Johor Food Trail 2026

Johor Food Trail 2026

These were the places we visited and ate at, as regular paying customers, on the Johor Food Trail 2026 in Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia.

Day 1
Wong Ga Kopitiam - Tin & Tin (Cathay) Beef Noodles & Shang Ji Duck Rice & Noodles
Restoran Hua Mui
Restoran Yasin
GO (Got One) Noodle House

Day 2
Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory
Alang Tunggal Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah
WW Laksa House And Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer
Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh

Day 3
Meng Fang Kway Teow Kia Kway Chap
Restoran Ya Wang
Tea Garden Restaurant
Da Cheng Lok Lok

Day 4
Restoran Kacang Pool Haji
Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee
ZUS Coffee And Rotiboy
Restoran Ah Kaw

Day 5
13 Units Hong Kong Cafe
Foon Yew Laksa
Crab Bro Noodle House
Ramly Burger 24Hrs

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Day 1
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Wong Ga Kopitiam - Tin & Tin (Cathay) Beef Noodles & Shang Ji Duck Rice & Noodles
@ 141 - 142 Jalan Lumba Kuda, Bukit Chagar, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80300, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 8am – 2pm, Closed Mon
https://www.facebook.com/p/Tin-Tin-Cathay-Beef-Noodle-100063712563919/

The Wong Ga Kopitiam is a humble coffeeshop with several stalls. They include the Tin & Tin (Cathay) Beef Noodles stall, and the Shang Ji Duck Rice & Noodles stall, both legacy family-run stalls now managed by the 2nd generation hawkers.

Ambience at Wong Ga Kopitiam is bright, clean, and spacious, breezy with ample seating. Service at Wong Ga Kopitiam is transactional, largely self-service with ordering and payment, though staff do serve orders to your table. Food at Wong Ga Kopitiam is Chinese cuisine, the hawkers being masters of their craft. Portions are sized for individuals or for communal sharing. Prices are affordable, budget about MYR RM18 per person.

Wong Ga Kopitiam Signage

The Tin & Tin (Cathay) Beef Noodles stall is run by Kelvin Tan, who'd taken over from his father Tan Ah Teng. Their Beef Noodles follows the traditional Chinese Hainanese family recipe from the 1970s, flavour is generally good with acceptable texture to the ingredients. The Mixed Beef Soup has a very mild flavour, I preferred the noodle version. Overall average, a decent breakfast. Worth ordering!

Tin & Tin (Cathay) Beef Noodles Signage

Tin & Tin (Cathay) Beef Noodles Facade

Mixed Beef Soup (MYR RM16)

Beef Noodles (MYR RM16)

Beef Noodles

The Shang Ji Duck Rice & Noodles stall is run by Lim Ah Tee, the youngest of 4 brothers who also run similar stalls elsewhere under their family's brand. Their Braised Duck takes after the classic Chinese Hokkien family recipe from the 1980s, texture of the ingredients is spot on and the flavour is delicious. Loved their Braised Mixed Pig's Organs (MYR RM18) too, best paired with the Dry Kway Teow Gravy (MYR RM2) which is luscious. Of the several stalls located here, this is the more popular stall. Good!

Shang Ji Duck Rice & Noodles Signage

Shang Ji Duck Rice & Noodles Facade

Braised Duck (MYR RM18)

Braised Duck

Dry Kway Teow Gravy (MYR RM2)

Braised Mixed Pig's Organs (MYR RM18)

Meal Flat Lay

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Restoran Hua Mui
@ 131 Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80000, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 8am – 5pm
https://huamui.com/

Established in 1946 by Chiang Kia Boon, Restoran Hua Mui offers old-school Nanyang dishes, crafted with the care and attention befitting a sultan. Now run by 2nd generation owner David Chiang, the wide menu and tasty dishes continue to regularly attract crowds throughout the day.

Ambience at Restoran Hua Mui is retro and old-school. The sturdy wooden furnishing is neatly lined within the small shophouse space, gently cooled by ceiling fans though the heat of the day remains pervasive. Service at Restoran Hua Mui is polite and friendly. Ordering and payment is self-service, with the online menu having helpful pictures and descriptions. Food at Restoran Hua Mui is Chinese Hainanese and Malay cuisine, with the halal-certified central kitchen ensuring consistent standards. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are slightly above average, budget about MYR RM25 per person.

Restoran Hua Mui Exterior

Restoran Hua Mui Interior

A refreshing Iced Kopi-C (MYR RM5.50) without added sugar (kosong), nice.

Iced Kopi-C (MYR RM5.50)

Iced Kopi-C

The Milo Dinosaur (MYR RM8.90) was a special beverage treat!

Milo Dinosaur (MYR RM8.90)

Milo Dinosaur

The Mee Rebus (MYR RM10.90) is straightforward, with a thick and tasty gravy. Worth ordering!

