Johor Bahru is more than a transit stop—it’s a culinary treasure trove brimming with history and hearty flavours. Our curated collection highlights five “JB Breakfast” where locals gather—ranging from early-morning kopitiams to timeless noodle havens. These cherished spots, visited and loved by generations, serve up cultural experiences with every bite. Whether you’re on safari through JB’s food lanes or craving a nostalgic bowl, you’ll find authenticity here.
Restoran Lee Soon｜”JB Breakfast” Signature Wantan Mee in Taman Pelangi
Tucked away in Taman Pelangi, Restoran Lee Soon draws loyal fans with its perfectly springy wantan mee. The dish combines smooth egg noodles with tender char siew and silky dumplings, floating in a delicate yet flavourful broth. Early birds can enhance their meal with a side of crispy fried wantans or hearty curry laksa. The vibrant kopitiam atmosphere—plastic stools, wok sounds, and friendly aunties calling out orders—captures the essence of old JB mornings.
📍 148 Jalan Sri Pelangi, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru
🕒 6:30 am–4:30 pm, 6:30 pm–1:00 am
📞 +607 332 6890
Hock Chiang Hin Kopitiam｜”JB Breakfast” Tradition-Wrapped Dim Sum
Plain and unassuming, this downtown kopitiam has quietly maintained its dim sum legacy. The juicy siew mai is a highlight, while the lo mai kai stands out with its fragrant rice and tender chicken. Their fluffy char siew bao adds a comforting touch of sweetness to each bite. Marble-topped tables, wooden stools, and morning kopi blend into a nostalgic scene that invites patrons to linger and savour the past.
📍 18 Jalan Siu Nam, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
🕒 7:30 am–2:00 pm (Closed Sundays)
📞 N/A
Pacific Kopi｜Jalan Dhoby’s Vintage-Flavoured Café
Pacific Kopi brings retro charm and creative bites to Jalan Dhoby. Their mee siam delivers tangy spice with egg, tau pok, and sambal, while the niangao latte offers chewy glutinous rice cubes in creamy coffee. Guests can also enjoy charcoal-grilled toast paired with soft-boiled eggs. The mosaic tiles, wooden furniture, and mellow indie tunes make this café a relaxed haven for brunch lovers and solo creatives alike.
📍 11 Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru
🕒 8:00 am–9:00 pm (Closed Wednesdays)
📞 018‑874 1215
Jiah Xiang Dim Sum｜”JB Breakfast” Hearty Dim Sum Stop
Jiah Xiang stands out in Mount Austin for offering generous, crowd-pleasing dim sum. Their salted egg char siew buns are beautifully inflated, oozing golden yolk upon breaking. The har gow and siew mai arrive consistently plump and steaming at every visit. Popular with families and groups, the restaurant buzzes with conversation and shared plates in a clean, modern dining space that complements the homely menu.
📍 113 & 115 Jalan Mutiara Emas 2A, Taman Mount Austin
🕒 7:00 am–3:00 pm
📞 07‑361 4848
Hainanese Pork & Beef Noodle｜Kulai’s Hidden Culinary Treasure
In the quiet surroundings of Kulai, this humble noodle stall serves up soulful Hainanese pork and beef noodle bowls. The clear yet rich broth—simmered for hours—brings out deep, comforting flavours. Each bowl is loaded with tender pork slices, beef tripe, and handmade meatballs atop perfectly chewy noodles. Favoured by locals for its heritage authenticity, it consistently draws diners from JB and beyond for a true taste of nostalgia.
📍 625 Jalan Berjasa 6, Taman Gunung Pulai, 81000 Kulai
🕒 8:00 am–2:00 pm (Closed Tuesdays)
📞 012‑787 1090 / 016‑740 4010
These five Johor Bahru eateries are more than places to eat—they’re storytellers of JB’s culinary heritage. From springy wantan mee to heartwarming Hainanese noodles, each dish offers a connection to place, memory, and tradition. Whether you’re a curious traveller or a devoted local, this list is your invitation to savour JB’s living food history. Bookmark your favourites, share your experiences, and let these flavours linger long after your meal.
