Johor Bahru Food Guide: Best Places to Eat & Must-Try Dishes

Top Restaurants in Johor Bahru Serving Traditional Cuisine

Eh, if you love makan (eating), Johor Bahru (JB) is the place to go, lah! Just across the causeway from Singapore, JB isn’t just for cheap shopping, okay? It’s also full of shiok (delicious) food! The mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities makes JB’s food scene super interesting, with everything from local dishes to international bites. Whether you're here for a quick day trip, a weekend getaway, or even a food adventure, let’s dive into the best food in Johor Bahru, shall we?

The Flavours of Johor Bahru's Culinary Scene

Wah, the food in JB is confirm damn good one. Got so much history behind it, can! Malay food in JB? So fragrant and spicy, sure to wake you up. Then got the Chinese dishes, which are full of seafood and yummy stir-fries. And the Indian food here, wa piang eh, the curries are thick, rich, and bursting with flavours. That’s why the culinary scene in Johor Bahru is so shiok – it’s really a mix of everything nice!

Besides these, JB also has a growing number of fusion restaurants where you’ll find creative twists on traditional recipes. You’ll come across dishes that combine elements from different cultures, like Nasi Lemak Pizza, Laksa Spaghetti, and Durian Ice Cream Sandwiches. It’s this innovative approach that makes JB’s food scene dynamic and exciting.

Plus, JB’s food culture is influenced by its proximity to Singapore, creating a cross-border exchange of flavours. Many Singaporeans head to JB for their food fix, making it a hotbed for culinary experiments and hidden gems. The street food markets, local kopitiams, and high-end restaurants are all reflections of this vibrant fusion.

Finding Halal Food in Johor Bahru

No need to worry about finding halal food in JB, lah. Many restaurants display their halal certification prominently, so you can makan without any concern. Popular areas like Kampung Melayu Majidee, Larkin, and Jalan Wong Ah Fook are known for their halal eateries. If unsure, just ask the staff to double confirm.

You’ll also find halal options in shopping malls like JB City Square, Paradigm Mall, and KSL City Mall. These places have food courts and standalone restaurants serving everything from fast food to authentic local delicacies. Don’t forget to try out halal-certified bakeries, dessert cafes, and halal dim sum spots offering delicious treats like Onde-Onde cakes, Gula Melaka-flavored pastries, and even halal Korean BBQ.

Must-Try Dishes in JB That Went Viral

Got some dishes in JB that really went viral, leh. Everyone talking about them, and for good reason! Here are a few you must-try in Johor Bahru:

• Mee Rebus Stulang Laut: Famous for its thick, tasty gravy. Fresh ingredients make every bite sedap.

• Laksa Johor: Uses spaghetti instead of usual rice noodles. The spicy coconut milk broth is to die for.

• Kacang Pool Haji: A fava bean stew served with toasted bread. Perfect for breakfast with a hot kopi!

• Roti Canai Terbang: Watch as the chef flings and spins the dough mid-air before grilling it to crispy perfection.

• Banana Cheese Fritters (Pisang Goreng Cheese): Crispy banana fritters topped with grated cheese and condensed milk—sweet, salty, and absolutely addictive.

• Ayam Penyet JB: Spicy smashed fried chicken served with sambal and rice.

• JB Street Burger Ramly: A local street burger loaded with eggs, sauces, and juicy patties.

• Cendol Kampung Melayu: A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, and palm sugar, topped with green rice flour jelly.

Top Restaurants for the Best Food in Johor Bahru

1. IT Roo Café – Best Chicken Chop in JB

• Address: 17, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

• Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily

• Signature Dishes: Chicken Chop, Nasi Lemak

• Why Visit: Known as "The Best Chicken Chop in JB," their crispy, juicy chicken with signature black pepper sauce is a must-try.

2. Restoran Hua Mui – Classic Hainanese Delights

• Address: 131, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily

• Must-Try: Kaya Toast, Hainanese Chicken Chop

• Ambiance: Vintage décor with a nostalgic vibe, perfect for traditional breakfast lovers.

3. Warung Saga – Authentic Malay Flavours

• Address: 28, Jalan Mahmoodiah, Johor Bahru, Malaysia

• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM daily

• Highlights: Nasi Padang, Soto Ayam, Mee Rebus

• Local Tip: Popular among locals; go early to avoid missing out on their best dishes.