Mee Rebus (MYR RM10.90)

Mee Rebus

Loved their signature Traditional Breakfast Set (MYR RM7.60, RM6.40), pairing either Toast Bread Kaya / Coconut Egg Jam With Butter or Toast Bread Butter With Sugar, with 2 Soft Boiled Chicken Eggs. Each component was well executed. Highly recommended!

Traditional Breakfast Set (MYR RM7.60, RM6.40)

Traditional Breakfast Set

Toast Bread Kaya / Coconut Egg Jam With Butter

Toast Bread Kaya / Coconut Egg Jam With Butter

Soft Boiled Chicken Eggs

Soft Boiled Chicken Eggs

Soft Boiled Chicken Eggs

Toast Bread Butter With Sugar

Toast Bread Butter With Sugar

Toast Bread Butter With Sugar

Traditional Breakfast Set

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Restoran Yasin
@ 101 Jalan Mahmoodiah, Kampung Bahru, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80100, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 7am – 11:30pm

Established since November 1992, Restoran Yasin is well regarded for its consistency of taste and community familiarity, having built a loyal customer base across 3 decades.

Ambience at Restoran Yasin is bright, clean, and well organised, albeit noisy and bustling. The surrounding roads and busy crowds during peak periods means this place has a lively buzz. Service at Restoran Yasin is a little slow, and it takes time to attract the attention of staff to place orders. Cleaning up is done leisurely. Food at Restoran Yasin is Indian and Malay cuisine, dependable and consistent in taste. Portions are sized for individuals or communal sharing. Prices reflect everyday affordability, aimed at people in the neighbourhood and labourers, budget about MYR RM10 per person.

Restoran Yasin Exterior

Restoran Yasin Interior

Payment Chit

The Teh O Limau Ais (MYR RM3) features a blend of black tea, lime juice or calamansi juice, served over ice without any added sugar. Refreshing.

Teh O Limau Ais (MYR RM3)

Teh O Limau Ais

The Mee Goreng (MYR RM9) with daging / beef and a sunny side up egg is tasty, with smoky wok hei / breath of the wok. Has that light kick of spice that makes this rather addictive. Highly recommended!

Mee Goreng (MYR RM9)

Mee Goreng

Their rendition of Roti Canai leans towards the doughy chewy soft texture, rather than thin crispy. Still, the Roti Canai Telur Bawang / Egg And Onion Roti Canai (MYR RM4) and Roti Canai Kosong / Plain Roti Canai (MYR RM2) are decently executed, and the chicken curry gravy lends good flavour. Good!

Roti Canai Telur Bawang / Egg And Onion Roti Canai (MYR RM4)

Roti Canai Telur Bawang / Egg And Onion Roti Canai

Roti Canai Kosong / Plain Roti Canai (MYR RM2)

Roti Canai Kosong / Plain Roti Canai

Enjoyed the Klepon / Onde-Onde (MR RM1), especially with its molten centre. A lovely dessert treat. Highly recommended!

Klepon / Onde-Onde (MR RM1)

Klepon / Onde-Onde

Klepon / Onde-Onde

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GO (Got One) Noodle House
@ Paradigm Mall Lot GF41, 1 Jalan Skudai, Taman Bukit Mewah, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 81200, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 10:30am – 9pm
https://www.gonoodlehouse.com.my/

Founded in June 2014 by Lee Hon Wai, Alvin Tan Kok Meng, and Mok Wai Peun, GO (Got One) Noodle House is best known for their premium soup, derived from a house secret family recipe, made using a blend of up to 40 different types of fish bones.

Ambience at GO (Got One) Noodle House is styled like a traditional Chinese tea-house. The sturdy dark wooden furnishings has oriental touches, while the spacious seating area is brightly lit. A large shelf, stacked with Chinese wine casks, flanks a wall. Service at GO (Got One) Noodle House is polite and professional, albeit transactional with minimal interaction. The menu has clear pictorial descriptions, and ordering is easy. Staff will verify orders, and fulfilment is relatively quick, as is cleaning up. Food at GO (Got One) Noodle House is Chinese cuisine, focused on soup noodles with their signature broth. The menu is extensive, with a good range. Quality of dishes is consistent, tasty and delicious. Portions are medium to large for individuals. Prices are restaurant comparable, budget about MYR RM30 per person.

GO (Got One) Noodle House Exterior

GO (Got One) Noodle House Interior

Aged Shaoxing Yellow Rice Wine Bottles

The Iced Chrysanthemum Tea With Licorice (MYR RM5) has a thin refreshing texture with pleasant floral earthy herbal sweet flavour. Good!

Iced Chrysanthemum Tea With Licorice (MYR RM5)

Iced Chrysanthemum Tea With Licorice

The Oriental Pork Sausage (MYR RM10.90) is certainly priced high, but since it's difficult to find in this country, rightly commands a premium. Good!

Oriental Pork Sausage (MYR RM10.90)

Oriental Pork Sausage

Enjoyed the Bursting Pork Meat Balls And Pork Belly QQ Mi Xian Noodles Premium Wine Soup (MYR RM23.90). The aged Shaoxing yellow rice wine lends a beautiful depth of flavour. Highly recommended!

