As exciting as Malacca is during the daytime, it is even more electrifying after the sun has gone down. When the streets light up, the bars and pubs come alive with great music, friendly bartenders and a vibrant atmosphere. Experience some of the best nightlife at these five can’t-go-wrong spots in this fascinating city, and get to know the locals.
1. Geographer Cafe
Housed in a pre-war corner shophouse, Geographer Cafe is an institution in Malacca, known for its lively ambiance in the middle of the already buzzing Jonker Walk. Featuring live music, yummy local food and reasonably priced drinks, Geographer is place both locals and tourists frequent, so head on to the cafe if you’re keen on tips-sharing sessions with fellow travellers. Watch out for live music nights – they’re certainly something to be experienced.
- Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 – 01:00; Sunday 08:00 – 01:00
- Address: 83, Jalan Hang Jebat, Malacca
- Tel: +606 281 6813
2. Hard Rock Cafe Malacca
Hard Rock Cafe has finally landed in Malacca, adding yet another live music venue on the bustling streets of Jonker Walk. It sits right by the Malacca River, and at night it is brightly lit and is a spectacular view on its own, giving would-be visitors a taste of how much excitement there is to be had here. Thankfully it doesn’t disappoint– good, quality, live music entertains diners whilst they wait for the generously portioned dishes, and while prices are a little bit on the high side as compared to other nightlife spots, Hard Rock Cafe is a guaranteed rock and rollin’ fun time.
- Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11:30 – 01:00; Friday, Saturday, eve of public holiday 11:30AM – 02:00 (kitchen closes at 22:30)
- Address: 28, Lorong Hang Jebat, Malacca
- Tel: +606 292 5188
3. Mixx Club
For a night out partying in this historical city, Mixx is an obvious choice and it isn’t hard to see why. Boasting four distinct rooms for all types of partygoers, Mixx is situated on the second floor of the city’s iconic shopping mall, Mahkota Parade, so access is definitely easy, with ample parking spaces. Regular customers include students and young professionals, and with the club featuring theme nights (such as Korean Style with Korean pop) and international DJs spinning from time to time, we reckon Mixx is here to stay as the premier night club to go when in Malacca.
- Opening Hours: Paradox: Wednesday, Friday, eve of public holidays 20:00 – late;
Saturday 22:00 – late
Arris: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and eve of public holidays 20:00 – late
Fuse: Friday, Saturday and eve of public holidays 20:00 – late
Fuse Garden: Monday to Sunday 20:00 – late - Address: Lots 19, Second Floor, Mahkota Parade, Jalan Merdeka, Malacca
- Tel: +6016 621 5577, +6016 623 5577
4. Mr and Mrs Jones Cafe
Don’t come to Mr and Mrs Jones Cafe if you’re hungry, because food is not on the menu. Instead, what do they do have is awesome live music, cheap drinks and a cosy bar atmosphere within the exciting Jonker Walk vicinity. A great place to enjoy the night breeze and chat with the locals, Hawk and his wife Joan are the owners of this delightful, energetic bar, and double up as the resident musicians, playing anything from blues to rock. Come with an open mind, and who knows, you might end up jamming with the Mr and Mrs Jones!
- Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 19:00 – 24:00
- Address: 3, Jalan Hang Kasturi, Malacca
- Tel: +6016 234 4292
5. Reggae on the River
The name says it all - reggae music by the river, what more do you need, really? Drinks, of course, and thankfully, Reggae's drinks will not hurt your wallet, as it is reasonably priced and offers a wide variety of options. The music ranges from classics to modern reggae, and while you might feel as if you’ve just been transported to Jamaica, the soft flow of Malacca River and the animated chatter of its goers certainly reminds you where you are. Breezy and relaxed, a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring.
- Address: 88, Lorong Hang Jebat, Malacca
- Tel: +606 281 6907
