Good Industry-vibe cafe in Penang!
On my recent adventure in Penang, I stumbled upon Norm Micro Roastery, a delightful cafe that has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Located in the heart of Penang, this cafe boasts an industrial vibe with a high ceiling and bright natural lighting, creating an inviting and open atmosphere. One of the most unique features of Norm Micro Roastery is the real tree growing right in the middle of the cafe, blending nature with modern industrial decor. It’s no wonder the cafe was almost full-house when I arrived, as its charm is hard to resist.
Address: 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Opening Hours: 9 am - 7 pm, Closed on Wednesday
Signature Scallop and Prawn Pumpkin Risotto
After my experience at Picco Polo Cafe where I tried a delightful risotto, I couldn’t resist ordering the Signature Scallop and Prawn Pumpkin Risotto at Norm Micro Roastery. This dish was a revelation, combining Morrocan spiced fresh prawns from Teluk Bahang, air-flown scallops, Australian pumpkin risotto, shimeji mushrooms, crispy sage, and parmesan cheese. The creamy risotto was comforting and flavorful, with the sweetness of the pumpkin beautifully complementing the rich, savory elements of the dish. The prawns and scallops were succulent, adding a wonderful textural contrast, while the crispy sage leaves and shimeji mushrooms provided an additional layer of umami and crunch. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a truly memorable dish.
Smoked Chili Jam Scrambled Eggs
My friend ordered the Smoked Chili Jam Scrambled Eggs. This dish was an exquisite balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. The chili jam melded seamlessly with the rich, creamy scrambled eggs, creating a delectable combination. The milk loaf served as a soft, slightly sweet foundation that absorbed the flavors perfectly. The tender scallops and firm, aromatic prawns added layers of texture and complexity to the dish. Each bite was a delightful interplay of flavors, making this meal both satisfying and memorable.
Conchiglie with Seasonal Mushrooms
We also ordered the Conchiglie with Seasonal Mushrooms, a sophisticated dish that showcased earthy flavors with hints of brightness and bitterness. The seashell pasta was cooked slightly al dente, serving as a neutral base for the dish. The seasonal mushrooms, ranging from shiitake to oyster, added an umami-rich flavor, while the organic egg yolk provided a rich, creamy texture. The pickled onion brought a tangy, sweet note, perfectly complementing the other ingredients. Light, crispy rice paper and a subtle hint of bitter espresso powder added the finishing touches to this complex and delicious dish.