Bursting Pork Meat Balls And Pork Belly QQ Mi Xian Noodles Premium Wine Soup (MYR RM23.90)

Bursting Pork Meat Balls And Pork Belly QQ Mi Xian Noodles Premium Wine Soup

Bursting Pork Meat Balls And Pork Belly QQ Mi Xian Noodles Premium Wine Soup

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Day 2
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Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory
@ 13 Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80000, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 7:30am – 4:30pm, Closed Sun

Returned to Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory, and the quality is as good as ever. The queues are also as long as ever, though relatively fast-moving. Founded in 1919, Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory is among the most enduring heritage food institutions in Johor Bahru. This century‑old Hainanese bakery is famed for its wood‑fired oven-baked traditional breads and pastries, in particular, their banana cake. Today, 3rd generation owner Joseph Lim Toh Hui runs the business.

Ambience at Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory has an old school shophouse feel. The bakery is little more than a takeaway counter, which usually has a long queue in the mornings. Service at Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory is fast and polite. Orders are quickly packed and served, which means the queue clears quicky. Food at Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory is traditional Malaysian Chinese Hainanese dessert and pastries, specialising in bread buns and banana cake. Portions are sized for communal sharing. Prices are affordable, budget about MYR RM4 per person.

Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory Facade

Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory Signage

Their rendition of Banana Cake (MYR RM13) is among the better versions I've ever had, yum. Has a soft moist crumbly texture and robust floral fruity earthy sweet flavour. Highly recommended!

Banana Cake (MYR RM13)

Banana Cake

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Alang Tunggal Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah
@ 139C Jalan Tun Abdul Razak Susur 1/1, Pusat Bandar, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80000, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Sun - Fri 7am – 2:30pm, Closed Sat
https://www.facebook.com/NasiLemakAyamRempahAlangTunggal/

Established in 1985, Alang Tunggal Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah has been consistently attracting crowds during breakfast and lunch for the last 4 decades. Heard good things about their Nasi Lemak, and was not disappointed!

Ambience at Alang Tunggal Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah is casual functional, with simple furnishings neatly packed together. Lit by natural sunlight and cooled with ceiling fans, the space is designed for quick eat-and-go meals. Service at Alang Tunggal Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah is largely self-service, with ordering, payment, and collection over the counter, though drinks are served to your table. Staff mostly communicate in Malay, with minimal English. Ordering is unique, first order the base dish of Nasi Lemak or Lontong Kering, then state which ingredients you want added on, including fried chicken or egg. Food at Alang Tunggal Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah is classic Malay cuisine, focused on their signature dishes as per the stall name. Quality and taste are consistently good. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable, budget about MYR RM12 per person.

Alang Tunggal Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah Exterior

Alang Tunggal Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah Interior

The Teh Tarik (MYR RM3) is an iconic 'pulled tea' beverage, a drink made from a blend of black tea, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and hot water, 'pulled' or poured repeatedly between 2 metal mugs at an arm's length height. This aerates the Teh Tarik, resulting in a smooth creamy frothy texture, with earthy milky sweet flavour. Good!

Teh Tarik (MYR RM3)

Teh Tarik

The Lontong Kering (MYR RM8) is a regional speciality. The dish is well-executed and addictively tasty, making you crave more. Good!

Lontong Kering (MYR RM8)

Lontong Kering

Lontong Kering

Their signature Nasi Lemak (MYR RM9) is incredibly fragrant, and each component is well-executed. The highlight is their turmeric marinated deep-fried chicken, with bold flavours from the spiced batter. The fragrant coconut rice is nicely fluffy too. Only minor quibble is I wish they would chop the chicken at logical joints, rather than straight through which sometimes results in bone shards. Highly recommended!

Nasi Lemak (MYR RM9)

Nasi Lemak

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WW Laksa House
@ Number 36-A1 Jalan Kolam Ayer, Taman Kolam Air, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80100, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Thu - Tue 8:30am – 3:30pm, Closed Wed

Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer
@ Number 36-L Jalan Kolam Ayer, Taman Kolam Air, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80100, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Wed - Mon 8:30am – 4:30pm, Closed Tue

The row of shophouses along Jalan Kolam Ayer in Taman Kolam Air houses these 2 casual eateries. WW Laksa House is the more prominent, established in 1978 by wife-husband team of Choo Ah Moi and Ang Keng Kue, now run by their children, renowned for their rich Laksa gravy. Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer is the more homely, registered in April 2007 and known for rustic regional comfort dishes.

Ambience at WW Laksa House is simple and casual. The bright natural sunlight and strong breeze circulated by ceiling fans help keep the spacious place cool, and the basic furniture is functional. Service at WW Laksa House is fast, with quick turnover and cleaning. Transactional but with smooth and orderly workflows. Food at WW Laksa House is Chinese cuisine, specialising in curry Laksa. Rich, aromatic, and deeply flavourful, the taste that has built a loyal following across generations. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable, budget about MYR RM15 per person.

