Four Hours Foodie Journey Through Johor Bahru
#summervacay Spending a few relaxing hours exploring Johor Bahru’s vibrant food and café scene can be a real treat, especially when you combine hearty traditional dishes, artisanal desserts, cozy café vibes, and modern casual dining. Recently, I spent about four hours hopping between four fantastic spots that each offered something special—from comforting meals to aesthetic settings and delightful drinks.
The day began with a visit to Shun Fa Bak Kut Teh in Taman Sentosa. Their signature bak kut teh served in a bubbling claypot was the perfect way to start—tender pork ribs bathed in a rich but balanced herbal broth, still simmering gently over charcoal. We paired it with claypot fried pork belly slices, smoky and juicy, and some crisp you tiao, perfect for dipping. The air-conditioned space was bright and comfortable, providing a cool refuge while enjoying this classic dish.
Next, I wandered over to Xuan Café, a space that beautifully blends traditional Chinese elegance with contemporary charm. Walking in, I was immediately drawn to the artistic details—the graceful calligraphy adorning the walls, Chinese chess pieces carefully arranged in quiet corners, vintage tea sets, and old-style menus that add a nostalgic flair. I indulged in their maotai tiramisu, served in a delicate yellow teacup, where creamy richness met subtle citrus and gentle booziness. Paired with a roasted oolong milk tea that was smooth and fragrant, it was a sensory experience both calming and refined. The ambience here invites you to slow down and truly savor the moment.
Later, I found myself at grind.jb, a café that perfectly marries rustic industrial design with natural touches. The indoor tree stretching up to a skylight floods the space with soft daylight, and the décor balances exposed brick and warm wood with modern simplicity. One of the highlights was meeting Mocha, their resident cat, who adds a quiet warmth to the environment. I enjoyed a strawberry matcha latte—fruity, creamy, and balanced—with a moist lemon pound cake that was just tangy enough to complement the drink. It’s a mellow, welcoming spot ideal for a relaxed break or some quiet work time.
To round off the afternoon, I stopped by Roro Pelangi for one of their incredible RM19.90 lunch sets. The tori karaage was perfectly crispy and juicy, while the grilled saba offered a smoky, flaky delight. Both sets came with three sides, fresh salad, and miso soup, making for a satisfying and well-rounded meal. The modern interior, featuring sleek black tables and chairs softened by warm lighting and large windows letting in natural light, provided a stylish yet comfortable atmosphere to enjoy the food.
Altogether, spending around four hours moving through these four spots gave me a wonderful taste of Johor Bahru’s diverse dining scene.
#citydaytours #localfood #couplestrip #naturalwonders #thingstodo #myitinerary #afternoonteatime #travel