There is no doubt that Johor is quickly becoming one of THE states to go to when it comes to domestic travelling. Desaru Coast, for example, is sprinkled with some of the best resorts in Malaysia, and now Johor Bahru’s (JB) food scene is bustling too. There are just so many things to discover in JB, especially if you’re a foodie!
If you have the time and means to head down to this beautiful state, these Instagram-worthy cafes are worth checking out. Not only will the interior help refresh your Instagram feed with some content, but the food will have you coming back for seconds.
1. MERAH Kitchen & Bar
Located about seven minutes away from the Malaysia-Singapore customs is none other than the cool MERAH Kitchen & Bar. If you’re ever in JB, this neon-lit cafe is a must-visit, not just for its cool setting, but also for its delicious food.
Here, you can expect to devour a range of fusion dishes and classic Malaysian fare too! But give their Lychee Smoked Duck a go — we promise you won’t be disappointed. While it’s not a halal-certified eatery, this restaurant does not serve food that contains pork or lard.
Address: 17 Jalan Ibrahim, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Contact: +6011 5135 9434
2. The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen
Looking for a Melbourne-inspired cafe? Well, look no further than The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen. Over at this eatery, it’s all about casual dining and a brunch-type menu perfect for all-day dining.
Set in a shophouse, the all-white façade and cement flooring scream chic minimalism and give this venue a clean and cosy atmosphere, making it the perfect chill-out spot. The Replacement recently introduced exciting new offers on its menu, including kopitiam-style dishes.
Address: 33 Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Contact: +6012 547 7885
3. Keijometo
At first glance, the exterior of Keijometo will have you thinking it’s an abandoned warehouse, but it’s far from that. This industrial-style cafe serves some of the best Japanese cuisine and matcha specialities in the town of JB. Their interior is chic thanks to the bare concrete and large windows, while its decor items are also pretty eclectic, much like this cafe’s entire feel.
Whether you’re on your own or with great company, take your pick at some delicious Japanese staples, from rice and udon dishes to sando (sandwiches) While you’re there, try their matcha drinks — it’s what they’re famed for.
Address: 3 Jalan Chengai, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor
Contact: +607 331 1825
4. Sweet Blossom Coffee Roasters
This one’s for the coffee lovers out there! Sweet Blossom Coffee Roasters is an independent company in JB that serves excellent coffee. This cafe is truly a diamond in the rough, with its visually appealing environment, timber tones, and simple furnishings.
Patrons can either come here to relax over a cup of hot coffee or make it a work spot for the day. This cafe is a testament that quality often supersedes scale, and if you fancy brewing your own cup of joe at home, you can purchase their coffee beans.
Address: 28, Jalan Maju, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor
Contact: +6016 770 5139
5. Flowers in the Window
Thanks to its pretty garden-themed setting, Flowers in the Window makes the perfect spot for breakfast and has become popular on social media. As its name suggests, this eatery is filled with beautiful flowers and lush greenery as you dine on exceptional and healthy dishes.
Haven’t a clue what you should order on your next visit? Try the Lotus Chips Salmon Bowl, made up of fried lotus chips, roasted pumpkins, soft-boiled egg, avocado, pea mash, and salmon — all drenched with peanut dressing.
Address: 9 Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
Contact: +6016 776 7489
6. Plantherapy by S P A Z E H A U S
Plantherapy is a unique glasshouse cafe and is undoubtedly one of its kind in JB. Walking into this eatery will have you feeling as though you’re in a life-sized terrarium that serves delicious comfort food. From coffees and sandwiches to dessert and sparkling beverages, you’ll have all you want from a chic cafe like this one. We highly recommend their Egg Mayo Croissant that’s served with a side of salad and crisps!
Address: 8 Jalan Ekoperniagaan 2/7, Taman Ekoperniagaan, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Contact: +6012 679 6554
7. Creamery Boutique Ice Creams
Last but not least on this list of must-visit Instagrammable cafes is none other than Creamery Boutique Ice Creams. This humble dessert spot is small in size, but we can’t help but love its cute and simple setting.
Those with a sweet tooth can treat themselves to their heart’s content here as they specialise in (large) lava cookies and homemade ice cream! They’re well-known for their innovative ice creams to be served on a skillet, so don’t miss out on the experience and unique flavours while in JB.
Address: 33 Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Contact: +6012 908 3369
