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JB's dining scene has exploded over the past few years, offering everything from century old bakeries using charcoal ovens to trendy industrial themed cafes that look like art galleries. Whether you are crossing the causeway for a day trip or staying longer, the food alone is reason enough to make the journey. This list features 10 restaurants that represent the very best of JB dining in 2026, covering local Malay favourites, Chinese heritage dishes, Western gourmet burgers, and stunning cafe spaces. Each entry includes the address, opening hours where available, and the must order dish that keeps locals coming back. So grab your passport and an empty stomach, because we are about to eat our way through Johor Bahru.

How to Get to Johor Bahru from Singapore

Before we dive into the food, a quick note on transport. Many Singaporeans and Malaysians living in Singapore make the trip across the border specifically for these restaurants. If you are planning a food crawl, you have several options. You can take public buses from Kranji MRT or Queen Street, or you can book a private car service for a more comfortable door to door experience. For those travelling with family or carrying shopping bags, an SG to MY transfer is often the most convenient choice. Some travellers even opt for an sg to kl private car style arrangement if they are continuing north after their JB food adventure. For more information on transport options, visit [https://fromsingaporetomalaysia.com/] You can also check specific locations at (https://fromsingaporetomalaysia.com/locations)  and pricing details at (https://fromsingaporetomalaysia.com/pricing). 

But enough about transport. Let’s talk about the food!

Quick Reference Table: 10 Must Try Restaurants in JB 2026

No.	Restaurant Name	Cuisine Type	Must Try Dish	Estimated Price per Person
1	Restoran Ya Wang	Chinese (Herbal Roast Duck)	Herbal Roast Duck	RM 25 – 40
2	Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory	Traditional Bakery	Banana Cake	RM 3 – 10
3	Keijometo	Japanese Fusion Cafe	Matcha Latte & Hojicha Cheesecake	RM 30 – 50
4	The FOUNDERS Cafe	Western Brunch	Bagels & Coffee	RM 20 – 35
5	Woodfire Jotic	Gourmet Burgers	Smoked Brisket Burger	RM 20 – 40
6	Nimmies Pastry Cafe	European Style Cafe	Big Breakfast & Pastries	RM 20 – 60
7	Oriental Kopi @ City Square	Nanyang Kopitiam	Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken	RM 15 – 30
8	Lepak Corner	Halal Malay / Mamak	Singgah Selalu Fried Rice	RM 10 – 25
9	The Spice Kitchen	Indian Cuisine	Dabba Wala Lunch Set	RM 15 – 30
10	Shun Fa Bak Kut Teh	Chinese (Bak Kut Teh)	Herbal Pork Rib Soup	RM 20 – 40

 1. Restoran Ya Wang (Herbal Roast Duck)

If there is one dish that defines JB’s Chinese food scene, it is the herbal roast duck at Restoran Ya Wang. This place has been running for over 30 years and has built a rock solid reputation as the go to spot for duck that is tender, flavourful, and infused with a rich herbal sauce. The skin is crispy while the meat stays juicy, and the sauce is so good that you will want to pour it over your rice. Interestingly, this restaurant is also known as the official consultant behind Dian Xiao Er's Ten Wonder Herbs Roast Duck, so you know the recipe is legit.

Address: 28, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Opening Hours: Daily 8am to 6pm (closed on Wednesdays)

Contact: +60 7 224 8624

Must Order: Herbal Roast Duck with rice, plus some braised tofu on the side.

Pro tip: Go early for lunch. The queue builds up quickly and the duck sells out before closing time.

 2. Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory

A trip to JB is not complete without a visit to Hiap Joo. This bakery has been operating for over 80 years, and some sources say it dates back to 1919, making it one of the oldest traditional bakeries in Malaysia. What makes Hiap Joo special is their method. They still use a charcoal fired oven, a practice brought over by Hainanese immigrants generations ago. The result is bread and cakes with a unique smoky aroma and a soft, fluffy texture that you simply cannot get from modern electric ovens. Their banana cake is the star of the show, selling out almost every day by late morning.

Address: 13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7:30am to 4:30pm or until sold out (closed on Sundays)

Contact: +60 7 223 1703

Must Order: Banana cake, coconut bun, and kaya bun.

