2F+ Coffee Roastery Relau

Tucked away in the bustling area of Relau, Bayan Lepas, 2F+ Coffee Roastery is a destination that transcends the typical coffee shop experience. Established in 2012, this establishment has evolved from a passionate roasting project into one of Penang’s most respected specialty coffee institutions.

The Relau branch is particularly famous for its hidden garden aesthetic, where the exterior is draped in lush green creepers and flowering vines, making it look more like a private botanical sanctuary than a commercial shoplot.

Upon entering, the atmosphere shifts into a sophisticated industrial-chic vibe, featuring a mix of terracotta tiles, polished concrete floors, and a warm assembly of wooden and cane furniture. This blend of natural greenery and sturdy industrial elements creates a homey, artsy environment that is remarkably conducive to both deep focus and relaxed conversation.

The heart of the operation is the on-site roastery, where beans are sourced from renowned coffee-growing regions like Ethiopia, Colombia, and China. Because they roast their own beans, the aroma of fresh coffee is a permanent fixture of the air here.

For coffee purists, the Filter Coffee selection is a must-try, often featuring seasonal single-origin beans with distinct tasting notes ranging from jasmine and peach to nutty chocolate. If you prefer something more contemporary, their Signature Iced Coffee and unique creations like the Dirty Latte or the Coffee Orange—which combines the zing of citrus with a bold espresso base—are highly recommended.

The menu also caters to non-coffee drinkers with high-quality Uji Matcha, Hojicha, and refreshing fruit-based soda coolers like the Lychee Daiquiri.

Beyond the beverages, 2F+ Coffee Roastery Relau has gained a loyal following for its substantial food menu. While many specialty roasteries offer only light snacks, this cafe provides a full dining experience.

Their specialty waffles are arguably the most famous in the Bayan Lepas area, known for a perfect balance of a crisp exterior and a fluffy, airy center. Dessert lovers often gravitate toward the Nutella Madness or the Tiramisu Set.

For those seeking a savory meal, the menu includes Western-fusion staples such as the Honeyed Smoked Duck Bagel, Pork Cheese Burger, and various Pasta dishes. The Smoked Duck is particularly praised for its tender texture and the way it pairs with their homemade dressings.

For the digital nomad and student community, this cafe is a primary choice. It is widely recognized as a laptop-friendly space where staying for a few hours to finish a project is not only permitted but welcomed.

There are several power plugs strategically placed near the seating areas, and the Wi-Fi is generally reliable for standard work tasks. The window bar seating is a favorite for solo visitors who enjoy working with a view of the greenery outside, while the larger wooden tables in the main hall can easily accommodate group meetings or collaborative sessions.

Despite being a popular spot, the noise level usually remains at a manageable, moderate hum, though it can get lively during the weekend peak hours.

Pro-Tips

For those planning a work or study session, the best strategy is to arrive before 10:00 AM on weekdays to secure a spot near the power plugs, as these tend to be claimed early by regulars.

If you are visiting for the first time, look for the shoplot with the heaviest green foliage on Jalan Paya Terubong, as the signage is intentionally subtle to maintain the hidden-gem aesthetic. Parking can be competitive during lunch hours due to the nearby commercial offices, so consider parking slightly further down the row of shops or using public MBPP slots along the main road.

If you are a coffee enthusiast, don’t hesitate to ask the baristas about their seasonal filter beans; they are often happy to provide recommendations based on your preferred acidity and flavor profile. For the best photography lighting, the window seats offer the most flattering natural light during the late morning.