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 13 best JB cafes worth crossing the border for.
| Name | Best for | Location / Area | Key highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nimmies Pastry Cafe | Pastries, coffee and dinner near the Causeway | Taman Melodies | 10-minute drive from JB Checkpoint; open until 11pm |
| Antipodean @Mid Valley Southkey | Brunch and specialty coffee | Mid Valley Southkey | Single-origin coffee and all-day comfort food |
| Made on Monday (Jalan Abdul Samad) | Halal dining and late-night cafe visits | Jalan Abdul Samad | Halal JAKIM-certified; live band from 9.30pm |
| Made on Monday (Sunway Puteri Hills) | Seafood and scenic dining via Tuas | Sunway Puteri Hills | 5-minute drive from Tuas Second Link; panoramic views |
| OTTO cafe | Relaxed brunch and creative dishes | Taman Melodies | Modern European cooking with Malaysian-inspired touches |
| Caribbean Juice Bar | Waterfront drinks and lighter food | Puteri Harbour | Island-style setting with smoothie bowls and fruit dishes |
| Keijometo | Japanese dishes and matcha drinks | Taman Melodies | Industrial interior; popular with long waiting times |
| George and Dragon Cafe | English food and steak | Taman Tasek | Pub-style setting with homemade sauces |
| Grumpy Goat & Friends | Asian-Western food and aesthetic interiors | Bandar Baru Seri Alam | Double-storey glasshouse with natural lighting |
| The Lightwood by Mues | Bakery fare and brunch | Jalan Abdul Samad | Homemade sourdough, focaccia and bagels |
| Off Day Cafe | Brunch, desserts and coffee | Gelang Patah | Australian, Korean and Malaysian influences |
| A Bread & Coffee Place | Simple breakfast and nostalgic dining | Taman Pelangi | Supreme Breakfast Set at an affordable price |
| Morihana Pastry | Cakes, pastries and non-coffee drinks | Taman Ekoflora | House-shaped cafe with petit gâteaux and dine-in cakes |
1. Nimmies Pastry Cafe
After inching through the Causeway jam, few things feel more rewarding than settling into a good cafe. Just a 10-minute drive from JB Checkpoint, Nimmies Pastry Cafe in Taman Melodies offers exactly that, housed in an elegant 2-storey bungalow.
Inside, a distinct Parisian charm sets the tone. Sip your coffee beneath the trees at the alfresco patio, settle into the light-filled main dining hall, or head upstairs for a quieter corner.
While Nimmies is best known for its artisanal pastries and beautifully crafted drinks, its savoury menu deserves just as much attention. Better yet, the cafe serves dinner until 11pm, making it a great spot for a hearty meal away from the usual daytime crowds.
The menu pairs familiar favourites with creative twists. Among the newest additions, Ayam Gepuk Seh (RM28) delivers the fiery and addictive flavours Malaysians love, along with a contemporary cafe touch.
If you’re after something warm and comforting, their Creamy Tomyam Seafood (RM35) combines the signature tang of tom yam with a velvety cream sauce generously studded with seafood.
Prefer something lighter? The Chilli Scrambled Egg with Shrimp on Sourdough (RM28) layers pillowy scrambled eggs, succulent shrimp and a gentle chilli kick atop toasted sourdough, making it ideal at any time of day.
Of course, no visit is complete without one of Nimmies’ signature pastries. Their Pandan Kaya Croissant (RM16) wraps fragrant pandan kaya in buttery, flaky layers for a delightful Malaysian twist, while the new Brulee Burnt Cheesecake (RM22) adds a crisp caramelised sugar topping to the creamy dessert.
Pair it with the new Tira Miss U Latte (RM25), a tiramisu-inspired coffee dusted with cocoa powder and topped with a ladyfinger biscuit.
From pastries and coffee to hearty dinners, Nimmies Pastry Cafe pairs a convenient location near the Causeway with an inviting ambience and versatile menu, making it a worthwhile stop for first-time visitors and seasoned cafe hoppers alike.
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 (Jalan Abdul Samad)
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 & Halal JAKIM- certified space sits atop Jalan Abdul Samad, spanning multiple shop lots with generous parking and multiple seating zones.
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 has also recently opened 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: 11.30am – 1am
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 2am
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4. Made on Monday (Sunway Puteri Hills)
If you’ve already been to Made on Monday HQ at Jalan Abdul Samad, don’t just expect more of the same here — but perhaps something even better.
Nestled within the newly opened Sunway Puteri Hills, this hilltop outpost swaps the familiar hum of the city for panoramic views across the Straits of Johor, Pendas River and the upcoming Jeffrey Cheah Circuit. Arrive as afternoon melts into golden hour, and it’s easy to see why diners linger long after the meal ends.
As one of the pioneering tenants at Sunway Puteri Hills, Made on Monday fits naturally into the lifestyle destination’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Better yet, it’s just a 5-minute drive from Tuas Second Link, making it an easy detour that is removed from the city’s pace.
