Looking for the best halal cafés in Johor Bahru (JB) in 2025? Whether you're on a day trip from Singapore or a local exploring your own city, JB is a treasure trove of trendy halal and Muslim-friendly cafés.
From aesthetic brunch spots in Mount Austin to heritage kopitiams in downtown, this updated list covers 22 must-visit halal cafés across key neighbourhoods in JB—perfect for your next café hop!
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Downtown Johor Bahru
1. Chaiwalla & Co. Container Café
One of JB’s most unique cafés, Chaiwalla operates out of a converted shipping container along the heritage street of Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.
It’s best known for serving refreshing Thai milk tea, Vietnamese coffee, and an extensive range of cold brews and boba drinks—all in charming mason jars.
A casual, open-air setup with string lights and cosy corners makes it a top pick for quick catch-ups and Instagram-worthy snaps.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (pork‑free)
Address: 36, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 11:30 AM – 12 AM (Fri/Sat until 1 AM)
Contact: +60 17‑622 4536
2. IT Roo Café
A legendary name in Johor Bahru’s food scene, IT Roo Café proudly claims the title of “Best Chicken Chop in Town.” Their signature dish—a crispy or grilled chicken chop served with black pepper or mushroom sauce—is a must-try.
Nestled in the heritage district of Jalan Dhoby, this café exudes old-school charm and has been serving hearty Hainanese Western dishes since the 1960s.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy classic flavours in a nostalgic setting.
Halal status: Halal-certified
Address: 17, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 11 AM – 8:30 PM
Contact: +60 7‑222 7780
3. The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen
This popular café-lodge hybrid has earned a reputation for its photogenic white-washed interiors and minimalist Scandinavian design.
The Replacement serves brunch all day, featuring popular choices such as churros with chocolate dip, croque madame, and soft-shell crab bao. Expect queues during brunch hours thanks to its Instagrammable appeal and delicious fare.
Guests can even stay overnight in the upstairs boutique lodge, making it ideal for short weekend getaways!
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (pork/lard-free)
Address: 33–34, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 9 AM – 6 PM; Fri–Sun 8 AM – 9 PM
Contact: +60 12‑547 7885
4. Faculty of Caffeine
Tucked along Jalan Trus, Faculty of Caffeine is a JB institution among coffee lovers. The industrial-chic design features cement counters and minimalist wood accents.
On the menu: expertly brewed coffee, truffle fries, salted caramel affogato, and matcha lava cake. It’s a quiet haven for creatives, freelancers, and couples looking to relax over comfort food with a modern twist.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: 106, Jalan Trus, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 9 AM – 6 PM
Contact: +60 12‑720 0910
5. Palates & Bagels (Pelangi & Mount Austin)
Palates & Bagels delivers handcrafted bagels and aesthetic brunch plates across both its Pelangi and Mount Austin outlets.
Whether you're visiting the cosy Pelangi branch or the spacious plant-filled café in Mount Austin, expect popular favourites like smoked salmon bagels, avocado toast, and egg-loaded sandwiches.
Both cafés feature a relaxed, Instagram-worthy vibe perfect for casual meetups or solo coffee dates.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Addresses: Pelangi – 10, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 JB | Mount Austin – 46, Jalan Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80250 JB
Opening hours: Pelangi – Daily 8:30 AM – 6 PM | Mount Austin – Daily 8AM –10 PM
Contact: +60 16‑353 0046
6. Padi Kopitiam (Jalan Trus & Mount Austin)
A traditional kopitiam experience with a modern twist, Padi Kopitiam delivers all the Malaysian breakfast favourites—from kaya butter toast to nasi lemak and half-boiled eggs.
Its branches in both Jalan Trus and Mount Austin offer the same cosy atmosphere, affordable pricing, and consistent quality.
Popular among locals for quick meals and nostalgic flavours, it’s ideal for a comforting breakfast or lunch.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Addresses: Jalan Trus – Ibrahim International Business District, 82-B1, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80888 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
Mount Austin – 15, Jalan Austin Heights 3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM – 9 PM
Contact: +60 11‑1439 5460
7. Miyakori Coffee
This charming Japanese-influenced café, located in City Square Mall, offers a peaceful escape just across from JB customs. Miyakori Coffee specialises in premium single-origin coffee, artisanal desserts, and light meals in a minimalist, Scandinavian-style space.
The highlight of their menu is the Iced Miyakori Kuramitsu, a balanced brew sweetened with Japanese black honey, paired with treats like matcha castella and layered honey cake.
It's a well-loved spot for students, remote workers, and visitors needing a calm refuel before or after crossing the border.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard; uses dairy and vegetarian ingredients)
Address: Lot J5‑19, Level 5, City Square Mall, 108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 10 AM–9 PM (Note: may vary on weekends)
Contact: +60 7‑362 1132
8. Doña Bakehouse
Doña Bakehouse brings a slice of Middle Eastern charm to Johor Bahru with its elegant café-bakery concept.
Known for artisanal bakes and sourdough loaves, the highlight here is the lemon meringue croissant and truffle mushroom soup.
