Back in the pre-pandemic days, I, like many others, enjoyed crossing the border to Johor Bahru (JB) to do some cafe hopping.
Since land travel to Malaysia is officially open again, you bet that I’m excited to check out Malaysia’s food scene after two long years.
While some of my previous haunts have sadly shuttered for good, a slew of new cafes have also popped up. If you too are planning a JB day trip, here are some places you can add to your itinerary.
1. Charlotte’s Tearoom
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Charlotte’s Tearoom – A Sweet Escape in Johor Bahru
Since opening its doors in mid‑October last year, Charlotte’s Tearoom has quickly become a must‑visit spot for anyone who’s fond of treats that feel like a hug from the inside.
What to Try
- Cakes & pastries that melt in your mouth
- Bubble teas that sparkle with every sip
- Savoury bites such as fluffy sandwiches, crispy chicken nuggets, and golden fries – just enough to balance the sweetness
Atmosphere
Plant lovers will feel right at home thanks to the laid‑back garden vibe. Think plenty of greenery, subtle lighting, and a relaxed pace that lets you linger over your drinks.
Opening Hours
- Thursday to Tuesday: 12 pm – 10 pm
- Closed on Wednesdays
Address
No 7‑01 Jalan Austin Height 3/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru
2. Commune by the Creators
Minimalist Vibes at Commune
Minimalists who love clean, white spaces will feel right at home at Commune by the Creators, which opened its doors early May last year.
Menu Highlights
- Classic Brunch Staples: eggs benedict croissant, avocado on toast with smoked salmon, baked eggs.
- Unique Bites: miso alfredo udon, yoghurt chicken leg, French barramundi prawn bisque.
When & Where to Visit
- Hours: Daily 9 am – 6 pm
- Address: 228 & 230 Jalan Adda 7, Taman Adda Heights, 81100 Johor Bahru
Drop in, grab a seat, sip on some smooth coffee, and let the calm do all the heavy lifting—no clutter, just pure culinary bliss.
3. Dusk by Mok Mok
If the name of this cafe sounds familiar yet different at the same time, it’s because it is.
Dusk by Mok Mok is run by the same folks behind popular cafes like Bloom by Mok Mok and the now-defunct Mok Mok Brunch and Bistro.
The new cafe, which opened in April last year, is located just a stone’s throw away from Mok Mok Brunch and Bistro’s previous unit.
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Similar to all the other concepts by Mok Mok, Dusk by Mok Mok is tastefully furnished and decorated, giving you the perfect backdrop for all those Instagram-worthy photos. It also has a chill Bohemian theme which makes you feel like you’re in Bali.
Menu-wise, there are Japanese options like curry katsu don and ikura salmon don, as well as mains like roasted chicken leg and seafood aglio olio.
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 10pm
Address: 49, Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru
4. Haru Coffee
Caffeine-dependent folk can pop on over to Haru Coffee for their coffee fix.
This place, which opened just last December, oozes %Arabica vibes with its clean, slick decor and photogenic cuppas.
The drinks here are mostly Korean-inspired and include black dalgona, dalgona latte and americano. Don’t drink coffee? They have other drinks like strawberry matcha latte, hazelnut milk and sea salt genmaicha latte.
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Apart from drinks, their menu also includes brunch items such as the Haru Breakfast, as well as Korean-inspired dishes such as the Eat Well Original Rice Ball.
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Opening hours: Friday to Tuesday, 8am to 6pm; Closed on Thursdays
Address: 48, Jalan Adda 7, Taman Adda Heights, 81100 Johor Bahru
5. Kaffeinted Fish
Kaffeinated Fish sits out in an open space at Jalan Roda, Skudai and opened in April last year.
However, they announced three days ago that they will be moving and opening a new flagship store with a completely revamped menu. So, watch their social media for details on the official location!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CVcxNGvJs3K/
Their first outlet had container cafe vibes and featured a chic outdoor seating space.
The old menu had various bakes, drinks and brunch items, so we can’t wait to see what they have in store for the new branch.
Opening hours: To be confirmed
Address: To be confirmed
6. Origin Cafe Kulai
Design-wise, this cafe is probably my favourite one out of the lot with its Japanese-inspired layout and industrial elements.
The best part? The two large circular cut-outs in the middle of the cafe, which both divide yet complete the entire space.
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Interior aside, the eatery serves cafe-style food like croissants, but also has Asian menu options including mushroom sesame oil ginger soup.
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They also have dessert options like cakes and high tea sets.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 8pm; Closed on Mondays
Address: 41, Lorong Ismail, Taman Kulai, 81000 Kulai, Johor
7. Raw Brew & Dine
Raw Brew & Dine has two different menus — brunch and dinner — so diners have more variety to choose from.
