Penang may be famous for its street food, but its dining scene now boasts one of the world’s top-ranked steakhouses. Firewood, located in the heart of George Town’s heritage quarter, secured 76th place on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list. The restaurant also made its debut in the MICHELIN Guide Kuala Lumpur & Penang 2025 as a MICHELIN Selected establishment, retaining the recognition in the 2026 edition.
Behind its success is Malaysian chef Ker Yang Hao, who spent seven years working with Gordon Ramsay’s organisation in Singapore before bringing his expertise home. Here, premium Australian and Japanese beef is dry-aged in-house and grilled over charcoal, making Firewood a compelling stop for steak lovers visiting Penang.
What to expect
At Firewood, the attention to detail begins well before the beef reaches the grill. The kitchen considers factors such as cattle breed, feeding practices and marbling, all of which influence the meat’s flavour, richness and texture.
Selected cuts are dry-aged on the premises, a process that helps concentrate their flavour and develop tenderness. They’re then cooked over charcoal, giving the steaks a distinctive smoky character.
For diners, it’s an opportunity to appreciate the differences between cuts and how ageing and grilling techniques influence the finished dish. Those unfamiliar with dry-aged beef can ask the team about the available selections and their flavour profiles.
What sets Firewood apart
Chef Ker’s approach reflects the discipline and consistency he developed during his years in Singapore’s fine-dining kitchens. His interest in beef extends beyond cooking techniques to understanding how genetics, farming methods and ageing affect the final product.
That expertise has helped him establish a steakhouse with its own identity, combining meticulous preparation with Malaysian hospitality.
Situated along Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, the restaurant is also conveniently located for visitors exploring George Town. Its heritage-quarter setting makes it a worthwhile dinner stop after visiting the area’s historic shophouses, clan houses and galleries.
Opening hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 12pm–2.30pm, 5.30pm–10pm
Monday: Closed