WW Laksa House Facade

WW Laksa House Menu

Freshly grilled, the Otak-Otak / Otah (MYR RM1.30 Per Piece) is warm and delicious, so addictive. Highly recommended!

Otak-Otak / Otah (MYR RM1.30 Per Piece)

Otak-Otak / Otah

Their Laksa (MYR RM13) rendition with blood cockles has a rich creamy thick texture to the gravy, really lemak with a good kick of fiery heat. Ingredients are plentiful. Highly recommended!

Laksa (MYR RM13)

Laksa

Ambience at Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer is homely and rustic, dimly lit and closely packed with basic functional furnishings that encourage communal dining. The display of food is attractive and appetizing. Service at Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer is largely self-service. Customers help themselves to the food on display, with the exception of certain ordered dishes which staff serve to your table. Cleaning up is done leisurely. Food at Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer is classic Malay cuisine, with a focus on regional Johor specialities. Quality is consistent, resulting in a good flow of customers throughout breakfast and lunch. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable, budget about MYR RM15 per person.

Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer Exterior

Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer Interior

Restoran Bumbu Asli Kolam Ayer Menu

Display Of Food

Display Of Food

Their Laksa Johor (MYR RM13) is a pleasant rendition, and nicely appetizing. The contrast of textures and flavours is balanced without being intense, I enjoyed this more than expected. Highly recommended!

Laksa Johor (MYR RM13)

Laksa Johor

Laksa Johor

The highlight of the Kuih Lopes / Lupis (MYR RM2) is the rich thick gula melaka / palm sugar syrup, and the contrast it has with the sticky glutinous rice texture and the chewy fresh grated coconut texture. Highly recommended!

Kuih Lopes / Lupis (MYR RM2)

Kuih Lopes / Lupis

Kuih Lopes / Lupis

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Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh
@ 11 Jalan Sutera 1, Taman Sentosa, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80150, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 8:30am – 8pm, Mon 8:30am – 6pm
https://www.soonhuatbkt.com/

Established in 1975 by Thian Lee Shing, Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh is known for their slow‑cooked herbal pork bone broth derived from a family recipe. With over 20 outlets across Malaysia, this 5-decade-old heritage brand is a popular go-to dining destination.

Ambience at Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh is clean, well-lit, and air-conditioned, with neatly spaced study marble-topped tables and wooden chairs. Comfortable for dining, the place has a lively buzz. Love the touches of decor, from wall painting murals to Oriental lanterns. Service at Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh is fast, efficient, and no-nonsense, with staff quickly fulfilling orders. Queues are smoothly managed, and cleaning up is completed fast when diners leave. Food at Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh is Chinese cuisine, focused on their signature pork bone broth and clay pot dishes. Fresh ingredients, balanced flavours and textures, and reliable consistent execution keep customers returning. Portions are sized for either individuals or communal sharing. Prices are reflective of a casual restaurant, budget about MYR RM25 per person.

Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh Signage

Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh Exterior

Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh Interior

Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh Menu

Restaurant Shoon Huat Bak Kut Teh Menu

Seating

Wall Painting Mural Decor

Their You Tiao / Fried Dough Fritters (MYR RM3) has a chewy soft texture with bready savoury flavour, porous and great for absorbing the warm soup / broth when dunked within. Worth ordering!

You Tiao / Fried Dough Fritters (MYR RM3)

The staple White Rice (MYR RM1.50) to accompany a meal. Warm and steamy. Worth ordering!

White Rice (MYR RM1.50)

White Rice

Their basic Bak Kut Teh (MYR RM18) is served with several chunks of bone-in pork ribs and button mushrooms only, with other ingredients as optional add-ons. The soup / broth has a balanced herbal meaty earthy sweet savoury spice flavour, not too intense. Highly recommended!

Bak Kut Teh (MYR RM18)

Bak Kut Teh

Bak Kut Teh

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Day 3
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Meng Fang Kway Teow Kia Kway Chap
@ 19 Jalan Musang Bulan, Taman Abad, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80250, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Fri - Wed 7am – 10pm, Closed Thu

Established in 1982 by Madam Fang, Meng Fang Kway Teow Kia Kway Chap is known for their clean, balanced, and aromatic braising gravy stock. Along with meticulously cleaned and well-executed pig's organs offal, which has no unpleasant odour, this legacy stall has built a loyal following of regular customers.

Ambience at Meng Fang Kway Teow Kia Kway Chap takes after the Cedar Point Food Court it's located in. The open-air space, lit by natural light and spaced with casual functional furnishings, can either be warm, breezy, or wet, depending on the weather. Atmosphere is probably the main lowlight here. Service at Meng Fang Kway Teow Kia Kway Chap is fast. Ordering is simple and quick, and staff serve it to your table. Cleaning up is done leisurely, and because it's an open space, sometimes attracts flies from around. Food at Meng Fang Kway Teow Kia Kway Chap is Chinese Teochew cuisine, focused on braised pig's organs. The delicious braising stock is the highlight here, along with the clean and tasty braised ingredients. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable, budget about MYR RM10 per person.

