Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands located off Malaysia’s northwest coast, renowned not only for its stunning beaches but also for its vibrant food culture. With over a dozen rotating night markets and coastal towns, Langkawi’s food blends Malay, Thai, Chinese, and Indian influences into one diverse, island-wide culinary experience.
From street food in Langkawi to seaside cafés serving fresh seafood, every bite here is better than the next. Enjoy the beautiful sunset on the cruise and dive into the delicacies of Langkawi. Book this surreal experience on redBus for instant confirmation and discounts.
Best Food and Dining Experience in Langkawi
Catamaran: Langkawi Sunset Cruise with Dinner
Unwind on the open sea as the sun sets over Langkawi. Freshly grilled seafood, cold drinks, and calm waters create the perfect setting for an easy and memorable evening. A great way to skip the usual dinner spot and soak in island life with good company.
Experience highlights:
- Buffet dinner
- Open bar
- Netted saltwater jacuzzi
- Sunset sailing
- Onboard guide
Meeting point: Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, Kuah
Booking info: Catamaran Langkawi Sunset Cruise with Dinner
Langkawi Sunset Cruise with Live BBQ, Dinner & Unlimited Drinks
The Langkawi Sunset Cruise invites you aboard for an unforgettable evening on the Andaman Sea. Glide along Langkawi’s stunning coastline as the sun dips below the horizon, with live BBQ cooking on board, free-flowing drinks, and panoramic ocean views to set the scene. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to unwind in style, this cruise delivers elegance and relaxation in one beautiful package.
Experience highlights:
- Live BBQ dinner on board
- Unlimited free-flow drinks
- Sunset sailing along Langkawi’s scenic coast
- Panoramic ocean views
- Luxury catamaran experience
- Onboard crew and guide
Meeting point: Ground Floor, Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, Jalan Dato Syed
Booking Tickets: Premium Langkawi Sunset Cruise with Live BBQ, Dinner & Unlimited Drinks
The Gulai House
If you are in the mood for authentic Malaysian food in Langkawi, with a premium ambience, consider The Gulai House. This award-winning restaurant, nestled in the rainforest at The Datai, serves scrumptious dishes in a luxurious, traditional kampung-style setting.
Must‑try dishes:
- Sup Ketam Bercerai (crab soup)
- Beef Rendang
- Cendol Pulut
Address: Jln Teluk Datai, 07000 Pulau Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Distance: From Kuah town 42 km (click map).
Yellow Beach Café
Yellow Beach Café is a popular choice for travelers looking to enjoy Langkawi food with stunning sunset views. Located on Pantai Cenang, this relaxed café offers beach seating with swings, bean bags, and continental comfort food. It is often rated among the best food in Langkawi Cenang since you can sit and enjoy delicious food while watching the waves crash.
Must-try dishes:
- Special Yellow Pizza
- Chicken Wings
- Eggplant Rolls
- Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Address: Jalan Pantai Tengah, Pantai Cenang, LangkawiDistance: from Kuah town: 20 km (click map).
Langkawi Fish Farm Restaurant
Langkawi Fish Farm Restaurant is known for serving some of the best local food in Langkawi in a rustic, waterside setting near Kuah. You can pick fresh seafood directly from tanks or even catch it yourself. It is a great place to enjoy a laid-back dinner that still captures the flavour of street food in Langkawi with a cleaner, more scenic twist.
Must-try dishes:
- Salted Egg Yolk Squid
- Grilled Tiger Prawns
- Nyonya-Style Steamed Grouper
Address: Lot 1986, Jalan Penarak, Mukim Kuah, Langkawi
Distance: From Kuah town: 4.5 km (click map).
Scarborough Fish & Chips
Scarborough Fish & Chips is a beachfront hidden gem tucked away near the peaceful Tanjung Rhu coastline. It is known for its simple, satisfying food and uninterrupted sea views. This relaxed café serves British-style comfort food and is a great place to enjoy Langkawi food away from the busier tourist areas. The setting is informal, with open-air seating just steps from the sand, making it ideal for a casual lunch or sunset meal.
Must-try dishes:
- Classic Fish and Chips
- Calamari Rings
- Prawn Fritters
- Pan-Fried Barracuda
Address: Lot 1388, Jalan Tanjung Rhu, Mukim Air Hangat, 07100 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia
Distance: From Kuah town 18 km (click map).
Pia’s The Padi
Pia’s The Padi is a charming restaurant surrounded by rice fields, serving hearty Indian food in Langkawi along with Malay, Western, and Thai dishes. It is loved by locals and travellers alike for its generous portions and scenic views.
