Visit these hip Johor Bahru cafes
Now that travel restrictions are more relaxed, we’ve compiled a list of 15 Johor Bahru cafes that are worth crossing the border for. Cafe hoppers, you can consider this your go-to guide! Here’s even better news: most of these coffee and brunch spots are within 30 minutes by car from the JB customs! From Korean loaded sandwiches to a viral concrete cafe with Japanese-inspired mains, here are the best JB cafes to head to on your next visit to Malaysia.
1. Keijometo
If industrial styles are your jam, you have to drop by Keijometo. The TikTok-famous cafe has been constantly packed since its launch in March this year, and its rise in popularity doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.
One glance and you might mistake Keijometo as a hipster art gallery, thanks to its raw concrete outlook, which follows through inside with its bare-boned interiors. All-concrete walls, tables and seats adorn the space, adding to the rough and unfinished look. The vibes are truly one-of-a-kind here.
Food and drinks wise, you can expect a Japanese-influenced menu. Matcha is a focus here, so we recommend trying the Watermelon Matcha Iced Latte (RM15+/~S$4.90+), a creamy blend of high-quality matcha powder with fresh milk and sweet watermelon juice. There’s also the refreshing Tonic Americano (RM14+/~S$4.50+) to cool you down on a hot day.
For a light snack, order the Mentaiko Tamagoyaki Sando (RM18+/~S$5.80+): deep-fried egg patties sandwiched between white bread, topped with creamy mentaiko sauce and seared for a smoky finish. The Salmon Ochazuke (RM 30+/~S$9.70+), an elegantly presented dish of grilled salmon, sushi rice, and a matcha-based soup, is another popular pick.
Address: 3, Jalan Chengai, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11:30am to 9pm
Prices are subject to a 10% service charge.
Tel: +60 7-331 1825
Website
Keijometo is not a halal-certified eatery, but their food contains no pork or lard.
2. Space Cafe
A 15-minute Grab ride from the JB customs will take you to Space Cafe, a hidden gem of a find in Holiday Villa Johor Bahru City Centre Hotel. This coffee and pastry cafe is a fantastic spot to rest and refuel, especially if you’re hitting the nearby KSL City Mall. Futuristic elements—think curved lines, metal furnishings, and circular shapes—fill up the space, adding a unique charm to the clean and minimalist cafe.
Caffeine addicts will be spoilt for choice here, as the coffee menu is very extensive. A must-try is the Caramel Biscotti Coffee (RM18+/~S$5.80+), which comes with house-made honeycomb candy for sweetness and crunch. Pour in the espresso and stir everything together for the perfect balance of sweet caramel, rich milk, and full-bodied coffee. Otherwise, go for the Orange Americano (RM18+/~S$5.80+) for a creamy and refreshing beverage that incorporates house-made cold brew.
If you’re feeling peckish, head to the glass display at the counter to pick from a small selection of freshly baked pastries. We recommend the Blueberry Danish (RM7+/~S$2.30+), which tasted as delicious as it looked. Alternatively, go for the Viennois Red Bean Butter (RM6+/~S$2+): sesame-crusted bread slathered with red bean paste and a generous slab of butter.
Address: Holiday Villa, G-11, 260, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 8am to 10pm, Fri-Sat 8am to 12am
Prices are subject to a 10% service charge.
Tel: +60 10-718 6508
Website
Space Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery.
3. Merah Kitchen & Bar
For a dinner experience like no other, head to Merah Kitchen & Bar. This retro-industrial, neon-lit restaurant bar is conveniently located right off Jalan Wong Ah Fook, an easy seven-minute drive from the JB customs. It’s also within the vicinity of other popular eateries—think Hiap Joo bakery and Restoran Hua Mui—so you can make this a pitstop in the evening after exploring the area.
The entrance up the stairs is hidden behind a Japanese vending machine, which makes for a cool experience walking in. Upon entering, we were wowed by the spacious layout, colourful decor, and nostalgic knick-knacks.
You can expect a mishmash of Asian flavours, with highlights such as Nestum Prawn Aglio Olio (RM24/~S$7.70), inspired by the zi char classic: cereal prawn. Those who love spice can try the Signature Johor Laksa (RM20/~S$6.50), a dry-style noodle dish with lots of fragrant herbs and spices.
There are tapas items on the menu, too, such as the ooey-gooey Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (RM15/~$4.90), great for sharing amongst the table. Do note that the dishes on the menu change from time to time.
Address: 17, Jalan Ibrahim, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 6pm to 12am
Tel: +60 11-5135 9434
Website
Merah Kitchen & Bar is not a halal-certified eatery, but their food contains no pork or lard.
