29 Johor Bahru food spots to feast at all day

Enriched with history and culture, the Johor Bahru food scene is extensive — you can get anything from traditional Malay dishes to the freshest seafood, and even fusion cuisine.

As the capital city of Johor, Malaysia, Johor Bahru has long been a favoured destination for Singaporeans on their long weekends or when they’re down for food escapades. There’s just something about the quality and diversity of food options, along with an abundance of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, that keeps Singaporeans coming back. 

If you’re one of those, ever ready for your food exploration journey round Johor Bahru, we’ve got you with this guide on the best food in Johor Bahru, whatever or whenever your craving might be. 

Breakfast places in JB

1. The Replacement — Lodge & Kitchen

33-34 Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (9.30am to 4.30pm)

Why visit? A unique cafe with a minimalistic white-based interior, The Replacement offers rooms for anyone looking for a short staycation.

Its spacious seating arrangements and comforting ambience make it an ideal location for friends and family to relax and catch up with one another. It also has an aesthetic interior background that make for appealing Instagram posts.

Crowd favourites: Regulars swear by its soft shell crab bao (RM35.90 or S$10.30), but those looking for something more substantial can get its breakfast platter (RM36.90), an all-in meal perfect for children and adults.

2. Tong Guan Nyonya Kopitiam

14, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (8am to 10pm)

Why visit? For those looking to try some authentic local food, consider Tong Guan Nyonya Kopitiam as your first pit stop. Serving a wide range of dishes from half-boiled eggs and toast to mains such as curry noodles, mee siam and nasi lemak, this is Tong Guan’s domain and specialty. It presents traditional local delights at reasonable prices with good-quality food.

Customers have also commented that the simple and spacious interior makes dining at this place an even more pleasant experience.

Crowd favourites: The dry nyonya mee siam with fish otak (starting from RM14.90) is a classic traditional dish that shouldn’t be missed.

If you want something more substantial, its nasi lemak seafood special (RM24.60) is a more extravagant take on a classic favourite, topped with extra seafood. For light eaters, there’s its three eggs porridge (RM13) and butter pandan kaya toast (RM4.60).

3. Onn Kitchen

29A, Jalan Tarom, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday (7am to 11am, 12.30pm to 12am)

Why visit? Located near KPJ Hospital, Onn Kitchen is a popular roadside eatery that serves up the heartiest traditional Malay breakfast menu despite its unassuming wooden entrance. It has an extensive menu, along with live music performances in the mornings that all just add to the chill countryside vibe.

Here, you’ll find authentic Malay flavours in its curries and gravies which have been slow-cooked to perfection. The best part: The curries are all self-service so you can help yourself to as much as you want — truly the best place if you’re in the mood for some flavourful Johor Bahru food.

Crowd favourites: As with all traditional spots, you can’t go quite wrong with a nasi lemak ayam goreng (RM10), which features fragrant nasi lemak and a side of freshly-made crispy fried chicken.

We hear its sambal is quite the show-stopper so remember to load up on it while you’re there. If you have the appetite for spicy food in the morning, the fiery-hot nasi goreng ayam merah (RM10) will be sure to wake you up.

4. Yummy Nasi Lemak House Johor Bahru

104, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru
Open: Tuesday to Sunday (8.30am to 3pm)

Why visit? As its name suggests, Yummy Nasi Lemak House has built up a reputation for its delicious nasi lemak, and its sambal, peppered with meticulously caramelised onions. Regulars who prefer less-spicy food rave about its milder version of the traditional Malaysian sambal — but don’t let the milder taste fool you, the taste is still absolutely authentic!

Yummy Nasi Lemak House makes its kuehs fresh every morning, using only natural colours from pandan, coconut milk, and blue pea flower to create the striking colours you see in its kuehs — perfect if you’re not a fan of food colouring or additives. 

Crowd favourites: It would be remiss not to try its nasi lemak basic set (RM10.50), which comprise both its crowd-winning sambal and coconut rice.

Another popular choice is its nasi lemak ayam berempah set (RM14.50) which is extremely value-for-money as it comes with a big crunchy piece of spice-fried chicken.