Cedar Point Food Court Entrance

Meng Fang Kway Teow Kia Kway Chap Facade

The Kway Teow Kia Set (MYR RM10) attracts crowds in the morning for breakfast. There's no funky odour, the pig organs are clean, with bouncy tender textures and delicate meaty salty savoury earthy herbal flavour from the braising gravy. The thin flat rice noodles have a soft chew with delicate grainy earthy salty savoury herbal flavour. Highly recommended!

Kway Teow Kia Set (MYR RM10)

Kway Teow Kia Noodles

Braised Pig Organs

Kway Teow Kia Set

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Restoran Ya Wang
@ 44 Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80000, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Thu - Tue 8am – 6pm, Closed Wed

Established in 1989 by Looi Teik Hin (Ah Ben), Restoran Ya Wang is famed for pioneering the concept of the charcoal‑roasted herbal duck, and for its role as the original recipe partner and consultant for Singapore’s well‑known Dian Xiao Er chain, when Ah Ben partnered Samuel Yik in August 2002 to open the now-famous restaurant chain. Today, Restoran Ya Wang still attracts crowds for their signature roast meats, including their dang gui / angelica root roast duck, ginseng roast duck, and 10‑herbs roast duck.

Ambience at Restoran Ya Wang is bright, busy, air-conditioned, and simple. The functional furnishings are closely packed, and amid the bright fluorescent lit space, the atmosphere is noisy and bustling. Service at Restoran Ya Wang is transactional and brusque. Staff speak impatiently, quickly recommending orders, and cleaning up quickly when diners leave. This does help move along the waiting crowd, as they are packed even during non-peak meal periods. Food at Restoran Ya Wang is Chinese Cantonese cuisine, focused on well-executed roast meats, especially pork and duck. Charcoal roasted with proprietary marinades, the quality is consistent across all these years. Portions are sized either for individuals or communal sharing. Prices are reflective of a casual restaurant, budget about MYR RM25 per person.

Restoran Ya Wang Exterior

Restoran Ya Wang Interior

The Soya Bean Milk (MYR RM2.50) is served chilled, smooth and thin with grainy earthy milky sweet flavour. Worth ordering!

Soya Bean Milk (MYR RM2.50)

Soya Bean Milk

Ordered the Duo Roast Meats With Rice (MYR RM15), which has succulent tender chewy Char Siu / Marinated Barbecued Pork with bold smoky meaty honeyed sweet savoury flavour, and enticing tender juicy Siu Yuk / Roast Pork Belly with meaty sweet savoury salty flavour and a cracking skin. Highly recommended!

Duo Roast Meats With Rice (MYR RM15)

Duo Roast Meats With Rice

Char Siu / Marinated Barbecued Pork

Siu Yuk / Roast Pork Belly

The Roast Duck (MYR RM10) has duck meat that is tender juicy with smoky meaty savoury salty flavour, and a crispy light duck skin with salty savoury fatty flavour. Served with a thin light dang gui / angelica root gravy with earthy herbal bitter sweet flavour. Highly recommended!

Roast Duck (MYR RM10)

Roast Duck

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Tea Garden Restaurant
@ Lot Number 233 Second Floor KOMTAR JBCC (Johor Bahru City Centre), Ibrahim International Business District / Johor Bahru Central Business District, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, Bandar Johor Bahru, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80888, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 10pm
https://www.teagarden.com.my/

Established in 2005 by Tan Chek Kiang, the halal-certified Tea Garden Restaurant offers authentic elevated Malaysian comfort dishes. Combining the traditional kopitiam food with a modern restaurant model, Tea Garden Restaurant appeals to diners of all ages.

Ambience at Tea Garden Restaurant is clean, brightly lit, and family-friendly. The ample seating is closely packed in the space, lending a bustling atmosphere. Service at Tea Garden Restaurant is partially self-service, with ordering online and payment over the counter, though staff bring dishes to your table. They also clean up and turn over tables quickly, ensuring that the long queue moves relatively swiftly. Food at Tea Garden Restaurant is Chinese and Malay cuisine, classic dishes offered in a comfortable air-conditioned environment. Quality is consistent across branches. Portions are large for individuals. Prices have a slight premium, budget about MYR RM28 per person.

Tea Garden Restaurant Exterior

Tea Garden Restaurant Interior

A jug of refreshing Teh O Limau Ais (MYR RM10.90), cooling.

Teh O Limau Ais (MYR RM10.90)

Teh O Limau Ais

The Iced Milk Tea Cincau (MYR RM9.50) offered nice relief from a hot and humid day. Good!

Iced Milk Tea Cincau (MYR RM9.50)

Iced Milk Tea Cincau

I like the Mee Soto With Perkedel / Begedil (MYR RM16.90) here, with its light yet tasty soup / broth, and full-flavoured perkedel / begedil potato patty. Highly recommended!

