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To all Singaporeans — let’s be truthful to ourselves. Johor Bahru may be a quick and convenient solution for a quick weekend getaway, but the agony of battling the heavy traffic jam along Woodlands and Tuas (especially on weekends and public holidays) is real.
Honestly, it can be such a mood dampener! But there’s nothing like a quick cafe fix, a fruitful shopping trip, and an awesome massage session to turn it all around. So, without a boring rundown of our trip to JB, here are 11 best JB cafes worth crossing the border for.
1. Nimmies Pastry Cafe
Stomach rumbling or craving for coffee after getting stuck in the causeway jam? Thankfully, Nimmies Pastry Cafe is a convenient 10-minute drive away at Taman Melodies.
Don’t mistake the 2-storey bungalow for someone’s residence, though. Chill downstairs at the al fresco area, enjoy the air conditioning at the Parisian-inspired, spacious main dining area, or head upstairs for a more private lepak sesh with your tribe.
Nimmies Pastry Cafe may be renowned for its pastries and drinks, but I bet you didn’t know they also have a whole range of hot dishes for dinner till 11pm. Now you know where to go to avoid the late-night crowd.
For Japanese curry aficionados, you mustn’t miss out on the Grilled Aussie Angus beef with Japanese curry (RM43).
Unlike other sweet curries, Nimmies’ version was savoury, slightly smoky, and filled with tender Angus beef. Round it all off with fluffy scrambled egg and rice, crowned with shredded seaweed.
Or try the luxurious World Chef Championship Gold Medal 2024 Fish n Chips (RM59). Enjoy a huge slab of crispy battered seabass served with French fries, tartar, truffle aioli and chimichurri.
For a sedap fusion dish, feast on the Smoked Duck Masak Lemak Tagliatelle (RM36). The broad strands of pasta are smothered in a creamy, spiced-laden lemak gravy, topped with succulent smoked duck.
There are other pasta varieties including Soft Shell Crab Green Pesto Tagliatelle (RM43), Curry Laksa Spaghetti (RM36), and more.
One of our pastry top picks is coincidentally also one of the best sellers at Nimmies — Pistachio Supreme Croissant (RM19). This cube-shaped croissant is topped with white chocolate and fresh ground pistachio.Cut into it with your fork and knife to unleash the luscious pistachio lava. Each lip-smacking bite was earthy and nutty!
You can also indulge in the Shaker Lemon Pie Croissant (RM18) and Kinder Bueno Comboloni (RM24) filled with rich hazelnut filling.
For drinks, the Biscoff Buttercream Latte (RM27) is my favourite. It’s a caffeine-rich, well-balanced latte flavoured with caramelised Biscoff bits on top and around the glass rim. There’s also the Bandung Laici (RM13), a zesty combination of lychee and rose with jiggly chin chow chunks.
171, Jalan Beringin, Taman Melodies, Johor Bahru, Malaysia 80250
+60 12 301 9272
Daily: 8am – 11pm
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2. Caribbean Juice Bar
Next up is Caribbean Juice Bar. Think Bali or the Caribbean vibes, this is a place that’s perfect for your inner island girl (or boy). Perfectly situated at Puteri Harbour, the juice bar is conveniently located by the water, adding to the island vibes.
Decked with wooden furnishings and floorboards, the old shipping container also has a second level that’s coupled with an overhead straw canopy— a perfect place to up your Instagram game. Additionally, they’ve a really chill playlist that sets the mood. Think Bob Marley, UB40, and Sister Nancy.
Since we have been eating a fair bit on this trip, we decided to opt for the Loaded Papaya (RM16) and a Smoothie Bowl (RM16).
The former consists of half a papaya stuffed with homemade granola, coconut milk, flax and chia seeds, and goji berries. I love papayas and having them by the water only elevated my dining experience. The latter was a hit too! I got the All Fruits Ripe Smoothie Bowl and boy, was it satisfying. Needless to say, both dishes made an impact on healthy food tasting good!
Sandy Beach, Puteri Harbour, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
Mon to Thu: 3pm – 10pm
Fri: 3pm – 11pm
Sat: 12pm – 12am
Sun: 12pm – 11pm
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3. Keijometo
This Industrial-themed cafe that specialises in Japanese dishes and matcha drinks will immediately transport you to a dystopian society. Or to the set of Hunger Games. The interior, however, is reminiscent of a modern art gallery. Fair warning, be there early to avoid the long waiting time.
