Johor Bahru’s café culture has evolved into a playground of design, flavour, and community vibes. Whether you’re on the hunt for a peaceful brunch hideaway, an industrial-style workspace, or a nature-inspired tea stop, JB’s cafés deliver in both taste and atmosphere. This curated list spotlights five “JB cafe” local favourites—some tucked in greenery, others styled for your next aesthetic feed post. Each spot has been verified by café-goers who appreciate both good coffee and great surroundings.
Grumpy Goat & Friends Forest Feast Cafe｜”JB cafe” Hidden Greenhouse Escape
Grumpy Goat & Friends offers a forest-themed escape with its glasshouse concept and foliage-lined design. A favourite among brunch lovers and nature enthusiasts, the café serves comforting dishes like creamy mushroom soup and tom yum pasta. The open, airy space feels refreshing and lively, especially when sunlight streams through the glass ceiling. It’s a go-to for brunch groups and birthday hangouts, so weekends tend to be busy. Cashless payments preferred.
📍 GL1, Jalan Suria, Gravity Green, Bandar Baru Seri Alam, 81750 Masai, Johor Bahru
🕒 Daily: 10:30 am–10:45 pm
📞 017‑891 1366
Semicolon｜Downtown JB’s Brunch Spot with Soul
Semicolon stands out for merging heritage charm with modern café elegance in the heart of the city. The menu includes brunch classics like soft scrambled eggs and risotto, along with espresso-based drinks and cocktails. Inside, soft lights and exposed brick walls create a moody yet inviting space. Ideal for solo journaling, romantic afternoons, or nightcaps. Weekday visits offer a quieter atmosphere, while weekends attract a social crowd.
📍 60 Jalan Yahya Awal, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80100 JB
🕒 11:00 am–10:00 pm (Closed Thursdays)
📞 07‑338 4150
Principle Reserve by T.A.M｜”JB cafe” A Tasteful Colonial Café in Taman Melodies
Principle Reserve charms with its vintage aesthetics and refined all-day brunch offerings. Dishes like sea-salt kombu latte and croissant platters blend Japanese flair with European style. The café is tastefully fitted with wooden textures, antique tiles, and leafy accents. It’s a calm place to spend a slow morning with a book or catch up over flaky pastries. The pastry station adds a DIY element that regulars love.
📍 23 Jalan Balau, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru
🕒 Daily: 8:00 am–10:00 pm
📞 016‑869 0023
Fifty Trees｜Best Garden “JB cafe” for Comfort Food
Nestled in Taman Melodies, Fifty Trees balances greenery and hearty meals in a semi-outdoor setting. Known for its affordability and generous brunch portions, crowd favourites include mac & cheese and croissant egg combos. The space is family-friendly and full of natural light, with plant-covered corners perfect for casual IG stories. It’s a relaxing café that feels like a botanical retreat—especially popular on sunny weekends.
📍 53 Jalan Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru
🕒 9:00 am–10:00 pm (Closed Tuesdays)
📞 07‑338 4150
The Founders Café｜Loft-Style cafe with Brunch Vibes
With its polished cement floors and airy ceiling space, The Founders Café brings a KL-style industrial charm to JB. The Japanese pancakes and sourdough toast are must-orders, paired with smooth coffee or kombucha. It’s loved by remote workers, creatives, and anyone looking for a spacious yet stylish spot. Whether you’re brunching with friends or catching up on emails, this café delivers comfort with a creative twist.
📍 Tiong Nam Tebrau, 45, Jln Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
🕒 9:00 am–6:00 pm
📞 012‑772 1880
From botanical brunch escapes to moody downtown hideouts, Johor Bahru’s café scene is now as Instagrammable as it is flavourful. These five cafés offer more than just food—they deliver experiences that linger, whether through ambience, taste, or memory. Save this guide for your next weekend outing, and don’t forget to snap a shot—you just might find your new favourite corner in JB’s growing café map.