5. Tai Hong Kopitiam

Multiple outlets available.
Open: Operating hours vary across stores.

Why visit? Known for its thunder tea brown rice (also known as Hakka lei cha), Tai Hong Kopitiam is a popular JB eatery that serves some of the best Chinese food in Johor Bahru. It’s so popular that there’s now a grand total of five outlets across Johor, all providing a wide range of yummy local breakfast choices.

Those looking for a one-stop spot to enjoy a variety of different dishes in the morning need to give Tai Hong Kopitiam a visit, as you’d be spoiled by choice by its sheer selection of yummy dishes from breakfast all the way to dinner!

Crowd favourites: The signature thunder tea brown rice (starting from RM15), made with chopped vegetables and a sauce mixture of grounded Thai basil, mugwort, mint, and coriander, is a must-order. The mix of ingredients makes it a refreshing and filling meal to start your day with. 

If you still have space, don’t leave without trying its butter and kaya butter toast (RM4.34) — each slice is meticulously toasted such that it’s crispy but not overly charred. 

6. Mughni Saujana Cafe 

8, Jalan Abdul Rahman Andak, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru
Open: Sunday to Thursday (7am to 12pm)

Why visit? Ask any local for authentic and affordable Malay eats in Johor Bahru and Mughni Saujana Cafe comes to mind immediately. This cafe is a beloved spot among locals in Johor Bahru, well-loved for its lontong kering (rice cakes wrapped in banana leaf with savoury curry).

To make the most out of your visit, it’s advisable to arrive early as many of the dishes sell out by 11am, and there are also limited seating available. If you ask us, waking up early is a small sacrifice to make, especially for the yummy, affordable eats at Mughni Saujana Cafe.

Crowd favourites: The classic nasi lemak (RM2.50) is an affordable yet satisfying meal for those with a small appetite. Regulars swear by its lontong kering (RM6), said to be one of the best in JB. It also offers a pack of bihun goreng at a steal of RM2.50, if you need to grab some food quickly!

Lunch options in Johor Bahru

7. Miss Siam Cafe

No 55, Jalan Suria 1/1, Bandar Baru Seri Alam, 81750 Masai, Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 10pm)

Blok B, B0108, Eko Galleria Jalan Eko Botani 3, Taman Eko Botani Iskandar Puteri, 79100 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 10pm)

Why visit? Considered by many to be one of the best Thai food places in JB, Miss Siam Cafe hits the spot for those looking for dependable Thai food.

Its extensive menu includes common Thai favourites such as mango sticky rice, seafood tom yum soup, pad thai, Thai basil chicken rice. Many say that the food at Miss Siam Cafe reminds them of the food they had in Thailand and how the similarities in taste add to Miss Siam’s credibility as an authentic Thai restaurant.

Those seeking some Thai comfort food should definitely check this place out.

Crowd favourites: You can’t go wrong with its popular glass noodle tom yum chicken (RM11.90), which features a robust tom yum broth. Regulars also swear by its pandan chicken (RM11.90) — fragrant, moist and flavourful.

If we were you we’d round off our meal with the popular mango sticky rice (RM13.90), a classic with the right balance of sweet and savoury!

8. Restoran Kak Nas

5, Jalan Sri Perkasa 1/4 Taman tampoi utama, Taman Perling, 81200 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Thursday (12pm to 8pm); Sunday (12pm to 8pm)

Why visit? A hidden gem along the streets of JB, Restoran Kak Nas is well-known among the locals for serving good-quality Thai, Indonesian and local cuisines at affordable prices and with generous portions. All its dishes and offerings are well-loved by its loyal customers who return to try different items on the menu and for the good service. 

Crowd favourites: Regulars typically get the nasi goreng ayam kunyit (RM8.50), which comes with fragrant spiced yellow turmeric fried rice topped with a juicy and absolutely crisp fried chicken.

If you want something with a bit more spice, the nasi goreng campur paprik (RM9), which is fried rice mixed with peppers, is guaranteed to hit any spicy food craving.