4. Tangkak Beef Noodles – A Must for Beef Lovers

• Address: Jalan Larkin, Johor Bahru, Malaysia

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily

• Specialty: Tender beef slices served in rich, aromatic broth with silky noodles.

Best Malay, Chinese, and Indian Food in Johor Bahru

Top Malay Restaurants in JB

• Restoran Selasih: Known for Nasi Beriani and Rendang Daging. Rich, flavorful dishes that reflect traditional Malay heritage.

• Dapur Warisan: Famous for spicy Asam Pedas Ikan, packed with tangy flavors and fresh herbs.

• Warung Lobster: Affordable seafood where you can enjoy fresh lobster nasi lemak.

• Nasi Kukus Ayam Berempah: A humble spot with fragrant steamed rice and crispy spiced chicken.

Halal Chinese Restaurants in JB

• Swee Ang Seafood: Don’t miss the Black Pepper Crab. The sauce is peppery with just the right amount of heat.

• Tian Lai Seafood: Try the fresh Steamed Fish with Ginger, light yet bursting with umami flavors.

• Chaiwalla & Co. Container Café: Halal-certified café known for its milk tea and Vietnamese drip coffee.

• Restoran Todak: A seaside spot famous for fresh seafood dishes like butter prawns and chili crab.

Best Indian Restaurants in JB

• Restoran Kampung Pandan: Tasty Nasi Briyani and Tandoori Chicken. The tandoori is juicy with smoky flavors.

• Muthu's Curry: Must-try Fish Head Curry and Masala Dosa. Their rich, spicy gravies are a hit with locals and tourists alike.

• Kerala Curry House: Famous for authentic South Indian thali served on banana leaves.

• Sri Ananda Bhavan: Great vegetarian options with flavorful dosa, idli, and sambar.

Street Food Galore: The Heart of JB's Culinary Scene

• Pasar Karat (Night Bazaar): Best for satay, bubble tea, and street snacks. You’ll find quirky souvenirs alongside local bites.

• Taman Sri Tebrau Hawker Centre: Famous for Char Kway Teow, BBQ Chicken Wings, and Penang Assam Laksa.

• Medan Selera Meldrum Walk: Hidden gem for late-night makan, offering fried oysters, lok lok, spicy tom yum noodles, and fried carrot cake.

• Bazaar Karat JB: Perfect for finding rare street foods like grilled stingray and pandan-flavored pancakes.

Unique Cafes in Johor Bahru You Shouldn’t Miss

• The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen: Instagrammable cafe with smoothie bowls and artisan coffees. The minimalist white décor is perfect for photo enthusiasts.

• Faculty of Caffeine: Cozy spot for waffle burgers and cold brew coffee. Known for their creative brunch menu.

• Space Café: Futuristic-themed café with galaxy cakes and nitro cold brews.

• Lazy Monday Cafe: Perfect for brunch with delicious avocado toasts and flat whites.

• Mok Mok Brunch & Bistro: Known for their healthy Buddha bowls, matcha lattes, and vibrant interiors.

Best Coffee Spots in JB

• Roost Juice + Bar: Specialty cold brew and espresso. Their refreshing fruit-infused coffees are worth trying.

• Bev C Cafe: Trendy with nitro coffee and matcha lattes. A hipster haven with an artistic vibe.

• Maco Café & Bakery: Famous for its mille crepe cakes, perfect with a freshly brewed cappuccino.

• Just Want Coffee, The Factory 30: Industrial-themed café serving espresso-based drinks and signature lattes.

• Big Bowl Ice JB: A must-visit for coffee lovers who also enjoy unique iced desserts.

Pro Tips for the Best Food Experience in JB

1. Finding Halal Food: Look for halal certification or ask staff. Many eateries display it at the entrance.

2. Avoiding Long Queues: Visit during off-peak hours, especially before lunch and after dinner rush.

3. Explore Like a Local: Discover hidden gems beyond tourist hotspots by venturing into local neighborhoods.

4. Bring Cash: While many places accept cards, street vendors prefer cash, especially at night markets.

5. Stay Hydrated: JB’s weather can be hot, so always have water with you while food-hopping.

6. Try Local Beverages: Don’t miss out on Teh Tarik, Milo Dinosaur, and Cendol for a refreshing treat.

7. Check for Food Festivals: JB often hosts food festivals showcasing unique local dishes.

   
   

If you're up for a makan adventure, Johor Bahru is the place to be. From street food to fancy restaurants, JB has it all. Just bring your appetite, and get ready to makan until shiok!

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