Pro tip: Arrive before 10am if you want banana cake. Also, bring cash as they may not accept cards.

 3. Keijometo (Industrial Japanese Fusion Cafe)

Keijometo is one of the most photogenic cafes to open in JB in recent years. Located in Taman Melodies, this industrial themed cafe features raw concrete walls, minimalist furniture, and an art gallery like atmosphere that makes every corner Instagram worthy. But Keijometo is not just about looks. Their menu focuses on Japanese inspired dishes and exceptional coffee. The matcha latte is rich and earthy, made with high quality matcha powder, while the hojicha cheesecake is creamy, smoky, and not too sweet. If you are looking for something savoury, try their ochazuke (tea rice) which comes highly recommended by regulars.

Address: 3, Jalan Chengai, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm (closed on Mondays)

Contact: +60 7 331 1825

Must Order: Matcha latte, hojicha cheesecake, and ochazuke.

Pro tip: They operate on a walk in basis only, no reservations. Peak hours get busy, so come early or late afternoon.

 4. The FOUNDERS Cafe

Hidden in an industrial area near Mount Austin, The FOUNDERS Cafe is a spacious, high ceiling cafe that has become a favourite for brunch lovers crossing the causeway. The industrial chic decor, with knocked down walls and exposed structures, gives the place a raw yet welcoming vibe. Their menu focuses on Western brunch classics done well: bagels with cream cheese and smoked salmon, hearty breakfast plates, and specialty coffee roasted in house. The portion sizes are generous and the prices are very reasonable for the quality.

Address: 45, Jalan Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor

Opening Hours: Check their social media for daily hours as they vary.

Must Order: Bagels with various toppings, brunch plates, and their cold brew coffee.

Pro tip: The cafe is located in an industrial park, so it is a bit hard to find. Use Waze or Google Maps and look for the Tiong Nam Tebrau area.

 5. Woodfire Jotic (Gourmet Burgers)

Woodfire started as a local burger joint in JB and has grown into a beloved chain with multiple locations. The Jotic outlet, located near the city centre, is especially convenient for day trippers from Singapore. What sets Woodfire apart is their use of woodfire grilling, which gives their patties a distinct smoky flavour that you do not get from regular flat top grills. The brisket burger is the crowd favourite, featuring slow smoked beef brisket that is tender and juicy. The Mad Hen hot chicken burger is another popular choice for those who like a bit of spice.

Address: 2, Jalan Ulu Air Molek, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor (JOTIC building)

Opening Hours: Typically lunch to late evening.

Must Order: Smoked brisket burger, Mad Hen hot chicken burger, and their loaded fries.

Pro tip: Prices start from around RM 20 per burger, making it very affordable for gourmet quality.

 6. Nimmies Pastry Cafe

Nimmies Pastry Cafe is a European style cafe in Taman Melodies that has gained a cult following for its pastries, pasta, and breakfast plates. The space is charming and cosy, with a vibe that feels more like a Parisian patisserie than a JB cafe. Their Big Breakfast is legendary, featuring perfectly cooked eggs, juicy sausages, and generous sides. But the real draw is their pastry selection. Croissants, tarts, and cakes are baked fresh daily and pair beautifully with their coffee. The cafe can get very crowded, especially on weekends, so be prepared to queue.

Address: 171, Jalan Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor

Opening Hours: Daily, 8am to 11pm

Must Order: Big Breakfast, pasta dishes, and any of their freshly baked pastries.

Pro tip: You need to scan a QR code at the entrance to get a queue number. Do not just stand around waiting or you will miss your turn.

 7. Oriental Kopi @ City Square

For those who want a taste of traditional Nanyang kopitiam culture without venturing too far from the checkpoint, Oriental Kopi at City Square mall is the perfect stop. Located on the basement level of JB City Square, this restaurant serves classic Malaysian breakfast and lunch dishes in a clean, air conditioned setting. Their nasi lemak with fried chicken is a standout, featuring fragrant coconut rice, crispy anchovies, and a sambal that has the perfect balance of spicy and sweet. The curry noodles are another favourite, rich and creamy with generous toppings.

