Johor Bahru is no longer just about good eats—it’s fast becoming one of Malaysia’s most vibrant café hubs. With a rise in forest-style glasshouses, elegant brunch corners, and industrial-inspired work cafés, every corner of the city offers a unique experience. This handpicked list highlights five of the most beautiful and delicious “JB cafe”spots. Perfect for brunch lovers, photo-seekers, and coffee explorers alike, each visit promises more than just a meal.
Grumpy Goat & Friends Forest Feast Cafe｜”JB cafe” Nature-Lover’s Glasshouse Haven
Grumpy Goat & Friends sets the tone with its glasshouse design surrounded by vibrant flora. The café’s leafy aesthetic and natural lighting make it a favourite for photo shoots and brunch dates. Menu highlights include pesto chicken pasta, tom yum spaghetti, and hearty soups. Guests love the open, relaxed layout—perfect for slow weekends or catching up over coffee. Do note, physical change isn’t provided, so bring exact cash or pay by QR.
📍 GL1, Jalan Suria, Gravity Green, Bandar Baru Seri Alam, 81750 Masai, Johor Bahru
🕒 Daily: 10:30 am–10:45 pm
📞 017‑891 1366
Semicolon｜”JB cafe” Laid-Back Café Meets City-Bar Charm
With its heritage-inspired exterior and curated interior, Semicolon adds class to central JB’s café scene. The café offers eggs on toast, espresso lattes, and light cocktails depending on the hour. The ambiance shifts from calm daytime workspace to a warm evening spot. Locals love its thoughtful menu and stylish décor, making it a must for casual meetings or slow weekend dates. Avoid Thursdays, as the café is closed.
📍 60 Jalan Yahya Awal, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80100 JB
🕒 11:00 am–10:00 pm (Closed Thursdays)
📞 07‑338 4150
Principle Reserve by T.A.M｜”JB cafe” Vintage-Inspired Café with Colonial Touches
Principle Reserve elevates brunch with retro design and modern comfort in a colonial setting. The soft scrambled croissant sets and kombu-infused drinks are house favourites. Inside, the café pairs hanging plants with vintage tiles and dim wood tones. It feels upscale yet approachable—perfect for readers, catch-ups, or quiet mornings. Don’t miss their self-serve pastry shelf, which offers fresh bakes all day long.
📍 23 Jalan Balau, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru
🕒 Daily: 8:00 am–10:00 pm
📞 016‑869 0023
Fifty Trees｜Brunch Garden Hideout Near the City Centre
Hidden in leafy Taman Melodies, Fifty Trees blends a garden café experience with comfort brunches. The glass-roofed layout, potted plants, and rustic furniture create a resort-like calm. Try their ham and egg benedict, cheesy mac, or croissant-loaded platters. It’s ideal for families or couples looking for an affordable yet IG-worthy meal. Tables fill up fast on weekends, so go early for the best seats.
📍 53 Jalan Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru
🕒 9:00 am–10:00 pm (Closed Tuesdays)
📞 07‑338 4150
The Founders Café｜Industrial-Chic Space for Brunch and Coffee
Known for its high ceilings and minimalist style, The Founders Café is a gem in Skudai. Its signature Japanese pancakes and toasties pair beautifully with house brews. Concrete floors, open-plan seating, and natural lighting make it a hotspot for remote work or quiet brunches. It strikes a fine balance between casual and curated, making it beloved by creative types and food lovers alike.
📍 Tiong Nam Tebrau, 45, Jln Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
🕒 9:00 am–6:00 pm
📞 012‑772 1880
Whether you’re chasing a dreamy photo backdrop or an honest-to-goodness brunch in Johor Bahru, these five cafés bring something truly special to the table. From lush interiors to comforting menus, each offers more than just coffee—it’s a place to pause, connect, and create moments. Save this list for your next café hunt in JB and tag your besties when you discover a new favourite. Great cafés are meant to be shared.