Are you searching for the best river view cafes in Melaka? Well, your search ends here, my friend!
Melaka is colourful, full of history and packed with good food. And while we all love exploring Jonker Street, heritage buildings and museums, one of the best things about Melaka is its stunning riverside.
We don’t know about you. But sipping a smooth latte or digging into spicy sambal while the water glides past you is our idea of a perfect Saturday.
There are plenty of cafes in Melaka by the river, and choosing can be overwhelming. Melaka’s mix of Malay, Chinese, Portuguese and even Dutch influences means the food scene is diverse and exciting. So we’ve put together our favourite riverfront cafes.
Each one comes with its own vibe, great food and, of course, those beautiful views. We’ll also tell you which landmarks they’re closest to so you can slot them into your sightseeing day.
Here are our top 10 picks for the BEST river view cafes Melaka has to offer!
1. Baba Kaya Restaurant
Baba Kaya is one of those places you instantly feel comfortable in. The décor is cosy yet modern, and the river views are best enjoyed from the outdoor seating.
If you’re into local flavours, their Nyonya dishes are the star here. The laksa is rich and fragrant, while the chicken pongteh is comfort food at its best!
What we loved most was dipping pieces of their homemade kaya toast into the strong local coffee while watching the boats cruise past.
It’s the kind of slow morning that makes you glad you found a river view cafe in Melaka like this.
Location: 13A, Jln. Bunga Raya, Melaka Tengah
Nearest Landmark: 7 mins walk from Jonker Street
Menu Highlights: Nyonya laksa, chicken pongteh, kaya toast
Google rating: 4.7
2. Gravy Baby
Gravy Baby feels like a slice of retro America by the Melaka River.
The interiors are bold and colourful, with neon lights that really pop at night. This is a great spot if you want Western comfort food like juicy burgers, thick milkshakes and hearty breakfasts.
It’s also one of the liveliest, best cafes in Melaka after sunset, with a fun crowd and live music on some nights.
Location: Lorong Hang Jebat
Nearest Landmark: 2-minute walk from Dutch Square
Menu Highlights: Cheeseburgers, pancakes, milkshakes
Google rating: 4.5
3. The Street Kitchen Melaka
If you want to mix street food vibes with a comfortable setting, The Street Kitchen is where you want to be. The menu is a mix of Asian and Western favourites, so you can grab satay skewers alongside a plate of pasta.
The best part? Their upstairs balcony seating looks straight out over the river, so it’s perfect for a chilled lunch after walking through the heritage zone.
Definitely worth adding to your river view cafe Melaka checklist.
Location: 47, Jalan Laksamana, Banda Hilir
Nearest Landmark: 3-minute walk from Dutch Square
Menu Highlights: Satay, fried noodles, pasta
Google rating: 4.6
4. Café 31BackLane
Cafe 31 is a little more hidden away, but worth finding. It’s one of the chillest cafes in Melaka, with floral accents and a calming colour palette. The river views here are especially peaceful in the afternoon.
We came here for coffee but ended up staying for dessert. Their homemade cakes are rich but not too sweet, and they pair perfectly with a cappuccino.
While we didn’t try the Nasi Lemak ourselves, it does come highly recommended.
Location: 31, Jalan Munshi Abdullah
Nearest Landmark: 10-minute walk from Jonker Walk World Heritage Park
Menu Highlights: Cappuccino, cheesecake, red velvet cake
Google rating: 4.9
5. Nebula Cafe
Nebula is where you go when you want specialty coffee done right. The baristas know their beans, and the pour-overs are a highlight.
You can sit by the window and get a partial view of the river, which is lovely in the mornings when the light hits just right.
We also loved their breakfast platters. Freshly baked bread, scrambled eggs and avocado. It’s simple but satisfying. A quiet contender for the best cafe in Melaka if you’re a coffee lover.
Location: 68, Lorong Hang Jebat
Nearest Landmark: 1-minute walk from Cheng Ho Cultural Museum
Menu Highlights: Pour-over coffee, breakfast platters, avocado toast
Google rating: 4.7
6. Chan Mari Chan
The portions at Chan Mari Chan are massive (one dish can easily feed two or more) yet the prices are so reasonable, it feels like such a win!
We tried a mix of their local and Western dishes: the BBQ chicken nasi ayam was juicy and flavourful, the dumplings were a surprise hit, and their beca-style cendol was the perfect sweet finish.
If you’re into drinks, don’t skip the Honey Lemon Bunga Telang. It’s refreshing and pretty enough for a photo.
The vibe is cosy and welcoming, with both indoor and riverside seating, and the staff are so warm that it feels like dining at a friend’s place.
This is a café that’s perfect for lingering with friends or family by the river.
