It's a Starbucks?

The bar area seems to blend in well with the rest of the building

Penang is filled with old colonial buildings which were begging to be renovated and restored. There were efforts in those directions, with many old mansions being converted into boutique hotels and old shophouses turned into chic cafe and shops.

You might just miss the sign

The unmistakeable green sign

Just like any other street in Georgetown

Even the hotel we stayed in - Eastern & Oriental - was a glorious example. The old charm was maintained, and one can’t help but reminisce about the old days.

On our walk to Padang Kota, we came across this converted Starbucks, occupying an old shop lot. Although it appeared old school on the outside, the entire gut had been revamped. Very cosy and coming in from the bright sun into the cool air-conditioning, the contrast was stark.

Gorgeous anterior though

You might mistaken the cafe to be sort sort of boutique hotel

The cosy sitting area

I am sure if I were to walk around Georgetown, I would discover more of such gem. Great effort by the municipality to encourage such a venture ...