The cafe, which opened in January last year, has European brunch, local fusion and casual dining options which will probably leave you spoilt for choice.
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Some examples include salmon rillettes, spinach tortellini, foie gras and squid ink risotto. Pair these with some icy drinks like their summer americano.
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 5pm, 6pm to 10pm
Address: 70, Jalan Pingai, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru
8. Soil JB
Welcome to Soil JB – a Bean‑Baked Oasis
Soil JB started its roots in June last year, courtesy of the talented folks at The Atlas Bakery. Nestled inside a stand‑alone spot, it’s the kind of place where the walls seem to whisper, “Hey, you’re about to get cozily cocooned by nature.”
Vines, Flowers & All‑That‑Good
The building walls are draped with vines and a mashup of bang‑up plants that instantly give the space that mysterious, “hidden‑garden” vibe. If you walk in, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a secret greenhouse where every corner holds a story.
Menu that Looks as Good as It Tastes
- Fresh Bakes – Think flaky breads, sweet pastries, and that golden crust you’ve been craving.
- Sun‑kissed Ice Cream – Cool scoops that melt just right, paired with homemade toppings.
- Fragrant Cappuccinos – The espresso you’ve been searching for, with a splash of creamy magic.
The décor is so lovely, you’ll wonder whether the menu is as pretty as the café itself. And sure enough – it is.
When to Drop In
- Monday–Friday: 10 am – 6 pm
- Saturday–Sunday: 9 am – 7:30 pm
Location
Unit SL009, Spring Lab, Lot A (GF), Jalan Ekoflora Utama, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru.
So, if you’re looking for a spot that spruces up your day with fresh goodies, botanical charm, and a good dose of Morn‑in‑the‑Vines vibes, Soil JB is the place to try. Come for the food – stay for the green escape.
9. Space Johor
Space Johor: A Minimalist Café Hub at Holiday Villa
Why It’s Worth a Stop
Fresh off the block last year, Space Johor brings a clean‑cut, modern vibe right into the heart of Holiday Villa Johor Bahru. Think crisp lines, soothing neutrals, and an atmosphere that feels like a spot of calm amid the city buzz.
Drinks & Treats That’ll Make Your Taste Buds Dance
- Ice‑Blended Matcha – Cool, creamy green goodness that’s practically a spa for your tongue.
- Espresso Macchiato – A bold, caramel‑topped espresso shot that kicks back the latte routine.
- French Pastries – From flaky caneles to buttery blueberry danishes, each bite sings with French flair.
Hours of Operation
- Sunday to Thursday: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Friday to Saturday: 8 a.m. – 12 a.m. (midnight snackers, we see you)
Where to Find Us
G11, Holiday Villa Johor Bahru
260, Jalan Dato Sulaiman
80250, Taman Abad, Johor
10. The Kiopi
This quaint cafe opened in October last year and has an al fresco dining area for customers to enjoy their drinks while basking in the sun.
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The menu is suited more to people who want drinks and a light snack and they have coffee, tea and smoothie options. Food-wise, expect to find sweets like pastries and waffles.
Do note that during the Ramadan period, the cafe is only open for two hours per day. No dining in is allowed during this period, but you can still order items to go.
Opening hours (Ramadan): Daily, 4pm to 6pm
Opening hours (after Ramadan): 2pm to 7pm, closed on Thursdays
Address: Homestay Hajah Aminah, No. 47, Kampung Serkat Barat, 82300, Johor
11. Uncle Jabb’s Place
Another cafe where you can enjoy the outdoors and get plenty of sunlight is Uncle Jabb’s Place.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CY0qnIzlB87/
The gorgeous al fresco seating area will make you feel like you’re at someone’s wedding with its garden seats and shady umbrellas.
Menu-wise, you can expect mains like satay goreng and nasi impit, wholemeal chicken sandwiches and lemon butter chicken.
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They also have a variety of drink options like dalgona Milo, Teh SuSu Uncle Jabb and kurma milkshake.
Opening hours: Friday to Wednesday, 3pm to 8pm; Closed on Thursdays
Address: Lorong Haji Ahmad Shah, Taman Rambah, 82000 Pontian, Johor
12. 9% Coffee House
Sporting a vintage-industrial theme is 9% Coffee House, which just opened last year.
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The cafe features an outdoor rooftop area where you can snap some Instagram-worthy photos or simply just enjoy the view.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb4lAUivkDJ/
Apart from an extensive coffee and drinks menu, the cafe also has a range of pasta, mains and pizzas for you to choose from. the baked pomodoro cheese with chicken chop and creamy smoked duck pasta sound delicious to me!
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 11pm
Address: No. 35, Jalan Ismail, Kampung Pegawai, 83000 Batu Pahat
[email protected]
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