9. Keijometo

3, Jalan Chengai, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru
Open: Tuesday to Sunday (11.30am to 9pm)

Why visit? An industrial-themed cafe with concrete walls and furniture, Keijometo differentiates itself from others with its distinctive grey minimalist interior and plants.

Serving high-quality and colourful Japanese food, Keijometo offers numerous Instagrammable spots for those looking to take more aesthetically pleasing pictures.

Crowd favourites: Its salmon ochazuke (RM30), rice served with salmon and tea, is a comforting dish that’s well loved by customers. The salmon is generously portioned and the tea broth, while simple, is surprisingly comforting.

Need more? Its chicken katsu curry (RM25), which features a crispy golden chicken cutlet doused in a velvety curry sauce is also a popular favourite. 

For more cafes in JB to check out, read our extensive guide to cafes in Johor Bahru.

10. Antipodean Coffee Johor Bahru

Midvalley Southkey Mall, G072, 80150 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Friday (8am to 10pm)

Why visit? It doesn’t take a lot to find nice food at Johor Bahru, but we certainly can’t pass up Antipodean Cafe when we’re talking about a good lunch spot. This established cafe has won multiple regionally recognised awards (such as Asia’s top cafes), and promises good food and an even better ambiance. 

Think pizzas, noodles, burgers, rice — there’s something for everyone. Its convenient location in the Mid Valley Southkey Mall makes it even more enticing, especially after a day’s worth of shopping.

Crowd favourites: We’d recommend trying out its burgers, specifically the Whakatiki street chicken burger (RM34), which comes with crispy chicken fillet, along with jalapeno chilis and coleslaw for a refreshing bite on a hot afternoon.

The shakshuka (RM28) is also well-loved for its perfectly poached eggs and generous amount of feta cheese.

11. Roast & Coffee 

Multiple outlets available.
Open: Operating hours vary across stores

Why visit? Roast & Coffee is a cosy eatery where you can easily get practically all of your favourite Malaysian dishes, such as nasi briyani rendang ayam (RM15.90) and salted egg fried rice with chicken (RM16.90).

The relaxed ambience and friendly service add to the eatery’s appeal, making Roast & Coffee a must-visit spot for those in search of the best food in Johor Bahru.

Crowd favourites: Its salted egg fried rice with chicken (RM16.90), which is served with crispy fried chicken, is a must-try for those who love savoury and rich dishes.

If you’re feeling peckish or need something more, its chwee kueh (RM4.90) is a well-loved dish that’s soft and almost melt-in-the-mouth.

12. WW Laksa House

36A1, Jalan Kolam Air, Taman Kolam Air, 80100 Johor Bahru
Open: Thursday to Tuesday (8.30am to 3pm)

Why visit? Serving traditional recipes since 1978, WW Laksa House is a must-try spot when it comes to curry noodles — the noodles there are aromatic, al dente and most importantly, delicious.

For decades, the consistent quality of WW Laksa House has drawn long queues during lunch hours so you’ll need to be prepared for a short wait. But trust us, you’ll forget all about the wait once you finally dig into a bowl of these historic noodles. 

Crowd favourites: Without a doubt, its laksa (starting from RM8) is a must-order, together with a top-up of cockles (RM4). Though it comes separate, we highly recommend adding them to round off the whole experience. 

You can also help yourself to otak-otak (RM1 each) at your table, though we’d say approach with caution — the fish paste is fragrant, lightly-spiced and very addictive. 

Teatime or snack spots in JB

13. Maco Cafe Sutera Utama

65, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/2, Taman Sutera Utama, Skudai, 81300 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (10.30am to 10pm)

29, Jalan Utama 34, Mutiara Rini, Skudai, 81300 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (10.30am to 9pm)

65, Jalan Eko Botani 3/7 Taman Eko Botani Iskandar, 79100 Johor Bahru
Open: Wednesday to Monday (11.30am to 10pm)

Why visit? A cafe selling traditional French pastries and coffee, Maco Cafe has garnered numerous fans across JB for its variety of crepe cakes. Its cakes are said to be soft, flavourful and not overpowering. 

Combining cakes with a comfortable and cosy dining area, Maco Cafe makes for a good afternoon-tea place to relax and chat with friends or family over delectable desserts.