Location: Lot 224, Jalan Tun Mutahir, Kampung Morten
Nearest Landmark: 5-minute walk from Melaka River Cruise Jeti Taman Rempah
Menu Highlights: Honey Lemon Bunga Telang, Nasi Ayam Combo, BBQ Chicken Nasi Ayam
Google rating: 4.8
7. 90 Riverside Cafe
True to its name, 90 Riverside gives you uninterrupted river views from almost every table. It’s got a laid-back vibe, ideal for slow afternoons. The menu is a mix of Malaysian classics and Western staples.
We had the nasi lemak here and it was spot on. But this river view cafe in Melaka truly comes alive at night.
It’s a great place to enjoy a drink by the river and listen to music, while stuffing yourself with delicious fried food.
Location: 90, Lorong Hang Jebat
Nearest Landmark: 2 mins walk from Cheng Ho Cultural Museum
Menu Highlights: Nasi lemak, chicken nuggets, popcorn chicken
Google rating: 4.6
8. Wild Coriander
Wild Coriander has one of the most beautiful interiors among any cafe in Melaka.
It blends traditional Peranakan design with modern touches. The open-air seating at the back gives you gorgeous river views framed by plants.
The food is equally appealing. We loved their beef rendang and mixed seafood curry! It’s a great spot if you want to enjoy a healthy, flavourful meal in a calm setting.
Location: 40, Jalan Kampung Pantai
Nearest Landmark: 2 mins walk from Hang Jebat Mausoleum
Menu Highlights: Beef Rendang, Mixed Seafood Curry, Pie Tee, Gula Melaka Cendol
Google rating: 4.5
9. Qassim Bistro Nasi Lemak Riverside
This little riverside spot in Melaka is all about comfort food and warm vibes. It’s family-owned, and Lisa, the host, makes you feel instantly at home.
The nasi lemak ayam was crispy and fragrant, while the nasi goreng kampung with a frothy teh tarik hit all the right notes. Portions are big, prices are friendly, and you can choose between a cosy air-conditioned seat or an outdoor table with a beautiful river view.
The kind of place you’ll keep coming back to in Melaka.
Location: 50, Lorong Hang Jebat
Nearest Landmark: 2 mins walk from Jonker Street
Menu Highlights: Nasi lemak ayam, nasi goreng kampung, roti bakar waffle, lime mint drink
Google rating: 4.7
10. River Cafe Casa Del Rio
Attached to Casa Del Rio, a beautiful hotel by the river Melaka, this cafe offers one of the most luxurious riverside dining spots in the city. The terrace overlooks the water and is perfect for sunset dining.
The menu is more upscale, with dishes like lamb shank, grilled fish and decadent desserts. Service is attentive, and the whole place feels like a treat-yourself experience. A great way to end your day is at a river-view seafood restaurant.
Location: Casa Del Rio Melaka, Jalan Kota Laksamana
Nearest Landmark: 7 mins walk from Dutch Square
Menu Highlights: Lamb shank, grilled fish, chocolate lava cake
Google rating: 3.7
Final Thoughts on River View Cafes in Melaka
Melaka’s riverside cafes are more than just a place to eat. They’re part of the city’s charm. From casual spots like Gravy Baby to elegant settings like River Cafe, Casa Del Rio, there’s something for every mood.
The food is diverse, the atmosphere is relaxing, and the views are unbeatable.
If you haven’t yet tried a river view cafe in Melaka, make it part of your next trip. It’s the perfect way to slow down, enjoy the scenery and taste what makes Melaka so special.
FAQs on River Cafes in Melaka
Dining by the river during the day vs. night?
Daytime gives you peaceful vibes and a clearer view of the river. At night, the lights reflect off the water, and it’s more romantic. Both have their charm.
When is the best time to visit Melaka?
Weekdays are less crowded. Early mornings and late afternoons are cooler and more comfortable for walking.
What are some other cool things to do in Melaka?
Visit Jonker Street night market, explore heritage buildings, check out the museums, or take a river cruise.
How to get around Melaka?
Most of the main attractions are within walking distance in the city centre. You can also use trishaws, bicycles or ride-hailing apps for longer distances.
Here are a few more fun reads for you:
- Visiting Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum: What To Expect? – SOCAR Blog
- 7 fun day trips from Kuala Lumpur (besides Genting Highlands) – SOCAR Blog
- Romantic Dinner in KL: 17 Dreamy Spots for Every Budget & Vibe – SOCAR Blog
- Our Top 10 Favourite Things to Do On An Ipoh Day Trip – SOCAR Blog
Ride with SOCAR on the long weekend
Once you’ve soaked in Melaka’s riverside charm, why not make the trip itself just as enjoyable?
With SOCAR, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to cars that match your mood and plans, whether you’re cruising with your partner, catching up with friends, or enjoying some solo downtime.
It’s all about travelling in comfort and style, so your long weekend feels smooth from start to finish.