4. Bev C’afe
Another cool cafe that’s near the JB customs is Bev C’afe, hidden on the second floor of a multi-label clothing store. This hipster cafe ticks all the right boxes with their muted aesthetic and industrial vibes, but regulars return for their extensive selection of coffee and interesting desserts.
We were intrigued by their Lei Cha Cake (RM16+/~S$5.20+), which has a piquant herbal taste tempered with a fragrant peanut flavour. If that sounds too adventurous for your palate, go for the Citrus Chocolate Charcoal Croissant (RM10+/~S$3.30+), a sweet treat comprising a soft charcoal-spiked croissant soaked in a citrus chocolate sauce.
For drinks, the IG-worthy Iced Charcoal Latte (RM13+/~S$4.20+) is a popular option, or you can go with something lighter such as the Sparkling Cascara Tea (RM16+/~S$5.20+), made with the dried skin of coffee cherries.
Address: 54, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Malaysia
Opening hours: Thurs-Tues 10am to 6pm
Prices are subject to a 10% service charge.
Tel: +60 167253530
Website
Bev C’afe is not a halal-certified eatery, but their food contains no pork or lard.
5. Sunday Morning Coffee Shop
Located along Jalan Trus is a small and cosy Japanese cafe that you might miss in a blink when you walk past. Sunday Morning Coffee Shop is tucked on the second floor of a shophouse, and you have to go up a steep flight of stairs to enter. Here’s a tip: make a beeline to the window seat for the most natural light!
The warm and homey cafe serves small bites and pastries, with a focus on drip coffee. Start your morning with a light and refreshing Cold Drip Coffee (RM9/~S$3.90). Those who prefer milk in their coffee can try their Hand Drip Milk Coffee (RM8/S$2.60) instead. We also enjoyed the Grapefruit Soda (RM9/~S$3.90), ideal to beat the heat.
The food menu isn’t as extensive, but you’ll find mains such as Udon Noodle Soup (RM15/~S$4.90) and Japanese Curry Rice (RM13/~S$4.20) to fill you up. There’s also a Hot Sando with Curry Set (RM18/~S$5.80): a ham, cheese, and egg toastie served with house-made curry for dipping.
Round up your meal with a dessert; the Brownie (RM12/~S$3.90) is warmed up upon order, and comes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Address: 124, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 10am to 6pm
Tel: +60 14-914 8198
Website
Sunday Morning Coffee Shop is not a halal-certified eatery.
6. Rowan & Parsley
Rowan & Parsley is a 25-minute ride from the JB customs, but it’s well worth the journey if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The theme here is rather special; think industrial meets English garden, melded with rustic elements.
The sprawling restaurant is spacious with lots of seating options for different groups of diners. If you’re snapping pics, request for a table right at the corner behind the coffee bar, as you get both natural light, and a gorgeous view of the greenery outside.
A must-try is the Big Brother Benedict (RM42+/~S$13.50+), a signature brunch dish comprising house-smoked beef, poached eggs, and Hollandaise sauce, on top of classic English muffins.
If you’re not a brunch person, go for their mains instead. Featuring al dente pasta swirled in a rich tomato cream sauce, topped with fresh prawns, the Creamy Tomato Prawn Linguine (RM29+/~S$9.30+) is a delicious favourite. They do an excellent Cafe Latte (RM12+/~S$3.90+) too, if you’re hankering for a pick-me-up.
Address: 17, Jalan Cenderai 20, Taman Perindustrian Kota Puteri, 81750 Masai, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 10pm
Rowan & Parsely is not a halal-certified eatery.
Tel: +60 11-1005 4747
Website
Rowan & Parsley is not a halal-certified eatery.
7. M Patisserie
It took us a while to find this elusive cafe as it’s well-hidden within a bridal studio called H Gallery, a short 10-minute drive from JB customs. But that’s also part of M Patisserie‘s charm, as you’ll feel like you’re transported into a different world as soon as you step into the cosy, Victorian-inspired parlour.
M Patisserie’s high tea set has been making its rounds on social media, and for good reason. Their entry-level afternoon tea, which feeds two, costs just RM88+ (~S$28.30+)—a steal as it works out to under S$15 per person. The two-tiered set comes with a mix of savoury and sweets bites, finger sandwiches, scones, and a pot of TWG tea of your choice so you can pinkies up with your friend. Nibble on mini salmon quiche, egg mayo truffle choux, mini macarons, and Korean strawberry tarts.
If you’re out to splurge, there’s also a three-tier set (RM138+/~S$44.30+) you can go for, which feeds up to a party of four. The high tea is available for advanced booking via M Patisserie’s Facebook page.
Address: 45 Jalan Serampang, Taman Sri Tebrau 80050 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Fri-Wed 12pm to 7pm
Prices are subject to a 10% service charge.
Website
M Patisserie is not a halal-certified eatery.