Must-try dishes:
- Deep-Fried Spring Rolls
- Fish Sambal
- Butter Chicken Masala
- Mango Kulfi
Address: Jalan Ulu Melaka, Kampung Padang Gaong, Langkawi
Distance: From Kuah Town 10 km (click map).
Must-Try Street Foods in Langkawi Night Market
Langkawi’s lively night markets serve some of the best local food in Langkawi. Since night markets rotate locations throughout the week, you can try these popular Langkawi foods any day of the week:
Nasi Lemak
This beloved local dish features fragrant coconut rice served with spicy sambal, crispy anchovies, a boiled egg, and roasted peanuts.
- Where to try it: Temoyong Night Market (Thursday)
Apam Balik
Declared heritage food by the Malaysian Department of National Heritage, Apam Balik is a type of sweet pancake that’s crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, folded over with a filling of crushed peanuts, creamed corn, and sugar.
- Where to try it: Padang Matsirat Sunday Night Market (Sunday)
Karipap
Karipap (curry puffs) is a deep-fried pastry pocket stuffed with curried potatoes or minced meat. While this dish originated in Singapore, it has become one of the most popular street foods in Langkawi.
- Where to try it: Pekan Kuah Night Market (Saturday)
Green Mango Salad
This light and zesty salad features shredded unripe mango tossed with lime juice, chilli, sugar, and crushed peanuts. It’s refreshing, spicy, and perfect for cooling down on a warm Langkawi evening.
- Where to try it: Ulu Melaka Night Market (Monday)
Murtabak
Murtabak is a thick, pan-fried flatbread stuffed with spiced minced meat, onions, and egg, usually served with a side of rich curry. It’s filling and flavorful — ideal if you’re craving Indian food in Langkawi.
- Where to try it: Padang Matsirat Night Market (Sunday)
Roti Canai
Roti Canai is a flaky, buttery flatbread that’s pan-fried until golden and served with dhal or curry for dipping. Soft on the inside and crisp on the outside, it’s a beloved local comfort food in Langkawi that can be enjoyed at any time of day.
- Where to try it: Pekan Kuah Night Market (Saturday)
5 Tips to Keep in Mind When Enjoying the Best Food in Langkawi
Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, these tips can help you get the most out of your culinary experience:
- Bring cash when exploring Langkawi food stalls and night markets, as most vendors don’t take cards.
- Visit food spots early to avoid long queues and enjoy the best local food in Langkawi.
- Try something unfamiliar like spicy sambal, traditional kuih, or street food in Langkawi night markets.
- Use redBus to book Langkawi food cruises and local dining experiences for a stress-free trip.
- Respect local dining customs, especially when enjoying good food in Langkawi during Ramadan and other festivals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is street food in Langkawi?
Street food prices in Langkawi start from MYR 2 for popular favourites like Roti Canai, Nasi Lemak, and Satay.
Is food halal in Langkawi?
Most places serve halal food, since the majority of the island’s population is Muslim. It’s not hard to find halal options, especially in night markets and local restaurants.
Is vegetarian food available in Langkawi?
Yes. Indian and local Malay eateries usually have vegetable curries, dhal, tofu dishes, and roti. You won’t have trouble eating vegetarian here.
What is the most popular street food in Langkawi?
Locals and tourists both love apam balik, nasi lemak, and satay. They’re easy to find at night markets and taste even better hot off the grill.
What are the best night markets for Langkawi food?
Kuah and Pantai Cenang night markets are among the busiest, with a wide variety of local dishes and snacks. Each market runs on different nights, so check the schedule.
Where can I find the best seafood restaurants in Langkawi?
Try Orkid Ria in Cenang or Scarborough Fish & Chips in Tanjung Rhu. If you want something unique, book a sunset dinner cruise through redBus for seafood with a view.
What time do night markets in Langkawi operate?
Most open around 6 PM and start winding down by 10 PM. Each market is only open on certain days, so it’s worth asking a local or your hotel.
What are the best restaurants in Langkawi that provide takeaway?
Most local restaurants and cafés offer takeaway, especially those near night markets and beaches. Pia’s The Padi, Orkid Ria Seafood Restaurant, and Smiling Buffalo are well-reviewed places that handle takeaway orders quickly and reliably.
What are the best restaurants in Langkawi for families with children?
Families often enjoy Haroo Korean Restaurant, Arts Café, and Cactus Restaurant for their relaxed settings, kids’ menus, and generous portions. Many beachside spots like Scarborough also have kid-friendly dishes and casual vibes.
What are the best restaurants in Langkawi for cheap eats?
For budget-friendly meals, try night markets like the ones in Kuah and Temoyong. Good sit-down options include Nasi Campur Kak Yan, Wan Thai Restaurant, and Red Tomato, all known for quality food at fair prices.