Skip to main content
Johor Bahru

Food In Johor Bahru

Food History of Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Johor Bahru, located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, has a rich culinary history influenced by the diverse cultures that have contributed to the region's development. Historically, Johor has been a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and to a lesser extent, Arabian cuisines, each adding its unique flavors and techniques to create a vibrant food scene. Malay cuisine, with its use of herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and spices, is a backbone of the local food culture. Chinese immigrants brought their noodles and soups, while Indian spices and bread like roti canai have also left their mark.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Johor Bahru

  1. Laksa Johor (Non-Veg) - A unique regional twist on the traditional laksa, blending spaghetti noodles in a spicy coconut fish broth, mixed with vegetables and herbs.
  2. Nasi Ambeng (Non-Veg) - A communal dish often shared among four to five people, featuring fragrant rice served with a variety of side dishes like fried chicken, beef rending, and assorted vegetables.
  3. Roti Canai (Veg) - A famous Indian-influenced flaky flatbread, often served with dhal (lentil curry) or other vegetarian curries.
  4. Mee Rebus (Non-Veg) - A noodle dish served in a sweet and slightly spicy potato-based gravy, typically garnished with hard-boiled eggs, green chilies, and lime.
  5. Asam Pedas (Non-Veg) - A tamarind-based sour and spicy stew that usually features fish or seafood, along with okra and tomatoes.
  6. Kueh Teow Kia (Non-Veg) - Flat rice noodles served in a rich and savory broth, usually accompanied by a variety of meats like chicken, pork, and duck.
  7. Sup Tulang (Non-Veg) - A spicy bone soup known for its flavorful and aromatic broth, featuring beef bones, and often served with slices of bread for dipping.
  8. Otak-Otak (Non-Veg) - A grilled fish cake, which is a harmonious blend of fish paste and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection.
  9. Tauhu Bakar (Veg) - Grilled tofu stuffed with a mixture of vegetables and served with peanut sauce.
  10. Cendol (Veg) - A popular cold dessert, perfect for the tropical climate, made with green rice flour jelly, palm sugar syrup, coconut milk, and shaved ice.

Top Famous Restaurants in Johor Bahru

  • Restaurant Hua Mui
    Address: 131, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
    Famous Food: Traditional Hainanese Chicken Chop (Non-Veg)
  • Kam Long Curry Fish Head
    Address: 74, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
    Famous Food: Curry Fish Head (Non-Veg)
  • The Spice Kitchen
    Address: 18, Jalan Ibrahim, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahur, Johor
    Famous Food: Briyani (Non-Veg), Masala Dosa (Veg)
  • Salahuddin Bakery
    Address: 26, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
    Famous Food: Curry Puffs (Non-Veg/Veg)
  • Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory
    Address: 13, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
    Famous Food: Banana Cake (Veg)

Places to Visit in Johor Bahru

View all Places to Visit in Johor Bahru

Explore Religious Places to Visit in Johor Bahru

View Religious Places to Visit in Johor Bahru

Other Places to Visit in Malaysia

View all Places to Visit in Malaysia

Other Suggested Reads for Johor Bahru

Get Free Quotes Now