8. Plantherapy
While its location is slightly off the beaten path, Plantherapy stands out for its unique setup. Situated within interior design firm Spazehaus, the aesthetic glasshouse cafe is surrounded by lots of plants, which adds to the relaxing atmosphere. Do note that it can get rather warm due to its dome-like structure and clear glass panels, so it’s probably wise to visit when the sun isn’t at its peak.
Dessert is the name of the game here, as seen from the cafe’s beautiful array of cakes and sweet treats lined up on their social media feed. Served on a cheeseboard, with condiments and crackers on the side, the Plantherapy Special Brie Cheese Cake (RM25.90/~S$8.40) is a popular pick not just for its pretty presentation, but also for its deliciously creamy texture. Chocoholics should try the Royal Dark Chocolate (RM18.90/~S$6.10), a decadent dessert with a rich and smooth chocolate mousse, atop a crunchy wafer bottom.
Wash it all down with a Fruit Tea (RM16.90/~S$5.50), stuffed with a generous amount of freshly cut fruits. Alternatively, get your caffeine fix with Shades of Brown (RM16.90/~S$5.50), an interactive rendition of iced latte.
Address: 8, Jalan Ekoperniagaan 2/7, Taman Ekoperniagaan, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am to 7pm
Tel: +60 12-679 6554
Website
Plantherapy is not a halal-certified eatery.
9. 阿婆家小店 Ah Po Jia Eco Botanic
阿婆家小店 Ah Po Jia Eco Botanic is a retro-themed cafe that’s worth the 25-minute drive from the causeway. Tables here are by reservation only, as the owner wishes to make each experience more personalised and memorable for the guests. The space is decked in black-and-white photographs, old-school trinkets, and ornaments of yesteryear, so you should definitely bookmark it if you’re travelling with your parents or grandparents.
The food menu changes from time to time, depending on the ingredients available on hand, and the number of bookings for the day. We enjoyed their Mei Cai Pork Rice (RM16.90/~S$5.50), a hearty, home-style dish with preserved veggies and pork served on the side. Also worth sharing is the Fruit Rojak (RM14.90/~S$4.80), which features a mix of guava chunks, youtiao, and crunchy water chestnut, tossed with a sweet dark sauce mix and roasted peanuts.
Wash everything down with a refreshing beverage, such as the tangy Green Lime Juice (RM10.90/~S$3.50), or the signature Sour Plum Drink (RM12.90/~S$4.20).
Address: 67A, Jalan Eco Botanic 3/5, Taman Eco Botanic, 79100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: by appointment only
Tel: +60 16-712 6883
Website
阿婆家小店 Ah Po Jia Eco Botanic is not a halal-certified eatery.
10. The Break First
You don’t have to travel all the way to Korea for your egg sandwich fix. Instead, make a trip to The Break First, a Korean-inspired cafe in JB, located a short walk from Ah Po Jia Eco Botanic.
This cosy cafe is most popular for their IG-worthy sandwiches, available in flavours such as Korean Luncheon Meat (RM13.90+/~S$4.50+) and Potato Salad (RM10.90+/~S$3.50+). If you only have room for one item, go for the Korean Smoked Bacon (RM15.90+/~S$5.10+), a loaded sandwich featuring fluffy buns, stuffed with savoury bacon, creamy folded eggs, mayo, and a sweet and tangy sauce. For sides, the Seaweed Fries (RM14.90+/~S$4.80+) is great for sharing.
A popular beverage choice is the Iced Rose Latte (RM 16.90/~S$5.50+), layered with rose syrup at the bottom for a floral note. Alternatively, instead of coffee, get their Matcha (RM14.90+/~S$4.80+), prepared with the perfect ratio of rich milk with strong matcha powder.
Address: 31, Jalan Eko Botani 3/5, 79100 Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 7am to 5pm
Prices are subject to a 10% service charge.
Tel: +60 7-585 7170
Website
The Break First is not a halal-certified eatery.
11. The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen
The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen is worthy to be featured in Kinfolk, thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows, whitewashed walls, and Scandinavian lighting. On par with its stunning interior are their sumptuous dishes.
A light but satisfying brunch option is their Soft Shell Crab Bun (RM$29.90/~S$9.60), where crispy soft shell crabs dressed in a chilli aioli sauce are nestled between pan-seared house-made bao. For something more classic, go for The Breakfast Platter (RM30.90/~S$10), a smorgasbord comprising muesli toast with scrambled eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, sausage, house-made baked beans, and your choice of chicken ham or beef bacon.
Address: 33 Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 10am to 6pm
Tel: +60 12-547 7885
Website
The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen is not a halal-certified eatery, but their food contains no pork or lard.
12. Flowers In The Window
Image credit: @choonchin87
Opened by the guys behind the famous Roost Café as well as See and Saw, Flowers In The Window serves up quality nosh in a two-storey space that’s decked with pretty blooms.
