinese and Malay influences, creating rich, aromatic flavours and unforgettable dishes. Must-try favourites include Mee Siam, Nyonya Laksa, and Ayam Pong Teh.
Popular Peranakan restaurants in Melaka:
- Ba & Nya Heritage
- Kocik Heritage Restaurant
- Nancy’s Kitchen
- Restoran Nyonya Makko
- Cottage Spices Nyonya Restaurant
Asam Pedas
No trip to Melaka is complete without tasting Asam Pedas, a spicy and sour fish-based dish beloved by locals. Made with fresh fish, vegetables, tamarind juice, and an aromatic mix of spices, it delivers a bold, mouthwatering flavour profile.
Famous spots for Asam Pedas:
- Asam Pedas Kota Laksamana
- Asam Pedas Pak Man
- Asam Pedas Kambing Jonker
- Asam Pedas Station
Ikan Bakar
Another must-try dish is Ikan Bakar, or grilled fish. Typically prepared using stingray, the fish is coated with spicy sambal, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled over an open flame. A squeeze of lime completes the perfect smoky, spicy, tangy experience.
Top places for Ikan Bakar in Melaka:
- Ikan Bakar Anjung Muara Sungai
- Restoran Ikan Bakar Malim
- Ikan Bakar Parameswara
- Medan Ikan Bakar Seri Serkam
Chicken Rice Ball
One of Melaka’s most iconic dishes, Chicken Rice Ball, is a simple yet flavourful meal. The rice is shaped into soft, compact balls and served with steamed or roast chicken and a spicy chilli dip. It’s a comforting local favourite that visitors shouldn’t miss.
Popular Chicken Rice Ball restaurants:
- Huang Chang Chicken Rice Restaurant (Non-Halal)
- Famosa Chicken Rice Ball (Pork Free)
- Old Town Chicken Rice Ball (Non-Halal)
- Kedai Kopi Chung Wah (Non-Halal)
- Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice Ball (Halal Certified)
Coconut Shake
Beat the Melaka heat with a refreshing coconut shake, made with fresh coconut water, tender coconut flesh, and a generous scoop of coconut ice cream. It’s the perfect tropical pick-me-up on a hot day.
Best places for Coconut Shake in Melaka:
Klebang Original Coconut Milkshake
Bikini Toppings
Jonker Walk Night Market
Batu Berendam Coconut Shake
Coconut Shake Kampung Hulu
Kuih keria
For a sweet treat, try Melaka’s beloved Kuih Keria, a doughnut-shaped snack made from mashed sweet potato and deep-fried to golden perfection. It is then coated in thick, fragrant palm sugar syrup, giving it its iconic glossy crust. Perfect for breakfast or tea time!
Top kuih keria spots:
- Kuih Keria Antarabangsa Haji Jalil Limbongan
- Kuih Keria Gula Melaka Batu Berendam
- Kuih Keria Semabok
- Kuih Keria Antarabangsa (Warisan Haji Jalil & Hajjah Rahmah)
