Cafe Mangga in Penang
Among the many architectural splendours to be discovered in George Town, Penang, is The Blue Mansion – also known as Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. The over 130-year-old historical structure, once the home of a tycoon, is now a snazzy boutique hotel with a fine-dining restaurant.
Unbeknownst to many, there’s also a laidback cafe tucked within the building called Cafe Mangga. The cafe’s casual space features picnic-style seats set under a huge mango tree, where hotel and non-hotel guests can dig into scrumptious desserts and hearty mains.
A casual and cosy space for cakes and coffee
Image adapted from: @promkitti
Cafe Mangga is nestled on the grounds of Blue Mansion, tucked next to the eye-catching building and accessible through a narrow and charming blue door.
Image adapted from: @penangcafe_food
When you step through the doorway, you’ll spot a huge tree covering almost the entirety of the alfresco dining area with its sprawling branches. It happens to be an old mango tree, hence the cafe’s name – Cafe Mangga.
Image adapted from: @_at.the.moment_
Set underneath the huge tree are low tables and rattan seat cushions, which diners are welcomed to take off their shoes and dine picnic-style at.
Image credit: @fifienazareen
The cafe also has an equally cosy indoor dining area, where you can dine come rain or shine. But the beauty of the majestic-looking mango tree, which takes centre stage at the outdoor space, is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a slow afternoon basking in the sun with a slice of nature.
All-day brunch menu comprising cakes & hearty mains
Image credit: @eat_jonlove
Charming dining spaces aside, Cafe Mangga’s menu comprises a list of lip-smacking all-day brunch and tea-time delights. Find all the classic brunch dishes to gorge on here – including Eggs Benedict (RM24), Smoked Salmon Salad (RM25), and the signature Lemon Butter Pancakes (RM22) – fluffy pancakes topped with mango compote, shredded coconut, and gula melaka.
Image credit: @eat.gla
Else, Mangga’s Tofu Cheesecake (RM28) and Yuzu Pandan Coconut Mousse Petit Gateau (RM25) – fragrant pandan coconut mousse cake filled with mango chunks – are other must-tries if you have a sweet tooth.
Image credit: Manga at The Blue Mansion Facebook
Those looking for a heartier brunch fare can opt for Mangga’s Nasi Lemak (RM28) – this local favourite comes with crispy rempah chicken and spicy sambal. Not to be missed either is Mangga’s Miso Carbonara (RM38) – smoked duck and miso mushrooms are doused with creamy miso-and-carbonara sauce, and topped with a generous amount of cheese.
Picnic-style dining in a historical mansion at Cafe Mangga
If you enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, drop by Cafe Mangga. This cafe is where you can dine picnic-style under a majestic mango tree and gorge on mouthwatering dishes.
Address: 14 Lebuh Leith (by the main gate), 10200, George Town, Penang
Opening hours: 8am-6pm, Daily
Contact: 016-884 4578 | Mangga at The Blue Mansion website | Facebook | Instagram
Other places to discover in Penang:
- ChinaHouse, an artsy enclave in George Town
- Breakfast In The Fort, cafe in a historical fort
- Breakfast cafes in Penang
Cover image adapted from: @promkitti, @penangcafe_food, @_at.the.moment_