Mee Soto With Perkedel / Begedil (MYR RM16.90)

Mee Soto

Mee Soto With Perkedel / Begedil

A decent Nasi Goreng (MYR RM16.90), feels slightly healthier than elsewhere due to a milder seasoning. Worth ordering!

Nasi Goreng (MYR RM16.90)

Nasi Goreng

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Da Cheng Lok Lok
@ 284 Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80250, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 6:30pm – 2am
https://www.facebook.com/dachengloklok

Established in 2017 by Yong Soon Sen and Tony Goh, Da Cheng Lok Lok has quickly grown to become among the most popular lok lok brands, offering a wide variety of almost 100 different skewers daily. Accompanied by a range of different dipping sauces, the fast casual concept of Da Cheng Lok Lok, along with its wallet-friendly prices, regularly attracts a crowd nightly.

Ambience at Da Cheng Lok Lok channels the open air street side vibe. Low warm lights, basic plastic and metal furnishings, and the buzz of the city streets, all exude a lively charm. Service at Da Cheng Lok Lok is fast and efficient, with staff tabulating orders quickly. Choose from boiled or deep-fried options for your skewers. On cleaning up, this is sometimes done self-service, sometimes by staff. Food at Da Cheng Lok Lok is Chinese cuisine, focused on lok lok; individual ingredients on skewers, paired with up to 6 different dipping sauces. Portions are self-determined, dependent on the number of skewers. Prices are affordable, budget about MYR RM15 per person.

Da Cheng Lok Lok Signage

Display Of Ingredient Skewers

Display Of Ingredient Skewers

The Lok Lok here is more hygienic than elsewhere, being centrally deep-fried or boiled, and with dipping sauces served on the side. The wide variety of almost 100 ingredient skewers means you're spoilt for choice. Coupled with easy accessibility, this Lok Lok experience is among the better options around. Good!

Lok Lok

Lok Lok

Lok Lok

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Day 4
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Restoran Kacang Pool Haji
@ 12 Jalan Dato Jaafar, Taman Dato Onn, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80350, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 7am – 11:59pm
https://www.facebook.com/KacangPoolHajiMakpol/

Established in 1997 by Haji Mak Pol Kairon (or Makpol Bin Saimon @ Kairun), Restoran Kacang Pool Haji is best known for their rendition of Kacang Phool / Ful Medames. Their adaptation of this classic Middle-Eastern dish for the local palate is widely beloved, and they've attracted a regular following of customers across the last 3 decades.

Ambience at Restoran Kacang Pool Haji is casual, cozy, and relaxed. A large attractive wall mural in the decently lit space draws the eye, while the functional communal benches are family-friendly. Service at Restoran Kacang Pool Haji is friendly, as are the patrons. Staff are quick and attentive, with orders served fast and cleaning up done efficiently. Patrons typically share the communal benches, and conversation is easy. Food at Restoran Kacang Pool Haji is Malay cuisine, a spin on classic Middle Eastern dishes and Malaysian dishes. Dishes are freshly prepared daily, and taste is consistently delicious. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices are affordable for everyday dining, budget about MYR RM12 per person.

Restoran Kacang Pool Haji Exterior

Restoran Kacang Pool Haji Interior

Restoran Kacang Pool Haji Menu

Restoran Kacang Pool Haji Menu

The Teh C Kosong Sejuk (MYR RM4) helped cool off the palate.

Teh C Kosong Sejuk (MYR RM4)

Teh C Kosong Sejuk

The Kacang Phool / Ful Medames (MYR RM8) with minced beef has a luscious texture with addictive flavour. Soulful and comforting. Highly recommended!

Kacang Phool / Ful Medames (MYR RM8)

Kacang Phool / Ful Medames

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Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee
@ 36 Jalan Harimau Tarum, Taman Abad, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80250, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 8am – 9pm
https://www.facebook.com/hosengkee1936

Established in 1936 by Ho Seng Kao, Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee is now in its 3rd generation family ownership, having passed to Robin Ho and then Elton Ho, the latter of whom modernised the brand and its operations while retaining the heritage recipe and taste. Best known for their dry-tossed hand made noodles, Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee is a heritage culinary bastion.

Ambience at Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee is bright lit, clean, and air-conditioned. Comfortable modern furnishings neatly line the space, and the overall environment is welcoming. Service at Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee is polite and quietly efficient. Ordering, fulfilment, and cleaning up is done quickly, evidence of a structured orderly process. Food at Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee is classic Chinese cuisine. Their noodles are still hand made according to strict techniques passed down from the 1930s, evident in the consistent quality. Portions are sized for individuals. Prices have a slight premium for their quality, budget about MYR RM28 per person.

Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee Exterior

Ho Seng Kee Wanton Mee Interior

The Soya Bean Milk (MYR RM4.90) is nicely refreshing, thin with grainy earthy sweet flavour. Good!

