Johor Bahru, Malaysia (JB) is a popular destination for Singaporeans looking for a quick getaway filled with delicious food. With its diverse culinary scene and hidden gems, here are 6 must-visit makan spots in JB that you should try!
#1: IT ROO CAFE
For mouthwatering Western cuisine, It Roo Cafe is the place to be. Located in JB’s historic city center, it has been serving the best chicken chop since 1961. Crowd favorites include It Roo Fried Rice (RM9.90 / SGD 3.00), Fish and Chips (RM18.50 / SGD 5.50), and the customizable Hailam Mee (RM9.90 / SGD 3.00).
Location: 17, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#2: ONN KITCHEN
Famous for its fluffy Roti Canai (RM1.50 / SGD 0.45), Onn Kitchen offers a self-service gravy station where you can choose your favorite curries. Go for the Lontong (RM8 / SGD 2.40) and Nasi Lemak with Fried Egg (RM5 / SGD 1.50) for a true taste of Malaysian cuisine.
Location: 29A, Jalan Tarom, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#3: RESTORAN KACANG POOL HAJI
At Restoran Kacang Pool Haji, you can enjoy one of the best kacang pool in JB. This dish features seasoned fava beans topped with a fried egg, served with toast for dipping. Try the Kacang Pool (RM7 / SGD 2.10) alongside Nasi Ambang (RM7 / SGD 2.10) or Nasi Lemak (RM2 / SGD 0.60) for a hearty breakfast.
Location: Jalan Sabar, Taman Dato Onn, 80350 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#4: YUMMY NASI LEMAK HOUSE
As its name suggests, Yummy Nasi Lemak House specializes at nasi lemak. Have a bite of the Nasi Lemak Basic Set (RM10.50 / SGD 3.10) for its delicious sambal and coconut rice, or go for the Nasi Lemak Ayam Berempah Set (RM14.50 / SGD 4.30) for a generous piece of spice-fried chicken.
Location: 104, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#5: TONG GUAN NYONYA KOPITIAM
For authentic local cuisine, visit Tong Guan Nyonya Kopitiam. Don’t miss the Nyonya Mee Siam with Fish Otak (from RM14.90 / SGD 4.50) and the indulgent Nasi Lemak Seafood Special (RM24.60 / SGD 7.40). To calm your body, you may eat the hot Three Eggs Porridge (RM13 / SGD 3.90).
Location: 14, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
#6: PACHEM THAI FOOD
I recently visited Thailand, where my favorite dishes are Mango Sticky Rice and Pad Thai—both of which are simply delicious. To satisfy my cravings, Pachem Thai Food is a must-visit for Thai food lovers, offering dishes like Mango Sticky Rice (around RM12/SGD 4) and Tom Yum Soup (around RM20/SGD 6.50).
Location: 2, Jalan Dedap 15, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
With these 6 spots, your food adventure in JB will be both tasty and budget-friendly. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: The prices listed in this article were accurate at the time of writing, but they may change as restaurants or eateries update their pricing.