Crowd favourites: Everyone swears by the crunchy chocolate mille crepe (RM11.90 per slice), made with rich, velvety layers of chocolate ganache, and generously topped with crunchy chocolate bits. If you liked what you tried, there’s even a whole cake version (RM95) that you can take home.

Another one for the road is its unique three-in-one mille crepe (RM11.90 per slice), inspired by the classic Neapolitan ice cream. This mille crepe features segments of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate flavours all in one slice — the perfect choice for any indecisive dessert lover. 

12. Chatto Tea

Multiple outlets available.
Open: Operating hours vary across stores.

Why visit? Founded in 2017, Malaysian bubble tea brand Chatto Tea is expanding quickly across Malaysia and internationally in countries such as Canada and Australia. 

This bubble tea spot offers a peaceful environment for patrons to unwind and enjoy an idle chat. Its unique milk tea series is rated highly by many for its strong tea taste and being less sweet — it’s no wonder more outlets just keep popping up. 

Crowd favourites: We would order everything off the menu if we could but we highly recommend its charcoal oolong milk tea with pearl (starting from RM13.90) for a start. The oolong tea provides an earthy yet refreshing taste, while the charcoal adds a subtle smokiness that sets it apart from other milk teas. 

Another must-try would be the keemun pearl milk tea (starting from RM11.90), which uses keemun black tea leaves imported from China. These black tea leaves give the drink a heavier and richer taste profile, great for any staunch tea lovers. 

15. Pisang Goreng Mawar

888, Jalan Sungai Chat Sri Gelam, 80100 Johor Bahru
Open: Saturday to Thursday (11am to 7pm)

Why visit? Nostalgia comes in many forms and at Pisang Goreng Mawar, it comes in the form of the quintessential roadside snack in Malaysia that’s loved by many —  pisang goreng, otherwise known as banana fritters.

Sweet, crispy, and sometimes paired with a spicy dipping sauce, this yummy finger food is mighty addictive and makes for a great snack no matter the time of the day. 

What sets Pisang Goreng Mawar apart is its freshy fried fritters that are delightfully crispy on the outside, yet firm and moist within. There’s also a designated dine-in area where you can enjoy your snacks piping hot — talk about maximum enjoyment! 

Crowd favourites: Get yourself a pack of crispy pisang goreng (starting from RM2 for three pieces), which usually comes made to order. It also offers a large variety of traditional Malay pastries, such as kueh lapis (starting from RM2), also well-loved by its regulars. 

16. Sweet Blossom Coffee Roasters

28, Jalan Maju, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru
Open: Saturday to Wednesday (9am to 5pm)

Why visit? Founded in 2015, Sweet Blossom Coffee Roasters sets itself apart from the many JB cafes as its a specialty coffee shop that serves only coffee — no food, no other non-coffee drinks. Its dedication to coffee has drawn in many curious patrons and coffee lovers, and thankfully there’s always knowledgeable staff on hand ready to share their wisdom at any time.

This dedication to coffee is evident through the quality of its roasts — it is known for its light roast single-origin coffee, which can be had black, white or as a filtered brew. It is located along Jalan Maju, a popular food street in Johor Bahru as well, so we absolutely recommend giving its coffee a try after all that munching. 

Crowd favourites: Among its single-origin coffee, regulars recommend the Ethiopian alo (RM24) as a good entry-level choice — it comes with a refreshing yet floral taste. Though you can ask the baristas here to prepare something special, a classic flat white (RM12) at Sweet Blossom Coffee Roasters offers a perfectly balanced taste too.

17. Seven Oaks Bakery Cafe

134, Jalan Serampang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 10pm)

50&52, Jalan Eko Botani 3/6 Taman Eko Botani Iskandar Puteri, 79100 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (10.30am to 9.30pm)

Why visit? A unique bakehouse that serves croissants and full-fledged meals, Seven Oaks Bakery Cafe is a cosy spot that’s perfect for hangouts and catch-ups. From bagels to chilli crab pasta, Seven Oaks Bakery Cafe has anything from snacks to satisfying mains. 