Address: Lot MB 07, Level B1, Johor Bahru City Square, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor

Opening Hours: 9am to 10pm daily.

Must Order: Nasi lemak with fried chicken, curry noodles, and their signature white coffee.

Pro tip: This is a very popular spot for Singaporean day trippers, so expect queues during lunch hours. Go before 11am or after 2pm for a shorter wait.

 8. Lepak Corner (24 Hour Halal Mamak)

Lepak Corner is a 24 hour halal eatery located right opposite Amari Hotel in the city centre, making it a favourite for late night suppers and early breakfasts. The menu is vast, covering Malay, Western, Thai, and Chinese dishes all under one roof. Locals love the Singgah Selalu Fried Rice, a flavourful wok hei infused rice dish that hits the spot any time of day. The roti canai is another solid choice, served with rich curry. What makes Lepak Corner special is the atmosphere; it is spacious, air conditioned, and even has a live band on some nights.

Address: Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor (opposite Amari Hotel)

Opening Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Must Order: Singgah Selalu Fried Rice, roti canai, and nasi campur.

Pro tip: The live band starts around 9pm or 10pm, making this a fun spot for dinner and drinks with friends.

 9. The Spice Kitchen (Authentic Indian Cuisine)

Tucked away in Bukit Indah, The Spice Kitchen is a halal Indian restaurant that serves authentic North and South Indian dishes at very reasonable prices. Their Dabba Wala lunch promotion is particularly popular, allowing you to mix and match your food selection from rice, main dishes (both meat and vegetarian), and rotis. The flavours are bold and authentic, with spices that are balanced rather than overwhelming. The butter chicken, biryani, and various curry dishes are all excellent choices.

Address: Wisma S P Setia, S3 0120, Jalan Indah 15, Taman Bukit Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor

Opening Hours: Lunch and dinner daily.

Contact: +60 7 237 3311

Must Order: Dabba Wala lunch set, butter chicken, and garlic naan.

Pro tip: The restaurant is located close to Aeon Mall Bukit Indah, making it a great lunch stop after shopping.

 10. Shun Fa Bak Kut Teh

No list of JB restaurants would be complete without bak kut teh, and Shun Fa is one of the best. Located in Taman Sentosa, this restaurant serves a rich, herbal pork rib soup that is packed with flavour. The soup is served in claypots, which keep it hot throughout your meal. You can add extras like pig liver, pig intestines, fried beancurd skins, and enoki mushrooms to customise your bowl. The pork ribs are fall off the bone tender, and the broth is deeply aromatic with a good balance of herbs and spices. Many locals say this is the closest you will get to the old school bak kut teh taste that is becoming harder to find.

Address: 11, Jalan Sutera 1, Taman Sentosa, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor

Opening Hours: Lunch and dinner daily. Closed on certain weekdays, so check before visiting.

Must Order: Herbal bak kut teh with pork ribs, add on beancurd skins and enoki mushrooms.

Pro tip: Order a side of you tiao (fried dough fritters) to dip into the soup. It is a game changer.

 Final Tips for Your JB Food Adventure

If you are planning to visit multiple restaurants in one day, a private car service can save you a lot of time and hassle. JB’s attractions are spread out, and waiting for Grab rides between food stops can eat into your eating time. For larger groups or families, a private transfer from Singapore to Johor Bahru is often the most comfortable option. You can find more information at (https://fromsingaporetomalaysia.com/). 

Also, remember to bring your passport with at least 6 months validity and fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card online before crossing. Most of these restaurants are cash friendly, though some do accept cards or e wallets. Bring enough Malaysian ringgit to avoid disappointment, especially at the smaller eateries.

Now go forth and eat. Your taste buds will thank you.

For transport enquiries:

WhatsApp Contact: +601111544722 ([https://wa.me/601111544722] 

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a reservation for any of these JB restaurants?

Most of the restaurants on this list operate on a walk in basis only. Hiap Joo and Restoran Ya Wang do not take reservations at all. Keijometo and Nimmies Pastry Cafe also do not accept reservations, though you can join a digital queue. The FOUNDERS Cafe and Oriental Kopi are first come first served. For Shun Fa Bak Kut Teh and The Spice Kitchen, you can call ahead for large groups, but reservations are not usually necessary.