I’d recommend the Mentaiko Tamago Sando (RM20), Truffle Carbonara Udon (RM28), and you can never go wrong with some crispy Karaage (RM18). Afterwards, wash it all down with a tall glass of refreshing Watermelon Matcha Iced Latte (RM17).
3, Jalan Chengai, Taman Melodies, 80250, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
+60 7-331 1825
Tue to Sun: 11am – 7pm
Closed on Mon
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4. Podd
The quintessential cafe experience is all about quality coffee, irresistible desserts, and an ambience that’s both cosy and Instagram-worthy. Too often, one piece of the puzzle falls short — but not at Podd, a newly opened retreat in Austin Perdana. Brought to life by the seasoned team behind Vanilla Bean with a decade of cafe mastery, Podd checks all the boxes and then some.
Perched at the serene Market Place @ Austin Lake with ample parking, Podd is where woodsy warmth meets industrial chic. The cafe champions a “slow living” ethos, inviting guests to unwind with handcrafted granola, inventive coffee mocktails, and exquisite artisanal cakes.
Every drink at Podd is a work of art, but if you’re starting somewhere, let it be their signature matcha — available in 3 variations. For something light, Ajisai (RM20) delivers a gentle nuttiness with hints of soybean. Kiku (RM30) kicks things up a notch with deeper umami notes. And for the true matcha connoisseur, Ren (RM50) is the ultimate choice — creamy, layered with pistachio and umami flavour profile, followed by a clean aftertaste.
Of course, no cafe trip is complete without a little something on the side. For a feel-good treat, try the Tropical Sunset Yogurt Bowl (RM20) — a medley of honey, mango, and coconut that tastes like summer in a bowl. And hey, in JB, it’s basically the season all year long!
But if you just want to indulge, their other offerings won’t disappoint. For cookie monsters, their Chocolate Macadamia and Chocolate Pretzel (RM12 each) are excellent choices. Make sure to add Podd to your JB itinerary!
Market Place @ Austin Lake
Jalan Austin Perdana 1, Taman Austin Perdana, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6019 994 1394
Mon, Tue & Thu: 9am – 9pm
Fri to Sun: 11am – 11pm
Closed on Wed
Instagram
5. George and Dragon Cafe
I’ve been debating with myself on whether or not to share George and Dragon Cafe with the masses however, I came to a conclusion that good things must be shared so I shan’t gate-keep this place any longer.
The quaint English cafe has an interior filled with the owner’s family heirlooms, complete with knights (in shining armour), antiques and souvenirs, among other things. What struck me the most was that once you enter the cafe, it’s like entering an old Irish pub.
Personally, if you’re craving a good plate of juicy steak, this is the place to have it at. Not forgetting their delicious Homemade Sauces that will automatically make you forget about pairing your steaks with the boring black pepper or mushroom sauce.
For starters, we had the Garlic Bread Basket (RM9.80), Potato Skins (RM26.80), and a classic Mushroom Soup (RM14.80). And two Homemade Sauces— garlic & mustard and creamy herb.
For mains, we went for two standard English dishes, the Fish & Chips (RM40.80) and Bangers & Mash (RM26). Like their (yummy) steaks, all their dishes are absolute bangers (pun not intended). Also, if you’re a huge dessert lover (unlike me), do try their homemade desserts— I heard they’re not to be missed!
Besides food, they also have a list of delicious drinks available— from beers straight from the tap to specially curated coffee and milkshake options.
All in all, if you’re looking for a nice place to have brunch, lunch or dinner, George and Dragon Cafe is the place for you.
To make a reservation, click here.
No. 1 & 3, Jalan Glasiar, Taman Tasek, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
+607 232 3761
Daily: 12pm – 10.30pm
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6. Grumpy Goat & Friends
This one is a tad bit further away from the others but it’s worth the trip. If you’re huge on aesthetics and Asian-Western food dishes, Grumpy Goat & Friends shouldn’t be missed. I mean, where else can you find a double-storied glass house that’s filled with ample natural lighting?
With an extensive menu, we were certainly spoiled for choice. We got the Salted Egg Chicken Waffle Burger (RM29), “Nyonya” Style Spaghetti with Marinated Chicken Fillet (RM28), and Grumpy Supreme Fish (RM38). If you’ve not had a waffle burger before, I’d recommend it however, opt for a different flavour as the salted egg was a tad disappointing. Nonetheless, the other two dishes made up for the salty disappointment and are something I can see myself coming back for.
