Food You Don’t Want to Miss in Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru (JB) is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re looking for hearty local dishes or aesthetic cafe experiences, here are some must-try places to explore.

 1. Lala Hotpot: A Johor Bahru Specialty

If you’re a seafood lover, one of the best ways to enjoy fresh shellfish is through a rich, flavourful hotpot meal. In Johor Bahru, seafood hotpot has become a favourite dining experience, especially in the Mount Austin area. Picture this: a simmering pot of aromatic broth, into which you drop fresh lala (clams), prawns, and other seafood. The clams in particular add a rich, briny flavour to the broth, making every bite a savoury delight. Dai Tou, a well-known hotpot restaurant in JB, offers a must-try lala hotpot, known for its freshness and flavour-packed broth.

If Dai Tou is packed, don’t worry—Mount Austin has other lala hotpot spots such as Lala Pro Max. These spots offer similar broth base and fresh ingredients, ensuring that you’ll leave satisfied. Hotpot is a perfect way to unwind with friends or family, and the social aspect of cooking your own food at the table makes it even more enjoyable.

2. Aesthetic Cafes: JB’s Stylish Coffee Culture

Johor Bahru is quickly becoming known for its thriving cafe scene, filled with Instagram-worthy spots that offer both ambiance and delicious food. Cafes in JB go beyond just coffee; they’ve become lifestyle destinations for those seeking a cozy place to relax or catch up with friends. You’ll find an eclectic mix of minimalist, industrial-chic, and vintage-style cafes that serve a variety of fusion dishes and beautiful beverages. One of the most popular cafes is Keijometo, which sports a sleek Japanese-inspired minimalist design. Here, you can enjoy their famous beef sandwiches, matcha drinks, and eye-catching desserts.

For more cafe vibes, check out The Founders Cafe and Bev C’afe, both known for their unique interiors and extensive brunch menus. Whether you’re looking to grab a picture-perfect latte or enjoy a full meal, Johor Bahru’s cafe scene provides a wide array of options that cater to both food lovers and Instagram enthusiasts.

3. Night Markets: Experience Local Cuisines at Their Best

Johor Bahru’s night markets offer an unparalleled taste of local Malaysian street food. These markets, which come alive in the evenings, are the perfect place to sample a wide variety of dishes that showcase the diverse culinary heritage of the region. One of the top markets is Taman Sri Tebrau Night Market, where you can find dishes like satay, fried kway teow, and freshly grilled seafood. Each stall offers something unique, whether it’s savory snacks, sweet desserts, or even local drinks like sugarcane juice.

At the KSL Night Market, you’ll be treated to a mix of traditional and fusion street foods. The market is known for its fun, vibrant atmosphere, where you can try local favorites like apam balik (crispy pancakes) and fried quail. The night markets of JB offer more than just food; they’re a complete cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the authentic flavors of the region while enjoying the lively, bustling environment.

4. Lok Lok: A Must for Supper Lovers

If you’re in Johor Bahru and craving a late-night snack, Lok Lok is a local favourite that’s hard to miss. The concept is simple yet exciting: pick your skewers—whether it’s vegetables, seafood, or meats—and either boil or fry them on the spot. After they’re cooked, dip them into a variety of flavourful sauces, ranging from spicy chilli to sweet soy. The combination of crispy fried skewers and tasty dipping sauces is what makes Lok Lok a perfect supper option for anyone seeking a casual, satisfying meal.

Mount Austin is particularly known for its lively Lok Lok stalls, which stay open late into the night. Whether you’re in the mood for something light like fishballs or heartier options like bacon-wrapped mushrooms, Lok Lok offers endless options to suit your tastes. It’s also a social experience, where groups gather around the stalls, sharing skewers and enjoying the relaxed street food culture that Johor Bahru is famous for.

5. Local Zi Char: Comfort Food at Its Best

For a hearty, home-style meal in Johor Bahru, nothing beats the flavours of a zi char restaurant. Zi char, meaning “cook and fry” in Chinese, is a dining style where diners share multiple dishes, making it perfect for group meals. One of the most popular zi char spots in JB is Restoran Teck Sing, which is famous for its paper-wrapped chicken. This signature dish features chicken marinated in a special sauce, then wrapped in parchment and baked to juicy perfection.

In addition to the paper-wrapped chicken, Restoran Teck Sing serves other local favourites like claypot tofu, sweet and sour pork, and stir-fried vegetables. Zi char dining offers a wide variety of flavours, from savoury and spicy to sweet and tangy, making it an ideal option for anyone who wants to experience authentic Chinese-Malaysian cuisine. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere at Teck Sing adds to the comfort and warmth of the meal, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a traditional dining experience in JB.

6. Hotpot Restaurants: A Social Dining Experience

Hotpot restaurants are a staple in Johor Bahru, offering an interactive and customizable dining experience that’s perfect for groups. At a hotpot restaurant, diners select their own ingredients, including thinly sliced meats, fresh seafood, and a variety of vegetables, which are then cooked in a bubbling pot of broth right at the table. One of the most popular hotpot chains in JB is Haidilao Hot Pot, known for its excellent service and variety of broth options. At Haidilao, diners can enjoy everything from mild herbal broths to spicy Sichuan-style pots, with the option to customize their meal with an extensive condiment bar.

If you’re looking for more hotpot options, Chong Qing Grilled Fish offers a spicier alternative, with broths infused with Sichuan peppercorns for a fiery kick. Many hotpot restaurants in JB also include fun perks, such as complimentary snacks and drinks while you wait, making it a memorable dining experience from start to finish. Whether you’re a hotpot veteran or a first-timer, JB’s hotpot scene promises a delicious and interactive meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Johor Bahru offers a wealth of food experiences, from street food at night markets to upscale hotpot dining. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or staying longer, be sure to explore these culinary gems that make JB a food lover’s paradise.