Whenever I’m unsure what to eat, kopitiam is my go-to. It’s “safe food” for me — familiar, comforting, and filled with local delicacies influenced by Nanyang cuisine. Plus, many modern kopitiams are now air-conditioned or well-ventilated, making them perfect spots to hang out and relax (as long as there’s no time limit).
While exploring Johor Bahru‘s food scene, I’ve noticed kopitiams are just as popular here as in KL. Some have retained their nostalgic charm, unchanged for decades, while others have upgraded to sleeker, more comfortable spaces. I personally prefer the updated ones — not because I don’t appreciate the retro style with plastic chairs by the roadside, but because no one wants to eat while sweating in this weather!
I’m not gonna keep you waiting any longer — here’s my list of 10 best kopitiam in JB for a kaw cup of coffee, yummy local cuisine, and overall a spanking good time.
1. Restoran Hua Mui
Established in 1946, Restoran Hua Mui is one of Johor Bahru’s classic kopitiams that has both preserved its heritage and evolved over the years to offer a more comfortable dining experience. With 7 outlets in JB, the original branch still stands on Jalan Trus, welcoming those coming from the Johor Causeway. But when I heard about the recent upgrades at their Austin Heights location, I couldn’t resist checking it out!
Restoran Hua Mui is famous for its Hainanese Chicken Chop, proudly advertised on their signage. The dish comes in 2 versions: Fried (RM20.90) and Grilled (RM25.90). The Hainanese Grilled Chicken Chop features juicy grilled chicken atop creamy mashed potatoes, all smothered in rich brown gravy with mushrooms, baby corn, green peas, and bits of onion. The plate also includes fresh tomato, coleslaw, and crispy potato wedges. The mashed potatoes are some of the best I’ve ever tasted.
For quick bites, don’t miss the Hainan Toast with Double Butter & Kaya (RM3.90) or the 1Malaysia Polo Bun (RM9.90). The thick toast delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by the warm, buttery sweetness of kaya. The Polo Bun is so soft it practically melts apart with each bite. Pair these with a Tuk Tuk Ice (RM6.90), a rich Milo drink topped with sweet, crunchy Nestum — perfect for a little indulgence.
For a list of outlets, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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2. Pacific Kopi
Pacific Kopi in Jalan Dhoby definitely stands out for its minimalist exterior, paired with modern yet classic interior. I’ve always had a great appreciation for signages that use a serif font, so another bonus point for that.
This place is famous for Yam Cake (RM6.90) and Pacific 3 in 1 Fried Rice Cake (RM6.90 for 4 pcs) or Nian Gao. But act fast — these popular items often sell out quickly. If you happen to miss the chance to buy them (like, ahem, yours truly) opt for their Egg Tart (RM19.90 for 6 pcs). Perfectly bite-sized (or maybe 2 bites), it’s indulgent without feeling too much. The flaky, crispy pastry pairs beautifully with the fluffy, eggy filling.
If you’re looking for something heartier, try the classic Char Kuey Tiaw (RM9.90). The portion is big for its price, and every bite is satisfying. Though if you prefer your CKT to not have carrots, and be a little saltier, then this dish might not be for you.
11, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6018 874 1215
Daily: 8am – 9pm
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3. Hock Kee Kopitiam
Hock Kee Kopitiam is a popular spot that’s even expanded to KL, but there’s something special about its original JB outlets that makes them worth a visit. I stopped by the Taman Molek location, nestled along a row of shophouses. The place is open until night time, so you can visit for dinner as well.
Hock Kee Kopitiam is different from other kopitiams, with nearly every dish — including the Western options — being exceptionally tasty. Try the Nasi Lemak Banjir (RM24.90), a feast of fragrant coconut rice paired with tender chicken curry, dry sambal sotong, fresh veggies, roasted peanuts, and crispy ikan bilis.
If you’re craving kopitiam classics, don’t miss the Steamed Chicken Laksa (RM15.90). It’s a customisable bowl of noodles simmering in rich laksa lemak broth, filled with tauhu, veggies, and incredibly juicy steamed chicken. For a Western twist, try the Chicken Bolognese Spaghetti (RM17.90). While Western dishes in kopitiams can often fall flat, this one surprises with flavours from herbs simmered into the rich tomato sauce — truly satisfying!
For a list of outlets, contact numbers, and opening hours, click here.
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4. Padi Kopitiam
Padi Kopitiam has 4 locations in JB — Jalan Trus, Impian Emas, Mount Austin, and Eco Botanic — all serving up a cosy, retro vibe that stays true to its motto: “Back to the Good Old Days.” This spot brings the charm of old-school kopitiams with a modern touch.
So, what’s their must-try specialty? You might guess mainstream kopitiam classics like Hainanese Chicken Chop, Curry Laksa, or Polo buns — but it’s actually their Crispy Pisang Goreng for RM6.90!
Other crowd-pleasers include their delicious drinks and irresistible toasts. Sink your teeth into the crispy-yet-soft Margarine Milk Toast (RM3.50 for white bread, RM5.50 for wholemeal), and pair it with a steaming cup of Padi Kopi C (RM4.50) for the ultimate treat. Try their Sambal Chicken Floss Toast (RM5.90 for white bread, RM7.90 for wholemeal) if you’re craving a savoury option.
For details on each outlet’s location and opening hours, click here.
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5. Kopiloco
Situated along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Kopiloco by 1993 stands out for its bright green facade paired with vibrant yellow signage. This eye-catching kopitiam serves up a mix of Nanyang cuisine with local delicacies for you to enjoy.