We also had their quirky drinks like the Tiramigoat (RM13)— essentially a combination of tiramisu and coffee in a very messy mug (with a printed image of the brand’s mascot). My colleague tricked me into drinking this knowing full well I’m not a fan of coffee in any form, and it was extremely bitter for me. However, in her words, “this is super good, especially for coffee lovers”.
C1, Gravity Green, 6C, 02, Jalan Suria, Bandar Baru Seri Alam, 81750 Masai, Johor, Malaysia
+6017 891 1366
Daily: 10.30am – 11pm
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7. The Lightwood by Mues
Another hidden gem that’s been all the rage of late is The Lightwood by Mues. The one-month-old, pastel-hued bakery cafe has been the talk of the town amongst Johorians for a while now. And I can understand why. Stepping into this place is like visiting a different country altogether.
They’re known for their homemade Sourdough Bread, Focaccia, and Bagels, along with mains like their Wild Rice Pilaf with Grilled Salmon (RM39), Duck Confit (RM38), and more. Pair them up with your beverage of choice to have a lovely time!
18k Basement, Jalan Abdul Samad, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6014 278 8156
Mon: 8.30am – 6pm
Wed to Sun: 8.30am – 10pm
Closed on Tue
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8. Off Day Cafe
Ever heard of a place that embraces three countries in one location? Well, that’s what Off Day Cafe is all about. At this minimalistic cafe, you will find Australian-inspired brunch sets, Korean-inspired desserts, and Malaysian-roasted coffee. If that’s not enough, their all-white interior is coupled with lovely terrazzo table tops to give the place an additional pop!
Have a go at their Freshly Baked Strawberry Shortcake (RM13) or incredibly indulgent Tiramisu Cake (RM19), and pair them with a refreshing bevvy to end the day. I also 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 Sun: 9am – 7pm
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9. A Bread & Coffee Place
With a self-explanatory name like A Bread & Coffee Place, you wouldn’t expect anything else, right? Wrong. Apart from bread & coffee, the old-school cafe also specialises in Western food and cakes.
If you enjoy the simplicity of life, this is a cafe for you. Coupled with the nostalgic ambience, A Bread & Coffee Place offers the simple things that life has to offer. 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 choice 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
Facebook
10. Morihana Pastry
This cafe, designed in the shape of a house, can be found within Taman Ekoflora and evokes the charming drawings of houses we created during our childhood. Morihana Pastry, known for its charming decor, offers a delightful range of cakes, pastries, and beverages that attract locals and visitors alike.
Among the highly recommended petit gâteaux (small cakes) include Rum & Raisin (RM25), and Fuji (RM20). You can also opt for their exclusive dine-in small cakes like Rose Watermelon (RM20), or 1/4 Matcha Nama Cake (RM25).
Refresh with their wide choices of drinks featuring Watermelon Punch (RM14), Passion Fruit Meyer (RM14), or Yuzu Hachimitsu Oolong (RM14). They also serve coffee, 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 Sun: 12pm – 7pm
Closed on Mon
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11. Hazukido Cafe @ Aeon Mall Tebrau City
If you’re searching for the best croissants, Hazukido Cafe in Aeon Mall Tebrau City is the ultimate destination. This marks Hazukido’s 1st cafe, inviting patrons to relax while savouring warm croissants paired with delightful coffees.
Hazukido is famous for its creation of croissants that boast a divine crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. What’s their secret? They pride themselves on using only the freshest and finest ingredients, ensuring consistently perfect croissants.
Visitors of Hazukido Cafe can indulge in an expansive range of French butter croissants (RM7.50 – RM12.90), including flavours like Honeycomb, Garlic Butter, Hazelnut Chocolate, Pudding, Almond Caramel, and more.
Be sure to experience the Pain Au Chocolat (RM12.90), an exquisite collaboration between Hazukido and Kit Kat, showcasing a rich chocolate filling that perfectly complements the buttery croissant.
But there’s more to Hazukido Cafe than just croissants. It’s also the 1st outlet to introduce a variety of sandwiches crafted with Shokupan, a loaf known for its superior softness and flavour compared to regular croissants. Choose from enticing flavours like Eggcellent Hashbrown, Cheezy Chicken Melt, Avocado Mushroom Spinach, Pollo-Pesto Chicken, and Curry Chicken, ranging from RM13.70 to RM16.
Lot G109B, Ground Floor, Aeon Mall Tebrau City, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Daily: 10am – 10pm
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