What to eat and do at Jonker Street, Malacca
Johor Bahru (JB) has been Singaporeans’ go-to getaway spot for an affordable “vacation” for as long as we can remember. However, if it’s started losing its allure after your 1000th visit, Melaka, or Malacca, is another popular destination to consider for your next long weekend.
Jonker Street, in particular, is a vibrant tourist destination in Melaka with endless food, shopping, and nightlife options. If you’re planning a visit, we’ve put together a one-day Malacca food itinerary so you don’t have to. P.S. This guide is based on the places I checked out during my recent trip!
The current exchange rate is RM1 = ~S$0.31 as of 6 October 2026.
Breakfast: Baba Kaya
Image credit: Baba Kaya via FB
There’s nothing like starting your day with a traditional meal to immerse yourself in the local heritage of Melaka. Baba Kaya is a well-known breakfast spot that serves Peranakan dishes such as Nyonya curry and Nyonya laksa.
For breakfast, we recommend the Baba Kaya Signature Toast (RM6++) that’s served with a kaya dip. The kaya is said to have a stronger pandan flavour and a runnier texture compared to the Singaporean version. Other must-gets include the Signature Prawn Nonya Curry Laksa (RM20++) and Homemade Roti Jala (RM7++), a traditional Malay rolled crepe that’s chewy and served with curry.
Image credit: Edna Low
The restaurant is on the edge of the Melaka River, so you get a lovely riverside view and a constant breeze no matter the time of your visit. It’s also well-known for its apom balik “delivery” service, featuring a pulley system inspired by colonial days. If you hear a ringing bell, ready your camera and watch as an employee delivers a rattan basket of food from the second floor to customers waiting on the ground level!
Address: 13A, Jalan. Bunga Raya, Melaka Tengah, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon, Wed-Fri 8am to 2:30pm, Sat-Sun 7:30am to 2:30pm
Website
Baba Kaya is not halal-certified.
Coffee: The Coffee JAR
Image credit: The Coffee JAR via FB
If you’re as much a coffee addict as I am, an iced coffee break at The Coffee JAR is mandatory. The cafe is modern and minimalistic, with plain beige walls, contrasting with the bustling streets outside, making it a perfect place to catch your breath and recuperate from the chaos.
While the price can be slightly steeper compared to other cafes in Melaka, the quality of the hand-brewed coffee is well worth it. Treat yourself to the Single Origin Latte (RM20) or just stick to a classic Iced Latte (RM16).
Address: 40, Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 8:30am to 5:30pm, Fri-Sun 8:30am to 6pm
Website
The Coffee JAR is not halal-certified but does not use pork or lard.
Sightseeing: A Famosa and St Paul’s Hill
Image credit: Holiday Inn Melaka
Just a 10-minute walk from Jonker’s Street is one of Melaka’s most notable tourist destinations. Walk off your breakfast by climbing St. Paul’s Hill, a historic location with the ruins of St. Paul’s Church, a monument from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial times. Enjoy the elevated views from the hilltop, and visit the tombstones of European merchants, nobles, and clergymen that now rest in the church.
At the foot of the hill is A Famosa, the remains of a Portuguese fortress built in 1511. Currently, only a small gatehouse remains, but the ruin makes for a great photo spot and is historically significant as one of the oldest surviving European structures in Southeast Asia.
Address: Jalan Kota, Banda Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Snack: Kopi Harian
Image credit: Kopi Harian via FB
After that expedition, it’s time to replenish your energy. Kopi Harian is a popular cafe that offers an innovative take on traditional Nanyang breakfast. Its signature toast series, modelled after kaya toast, features a variety of flavours including Matcha Black Sesame Butter Toast, Chocolate Pistachio Kunafa Toast, and Hojicha Butter Toast (RM12 each). You can also top up a small fee for a mochi filling.
The cafe offers a wide range of savoury mains such as Kopi Harian Fried Kuay Teow (RM19) and Nonya Laksa (RM24). The space looks rustic with its run-down walls, wooden furniture, and gravelled floors, making it a great place for photo-ops.
Address: 61, Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 9am to 8:30pm
Website
Kopi Harian is Muslim-friendly.
Shopping: Funky Munky
Image credit: Funky Munky Shop via FB
Jonker Street is best known for its endless shopping opportunities, and one of the most notable stores has to be Funky Munky. The shop sells a variety of traditional clothing, such as the Nyonya kebaya, cheongsam, beaded dresses, and batik clothing. It’s earned a reputation amongst tourists for its high quality, unique pieces that aren’t simply mass-produced.
The storefront looks chaotic in the best way: a colourful display of traditional clothing, potted plants cluttering the ceiling, and fairy lights decorating the entrance. The interior almost resembles a heritage museum, packed with traditional clothing, fabrics, wooden crafts, and accessories. It’s definitely worth a peek even if you’re not big on shopping.