It might have first gone viral on social media for its salted egg croissant (RM15), but it has kept the crowds coming back with its fresh bakes and all-day menu. 

Crowd favourites: We recommend ordering its salted egg croissant (RM15), which you can have fresh or to go — its flaky, buttery exterior and rich, molten salted egg yolk filling make for a very decadent snack. 

If you’re feeling fancy and want to continue on this indulgent route, you can opt for its spicy seafood tumeric coconut milk pasta (RM35), a Malaysian-Italian fusion dish with rich seafood and coconut gravy, that’s almost like a laksa pasta. 

18. Vamos Coffee Roastery

155, Jalan Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80050 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 7pm)

Why visit? Vamos Coffee Roastery is an underrated spot in Johor Bahru that comes with the perfect ambiance, whether it’s for a relaxing tea time or a laid-back coffee break. Step in and you’ll be struck by the rich aroma of its brews, which, when paired with its signature sandwiches, make for quite a robust combination. 

If you’re looking to unwind or get some work done remotely, this spot offers enough space, relaxing vibes, and plenty of yummy cafe fare and on-tap kombuchas.

Crowd favourites: If it’s your first time, dive right into its signature French toast (RM14) and pair it with a special sample set (RM13), where you can try three of its on-tap drinks at one go. 

For those with a larger appetite, the Mexican style grill ham (RM27) which features French toast loaded with succulent grilled chicken ham slices, is a great option. Unlike regular grilled ham sandwiches, this one’s elevated by a spicy chilli mayonnaise sauce and adds a zesty twist that brings all the savoury elements together.

Places for dinner in JB

19. Merah Project

17, Jalan Ibrahim, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Open: Tuesday to Sunday (6pm to 12am)

Why visit? A unique Asian fusion restaurant with retro old-school vibes, Merah Project transports customers back to the 70s. Inside, the eatery has board games, in addition to good service and food. 

Remember to order one of its thirst-quenching fruit teas or smoothies that’ll instantly cool you off from the balmy weather.

Crowd favourites: Those looking for something familiar yet unique ought to try its lychee smoked duck (RM34.90) and fresh mint and mushroom pesto spaghetti (RM21.90). Its JB summer smoothie (RM18.90), which comes with coconut, lychee and milk is a well-loved favourite that’s equal parts refreshing and satiating. 

20. IT Roo Cafe

Jalan Sabar, Taman Dato Onn, 80350 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (7am to 12am)

Why visit? Known for serving the best chicken chop in JB and having received an award by The Star newspaper for the best chicken chop in Malaysia in 2003, IT Roo Cafe continues to attract crowds — both locally and from Singapore. Its famed chicken chop dish comes with sides such as coleslaw, potato wedges, and cucumber and tomato slices. 

What’s more, the simple interior and homely vibes make a good place for friends and family to mingle over good food. For those seeking to escape from the afternoon heat, worry not as it has air-conditioning in its indoor seating areas.

Crowd favourites: You cannot claim to have been to IT Roo Cafe without having tried its award-winning grilled chicken chop with black pepper sauce (RM18.50) — the chicken chop is well-marinated, tender and comes with a robust sauce that isn’t overly cloying. 

If you prefer your chicken fried, get its fried chicken chop with mushroom sauce (RM18.50), which features a similarly well-marinated chicken, with just the right amount of crunch. 

21. Chakra Restaurant

1, Jalan Yusof Taha, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Why visit? An old bungalow-turned-restaurant, Chakra is renowned in JB for its authentic northern Indian cuisine. It offers a variety of biryanis, chicken, mutton, and vegetarian options. Many locals attest to the quantity and quality of the food, which makes it worth its price, even though it is more expensive than other Indian restaurants. 

Regulars encourage newcomers to dine at the outdoor terraced area of the restaurant for the best dining experience. Do be warned that this place can be packed, especially at dinnertime.

Crowd favourites: The country goat biryani (RM39.90) is a must-order, but if you don’t take well to goat, its vegetarian dishes such as its dhall makhani — a lentil dish (RM12.90) is also satisfying. While you’re at it, have a glass of masala tea (RM7.90) to have an all-rounded Chakra experience.