Soya Bean Milk (MYR RM4.90)

Soya Bean Milk

The Muar style Otak-Otak / Otah (MYR RM11.80) is chunky and soft in texture, with straight fishy savoury salty spice flavour. A light morsel to accompany a meal. Good!

Otak-Otak / Otah (MYR RM11.80)

Otak-Otak / Otah

The Special Supreme Wonton Noodles (MYR RM23.80) is the most luxurious rendition of their dishes in this category. The blanched chewy springy thin egg noodles with grainy sweet flavour are tossed in a thin dark gravy with salty sweet savoury flavour. Garnished with crisp kai-lan / Chinese kale / Chinese broccoli with vegetal sweet flavour, tender sliced char siew / marinated barbecued pork with smoky meaty honeyed sweet savoury flavour, succulent juicy boiled minced pork wonton dumplings with meaty sweet savoury flavour, crisp juicy crunchy deep-fried minced pork wonton dumplings with meaty salty savoury flavour, wobbly soft chicken egg with eggy sweet flavour, and crunchy pork lard with fatty flavour. A premium treat of a bowl. Highly recommended!

Special Supreme Wonton Noodles (MYR RM23.80)

Special Supreme Wonton Noodles

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ZUS Coffee And Rotiboy
@ FK2 And F135 1st Floor AEON Mall Tebrau City, 1 Jalan Desa Tebrau, Taman Desa Tebrau, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 81100, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 10pm
https://zuscoffee.com
https://www.rotiboy.com/

Established in November 2019 in Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territories, Malaysia, by Ian Chua, Venon Tian, and Terence Ho, the Greek themed ZUS Coffee offers high‑quality speciality coffee at accessible prices. Known for their digitally tech-driven grab-and-go model, ZUS Coffee boasts over 350 outlets across the country, making them accessible for the average consumer.

ZUS Coffee Facade

ZUS Coffee Counter

The Coffee Orange Americano (MYR RM10.90) is a seasonal-turned-permanent menu item. This cool citrus-forward beverage has a thin texture and pleasant fruity toasty earthy sweet sour zesty tangy bitter flavour. Highly recommended!

Coffee Orange Americano (MYR RM10.90)

Coffee Orange Americano

You often smell a Rotiboy outlet long before you even see it, such is the fragrant intensity of their baked buns, perfuming the surrounding environment. Established in April 1998 in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, Malaysia, by Hiro Tan, Rotiboy is best known for their signature coffee‑crusted bread bun.

Rotiboy Facade

Rotiboy Logo

The Rotiboy Coffee Bun (MYR RM3.30) is a yeasted milk bread enriched with butter and topped with a coffee‑flavoured biscuit paste. Has a crisp crumbly exterior, a fluffy chewy interior, and robust toasty earthy bitter sweet savoury salty buttery flavour, carrying a bold coffee aroma. You often smell this from afar well before you see the shopfront, the enticing aroma drawing customers to the stall. Highly recommended!

Rotiboy Coffee Bun (MYR RM3.30)

Rotiboy Coffee Bun

Rotiboy Coffee Bun

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Restoran Ah Kaw
@ 33 Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80400, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Wed - Mon 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 9:30pm, Closed Tue

Established in 1979 by Ah Kaw, the iconic Restoran Ah Kaw is a zi char stall credited with inventing and popularising the dish of San Lou Bee Hoon, a wok‑fried rice vermicelli dish with a signature charred underside and deep smoky aroma, requiring a skilled chef with precise control of heat and timing to prevent the dish from being burnt. A local culinary landmark, Restoran Ah Kaw still draws a sizeable dinner crowd.

Ambience at Restoran Ah Kaw is old-school. The brightly lit but aged space is non-air-conditioned, with decent functional furniture. The place is lively and bustling during peak meal periods. Service at Restoran Ah Kaw is welcoming and efficient. Staff are helpful with requests, and can converse in English, Malay, and Chinese Mandarin. They clean up quickly when diners leave. Food at Restoran Ah Kaw is Chinese zi char cuisine, with quality being consistent across their signature dishes. Dishes carry good wok hei / breath of the wok. Portions are sized for communal sharing. Prices are reasonable, budget about MYR RM per person.

Restoran Ah Kaw Facade

Zi Char Meal Flat Lay

The Beer Carlsberg Danish Pilsner (MYR RM15) is a Danish pilsner / pale lager, brewed by the Carlsberg Group in multiple cities worldwide. It has a pale golden colour, with faint aromas of corn, biscuit, copper, and soap. The body is thin, light, and mellow, with mild tastes of bread, malt, steel, and caramel. Has a flowery earthy sweet bitter flavour, with a spotty foam head, and a clean dry finish.

