In recent years, Johor Bahru has become a popular hotspot as weekend getaways for Malaysians and Singaporeans alike.
Whether it’s tiny hole-in-the-wall places or classy establishments, the cafe scene in Johor has been thriving. It doesn’t matter if you’re craving for coffee, splendid desserts, or delicious meals, there are always something to satisfy your taste buds. We’ve shortlisted a number of cafes with gorgeous ambience that have been making waves.
Check ’em out:
1. The Brew Orchestra
Many cafe-hoppers have described walking into The Brew Orchestra akin to entering a grand concert hall. Inspired by instruments of an orchestra, the ceilings are decorated with strings and brass, while light bulbs can be seen dangling off like floating musical notes. Stylish interior aside, the main highlight is still their coffee. The owner, Isaac Loh, is only 1 of 4 people in Malaysia with the highly coveted Q Grader license. Feel free to pair your coffee with a plate of eggs Benedict.
- Address: 19, Jalan Molek 1/5C., Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru
- Opening Hours: 9:30am – 7pm (Sundays – Thursdays), 9:30am – 11:30pm (Fridays – Saturdays)
- Contact: 07-358 8234
2. Miyakori Coffee
Not only is the outlook kawaii, Miyakori Coffee also promises to offer “a taste of happiness” (that’s their tagline) when you visit. Their 1st outlet at Bukit Indah may have closed down earlier this year, but patrons can still get a dose of their cutesy goodness at City Square shopping mall. Known for their cartoon figures, the Japanese cafe is a good spot to fuel up while shopping. Despite producing a wide selection of creative desserts, it is their range of quality beverages that have had patrons coming back for more.
- Address: Lot J5-10 level 5 106-108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru
- Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm
- Contact: 07-595 2608
3. Coffee Valley
Savoury, crisp, and tasty, drop by Coffee Valley for their famous range of waffles. If you’ve never tasted waffles served with pasta or roast duck, do give it a try. Although the 4 Seasons Big Waffle (a unique quartet of flavours) and the Big Waffle Original are classic favourites, we can’t seem to get enough of their Tiramisu waffle and Red Velvet waffle. Mark this down, dessert lovers ;)
- Address: 25 Jalan Eko Botani 3/5, Taman Eko Botani, Iskandar Puteri
Johor Bahru - Opening Hours: 9am – 7pm
- Contact: 07-295 6109
4. TIP, The Ice-Cream Project
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Instead of the traditional ice-cream, satisfy your sweet tooth at The Ice-Cream Project (TIP). The vegan-friendly dessert is made with liquid nitrogen and is free from additives and preservatives. Liquid nitrogen ice-cream is nothing new, but it can still elicit oohs and aahs from seasoned sweet tooth individuals. Here, less is more as TIP only features 4 fuss-free flavours: sticky butterscotch, fudgy brownies and cream, milk, as well as chocolate.
- Address: 31, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
- Opening Hours: 3pm – 10pm
- Contact: 07-300 7286
5. Roost Cafe and Bistro
Imagine stepping into a 2-storey time machine that features decorations of old-fashion sofas, antique telephone sets, mini jukeboxes, and other eco-friendly relics from the yesteryears. That’s the feeling you get when climbing up to the 2nd floor at Roost Cafe and Bistro. Arguably one of the earliest cafes along Jalan Dhoby, Roost is famed for its frozen yoghurt (although some have argued that it’s not as good as Llao Llao). Still, Roost is an impressive cafe thanks to its unique interior and food options.
- Address: 9 Jalan Dhoby, Johor Bahru 80000
- Opening Hours: 12pm – 12am (Mondays – Saturdays); 6pm – 12am (Sundays)
- Contact: 016-7767489
6. Flowers in the Window
Brought to you by the same team behind Roost Cafe and Bistro is another hipster cafe named Flowers in the Window. Just like its name suggests, the homely cafe focuses on a flowery theme. As you step into the Instagram-worthy cafe, the crisp smell of rainforest is ever present. At Flowers in the Window, they serve brunch, fresh sourdough, homemade cakes, as well as herb-infused beverages. The 1st floor can feel a little congested, so head up to the 2nd floor for more comfy seats.
- Address: 9 Jalan Dhoby, Johor Bahru 80000
- Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
- Contact: 016-7767489
7. Backstreet Cafe
It’s easy to figure out how Backstreet Cafe (小巷咖啡馆) got its name because this hidden gem is literally situated at a backstreet. This corner shop lot may be difficult to find, so keep in mind that it’s tucked in between “Big Bowl” dessert stall (大碗汞和) and Station One. The exterior of this compact cafe is beautifully decorated with various flowers, planter boxes, and lamp posts. The interior exudes a cosy feel thanks to its old-European themed decorations. Do keep in mind that only snacks, desserts, and drinks are served here as Backstreet Cafe is more suited for casual dates.
- Address: 28A, Basement Jalan Abiad 1, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru
- Opening Hours: 2pm – 12am
- Contact: 016-769 0196
8. Once Upon A Time Cafe & Boutique
The name itself should be able to give you a rough idea about this place. Just like the fairytales in your storybooks, Once Upon A Time Cafe & Boutique is a double-storey house surrounded by a garden filled with flowers. The refurbished pinky outlook (it was previously white) also extends to the furnitures and decorations inside the cafe. If pink is your favourite colour and you’re a romantic at heart, this is the place for you. Psst, we’ve also heard that many wedding proposals have taken place here.
- Address: 7A Showhouse, Jalan Persiaran Jaya Putra 1, Bandar Jaya Putra, JP Perdana, 81100 Johor Bahru
- Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm
- Contact: 016-797 3999
Sources: Time Out, Mashiso Oiishi, My Fat Pocket, My Food Fever, Lady Iron Chef.
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