The café’s cosy, tiled interiors and counter seating give it an intimate feel, while the aroma of fresh bread draws in the breakfast crowd daily. Great for light brunches, quick bites, or takeaway pastries!
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: 14, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 5 PM
9. Mrs. Whó
Housed in the basement of SKS Pavillion Residences, Mrs. Whó is a Muslim-owned café that blends minimalist industrial décor with cosy lounge touches.
It serves a creative fusion of Peranakan and Western dishes—think: rendang pasta, pandan pancakes, curried ramen bowls, fried chicken waffles, and gula melaka French toast.
The café is perfect for intimate catch-ups, casual brunches with friends, or even study sessions.
Halal status: Halal-certified
Address: Jalan Storey, SKS Pavillion Residences, Bukit Senyum, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue–Thu 11 AM–8 PM; Fri 2–8 PM; Sat–Sun 9 AM–8 PM; Closed Mon
Contact: +60 12‑774 6349
10. Café Racer by Grillbar
With its unique biker-themed décor—scooters, helmets, and rugged bikes hanging from the walls—Café Racer offers a casual dining experience just off Jalan Pingai in Taman Pelangi.
The menu features hearty Western comfort dishes: juicy steaks, burgers, giant waffles, beef stew, and hearty breakfast platters. Signature items include the “Racer’s Beef Stew,” onion blossom, and the “Waffle Rumble” with sausage and cheese mayo.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: 72, Jalan Pingai, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 12 PM – 11 PM; Closed Tuesday
Contact: +60 7‑335 0000
11. Bev C Café
Bev C Café is a true hidden gem tucked inside a concept store in Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.
Famed for its industrial-chic interiors and edgy fashion-meets-coffee vibes, this café is beloved for its signature espresso tonic, cold brews, and house-made pastries like charcoal croissants and burnt cheesecakes.
It’s the perfect stop for creatives and design lovers who want their coffee with a side of style. The in-house fashion boutique adds to its unique lifestyle appeal, making it a multi-sensory experience in one of JB’s coolest heritage shophouses.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: 54, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Wed–Mon 10 AM – 5 PM; Closed Tuesday
Contact: +60 16‑723 1310
12. Keijometo
A haven for lovers of matcha and minimalism, Keijometo is a stylish Japanese-inspired café that’s quickly become a local favourite. The grey cement interiors, wooden furnishings, and open kitchen create a zen-like ambience.
Menu highlights include their signature matcha latte, matcha burnt cheesecake, and karaage chicken rice bowls.
It’s a serene space perfect for slow mornings, quiet work sessions, or a relaxing catch-up over refined bites and tea.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: 3 Jalan Chengai, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 11 AM–7 PM; Closed Mon
Contact: +60 7‑331 1825
13. Nimmies Pastry Café
Nestled in a two-storey bungalow in Taman Melodies (close to Mount Austin), Nimmies Pastry Café offers a delightful blend of Parisian vibes and creative flavours.
The café is famous for its artisanal croissants—both sweet and savoury (like the viral “Hoe Lemak Croissant” topped with sunny‑side‑up egg, ikan bilis, peanuts, sambal, and cucumber). Their hearty mains, including Curry Laksa Spaghetti and award-winning Fish & Chips, make it a great brunch destination.
Add on specialty drinks like Gula Melaka Latte and Mokuren Genmaicha, and you’ve got a stylish, Instagrammable spot.
Halal status: Halal-certified (JAKIM recognized)
Address: 171, Jalan Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM–11 PM
Contact: +60 13‑781 7881
14. The FOUNDERS Café
A hit with the younger crowd and popular on TikTok, The FOUNDERS Café combines industrial-chic design—think high ceilings, exposed concrete, and graffiti walls—with laid-back Bali-inspired vibes.
The spacious venue is well-suited for brunch groups or casual gatherings, and their menu spans hearty favourites like Aussie Beef Bagels, shakshuka pizza, truffle fries, and creative mocktails.
Most visitors appreciate the generous portion sizes and the trendy ambience that makes it an Instagram hotspot.
Halal status: Muslim‑friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: 45, Jalan Tiong Nam Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Day menu 9 AM – 6 PM (last order 5 PM); Night menu 6 PM – 10 PM (last order 9 PM)
Contact: +60 18‑900 4572
15. TIP – The Ice‑Cream Project
One of the most iconic dessert cafés in Johor Bahru, TIP – The Ice Cream Project specialises in liquid nitrogen ice cream, offering a cool visual experience as foggy clouds billow while your ice cream is freshly churned to order.
Located along Jalan Dhoby, the sleek white-and-wood interiors add a premium artisanal vibe. Popular flavours include Rocher Fudge, Pistachio & Pink Salt, Sea Salt Caramel, and Madagascar Vanilla. They also offer creative toppings, curated coffee pairings, and takeaway pints for ice cream fans on the go.
TIP’s commitment to quality and Instagrammable presentation makes it a favourite among café hoppers, families, and dessert lovers alike.
Halal status: Halal-certified
Address: 31, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 12 PM – 11 PM
Contact: +60 13‑355 5632
16. B.L.O.C – Banana Lover Cribs
This unique dessert and supper café specialises in loaded banana fritters with creative toppings like cheese, honey, chocolate, and brown sugar, all made fresh and non-greasy.
