If you’re planning a trip to Johor Bahru, there’s one spot that must be on your foodie list — Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory. Known for its moist banana cake and old-school buns, this halal traditional bakery in JB has been around for more than 100 years!
Whether you’re craving nostalgic snacks or wondering what to eat in Johor Bahru, Hiap Joo is a crowd favourite — especially among Muslim travellers and Singaporeans on a weekend trip!
Hiap Joo might not flash a halal sign at its entrance, but rest assured — the bakery does not use pork, lard, or alcohol, and has been listed on halal travel platforms for years. The team at Hiap Joo is also mindful of Muslim dietary needs, making it a safe spot to enjoy local treats worry-free!
Hiap Joo has been around since 1919, and it’s not just the recipes that are old-school — the bakery still uses a charcoal-fired oven to bake its signature treats daily. You’ll often see long queues outside, especially on weekends, with people eagerly waiting for boxes of their famous banana cake. And once you try it, you’ll understand why!
Located on Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, this heritage bakery is also just a short walk from Johor Bahru City Square – perfect if you're planning a foodie stop on your JB day trip!
Must-try halal snacks at Hiap Joo Bakery
There’s something incredibly comforting about the baked goods at Hiap Joo — they’re simple, nostalgic, and full of flavour. If you’re visiting for the first time, here are the must-try halal snacks you shouldn’t miss:
1. Banana Cake
Hiap Joo’s banana cake is what made the bakery famous — and for good reason. Baked in a century-old wood-fired oven, the cake has a slightly smoky aroma that you can’t replicate with modern baking. It’s incredibly moist, fluffy, and lightly sweet, with the natural taste of bananas shining through.
- What makes it special: No artificial flavours, just pure banana goodness and a soft crumb texture that melts in your mouth.
- Best enjoyed when: Warm and fresh out of the oven — you’ll understand why people queue every morning!
- Price: Around RM12 for a box of 10 slices
If you’re bringing it back to Singapore, be sure to pack it well — it stays good for about 2 days without refrigeration!
2. Traditional Buns
These buns are a real throwback to old-school Malaysian bakeries. Soft, fluffy, and baked in the same charcoal oven, they come with a variety of classic fillings like:
- Coconut (kelapa) – rich, grated coconut sweetened with gula Melaka
- Kaya – smooth, fragrant egg jam that’s a local breakfast staple
- Red Bean (kacang merah) – a mildly sweet paste that’s perfect with tea
- Butter & Sugar – simple, yet so satisfying!
- What makes them special: Each bun is handmade, generously filled, and costs just a little over RM1 — perfect for stocking up.
- When to go: Earlier in the day for the best variety, as popular flavours do sell out.
3. Otak-Otak Bun
This one’s for the savoury snack lovers! The Otak-Otak bun is filled with a slice of spiced fish paste (otak-otak), wrapped in soft bread and baked till lightly golden. It’s a beautiful blend of spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet.
- What makes it special: The otak-otak filling has just the right amount of heat, balanced by the softness of the bun — and yes, it’s halal!
- When to look out for it: Not always available daily, so it’s a lucky find if you spot it!
4. Butter & Coffee Cakes
If you prefer your cakes a little richer, keep an eye out for Hiap Joo’s butter and coffee cakes. They’re made in small batches, using old-fashioned recipes — think dense, buttery sponge with a slightly crisp crust on the outside.
- Butter cake – simple, rich, and full of flavour from real butter
- Coffee cake – lightly infused with coffee aroma, not overly sweet
- What makes them special: These cakes feel like something your grandmother would bake — humble, hearty, and made with care. Perfect with a hot drink after a day of walking around JB!
Best enjoyed on the same day — but if you’re bringing them home, store them in a cool, dry place and enjoy within 24 hours for peak flavour.
If you’re doing a halal food trip in Johor Bahru, Hiap Joo is a great place to start. Here are some handy tips:
- Bring cash! The bakery doesn’t always accept cards.
- The banana cake travels well — perfect as a gift or for sharing with family.
- Need to pray? Masjid India Johor Bahru is just a 10-minute walk away, and JB City Square has a convenient surau too.
Hiap Joo gets super busy, especially on weekends and public holidays. To skip the long queue and grab your favourite bakes, we recommend arriving as early as 8AM.
Halal status: Muslim-friendly
Opening hours: Mon–Sat: 7.30AM–4.30PM | Sun: 9AM until sold out | Closed on public holidays
Address: 113, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Contact: +60 7-223 1703
