Norm Micro Roastery: Hidden in Lebuh Gereja’s Warehouse
I almost could not spot Norm Micro Roastery hidden in Lebuh Gereja.
The pure white façade has blended into the scene of Penang’s colonial style buildings, with the thin, metallic ‘Norm’ hung on top like a crown. I had seen the interior pictures on Facebook and Instagram, which looked more fascinating than the modest exterior.
Visiting this café was an impromptu decision made a day before, and my friend Ruien agreed to accompany me for the evening. After being stuck in the traffic for 45 minutes, we reached Lebuh Gereja near the island’s old ferry jetty.
The full parking spot forced me to park my car nearby. There is no visible entrance sign except for a MySejahtera scan station and a large steel wall.
“How do we enter?” I asked.
Ruien pushed the wall, which turned out to be a 360 degree pivot door. The rotating door revealed a full house with baristas walking in all directions.
Although refurbished from an abandoned warehouse, Norm Micro kept the warehouse’s original design. The high ceiling, curved cement seats, exposed bricks, and rusty tables further emphasise the beauty of an industrial interior. The transparent skylight above is built for patrons and plants to bask under the natural light. To differentiate between the dining spot and the workstation, the ground is divided into a cluster of grey pebbles and a yellow-painted concrete floor.
A wonderful combination of modesty and elegance.
What captivated our eyes were the fashionable and good-looking people within the premises. Even some employees looked adorable in their brown uniforms.
As it nearly reached dinner time, the crowd dispersed.
What You Can Have There?
Norm Micro Roastery offers a healthy menu with 12 food choices and several dessert options. As for drinks, it serves the classic coffee, tea, and other specialties.
Taking a glance at the menu, I instantly knew what I wanted. I ordered the smoked salmon with a complimentary iced matcha latte. Ruien had made her choice on the French toast with iced mocha.
After a brief wait, our server came with our order as we were about to immerse ourselves in the environment.
The smoked salmon, shaped like rose petals, had a tender taste with no fishy smell. This is where the fruit slices enhance the citrus flavour of the dish. The cream cheese had a puddle of olive oil in the middle, like an egg benedict. I was lucky to have this as the first dinner of the year 2022.
“This is fantastic,” I could not stop digging in the smoked salmon. For someone who was not into raw meat, this dinner was an absolute worth.
Ruien’s toast was drenched in caramel sauce, with rice crackers, banana slices, and a scoop of ice cream on top. I had not tried hers but I could tell she was enjoying her meal.
The dish’s portion was enough for an appetiser, as I still feel hungry after taking a short walk among the old heritage buildings.
The Experience
Norm Micro Roastery is a place where you can have a relaxing afternoon with your friends. People visit the café on different occasions, like birthdays, reunions, dates, and gatherings. Alternatively, you can order your afternoon drink while reading a book.
Also, this café welcomes pups and kittens. I saw a table bringing their fluffy friends into the premises.
However, I would not recommend having a full course meal there. It is more of a spot to rest your aching feet and have a cup of coffee before continuing your tour around old Georgetown.
Overall Rating: 8/10
Date of Visitation: 1st Jan 2022
Address: 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm (Sun-Thurs), 9am to 10pm (Fri & Sat)
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