2. Which restaurants are halal friendly?

Several restaurants on this list are halal. Lepak Corner is a 24 hour halal mamak. The Spice Kitchen is halal Indian cuisine. Oriental Kopi is Muslim friendly as they do not serve pork. For the others like Ya Wang, Hiap Joo, Shun Fa, Nimmies, and Keijometo, they serve pork or alcohol, so they are not halal certified. Always check with the restaurant directly if you have strict dietary requirements.

3. What is the best time to visit Hiap Joo Bakery to avoid missing the banana cake?

You should arrive before 10am if you want their famous banana cake. The bakery opens at 7:30am and the banana cake usually sells out by 11am or even earlier on weekends. On weekdays you might have a bit more luck, but do not risk going after noon. The kaya bun and coconut bun are also excellent and tend to last slightly longer.

4. Can I walk from JB Sentral to these restaurants?

Some are within walking distance. Oriental Kopi at City Square is directly connected to JB Sentral via a sheltered walkway. Restoran Ya Wang and Hiap Joo Bakery are about a 10 to 15 minute walk from JB Sentral. The others like Keijometo, Nimmies, The FOUNDERS Cafe, and Shun Fa are further away and require a Grab taxi or a private car service. A private car service can make visiting multiple spread out restaurants much easier.

5. Are these restaurants suitable for families with young children?

Yes, most are family friendly. Oriental Kopi, Lepak Corner, The Spice Kitchen, and Shun Fa have high chairs and spacious seating. Nimmies Pastry Cafe and The FOUNDERS Cafe are also fine for kids, though they can get crowded. Keijometo is more of a cafe atmosphere with limited seating, so very young children might feel restless there. Woodfire Jotic has a casual vibe that kids love because of the burgers.

6. Do these restaurants accept credit cards or e wallets?

Many of the newer cafes like Keijometo, The FOUNDERS Cafe, Nimmies, and Woodfire Jotic accept cards and e wallets like Touch n Go eWallet and GrabPay. However, Hiap Joo Bakery is cash only. Restoran Ya Wang and Shun Fa prefer cash but may accept cards for larger bills. It is always smart to carry at least RM 100 in cash for the smaller heritage eateries.

7. What is the average waiting time during peak hours on weekends?

Weekend lunch hours can be brutal. For Hiap Joo and Ya Wang, expect a 20 to 40 minute queue. Nimmies Pastry Cafe often has a wait of 30 to 60 minutes, especially on Sunday mornings. Keijometo can also have a line. The FOUNDERS Cafe and Lepak Corner are larger spaces so waits are shorter, usually under 15 minutes. To avoid queues, visit on weekday mornings or right when they open.

8. Which restaurant is best for a late night supper after 10pm?

Lepak Corner is your best bet because it is open 24 hours. You can get nasi goreng, roti canai, or even fried rice at 1am. Woodfire Jotic and Shun Fa close by 10pm or earlier, so they are not late night options. Oriental Kopi closes at 10pm. For a proper meal after midnight, head straight to Lepak Corner.

9. How much should I budget for a full day food crawl in JB?

If you plan to visit three to four restaurants from this list, budget around RM 80 to RM 120 per person. A meal at Ya Wang costs RM 25 to RM 40, Hiap Joo snacks are under RM 10, a cafe lunch at Keijometo or Nimmies runs RM 30 to RM 50, and dinner at Lepak Corner or Shun Fa is another RM 20 to RM 40. Drinks and desserts add a bit more. This is very affordable compared to Singapore prices.

10. What is the easiest way to get from Singapore to these JB restaurants?

For a food focused day trip, many travellers take the public bus from Kranji MRT to JB Sentral, then use Grab to reach the restaurants further out. However, if you are visiting multiple spots spread across Taman Sentosa, Taman Melodies, and Bukit Indah, a private car service from Singapore to Johor Bahru saves a lot of time and hassle. You can arrange a door to door transfer that drops you directly at each restaurant. For enquiries, contact +601111544722 via WhatsApp or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. More transport info is available at here.