Image credit: @yoshiko_lifeistravel
For a healthy yet tasty eat, order their Pan-Fried Salmon Salad (RM24/~S$7.70), a colourful dish featuring couscous, fresh veggies, and a house-made pesto dressing. Be sure to check out their display showcasing a selection of delectable cakes, fresh pastries, and bread too, including croissants (RM7/~S$2.30) and a country sourdough loaf (RM18/~S$5.80)—perfect to take home for brekkie the next day.
Address: 9, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 9am to 5pm
Tel: +60 7-222 7489
Website
Flowers in The Window is a halal-certified eatery.
13. Seven Oaks Bakery Cafe
Image credit: @qilasyuko
Seven Oaks Bakery Cafe is a Muslim-friendly cafe in JB with a huge variety of freshly baked pastries, from cruffins and croissants, to burnt cheesecake and bread. Fans love their croissants, available in locally inspired flavours such as Salted Egg (RM10++/~S$3.20++), Nasi Lemak (RM10++/~S$3.20++), and Ondeh Ondeh (RM10++/~S$3.20++).
Image credit: @sevenoaksmalaysia
Their Matcha Croissant (RM10++/~S$3.20++), a photogenic bake that reveals a molten matcha centre, is also highly raved.
If you’re looking for something to fill you up, the cafe serves substantial brunch fare, such as Curry Crab Croissant (RM28++/~S$9++), and Shakshuka Baked Eggs (RM25++/~S$8.10++).
Address: 134, Jalan Serampang, Taman Pelangi, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia, 80400
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 9:30pm
Prices are subject to a 10% service charge and 6% SST.
Tel: 60 7-338 3377
Website
Seven Oaks Bakery Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery, but their food contains no pork or lard.
14. Ukiyo Cafe
A 30-minute car ride from the customs will lead you to Mount Austin, a treasure trove of cafes, restaurants, and local eats. A must-try in this area is Ukiyo Cafe. Decked in girly pink furnishings, terrazzo tables, and rattan seats, this bright and airy cafe specialises in dainty cakes and coffee. We highly recommend the Génie (RM22+/~S$7.10+), a fudgy matcha cube with bittersweet tea notes.
If you prefer tropical flavours, you’ll love the sunshine yellow Hawaii (RM26+/~S$8.40+), a layered dome consisting of this creamy mango crémeux, passionfruit jelly, and a coconutty base. Pair your sweets with a cup of Caffè Latte (RM13+/~S$4.20+) for the perfect afternoon tea treat!
Address: 17-02, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 12pm to 7pm
Tel: +60 12-936 9760
Website
Prices are subject to a 10% service charge.
Ukiyo Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery, but their food contains no pork or lard.
15. Soil
Image credit: @soil.jb
If you have some time to spare and don’t mind travelling a little further, bookmark Soil on your list of cafes in JB to visit. This photo-worthy spot sits on a yard, and is covered with vines from head to toe. Choose to sit in the outdoor garden to soak up the sun, or head indoors, which boasts cosy and minimalist interiors with lots of natural light streaming in.
Image credit: @soil.jb
The bakes are prepared by artisanal bakery The Atlas Bakery. Highlights include their flaky croissants (from RM5/~S$1.70), Blueberry Danish (RM7/~S$2.30), and Crème Brulee Tart (RM6.50/~S$2.10).
Get a double dose of caffeine with the Matcha Espresso (RM16/~S$5.20), a mix of bittersweet matcha with fresh espresso and milk.
Address: Unit SL009, Spring Lab, Lot A (GF, Jalan Ekoflora Utama, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 10am to 6pm, Sat-Sun 9am to 7:30pm
Tel: +60 17-392 1148
Website
Soil is not a halal-certified eatery.
Best Johor Bahru cafes to visit
Grab your foodie friends along for a trip to JB for a day of cafe-hopping without breaking the bank! These hidden cafes in Johor Bahru are well worth fitting into your Johor Bahru itinerary.
For more JB food content, check out our guide to Mount Austin cafes, restaurants and more. If you’re looking for cafe recommendations in Singapore, read our Bugis Cafe guide for souffle pancakes, mochi croissants and more. Alternatively, check out our 18 Seafood review for XO fried mee pok and champagne pork ribs in Serangoon.
10 JB Mount Austin Food Spots Including $12 K-BBQ Buffet And A Taiwanese High School Cafe
Photos taken by Tan Zi Hui.
This article was originally written on 4 January 2018 by Katie Boon.
The post 15 Johor Bahru Cafes Near Customs, Including A Concrete Cafe And A Hidden Glasshouse Dessert Spot appeared first on EatBook.sg – Singapore Food Guide And Review Site.
