Discover the best lunch in JB with our guide. From iconic curry fish head to Italian delights, uncover Johor Bahru’s diverse culinary landscape for a memorable midday meal.
Johor Bahru (JB), the vibrant capital city of Johor in Malaysia, is not only a gateway to Singapore but also a food lover’s paradise.
This bustling city offers a myriad of dining options that cater to every palate, from traditional Malaysian fare to international cuisine.
Whether you’re a local exploring your own backyard or a traveler seeking culinary adventures, finding the best lunch in JB is a journey of delightful flavors and unique dining experiences.
Let’s dive into the top lunch spots Johor Bahru has to offer.
1. Kam Long Ah Zai Curry Fish Head JB
- Address: 74, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 016-752 8382
- Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Social media: –
- How to get there: Maps
Kam Long Ah Zai Curry Fish Head is a must-visit for its legendary curry fish head.
This humble eatery has gained a reputation for serving one of the best curry fish heads in town.
The fish is fresh, the curry is rich and flavorful, and the servings are generous. It’s a top choice for the best lunch in JB for those looking to indulge in a local favorite.
2. Restoran Hua Mui JB
- Address: 131, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 07-224 7364
- Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Social media: Instagram
- How to get there: Maps
Restoran Hua Mui in JB offers a taste of traditional Malaysian dishes in a nostalgic setting.
Established in the 1940s, Hua Mui is known for its authentic Malaysian dishes like Nasi Lemak and Hainanese Chicken Chop.
The retro ambiance takes you back in time, making it a unique best lunch in JB experience for both locals and tourists.
3. Canton-i Restaurant @ Johor Bahru City Square
- Address: No, J3-05, Level, Lot, 3, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 03-2203 9188
- Opening hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Canton-i Restaurant at Johor Bahru City Square is a haven for Cantonese food enthusiasts.
Canton-i is renowned for its authentic Cantonese cuisine, serving up a variety of dim sum, noodles, and rice dishes.
The elegant and contemporary decor complements the high-quality food, making it a great best lunch in JB spot for a refined dining experience.
4. Rosmarino Italian Restaurant JB
- Address: 65, Jalan Kuning 2, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 07-333 9033
- Opening hours: Daily, 12:00 AM – 2:30 PM | 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
Rosmarino Italian Restaurant in JB is perfect for those craving Italian gourmet.Rosmarino offers a wide range of Italian dishes, from pasta to pizza, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The cozy and sophisticated ambiance, combined with delicious food, make it an ideal best lunch in JB destination for Italian cuisine lovers.
5. Awagyu Restaurant JB
- Address: 25c, Jalan Dato Abdullah Tahir, Taman Abad, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 011-5776 4363
- Opening hours: Daily, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Social media: Instagram
- How to get there: Maps
Awagyu Restaurant in JB is a must-visit for lovers of Japanese cuisine, especially Wagyu beef.Awagyu Restaurant specializes in high-quality Wagyu beef dishes, prepared in various styles. The restaurant’s minimalist Japanese decor and attentive service enhance the dining experience, making it a top choice for the best lunch in JB for Japanese food aficionados.
6. Restaurant Teck Sing JB
- Address: 3&5, Jalan Sutera 1, Taman Sentosa, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 07-334 7025
- Opening hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 20:30 PM
- Social media: Instagram
- How to get there: Maps
Restaurant Teck Sing in JB is renowned for its signature dish, the Paper Wrapped Chicken.
Teck Sing’s Paper Wrapped Chicken is a must-try. The chicken is marinated in a special sauce and wrapped in paper before being cooked, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
This dish, along with other Malaysian Chinese favorites, makes Teck Sing a best lunch in JB spot for traditional flavors.
7. The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen JB
- Address: 33, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 012-547 7885
- Opening hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Social media: Instagram
- How to get there: Maps
The Replacement – Lodge & Kitchen in JB offers a stylish café experience with a modern menu.
This chic café is known for its brunch offerings and specialty coffee. The menu features a mix of Western and Asian influences, served in a trendy and Instagram-worthy setting.
It’s a great best lunch in JB choice for a casual yet fashionable dining experience.
8. Restoran Ya Wang JB
- Address: 44, Jalan Segget, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 07-224 8624
- Opening hours: Thursday – Tuesday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Social media: –
- How to get there: Maps
Restoran Ya Wang in JB is acclaimed for its succulent roast duck, often dubbed as the ‘official roast duck of Johor’.
Ya Wang’s roast duck is perfectly seasoned and roasted to achieve crispy skin and tender meat.
Along with other Chinese dishes, it offers a satisfying best lunch in JB experience for those in search of authentic Chinese roast meats.
9. IT Roo Café JB
- Address: 17, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 07-222 7780
- Opening hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
IT Roo Café in JB is famous for having arguably the best chicken chop in town.
IT Roo Café’s claim to fame is its Hainanese Chicken Chop, which is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, served with a flavorful sauce.
The café’s old-school charm adds to the appeal, making it a nostalgic best lunch in JB spot.
10. ZZ Sup Tulang Restaurant, Kampung Bahru, Johor
- Address: 20, Jalan Petri 5/1, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor
- Phone: 011-1056 7209
- Opening hours: Saturday – Thursday, 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Social media: Facebook
- How to get there: Maps
ZZ Sup Tulang Restaurant in Kampung Bahru offers a local dining experience centered around Sup Tulang (bone soup).
ZZ Sup Tulang is famous for its rich and spicy bone soup, a traditional Malay dish that’s both flavorful and comforting.
The restaurant’s casual setting is perfect for enjoying this unique and hearty dish, marking it as a best lunch in JB spot for those seeking local culinary adventures.
When exploring lunch options in JB, consider these tips:
- Local Delicacies: JB is known for its diverse range of local cuisines. Be sure to try the regional specialties.
- Cultural Diversity: The city’s food scene reflects its multicultural community. Explore different cuisines for a well-rounded experience.
- Popular Eateries: Some places can get crowded during lunchtime. Plan your visit accordingly.
- Ask the Locals: Locals can provide invaluable insights into the best-hidden gems for lunch in JB.
In conclusion, Johor Bahru’s culinary landscape offers a delightful array of lunch options, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
From cozy cafes to elegant restaurants, each establishment on this list provides not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience, making them the best lunch in JB. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a culinary adventure awaits in this dynamic Malaysian city. Happy dining!