[Field Report | Johor Bahru Food Desk Exclusive] Johor Bahru (JB), the vibrant southern gateway of Malaysia, is more than just a city—it’s a treasure trove for food lovers. From bustling hawker stalls to nostalgic coffee shops, every corner may be hiding an unforgettable culinary experience. Our food detective team went undercover across JB’s neighborhoods, braving long queues, fragrant kitchens, and secret recipes to bring you the 2025 Top 5【 Johor Bahru Food Recommendations 】.
Whether you’re a tourist craving authentic flavors or a local seeking comfort food with a twist, this is your official food guide to JB’s best-kept culinary secrets.
1. Padi Kopitiam Jalan Trus｜Find the Taste of Home in Every Fragrant Bite
Tucked away in the nostalgic old streets of Jalan Trus, Padi Kopitiam feels like a trip back to your grandparents’ era of traditional Nanyang coffee shops. This charming eatery specializes in authentic Malay-style dishes, simple in appearance yet rich in flavor. The signature banana fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfectly fragrant without being greasy. The tom yum fried “lao shu fen” (silver needle noodles) strikes a flawless balance between tangy, spicy, and wok hei (the coveted smoky aroma). But the real showstopper? Their namesake “Padi Coffee” – robust yet balanced, a perfect companion to every dish. Dining here isn’t just about food—it’s a gentle journey through time and memory.
Location: Ibrahim International Business District, 82-B1, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80888 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 AM – 09:00 PM
2. Yew Swee Kopitiam｜The Legendary Laksa That Conquered Southern Malaysia
Ask any Johorean where to find the most unforgettable bowl of laksa, and chances are you’ll hear the same answer: Yew Swee Kopitiam. With over 20 years of history, this iconic spot fills the morning air with the aroma of its rich, curry-based broth. Packed with tofu puffs, juicy clams, and bean curd skin, every spoonful hits deep with savory satisfaction. Unlike typical curry noodles, the broth here is refreshingly light, making it perfect for diners of all ages. Pro tip: don’t leave without trying their handmade braised noodles – aromatic and comforting, it’s the ideal finishing touch to a soulful meal.
Location: 64, Jalan Harimau Tarum, Taman Century, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Opening Hours: Mon–Wed 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sat 7:30 AM–4:00 PM (Closed Sundays)
3. Hai Kah Lang｜Seafood Noodles That Feed the Soul | Johor Bahru Food Recommendations
When it comes to seafood noodles in Johor Bahru, Hai Kah Lang reigns supreme. Famous for its ultra-fresh ingredients flown in daily from Sabah, this place delivers an unforgettable umami experience. Their fish head vermicelli soup is rich without overpowering the delicate seafood flavors. Here, diners get to build their dream bowl by choosing from prawns, clams, flower crabs, and more. Whether you’re a soup lover or stir-fried noodle enthusiast, Hai Kah Lang has something that will keep you coming back for more. One bite, and you’ll be hooked.
Location: 173, Jalan Sutera, Taman Sentosa, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Opening Hours: Daily 08:30 AM – 09:30 PM
4. Ah Meng Kue Teow｜Tradition Served in a Steaming Bowl of Comfort
Johoreans start their mornings with Ah Meng Kue Teow for a reason. This long-beloved noodle shop sticks to time-honored methods to create a broth that’s clear yet flavorful, light but deeply satisfying. Their perfectly cooked pig kidneys and liver are fresh, tender, and perfectly paired with the smooth rice noodles. Fans also swear by their dry-style kue teow – the homemade chili sauce adds just the right amount of heat, and the crunchy pork lard bits are served generously, if not endlessly. If you appreciate honest, no-frills deliciousness, this is the spot for you.
Location: 112, Jalan Meranti, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Opening Hours: Thurs 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Other days 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM (Closed on Monday)
5. Pin Ming Xuan｜Dim Sum at Its Finest, Where Every Bite Tells a Story – Johor Bahru Food Recommendations
At Pin Ming Xuan, having dim sum isn’t just a meal—it’s an artful morning ritual full of warmth and detail. From buttery egg tarts and molten lava buns to the delicately crafted har gow (shrimp dumplings), every dish is handmade to order by experienced chefs. Vegetarian diners aren’t left out either—the menu features creative meat-free dim sum options that make meatless days genuinely delightful. Since popular items are limited and sell out quickly, arriving early is highly recommended. Miss it, and you’ll be kicking yourself.
Location: 10, Jalan Serigala, Taman Century Garden, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Opening Hours: Weekdays 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Weekends 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Johor Bahru’s Culinary Scene is Worth Every Bite
To walk through Johor Bahru is to enter a living museum of flavors. These five beloved eateries—whether nestled in hidden alleys or situated in bustling districts—each represent a part of the city’s edible heritage. They offer more than food; they offer a piece of people’s memories and the warmth of shared tables. Whether it’s your first visit to JB or your hundredth, these are the places worth tasting, treasuring, and telling your friends about.