Braved the jam (or lack thereof) my colleague and I did on a late weekday morning. Actually, with the continuing hustle and bustle of loopy Singaporeans speeding into JB as if their life trusted it, we had been stunned it solely took us half-hour to clear customs. A very good day awaited!
So, and not using a boring rundown of our journey to JB, listed below are 11 greatest JB cafes value crossing the border for.
1. [CLOSED] The Cool Cat
Positioned smack in the course of nowhere (belief me after I say even Seize drivers have issue discovering this place) is newly-opened, The Cool Cat. When you’ve discovered your method into Tunku Mahkota Ismail Youth Centre, you’ll be greeted by what appears like a container park of eateries coupled with a mini skate park. Personally, it jogged my memory of a mini *SCAPE.
If you happen to’re on the lookout for one thing to chill you down, The Cool Cat sells selfmade ice cream in loads of flavours. The proprietor, Roy, additionally talked about that he tailored his ice cream flavours to be much less candy to cater to everybody’s style buds.
For under RM11.90, one loaded ice cream cup comes with selfmade chocolate syrup in a mini syringe, a mini pretzel, a mini ice cream cone, and a frozen strawberry, all atop a mattress of cornflakes. We had the teh tarik and yam ice cream, and it didn’t disappoint. Like Roy talked about, it wasn’t too candy which made it straightforward to return for extra, and the toppings had been a nice contact to the ice cream.
I can positively see myself coming again right here to get my ice cream repair, the subsequent time I’m in Johor.
Jalan Yahya Awal, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia +60 13-812 3452 Mon & Tue: 1pm – 8.30pm Wed: 12pm – 8.30pm Thu: 1pm – 8pm Fri to Solar: 1pm – 10pm Fb | Instagram
2. Caribbean Juice Bar
Subsequent up is Caribbean Juice Bar. Suppose Bali or the Caribbean vibes, this can be a place that’s excellent on your inside island woman (or boy). Completely located at Puteri Harbour, the juice bar is conveniently situated by the water, including to the island vibes.
Decked with picket furnishings and floorboards, the previous transport container additionally has a second stage that’s coupled with an overhead straw cover— an ideal place to up your Instagram recreation. Moreover, they’ve a extremely chill playlist that units the temper. Suppose Bob Marley, UB40, and Sister Nancy.
Since we now have been consuming a good bit on this journey, we determined to go for the Loaded Papaya (RM15) and a Smoothie Bowl (RM15).
The previous consists of half a papaya filled with selfmade granola, coconut milk, flax and chia seeds, and goji berries. I really like papayas and having them by the water solely elevated my eating expertise. The latter was a success too! I bought the All Fruits Ripe Smoothie Bowl and boy, was it satisfying. For sure, each dishes made an affect on wholesome meals tasting good!
Sandy Seaside, Puteri Harbour, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia Mon to Thu: 3pm – 10pm Fri: 3pm – 11pm Sat: 12pm – 12am Solar: 12pm – 11pm Fb | Instagram
3. Hazukido Cafe @ Aeon Mall Tebrau Metropolis
Credit score: Hazukido Malaysia
If you happen to’re looking for one of the best croissants, Hazukido Cafe in Aeon Mall Tebrau Metropolis is the last word vacation spot. This marks Hazukido’s 1st cafe, inviting patrons to chill out whereas savouring heat croissants paired with pleasant coffees.
Credit score: Hazukido Malaysia
Hazukido is legendary for its creation of croissants that boast a divine crisp exterior and a mushy, fluffy inside. What’s their secret? They delight themselves on utilizing solely the freshest and best substances, making certain constantly excellent croissants.
Guests of Hazukido Cafe can take pleasure in an expansive vary of French butter croissants (RM7.50 – RM12.90), together with flavours like Honeycomb, Garlic Butter, Hazelnut Chocolate, Pudding, Almond Caramel, and extra.
Credit score: Hazukido Malaysia
You’ll want to expertise the Ache Au Chocolat (RM12.90), an beautiful collaboration between Hazukido and Package Kat, showcasing a wealthy chocolate filling that completely enhances the buttery croissant.