Address: No. 69, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Malacca City, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 10am to 9pm
Website
Lunch: The Baboon House
Image credit: Tripadvisor
Similar to Kopi Harian, The Baboon House is a well-known Jonker Street eatery with rustic interiors. However, it takes things up a notch with thickets of vines and leafy plants covering the walls and floors of its two-storey shophouse space. Combined with a hidden entrance, the restaurant is known for its mysterious, jungle-like vibe.
You’ll find Western cuisine here, offering a little variety from all the local flavours on the itinerary. For mains, the signature items are the Aloha Cheeseburgers, with six patty options such as Honey Mustard Chicken (RM 26.50++) and Baboon Beef (RM 28.50++).
For a beverage, the Ginger Lemon Beer (RM15++) is recommended as a refreshing pick-me-up on a hot day.
Address: No. 89, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Taman Kota Laksamana, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia Opening hours: Mon, Wed-Thurs 10am to 5pm, Fri-Sun 10am to 7pm
Website
The Baboon House is not halal-certified.
Dessert: Christina EE Pineapple Tarts and Nonya Cendol
Image credit: Trip.com
Beat the heat with an iconic local treat: chendol. We recommend stopping by Christina EE, which also sells pineapple tarts and other pastries that make great souvenirs.
Go for the Traditional Nonya Cendol (RM4.80++), or level up with the Nonya Durian Cendol (RM9.80++), topped with a generous scoop of fresh durian.
Address: 29, Jalan Hang Lekir, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon-Wed, Fri-Sun 9:30am to 6pm, Thurs 1pm to 6pm
Website
Christina EE Pineapple Tarts and Nonya Cendol is not halal-certified.
Drinks: Sin Hiap Hin
Image credit: Tripadvisor
Sin Hiap Hin is perhaps the oldest bar in Melaka and is run by Lee Lian Suan, whose husband’s great-grandfather first opened the store. Historically, Sin Hiap Hin was an opium den that European officers, Japanese soldiers, and locals would visit.
This 100-year-old bar boasts a large collection of specialty alcohols. If you’re overwhelmed by your options, the owner will be more than happy to offer her recommendations. One of the crowd favourites is the Melaka Rice Wine (from RM10++), which has a tangy, fermented, yet sweet flavour. Other recommendations include Lady Red (from RM16++), a blend of Chinese herbs, said to improve sleep and vitality.
While this is a bar, it closes early at 5:30pm, making it an ideal stop for pre-dinner drinks!
Address: 5, Kampung Jawa, 75200, Melaka
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9.30am to 5.30pm, Sun 9.30am to 4.30pm
Sin Hiap Hin is not halal certified
Dinner: Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice Ball
Image credit: EeJiBan Chicken Rice Ball via FB
Chicken rice balls are mandatory for anyone visiting Melaka—it’s probably the city’s most iconic dish. While there are many options in Jonker Street, the best spot, in my humble opinion, is actually a nine-minute drive out. Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice is a popular chicken rice spot that attracts both tourists and locals alike.
A single portion (RM19++) comes with five rice balls and steamed chicken. The chicken here is said to be some of the most tender and flavourful ones around. The rice balls have a dense and slightly chewy mouthfeel compared to your usual plate of rice. Like traditional chicken rice, the grains are cooked in chicken fat, giving it that unique fragrance and sheen.
Fun fact: These rice balls were originally made for labourers, as their small, compact shape meant they were quick and convenient to eat without leaving a mess. Their spherical shape is also said to help retain heat, keeping them warm for longer!
Address: 275, Jalan Melaka Raya 3, Taman Melaka Raya, Malacca City, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon, Fri-Sun 11:30am to 9pm
Website
Ee Ji Ban Chicken Rice Ball is halal-certified.
Supper: Jonker Street Night Market
Image credit: Jonker Street
On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, Jonker Street will transform into a massive night market from 6pm onwards. End your day with some shopping as all the stores start coming alive, and feast on a variety of street foods such as takoyaki, squid sticks, sugar-coated fruit, mango smoothies, sweet potato balls and many more. The bustling environment, bright lights, and abundant food and shopping make it the perfect way to end your trip on a high note.
Address: Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Fri-Sun 6pm to 12am
Website
What to eat on a one-day Melaka trip
These are just some of my favourite picks from this one-day Melaka food itinerary. FYI: Malacca is just an hour’s flight from Singapore, making it an easy option for a weekend getaway.
If you’re choosing to spend your long weekend in JB instead, this JB food itinerary has you covered! If Singapore is your next stop, check out our Singapore food guide instead.
2-Day JB Itinerary: Affordable Desserts, Famous Zi Char, Thrifting And More
Feature photo adapted from: TheSmartLocal Malaysia, go Melaka, Kopi Halia, The Baboon House, The Coffee JAR
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