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, JB.
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. Antipodean @Mid Valley Southkey
Johor Bahru may be rich with good food, but few places offer the charm and elegance of Antipodean Cafe at Mid Valley Southkey. Born in 2009 from founder Alun Evans’s love for honest food and soulful coffee, the New Zealand–style brand has since shaped the region’s cafe culture, earning recent nods as one of Asia’s Best Cafes 2025 and among Malaysia’s Top Coffee Roasters.
Their coffee is known for its rich aroma and clean flavours, from quality beans roasted in-house by Indonesia’s specialty roaster Merdeka Coffee. Sourced directly from small-holding growers for better traceability and quality, these beans have brewed millions of cups across the Antipodean network. With single-origin options like Java Estate, Wamena Irian Jaya, Aceh Takengon, Lintong and Sidikalang, every cup reflects the cafe’s signature clarity, depth and consistency.
Indoors, the space is warm and intimate; step outside to the al fresco area and you’ll find a sun-washed, breezy corner perfect for slow brunches and unhurried afternoons.
The menu leans into comfort with a polished touch. The Big Breakfast (RM36) arrives abundant yet balanced with creamy eggs, your choice of smoky bacon or sausage, and golden potato patty coming together in indulgent harmony. Beside it, the Shakshuka with Avocado (RM35) offers deeper warmth — a bubbling tomato-pepper base, softly set eggs and slices of buttery avocado that melt into each scoop of crusty bread.
For those leaning toward heartier fare, Mike Moore’s Beef Burger with Cheese and Bacon (RM32) makes a memorable entrance — tender patty, caramelised edges and twin cheeses yielding into toasted buns. The Lime-infused Lamb Kebab (RM42) offers a different sort of richness — citrus-bright, gently spiced lamb atop couscous, flanked by grilled tomatoes, salad and crisp fries, all tied together with a zesty cream sauce.
Providing the perfect palate cleanser, the Coromandel Green Rocket with Salmon (RM32) is a burst of brightness in every bite, mixing peppery greens with walnuts, cherry tomatoes and silky smoked salmon. And for a sweet finish, the Banana Pancake (RM30) rises as a showstopper with thick, warm, honey-glazed layers softened by cream and fresh banana.
Thoughtful, inviting and finely tuned from morning to dusk, Antipodean continues to be a refuge for good food, good company and, for those who need it — a Halal-friendly counterpart at Antipodean GOLD in Komtar JBCC.
G-072, The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
+607 332 0025
Daily: 8am – 10pm
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3. Made on Monday
Made on Monday HQ offers a refreshing change of pace from your idea of cafes in JB. About a 16-minute drive from the Woodlands Checkpoint, this Muslim-owned space sits atop Jalan Abdul Samad, spanning multiple shop lots with generous parking and multiple seating zones. It is currently in the final stages of obtaining Halal JAKIM certification.
Founded by Muhammad Jasmin and Adiba Akmal under Wild Child Sdn Bhd, this hip joint sets out to reframe the mood of Mondays by blending cafe culture with music, creativity and community.
The outdoor area comes alive with a live band every night from 9.30pm. Out back, the breezy alfresco section feels more intimate and Instagram-friendly. Indoors, you can watch baristas at work with coffee beans sourced from halal-certified Blend Coffee Roasters, or browse limited-edition merchandise in air-conditioned comfort.
The retail corner features authentic, limited-run collaborations from names like Supreme, Human Made, Tom Sachs, Travis Scott, Goyard, Palace, and Louis Vuitton.
The menu is known for wagyu dishes, lobster, gourmet burgers and handcrafted pastas, with bread baked fresh daily. The Lobster Rolls are a clear standout, available in Classic Boston (RM147.30), Serrano Peppers (RM160.70), and Whipped Herbs (RM153.40).
Picture juicy, chilled lobster meat brought in live each week, lightly tossed in garlic butter and herbs, tucked into crisp, buttery brioche, and served with thick-cut fries and a bright lemon zest sauce.
The Boston Aglio (RM133.90) brings together aglio olio, juicy Boston lobster and a generous layer of white sauce and pesto that somehow works without tipping into excess. For something greener and lighter, the Kale Pesto (RM28.70) pairs al dente fettuccine with kale pesto, Grana Padano, a softly poached egg and a crisp chicken cutlet.
The iced Butterscotch Macchiato (RM17.50) arrives topped with cream and butterscotch syrup, while the Strawberry Matcha Latte (RM17.90) balances umami matcha with just enough sweetness from strawberry syrup.
Made on Monday is set to open another outlet at Sunway Circuit Iskandar Puteri — more accessible for those entering via the Tuas Checkpoint. Mondays, it seems, are slowly but surely getting a better rep.
71A, Jalan Abdul Samad 1, Sri Gelam, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
+6016 666 0604
Sun to Thu: 11am – 12.30am
Fri & Sat: 11am – 2am
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4. 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 slash cafe is conveniently located by the water in JB, 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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5. Keijometo
This Industrial-themed cafe in JB 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
+607 331 1825
Tue to Sun: 11am – 7pm
Closed on Mon
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6. 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 in JB 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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7. Grumpy Goat & Friends
This one is a tad bit further away from the other cafes in JB 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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8. 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 in JB 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 & Wed to Fri: 8.30am – 5.30pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 6pm
Closed on Tue
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9. 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 in JB, 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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10. 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 in JB 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
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11. 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 in JB 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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Iman Sofia
Just a girl with strong opinions on pop culture. Not a chef, but growing up with Gordon Ramsay if he’s a 4’7 traditional Malay lady, does have its benefits.