Naturally, the menu rises to the occasion. Seafood takes centre stage with the Classic Boston Lobster Roll (RM146.30++), where sweet chunks of chilled lobster are lightly folded through garlic butter before being nestled into a toasted roll with oregano and a squeeze of lemon.
For something more lavish, opt for Surf & Turf (from RM297.70++), which pairs Australian Wagyu ribeye with Boston lobster, accompanied by a Caesar salad and your choice of signature sauce.
Not in the mood for steak? Made on Monday’s Boston Aglio (RM146.90++) crowns aglio olio spaghetti with a whole Boston lobster, served alongside white sauce and pesto for added richness. Alternatively, sink your teeth into Aussie Burger (RM66.90++) — Australian beef patty layered with smoked beef brisket, streaky beef, cheddar and all the classic fixings.
Round off your visit with one of the cafe’s desserts in the form of towering milkshakes (from RM59++), topped with ice cream, marshmallows and fresh strawberries.
With its elevated setting, sweeping vistas and thoughtfully curated menu, Made on Monday @ Sunway Puteri Hills stands confidently as a destination in its own right.
08 & 09, Jalan Medini Selatan 13, Sunway City, 81550 Iskandar Puteri, Johor
+6016 666 0604
Sun to Thu: 11.30am – 1am
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 2am
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5. OTTO cafe
It is hard to miss the terracotta facade paired with a neat 8-bit signage along the streets of Taman Melodies, Johor Bahru. OTTO cafe is a master at catching your attention with just one look, yet what keeps people coming back to this newest kid on the block is far more substantial.
This female-chef-led cafe has earned a reputation for serving some of the city’s most satisfying brunch, built not on hype but on a clear point of view. They believe food tastes better when it is shared and have built a space that encourages that.
The name and logo shares a cheeky twist. Two people, (O O), sharing a table, (T T). The cafe that transformed the space from a house invites guests to feel at home.
Grounded in modern European cooking, OTTO’s offerings lean into comfort while allowing room for subtle invention. Familiar forms arrive with small, personal twists, shaped by the chef-owner’s culinary journey. Specialty coffee and creative house drinks round out the experience to a tee.
Popular on the menu is the Mom’s Aglio Olio (RM38), inspired by the owner’s mother who’s particularly fond of adding ginger flowers in the classic dish. Their rendition comes from a heartfelt memory. You’ll enjoy this version with prawns, garlic confit and chilli flakes, lifted by the unexpected fragrance of ginger flower.
Kam Heong Pasta (RM37), a crowd favourite, takes inspiration from a local Malaysian stir fry that lends a familiar yet unique taste. Expect fragrant spices cooked in coconut cream topped with crispy soft shell crab — wonderfully addictive.
A dish unique to OTTO cafe is the Soft Shell Crab Toast (RM35). You’ll find sourdough topped with delicate crab, home made nori cracker and curry egg mayo. With several sides to choose from, you’ll enjoy the Crispy Cauliflower (RM23) — coated lightly with sour plum dust and almond flake, adding a sweet-sour crunch .
Looking to try something from their coffee menu? The Orange Americano (RM18), makes a fitting companion — refreshing without overwhelming the palate.
At OTTO cafe, the pace slows naturally. Just a short drive from the Causeway, this aesthetic cafe serves unique brunch dishes in a comfortable, well-designed space. It is an easy place to sit, chat, and linger long after the meal ends.
81, Jalan Chengai, Taman Melodies, Johor Bahru, 80250 Johor, Johor Darul Ta’zim
+6011 2808 6971
Mon to Thu: 10am – 6pm
Fri to Sun: 9am – 6pm & 6.30pm – 9.30pm
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6. 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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7. 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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8. 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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9. 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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10. The Lightwood by Mues
Another hidden gem that’s been all the rage is The Lightwood by Mues. The 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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11. 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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12. 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
Sun to Tue, Thu & Fri: 8am – 5pm
Closed on Wed & Sat
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13. 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
Thu to Sun & Tue: 12pm – 7pm
Closed on Mon & Wed
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How to choose the right JB cafe for your visit
Choose Nimmies Pastry Cafe or OTTO cafe for brunch and a relaxed sit-down meal, while Antipodean @Mid Valley Southkey suits slow brunches and coffee. For late-night dining, Made on Monday (Jalan Abdul Samad) offers lobster dishes and live music, while Made on Monday (Sunway Puteri Hills) suits views and Tuas Second Link access. Caribbean Juice Bar is suited to lighter food by the water, and Keijometo to Japanese dishes and matcha. For Western comfort food, choose George and Dragon Cafe; Grumpy Goat & Friends for Asian-Western fare. The Lightwood by Mues, Off Day Cafe, A Bread & Coffee Place, and Morihana Pastry suit bakery, dessert, breakfast, or coffee stops.
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