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Johor Bahru remains a treasure trove for every kind of cuisine, from comforting local favourites to flavours brought in from far beyond our shores. Good food is almost effortless to find in this sprawling city. But when the mood calls for a cafe stop that feels a little less ordinary and a little more special, Antipodean Cafe at Mid Valley Southkey is your best bet.
Founded in 2009 by Alun Evans, New Zealand-style Antipodean grew from a simple love for good coffee and honest food. What began as a passion project blossomed across Malaysia and Indonesia, gradually shaping the cafe culture we now take for granted. Over the years, Antipodean has earned a loyal following among locals, expats, busy executives and weekend wanderers who return for its inviting ambience, strong brews and famously hearty plates.
The moment you walk in, the space wraps you in a kind of warmth that suggests you may linger longer than planned. Indoors offers a cosy, intimate setting where conversations flow as easily as the coffee. And if you glance at the framed accolades along the wall, you will notice how well loved this spot truly is.
Antipodean was recently recognised among the Best Cafes in Asia 2025 and secured a place in the Top Coffee Roasters in Malaysia 2025 — achievements that speak confidently of its consistency. Their coffee is recognised for its rich aroma and clean flavours — crafted with quality beans roasted in-house by Merdeka Coffee, one of Indonesia’s leading specialty roasters.
The beans are sourced directly from small-holding growers rather than the brokerage system, a practice that ensures traceability, fairness and superior quality in every batch. Across the Antipodean Cafes network, millions of cups have found their way into the hands of coffee aficionados and casual sippers alike, each one brewed with the same expertise.
With a wide range of single-origin Indonesian coffees — from Java Estate and Wamena Irian Jaya to Aceh Takengon, Lintong, Sidikalang and more — each cup reflects the cafe’s commitment to clarity, depth and brilliantly consistent roasting.
The al fresco area adds a breezy charm for those who prefer sunlight with their brunch. And if you are still on the fence, allow us to usher you toward the real scene stealer — the food.
What I tried at Antipodean Cafe
With a menu that dances between the familiar and the delightfully unexpected, Antipodean Cafe has a way of making every choice feel like the right one. Decision fatigue fades the moment your food arrives because almost everything here earns a place on your mental list of new obsessions.
For the early birds and breakfast loyalists, the Big Breakfast (RM36) is a strong opening act. The plate arrives with a choice of bacon or sausage, and our team happily went with the bacon. The portion is large enough to feel indulgent yet balanced enough to keep you light on your feet for the rest of your day in JB.
Spread a little of the creamy scrambled egg onto the toasted bread, add a forkful of sauteed mushrooms, slip in a piece of bacon and maybe break off some of that golden potato patty. Each bite is warm and smoky with the savoury perfume of the grill and a silky richness that lingers just long enough.
If your morning cravings lean toward carbs with character, the Shakshuka with Avocado (RM35) is your calling. The skillet arrives bubbling with a tomato and pepper sauce that is the epitome of comfort itself.
The eggs sit nestled in the concoction, barely set, waiting to be scooped with crusty bread. Cumin and paprika weave through each mouthful, offering warmth without heaviness. The fresh avocado slices on top give the dish a buttery finish that elevates the entire affair.
When hunger insists on something bigger, the star of the table steps in. Mike Moore’s Beef Burger with Cheese and Bacon (RM32) makes its entrance held tall by a metal skewer with a bright cherry tomato perched at the top like a tiny crown.
The moment you lift it, you feel the softness of the buns. Inside lies a juicy beef patty, crisp ribbons of bacon and not one but two types of cheese melting into every corner. It is the kind of burger that makes you pause for a moment before that first glorious bite. The fries on the side add a satisfying crunch that completes the scene.
The feast continues with a dish that feels like a small celebration. The Lime-infused Lamb Kebab (RM42) offers skewers of tender lamb, smoky from the grill and seasoned to perfection. Each piece pulls away easily, releasing a burst of citrus and spice.
The kebabs rest on a bed of fluffy couscous and come with char-grilled tomatoes, refreshing salad, crispy fries and a zesty creamy sauce that ties everything together. It is the sort of plate that makes you close your eyes for a second because the flavours arrive all at once.
After such richness, a moment of freshness is very much needed. The Coromandel Green Rocket with Salmon (RM32) provides exactly that. The bowl is bright and brimming with crunchy rocket, walnuts, cherry tomatoes, cheese and silky smoked salmon. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette brings tang and sweetness, making each bite crisp, smoky and surprisingly satisfying. Chicken is also available if you prefer a gentler profile.
And of course, no indulgent afternoon ends without something sweet. The Banana Pancake (RM30) is a tower of fluffy, thick pancakes layered with cream, honey and fresh banana slices. It is comfort dressed as dessert. Each forkful melts into a blend of warm pancake, fragrant banana and glossy honey, all smoothed together by a cloud of cream — an undeniably fitting way to close the meal.
Final thoughts
Antipodean Cafe truly delivers the full package. It offers a cosy setting whether you are easing into breakfast, settling in for lunch or winding down with dinner. The space works just as well for quiet catch-ups as it does for big gatherings, all wrapped in good food and attentive service. Its spot in Mid Valley Southkey also makes it a convenient retreat for anyone needing fuel before a shopping marathon or a well-earned break after one.
And for our Muslim friends or anyone with specific dietary needs, rest assured, you are well taken care of. Antipodean operates a dedicated outlet using Halal-certified ingredients, lovingly named Antipodean GOLD in Komtar JBCC, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the experience without worry.
Expected damage: RM30 – RM42 per pax
*This post is brought to you in partnership with Antipodean.
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