Jo Gourmand in George Town, Penang
Cafes are as integral to the food scene as hawker stalls are in Penang. While there’s already a whole slew of cafes to visit in Penang, you’ll want to check out the latest haunts for brunch beyond your usual haunts.
Enter George Town’s Jo Gourmand. The Parisian-inspired cafe serves mouthwatering cakes and uniquely concocted drinks – you’ll almost feel like you’re in the City of Love while dining here.
A cafe that’s reminiscent of Parisian bistros
Image credit: @wenddiesyeoh via Instagram
In a labyrinth of historic storefronts and old-school eateries in George Town, Jo Gourmand is sure to catch the attention of anyone who passes by. With its charming furnishings – think mosaic floors and Maison Gatti-esque rattan chairs – the cafe will bring to mind classic French bistros that are tucked away on the streets of Paris.
Image adapted from: @__wanshihfoodhunter, @wenddiesyeoh via Instagram
Coupled with the soothing hum of chatters, the tinkling of music, and cosy corners in the cafe, patrons looking to linger over sweet desserts and a warm cuppa will find comfort here.
Watermelon cakes & strawberry lattes
A French-inspired cafe wouldn’t be complete without the galore of pastries and cakes. You’ll find a selection of them displayed enticingly by the counter and barista bar at Jo Gourmand, each treat and its flavours so tempting that it’ll almost be impossible to pick just one.
Image credit: @jo.gourmand_penang via Instagram
In case you’re struggling to choose, we recommend the cafe’s signature Watermelon Cake (RM20). The elegant square cake is layered with nutty Dacquoise, rose-scented whipped cream, strawberries, pistachios, and the star slab of juicy watermelon in the middle.
Image credit @jo.gourmand_penang via Instagram
Another favourite among patrons is the Matcha Gateau (RM20), a dense chocolate cake base with a layer of rich matcha gateau, and soft fresh cream that blankets the cake slice.
Image credit: @__wanshihfoodhunter via Instagram
Pair these sweet desserts with their wide range of drinks that take on classic staples, alongside uniquely concocted ones.
For a change from your usual Long Black (RM10) or Flat White (RM12), opt for the Berries Caffeine (RM16), which is an iced latte infused with strawberry compote. There’s also the Summer Refreshing Coffee (RM15), an interesting twist to the usual iced black with the addition of citrusy orange syrup.
Image adapted from: @jo.gourmand_penang via Instagram
For non-caffeinated options, there are the Avocado Milkshake (RM16) that’s as decadent as it is filling, or a warm Hojicha (RM13) that makes for a perfect accompaniment to a sweet slice.
Image adapted from: @sallylim0920 via Instagram
Where to locate Jo Gourmand cafe
Full of charm and an ambience that is reminiscent of a Parisian cafe, Jo Gourmand is where you can enjoy a cuppa and a refreshing slice of cake.
You might even want to plan to linger here with a good book – after all, there’s nothing more Parisian than sitting in a cafe with a cup of espresso and watching the world go by.
Address: 203, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10300 George Town, Penang
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 9am-6pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: 011-5369 0118 | Jo Gourmand Instagram
Discover more interesting food spots:
- JOJA Bagels, a must-try bagel shop in Penang
- 9 breakfast cafes in Penang
- 10 cafes for coffee in Penang
Cover image adapted from: @natashangooooo_, @psylancer, @kafekaki via Instagram
This article was first published on 25th January 2023, and was last updated on 21st April 2025.