22. Restoran Kacang Pool Haji

Jalan Sabar, Taman Dato Onn, 80350 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Sunday (7am to 12am)

Why visit? Taking inspiration from the traditional Egyptian fava bean dish, ful medames, Restoran Kacang Pool Haji delivers a local Malaysian twist on this hearty favourite. 

To make the dish, known as a kacang pool, Restoran Kacang Pool Haji simmers the beans in a spice mix, until it turns into a smooth, flavorful stew. Once it’s of the right consistency, it serves it up, topped with a sunny side egg and raw shallots. 

Similar to a shakshuka, locals enjoy this dish by dipping a slice of toasted bread in the bean stew. If you’ve never tried it before, we recommend giving this special Johor Bahru food a try at Restoran Kacang Pool, especially if you love shakshuka or beans!

Crowd favourites: For extra protein, we recommend trying kacang pool daging (RM6), its signature bean stew with slow-cooked beef. Its lontong goreng (RM6), a sambal stir fry of rice cake, spices and vegetables, is also a popular choice. 

23. Ong Shun Seafood Restaurant

67, Jalan Abdul Samad, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru
Open: Tuesday to Saturday (1pm to 1am)

Why visit? Ong Shun Seafood Restaurant is a well-loved zi char eatery that serves fresh seafood and a wide range of affordable halal-certified Chinese dishes. This spot’s affordable prices, diverse menu and convenient location near the Johor Bahru checkpoint makes it an ideal pit stop for Singaporean day-trippers seeking a tasty, fresh seafood fix.

All things considered, this spot also serves up extremely fresh seafood at wallet-friendly prices — every seafood lover visiting JB should put Ong Shun Seafood Restaurant on their list if getting value-for-money seafood is on the agenda.

Crowd favourites: We recommend getting its Hokkien mee (starting from RM8) or fried rice (starts from RM10) as the main choice of carbs.

Regulars always opt for its salt and pepper prawn (starts from RM16) and the salted egg squid (starts from RM16) — a perfect combination of savoury and sweetness in each bite.

24. Tosca Italian Trattoria

12, Jalan Ngee Heng, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Friday (12pm to 12am), Saturday and Sunday (11am to 12am)

Why visit? Located on the 13th floor of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Tosca Italian Trattoria is a timeless spot for those craving for good food with an Italian twist. Think wood-fired specialties and an inviting antipasto spread, every bite at Tosca Italian Trattoria brings you to flavour town.

For special occasions, you can even request a table to oversee the gorgeous view of the Straits of Johor in this premium establishment, where various Italian delights are served fresh for lunch and dinner — don’t forget to book ahead! 

Crowd favourites: Try its risotto alle capesante (RM90), which features Hokkaido scallops and fresh tomatoes served with arborio rice. The wagyu beef rib-eye (RM350) is also frequently hyped about, though you may need to reserve this in advance as it tends to be sold out for dinner menus.

After-dinner drink spots in JB

25. Cabinet 8

102, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama, Skudai, 81300 Johor Bahru
Open: Sunday to Thursday (7pm to 12am), Friday and Saturday (7pm to 1am)

Why visit? Cabinet 8 is a hidden speakeasy tucked in a popular food street in Johor Bahru filled with steamboat restaurants and trendy tea-joints. Part of the fun is trying to locate this speakeasy as it blends in seamlessly with the rest of the shops at Jalan Sutera Tanjung. Hint: Follow the aroma of roasted coffee to find its entrance! 

The hidden entrance and overall quaint vibes is a stark difference from the bustling streets outside, making for a quiet respite and a solid spot to unwind — it’s a must-visit if you’re looking for a different side to Johor Bahru’s vibrant food scene.

Crowd favourites: There’s no specific menu at this speakeasy, and everything cocktail is tailored to your preferences. Prices start at RM45 per drink.

You can try ordering one of our favourites, the Cacao Miracle, a brandy-based chocolate drink — with Remy Martin VSOP to be exact — that’s aromatic and easy to drink. For those who enjoy sweet cocktails, ask for any of its cranberry-based drinks — we hear they’re very much enjoyed by regulars!