Beer Carlsberg Danish Pilsner (MYR RM15)

The Hot-Plate Tofu Bean Curd (MYR RM18) features wobbly soft egg tofu bean curd, stir-fried with wispy chicken egg, tender minced pork, tender caramelised red onions, bouncy shiitake mushrooms, crunchy deshelled prawns / shrimp, and crisp spring onions. The thick gloopy gravy is made from a blend of garlic, ginger, oyster sauce, salt, white sugar, light soy sauce or dark soy sauce, corn flour or cornstarch, fermented bean paste, red chili, and water. Served on a sizzling hot-plate. Carries grainy earthy vegetal eggy sweet salty savoury flavour, delicious. Highly recommended!

Hot-Plate Tofu Bean Curd (MYR RM18)

Hot-Plate Tofu Bean Curd

The Stir-Fried Green Dragon Vegetable And Bean Sprouts (MYR RM13) features crisp crunchy green dragon vegetables and bean sprouts, stir-fried with garlic, salt, and a bit of water. The result is wholesome vegetal herbal sweet flavour, yum. Good!

Stir-Fried Green Dragon Vegetable And Bean Sprouts (MYR RM13)

Stir-Fried Green Dragon Vegetable And Bean Sprouts

The signature San Lou Bee Hoon (MYR RM11) is named for the 3-storey shophouse it was created in, and the original creator's rendition is still among the best of its kind. Has bold smoky savoury salty grainy earthy sweet flavour, with a crispy crunchy exterior and moist soft interior. Highly recommended!

San Lou Bee Hoon (MYR RM11)

San Lou Bee Hoon

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13 Units Hong Kong Cafe
@ 60G Jalan Pertama 1, Pusat Perdagangan Danga Utama, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 81300, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 10pm
https://www.instagram.com/13units_byfattchoi/?hl=en

Opened in July 2026, the name of 13 Units Hong Kong Cafe is a mahjong reference, symbolizing luck and nostalgia, tying into their overall theme. Popular for their baked pasties, 13 Units Hong Kong Cafe tends to draw a crowd across breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. Click here for the full post.

Bolo Bun With Double Butter (MYR RM8.80)

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Foon Yew Laksa
@ 16 Jalan Stulang Laut, Taman Stulang, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80300, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 9am – 4pm, Closed Mon
https://www.facebook.com/foonyewlaksa/

Established in 1976 in the Foon Yew High School canteen, but now operated as a public commercial stall by 3rd generation owner Ng Jing Ng, Foon Yew Laksa is a no-pork no-lard heritage stall popular for its distinctive laksa broth and yong tau foo selection. Foon Yew Laksa boasts a rich signature laksa broth built on chicken stock, coconut milk, and house‑made rempah; as well as offering over 30 different yong tau foo ingredients that are freshly hand made. Prepare to wait; I queued 20 mins to select the ingredients, and waited about 50 minutes for the order to be prepared and served. Payment is rounded up and made upfront, staff will then return any change when you self-collect your order.

Foon Yew Laksa Signage

Foon Yew Laksa Storefront And Ingredients Display

Foon Yew Laksa Storefront And Ingredients Display

Selection Of Ingredients

Greatly enjoyed the Laksa Yong Tau Foo (MYR RM17) here, though advance planning and preparation should be done in anticipation of the long queues and lengthy waiting time. I ordered 8 ingredients without any rice or noodles, and added a 9th ingredient (staff will ask you wish to add bean sprouts or blood cockles). They offer regular soup and dry versions, but was warned by locals that these are just normal, and given the long queues, most people default to the laksa broth option.

Laksa Yong Tau Foo (MYR RM17)

Laksa Yong Tau Foo

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Crab Bro Noodle House
@ L2-01 & L2-01AA Level 2 SKS (See Kong See) City Mall JBCC (Johor Bahru City Centre), Jalan Storey, Bukit Senyum, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80300, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 10am – 10pm
https://www.crabbro.my/en/

Founded in November 2021 by Jackson Law, Crab Bro Noodle House focuses on offering authentic Jiangsu and Shanghai crab roe noodles in a contemporary setting. Using fresh crabs sourced weekly from Yangcheng Lake in China, Crab Bro Noodle House packs the luxurious crab meat and rich crab roe of up to 10 hairy crabs into a single bowl. A decadent high-end delicacy. Click here for the full post.

Emperor Hairy Crab Rice Pot Set (MYR RM198)

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Ramly Burger 24Hrs
@ 120 Jalan Bukit Chagar, Bukit Senyum, Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim 80300, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Daily 24 Hours

The Ramly Burger 24Hrs is a humble streetside stall, with customers stopping by the roadside to quickly order for takeaway, since they're open all the time. The Ramly Burger 24Hrs continues to operate despite ongoing construction work nearby, and is frequented by guests from the nearby hotels and shopping malls.

Ramly Burger 24Hrs Signage

Ramly Burger 24Hrs Facade

Ramly Burger 24Hrs Menu

Grilling Patties

Loved the special versions of the Ramly Burger Ayam (MYR RM8.50) and Ramly Burger Daging (MYR RM8.50). It's well-executed, with the egg envelope tightly enclosing the ample sauces and succulent meat patties. The fresh vegetables lend a wholesome touch. Highly recommended!