一品轩 Yi Bin the Mansion of Tea Art — Restaurant in George Town

Rare Teas Await at Yi Bin: Penang’s Ultimate Tea Experience

Nestled within a preserved 1918 heritage building originally belonging to the Khoo family, Yi Bin: The Mansion of Tea Art is not just a tea shop but an experience of Chinese traditional tea culture in Penang, Malaysia. The shop, set in its original double-story structure with beautiful vintage tiles and windows, exudes an authentic ambiance that instantly transports you to the heart of Chinese tea history.

Yi Bin specializes in rare and exclusive teas, attracting tea connoisseurs from across the globe. Among its treasures is an exceptional 1972 Pu’er tea, a rarity cherished for its deep, earthy flavors and esteemed age—a gem that has placed Yi Bin on the map as an international tea destination. The shop also offers other renowned varieties, such as Longjing (Dragon Well), each chosen to showcase the depth and breadth of Chinese tea traditions.

The owner’s passion for tea shines through every aspect of Yi Bin. As a dedicated expert, he brings to life the history, philosophy, and cultural significance of each tea variety, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in an authentic Chinese tea ceremony. For those curious about traditional tea-making processes, from cultivation to brewing techniques, the owner is always willing to share his wealth of knowledge, making Yi Bin both a tea haven and an educational experience.

Accompanied by traditional dishes that pair perfectly with the tea, a visit to Yi Bin becomes a journey through Chinese culture, where each sip brings a new layer of history and flavor. From the exquisitely rare Pu’er 1972 to the expertly crafted blends in the shop’s storied collection, Yi Bin: The Mansion of Tea Art offers an unforgettable experience that transports visitors into the enchanting world of Chinese...

What can I say about this place except that it offers an outstanding blend of food and ambiance. The building itself is a charming mix of old colonial architecture with traditional Chinese nuances. The inner courtyard, filled with lush greenery, provides a cool temperature and evokes a nostalgic feeling that perfectly complements the dining experience.

The food was exceptional, with a focus on traditional Chinese Peranakan cuisine. Every dish was superb, but the fried rice stood out the most. The smokiness and rich flavors made it incredibly delicious—definitely a must-try! Don't miss out on their Chinese tea, which is served with a touch of ceremony that beautifully highlights the tradition of Chinese tea culture.

Service was excellent, with the waiting time being just right. The staff were warm, friendly, and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The prices were reasonable for the quality of the experience.

As for getting there, access to the restaurant is primarily on foot, as there's no parking available nearby. As a tourist, I remember parking a bit further away and enjoying a short walk to the venue. However, locals might have better...

A really unique and authentic Chinese tea experience. The owner has great love and knowledge of Chinese tea. The shop is also a reflection of his respect for Penang culture and heritage. The old building is maintained very nicely and is decorated with his beautiful collection of antiques. The airwell courtyard filled with plants creates a very nice atmosphere. He has a great selection of tea from fine and super expensive to good tea on a budget. Tea is served with a traditional gong Fu set and if you don't know how to use one he will gladly show you and guild you through your tea selection. The food selection here is also great. I am specially in love with their pu-er tea fried egg and pork dishes. They also make their own muachee and herbal jelly that are a great side dish with your tea. Overall a great place to spend the afternoon in, drink tea, eat well and buy some tea and accessories...