26. Whisky House Johor Bahru

5, Jalan Molek 1/27, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Saturday (3pm to 12am)

Why visit? A popular drinking joint among locals, Whisky House is a bar where you can sit back and enjoy a variety of whisky cocktails and live music performances. It’s a good place to enjoy music, and still have a conversation with your mates. 

Its extensive whisky menu is great for the discerning whisky lover or big groups who want to try a bit of everything, and its food options which go beyond the basic bar snacks are the proverbial cherry on top of the cake. 

Crowd favourites: This bar specialises in classics so you’ll do well to opt for its refreshing whisky sour (RM40). Those who want something stronger can gun for its lychee martini (RM45), which is both delicious and hard-hitting.

27. Haiiro Usagi

75A, Jalan Maju, Taman Maju Jaya, 80400 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Saturday (7.30pm to 1am)

Why visit? A unique speakeasy cocktail bar that offers a personalised experience, Haiiro Usagi will not allow you entry unless you have made a prior reservation. Its strict reservations-only policy showcases the bar’s dedication toward creating a special experience for its customers. 

What keeps customers coming back is the quality of its drinks and unparalleled service. Haiiro Usagi also offers cozy space to have heart-to-heart conversations over classy slings —  away from the usual hustle and bustle of Johor Bahru. 

Crowd favourites: If you’re a fan of plums, its ume highball (RM38) is simply delicious. For those with a sweet tooth, the bar’s take on Bee’s Knees (RM43) is a gin-based honey cocktail that is great for cooling down in this heat. 

28. Shang Bar & Restaurant 

Blok B, 01-19, Jalan Ekoflora 7, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Thursday (4pm to 12am), Friday (3pm to 1am), Saturday (1pm to 1am), Sunday (1pm to 12am)

62, Jalan Permas 10/7, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, 81750 Johor Bahru
Open: Monday to Thursday (12pm to 12am), Friday (12pm to 1am), Saturday (10am to 1am), Sunday (10am to 12pm)

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Why visit? Hidden behind a florist, visiting Shang Bar & Restaurant at Eco Palladium gives one the feeling that you’ve stumbled into a tucked-away spot in a secret garden a la Alice in Wonderland. The only difference? This place also comes with fantastic food and a great ambience to boot.

For those who might have dietary preferences, the restaurant has non-pork and non-lard food options. All of its cocktails are also gorgeously presented, which tie in nicely with its aesthetic shopfront.

Crowd favourites: We know bars aren’t always known for their food, but trust us on the black pepper fried chicken chop (RM30).

Best sellers at Shang include its classic rum-based pina colada (RM39) and sweet dream (RM49), a gin-based drink that comes with light fruity notes, and topped off with foam and fennel seeds.

29. Shui 

25-03, Jalan Sri Pelangi 3, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru
Open: Sunday to Thursday (8pm to 12am), Friday and Saturday (8pm to 1am)

Why visit? Shui is a hidden cocktail bar along Jalan Sri Pelangi 3. It can be a bit of a find but we’ll help you out: Look for a mailbox labelled 2503 and take a lift to the third floor to get to the bar. With an interior inspired by the Berlin techno scene, Shui’s exposed concrete walls are equal parts grungy and sleek at the same time. 

In line with its cool interior, the cocktails are just as neat, and incorporate Asian ingredients such as osmanthus and ylang ylang. While you might think that a bar with such an aesthetic might churn out cold and stoic bartenders, Shui’s service crew are anything but — its bartenders are engaging, friendly and extremely accommodating of your cocktail preferences.

Crowd favourites: Though its menu rotates every few weeks, we loved the grilled pandan (RM50) which featured a barley-infused gin, coffee, brown sugar, hojicha and a mix of aromatic bitters. Another hot favourite is its Old Fashioned with biscoff and hazelnut (RM55), a bourbon drink with rich and nutty flavours.

For more JB food options, check out our compilation of the best cafes in JB to visit, or if you’re heading further up north, we’ve also got you covered with the best KL cafes to head to. 

Do explore the GrabFood Dine-in service for awesome deals.

To get around these Johor Bahru food spots, you can also book a ride.