However there’s extra to Hazukido Cafe than simply croissants. It’s additionally the first outlet to introduce quite a lot of sandwiches crafted with Shokupan, a loaf recognized for its superior softness and flavour in comparison with common croissants. Select from attractive flavours like Eggcellent Hashbrown, Cheezy Rooster Soften, Avocado Mushroom Spinach, Pollo-Pesto Rooster, and Curry Rooster, starting from RM13 to RM15.
Lot G109B, Floor Flooring, Aeon Mall Tebrau Metropolis, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Each day: 10am – 10pm Fb | Instagram
4. George and Dragon Cafe
I’ve been debating with myself on whether or not or to not share George and Dragon Cafe with the lots nonetheless, I got here to a conclusion that good issues have to be shared so I shan’t gate-keep this place any longer.
The quaint English cafe has an inside full of the proprietor’s household heirlooms, full with knights (in shining armour), antiques and souvenirs, amongst different issues. What struck me essentially the most was that when you enter the cafe, it’s like getting into an previous Irish pub.
Personally, if you happen to’re craving a superb plate of juicy steak, that is the place to have it at. Not forgetting their scrumptious Home made Sauces (RM4.80) that may routinely make you overlook about pairing your steaks with the boring black pepper or mushroom sauce.
For starters, we had the Garlic Bread Basket (RM9), Potato Skins (RM25), and a traditional Mushroom Soup (RM14). And two Home made Sauces— garlic & mustard and creamy herb.
For mains, we went for 2 customary English dishes, the Fish & Chips (RM38.80) and Bangers & Mash (RM24). Like their (yummy) steaks, all their dishes are absolute bangers (pun not meant). Additionally, if you happen to’re an enormous dessert lover (not like me), do attempt their selfmade desserts— I heard they’re to not be missed!
Moreover meals, additionally they have an inventory of scrumptious drinks out there— from beers straight from the faucet to specifically curated espresso and milkshake choices.
All in all, if you happen to’re on the lookout for a pleasant place to have brunch, lunch or dinner, George and Dragon Cafe is the place for you.
No. 1 & 3, Jalan Glasiar, Taman Tasek, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia +607 232 3761 Each day: 12pm – 10.30pm Fb | Instagram
5. Grumpy Goat & Buddies
This one is a tad bit additional away from the others nevertheless it’s definitely worth the journey. If you happen to’re enormous on aesthetics and Asian-Western meals dishes, Grumpy Goat & Buddies shouldn’t be missed. I imply, the place else are you able to discover a double-storied glass home that’s full of ample pure lighting?
With an in depth menu, we had been actually spoiled for selection. We bought the Salted Egg Rooster Waffle Burger (RM29), “Nyonya” Model Spaghetti with Marinated Rooster Fillet (RM28), and Grumpy Supreme Fish (RM38). If you happen to’ve not had a waffle burger earlier than, I’d suggest it nonetheless, go for a unique flavour because the salted egg was a tad disappointing. Nonetheless, the opposite two dishes made up for the salty disappointment and are one thing I can see myself coming again for.
We additionally had their quirky drinks just like the Tiramigoat (RM13)— primarily a mixture of tiramisu and occasional in a really messy mug (with a printed picture of the model’s mascot). My colleague tricked me into consuming this figuring out full properly I’m not a fan of espresso in any type , and it was extraordinarily bitter for me. Nonetheless, in her phrases, “that is tremendous good, particularly for espresso lovers”.
C1, Gravity Inexperienced, 6C, 02, Jalan Suria, Bandar Baru Seri Alam, 81750 Masai, Johor, Malaysia +6017 891 1366 Each day: 10.30am – 11pm Fb | Instagram
One other hidden gem that’s been all the fad of late is The Lightwood by Mues. The one-month-old, pastel-hued bakery cafe has been the speak of the city amongst Johorians for some time now. And I can perceive why. Getting into this place is like visiting a unique nation altogether.
They’re recognized for his or her selfmade SourdoughBread, Focaccia, and Bagels, together with mains like their Wild Rice Pilaf with Grilled Salmon (RM39), Duck Confit (RM38), and extra. Pair them up along with your beverage of option to have a beautiful time!