Treat yourself to local flavours with the classic Butter Kaya Toast (RM3) and Half-Boiled Kampung Egg (RM3.50). Fun fact — kampung eggs are known for their richer flavour and creamy texture, adding a nice touch to your meal. And if you’re feeling indulgent, you can add an extra slice of butter (+RM1) to the toast!
Don’t miss the Mee Siam with Egg (RM5.80) either; its tangy, spicy mee hoon is bound to get your taste buds excited. Round it all off with their Signature Kopiloco (RM3.80) to enjoy a perfectly kaw coffee experience.
64 & 65, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6011 1890 9113
Daily: 7.30am – 5.30pm
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6. Tong Guan Nyonya
Nestled along Jalan Trus, Tong Guan Nyonya is a must-visit gem for anyone exploring the bustling streets of JB. Whether you’re coming from the Johor Causeway or just wandering around town, it’s easy to stumble upon this cosy spot. With its laid-back atmosphere and attentive service, Tong Guan Nyonya makes for a delightful kopitiam experience where you can kick back and enjoy a taste of authentic Nyonya flavours.
The menu is filled with an array of classic Nyonya dishes that are sure to tempt your taste buds. Dig in the richly spiced Nyonya Ayam Buah Keluak (RM14.90), the creamy White Nyonya Laksa Chicken (RM12.90), and the hearty Laksa Soup Handmade Mee Hoon Kuey (RM10.90), each dish offering a flavourful journey into Nyonya cuisine.
And, of course, no visit would be complete without a quintessential kopitiam drink. The Tong Guan Nyonya Special Brew (RM9.90) offers a bold, milk-based coffee experience that’s simply a must-try. For a little something sweet, their French Toast Apam Balik (RM8.80) combines fluffy toast with a delicious twist, making it the perfect ending — or beginning — to your meal!
14, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6011 2672 8727
Daily: 7.30am – 9pm
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7. Tai Hong Kopitiam
Tai Hong Kopitiam is a must-visit with its unmissable bright green and yellow signage that calls you in from the street.
Fan favourites here include the Curry Ayam with Rice (from RM17.83), Curry Laksa (from RM16.70), and Mee Siam (from RM8.49). Their toast selection is also a hit, featuring classics like Butter Kaya Toast (RM4.34), Luncheon Egg Sandwich (RM11.32), and Sambal Chilli Egg Toast (RM10.85).
For a customisable meal, dive into a bowl of Yong Tou Fu and add your choice of ingredients, from fucuk and tao po to meat rolls and fish cakes (starting at RM3.11 each). Craving something unique? Try their Hakka Lei Cha — a vibrant green, tea-based delicacy perfect for tea lovers!
For a list of outlets, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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8. Chamek Kopitiam
Located in Bandar Baru Uda — locally known as BBU — Chamek Kopitiam is a relatively new face among JB’s kopitiams, having opened in 2007. Despite being newer than the older, heritage-rich spots in town, Chamek Kopitiam has become a familiar choice for locals, offering classic kopitiam dishes with a focus on Malay flavours.
Unlike some kopitiams that blend Nanyang and local influences, Chamek’s menu leans more towards traditional Malay cuisine. Popular dishes include Nasi Ayam Sambal (RM10), Kuey Teow Goreng Kerang (RM9.50), and the Crispy Chicken Chop (RM13.80).
Their toast selection also has a few unique options worth a try. There’s the Chamek Toast (RM6.50), Roti Pattaya (RM7), and the simple but tasty Roti Bakar Kawen (RM3.30), giving a range of choices if you’re looking to enjoy a classic kopitiam toast.
50, Jalan Padi Emas 4/1, Bandar Baru Uda, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6019 711 1921
Sun to Tue & Thu: 9.45am – 9.30pm
Wed & Sat: 9.30am -9.30pm
Fri: 9.45am – 12pm & 2.30pm – 9.30pm
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9. Fang Yuan Kopitiam
Fang Yuan Kopitiam has made a name for itself in JB, with 5 outlets spread across town. The signage here gives off more of a banquet vibe than the usual kopitiam look — but don’t worry, the dishes stay true to authentic flavours.
Their toast selection offers a satisfying range, from the sweet and savoury Cheese Marjerin Sugar Toast (RM3.90) to the classic Kaya Butter (RM2.70). If you’re craving a snack, try their Fried Banana (RM4.90) or Fried Japanese Sweet Potato (RM4.90) for a simple treat.
For a more filling meal, you can’t go wrong with options like Mee Siam with Fried Chicken (RM13.40), Nasi Lemak Fried Chicken (RM13.80), and Cantonese Hor Fun (RM13.50). Pair it all with their signature Rengit White Coffee, which you can also take home for RM24.90 (15 bags).
For a list of outlets, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
10. Ah Lee Kopitiam
Another kopitiam with an impossible-to-miss signage has hit the pentagon, this time with bright green and red combo, adorned proudly by Ah Lee Kopitiam. Residing in Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, this place is a go-to for many patrons, evident from a 4.4-star rating from 223 Google reviews (at the time of writing).
The menu here offers something for everyone, from light breakfasts to hearty rice and noodle dishes, plus some satisfying desserts and strong drinks to round off your meal. For a filling option, try the Sauteed Siew Yuk Rice (RM12.90), Curry Laksa Yee Mee (RM13.90), or Tomato Shrimp Tofu Soup (RM18.90).
When it comes to toast, Ah Lee Kopitiam stands out with some unique choices, such as the Corn and Cheese Toast (RM7.90), the bold Volcanic Eruption (RM8.90), and the lighter, Oil-Free Garlic Toast (RM6.90) — perfect for a tasty snack or side to your meal.
5, Jln Permas 10/5, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, 81750 Masai, Johor
+6010 227 9187
Daily: 7am – 6pm
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