B.L.O.C. is also popular for hearty fusion Ramly burgers, apple milk drinks, chicken satay, and monster-sized burgers—each dish praised for bold flavours and generous portions.
Typically open till late (some outlets until 3 AM), it’s perfect for night owls and supper seekers after a café hop. Friendly staff add to the laid-back, casual vibes and they'll make you feel right at home!
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: (Food truck park / rotating location in JB) — often stationed near Jalan Dhoby or Jalan Trus (confirm via Facebook before visiting)
Opening hours: Approx. 7 PM–3 AM (last orders vary)
Taman Molek
17. The Sugar Pantry
A charming artisan bakery-café that blends minimalist Japanese aesthetics with French patisserie flair.
Founded by Le Cordon Bleu–trained chefs, The Sugar Pantry is praised for its exquisitely crafted cakes (think: Matcha Azuki and Mont Blanc), macarons, scones, and brunch items like salmon egg benedict.
The serene tatami-style seating upstairs makes it an ideal spot for afternoon tea or intimate gatherings. While a small crowd mentions “mixed reviews on drinks,” overall, it's considered a sweet escape for dessert lovers.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard; vegetarian and dessert-focused)
Address: 11, Jalan Molek 1/9, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 10:30 AM – 7 PM; Sat 10:30 AM – 7 PM; Sun Closed
Contact: +60 17‑770 7897
Tebrau
18. Molten Chocolate Café
A must-visit for chocolate lovers, Molten Chocolate Café offers a dessert-focused menu packed with indulgent treats. The chocolate lava pancakes, sizzling brownies, and Belgian waffles are top picks.
Pair your dessert with their signature hot chocolate or a chocolate milkshake. With cosy lighting and luxurious seating, it’s ideal for a sweet date night or just dessert after a shopping spree.
Halal status: Halal-certified
Address: Lot G40, Ground Floor, AEON Mall Tebrau City, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 10 AM – 10 PM
Contact: +60 7‑359 5697
19. Hazukido Café (Tebrau)
Located in AEON Mall Tebrau, Hazukido Café specialises in flaky, French-style croissants with creative Asian twists. Signature items include Honeycomb, Garlic Butter, and Hazelnut Chocolate croissants, as well as Shokupan sandwiches like Curry Chicken and Pollo-Pesto Chicken.
The cosy indoor seating makes it a great dessert and tea-time stop for families and couples alike.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: Lot G109B, Ground Floor, AEON Mall Tebrau City, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 10 AM – 10 PM
Puteri Harbour / Eco Flora Mall
20. Caribbean Juice Bar
Set along the waterfront at Puteri Harbour, Caribbean Juice Bar offers tropical vibes with Balinese-style decor, bamboo furniture, and a chill reggae playlist.
The Healthy Loaded Papaya and fresh smoothie bowls are favourites among those craving fruity, refreshing treats. The casual al-fresco vibe is perfect for laid-back brunches!
Halal status: Muslim-friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: Sandy Beach, Puteri Harbour, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 3 PM – 10 PM; Fri 3 PM – 11 PM; Sat 12 PM – 12 AM; Sun 12 PM – 11 PM
21. TreeSea by 3C Cafe
Nestled in the leafy residential enclave of Horizon Hills, this café is a hidden gem offering a calm, garden-inspired dining atmosphere.
Featuring natural wood interiors, lush greenery, and laid-back vibes, TreeSea by 3C Cafe serves breakfast, brunch, artisanal cakes, and specialty coffee, like their popular lavender latte and salted caramel brew.
Savour dishes like omelettes, aglio olio pasta, strawberry shortcake, and tiramisu while soaking in the serene, family-friendly environment. With reliable Wi‑Fi and power plugs, it’s also great for remote work.
Halal status: Muslim‑friendly (no pork, no lard, no MSG)
Address: 31, Jalan Hijauan 3, Horizon Hills, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 8 PM
Contact: +60 7‑287 6229
22. September Café
Step into a minimalist winter wonderland at September Café in Eco Palladium. The all‑white and grey industrial interiors are accented with preserved pampas grass and bare tree installations—perfect for photogenic snaps.
This Muslim‑friendly café serves light brunch items, beautifully plated square cakes, and speciality coffee and tea. Must‑try flavours include Watermelon Lychee, Earl Grey Lime, Strawberry, and Yammylicious—rotating regularly.
Halal status: Muslim‑friendly (no pork/lard)
Address: Block B01‑39, Eco Palladium, Jalan Ekoflora 7/1, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 11 AM–8 PM; closed Mon
To wrap up your halal café adventure in Johor Bahru, these 22 must-visit spots offer more than just great food—they deliver ambience, aesthetics, and a taste of JB's vibrant local culture.
Whether you're in the mood for matcha lattes in Mount Austin, hearty brunches downtown, or picture-perfect desserts by the harbour, there's something for every kind of foodie.
With new cafés popping up regularly, Johor Bahru continues to be a café-hopper’s paradise just a stone’s throw from Singapore. Be sure to bookmark this list for your next weekend trip!