18k Basement, Jalan Abdul Samad, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor +6014 278 8156 Mon: 8.30am – 6pm Wed to Solar: 8.30am – 10pm Closed on Tue Fb | Instagram
Ever heard of a spot that embraces three international locations in a single location? Properly, that’s what Off Day Cafe is all about. At this minimalistic cafe, you’ll find Australian-inspired brunch units, Korean-inspired desserts, and Malaysian-roasted espresso. If that’s not sufficient, their all-white inside is coupled with beautiful terrazzo desk tops to offer the place a further pop!
Have a go at their Freshly Baked Strawberry Shortcake (RM13) or extremely indulgent Tiramisu Cake (RM16), and pair them with a refreshing bevvy to finish the day. I additionally heard their Cheesecakes (from RM22 per piece) are to die for.
57, Jalan Eko Botani 3/7, 79100 Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia +607 585 9539 Mon to Thu: 10am – 6pm Fri to Solar: 9am – 7pm Fb | Instagram
With a self-explanatory identify like A Bread & Espresso Place, you wouldn’t anticipate the rest, proper? Flawed. Aside from bread & espresso, the old-school cafe additionally specialises in Western meals and muffins.
If you happen to benefit from the simplicity of life, this can be a cafe for you. Coupled with the nostalgic atmosphere, A Bread & Espresso Place affords the easy issues that life has to supply. Breakfast lovers, you’d be glad to know that RM32 will get you a Supreme Breakfast Set— loaded with two crispy streaks of bacon, two sausages, scrambled eggs, sautéed mushrooms, two slices of toast, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and your selection of potatoes or pumpkin.
208, Jalan Sri Pelangi, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia +6011 5209 6888 Thu to Tue: 8am – 5pm Closed on Wed Fb
What’s a JB cafe listicle with out the inclusion of Mount Austin aka Singaporean’s holy grail? Enter KAKIYUKI, a Japanese handcrafted shaved ice dessert bar that makes use of recent fruits and premium substances.
This cafe is definitely worth the journey particularly if you happen to’re a shaved ice lover like me. Chilly desserts are what we’d like with regards to spending an excessive amount of time within the solar. With flavours like Matcha Brulee, Hōji Mountain, Watermelon Kiss, Black Forest S’mores, and extra, you’d positively be spoiled for selection!
In addition they have AnmitsuIce— an ice-based Japanese Anmitsu dessert bowl, and traditional Japanese confectionery!
11, Jalan Austin Heights 8/5, Taman Mount Austin, 81100, Johor Bahru, Malaysia +60 7-351 9907 Wed to Mon: 3pm – 11pm Closed on Tue Fb | Instagram | Web site
This cafe, designed within the form of a home, may be discovered inside Taman Ekoflora and evokes the charming drawings of homes we created throughout our childhood. Morihana Pastry, recognized for its charming decor, affords a pleasant vary of muffins, pastries, and drinks that entice locals and guests alike.
Among the many extremely beneficial petit gâteaux (small muffins) embody Solely You (RM25), Rum & Raisin (RM25), and Fuji (RM20). You can even go for their unique dine-in small muffins like Rose Watermelon (RM20), Yashi (RM23), or 1/4 MatchaNama Cake (RM25).
Refresh with their vast selections of drinks that includes Watermelon Punch (RM14), Ardour Fruit Meyer (RM14), or YuzuHachimitsuOolong (RM14). In addition they serve espresso, flower tea by the pot and non-coffee drinks.
Morihana. Lot B, Jalan Ekoflora Utama, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor +6016 766 5613 Tue to Solar: 12pm – 7pm Closed on Mon Fb | Instagram | Web site
11. Keijometo
This Industrial-themed cafe that specialises in Japanese dishes and matcha drinks will instantly transport you to a dystopian society. Or to the set of Starvation Video games. The inside, nonetheless, is harking back to a contemporary artwork gallery. Honest warning, be there early to keep away from the lengthy ready time.
I’d suggest the Mentaiko TamagoSando (RM20), Truffle Carbonara Udon (RM28), and you may by no means go improper with some crispy Karaage (RM18). Afterwards, wash all of it down with a tall glass of refreshing Watermelon Matcha Iced Latte (RM15).
3, Jalan Chengai, Taman Melodies, 80250, Johor Bahru, Malaysia +60 7-331 1825 Tue to Solar: 11am – 7pm Closed on Mon Fb | Instagram
