Johor Bahru (JB) is a beloved weekend getaway for many Singaporeans seeking a quick escape. With its enticing food scene and charming cafes, a day trip to JB can be both refreshing and satisfying. Join me as I recount my adventure exploring the culinary delights and cozy spots in JB!
Getting There
We purchased our KTM tickets several months ago, eager for this day trip. After a brief five-minute train ride, we arrived in JB, greeted by the familiar aroma of Rotiboy bread. It’s hard to resist grabbing one fresh out of the oven!
Lunch at Kinsashi Japanese Restaurant
With our appetites whetted, we headed to Kinsashi Japanese Restaurant, where we indulged in a feast of Japanese dishes. I ordered a chicken curry katsu rice, which was delightful and satisfying. There’s something about a table full of food that just makes me happy!
The chawanmushi was smooth and steaming hot, a comforting start to our meal. I couldn’t help but imagine enjoying this dish during a winter trip to Japan. The cold soba with tempura was refreshing, though I felt the garnish could have been more generous. The tempura was crunchy and satisfying, while the brinjal and sweet potato rounded out our meal perfectly.
Grocery Shopping at Jaya Grocer
After our satisfying meal, we stumbled upon some cookies and couldn’t resist picking up a packet to take home. We then made our way to Mount Austin, where Jaya Grocer awaited us. It was time to replenish our pantry! I discovered a new instant coffee that piqued my interest, and a cute kid even asked if she could try it!
Afternoon Treat at a Cozy Cafe
Next, we walked to a nearby cafe known for its matcha desserts. The cozy environment made it hard to choose just one cake, but I finally settled on the matcha nama cake. The cute spoon added a nice touch to the experience!
The middle layer of the cake was matcha nama chocolate, and while I enjoyed it, I found the sparkling taste a bit unusual. Nevertheless, the cake wasn’t overly sweet, making it a perfect afternoon treat. We had a nice, relaxed break, savoring our desserts and soaking in the ambiance.
Charcoal Hotpot Dinner
As evening approached, we decided to have an early dinner at a charcoal hotpot restaurant. I opted for the lala soup, which was delicious and packed with flavor. The fried fish skin is a must-have for hotpot lovers!
The staff prepared the clams right at our table, complete with a little fire show. It was a fun experience waiting for the clams to cook, and once they were ready, they were fresh and chewy. I enjoyed peeling the clam meat and adding it to the hotpot along with vegetables and fish paste. Hotpot is not just about the food; it’s an experience!
Another Day, Another Adventure
On another day trip to JB, we ventured to the old street near JB Sentral. We found a nostalgic kopitiam that had a line out the door, but the wait was worth it. The atmosphere was well-ventilated and cooling, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy our meals.
I ordered a thick kopi C, which was not too sweet, and a half-boiled kampung egg that was cooked to perfection. My Hainanese chicken chop arrived with an unexpected amount of gravy, which made for an amusing moment as I added even more!
Exploring the Old Street
After our meal, we queued for the famous banana cake from an old shop that still uses wood fire for baking. The banana cake tasted more like a banana-flavored egg cake, which was quite different from what I expected.
As we strolled along the old street, we discovered a few cute small shops. The charming vintage design of the area made it a perfect spot to unwind. We decided to take a break at a cafe with a vintage aesthetic, where I ordered a refreshing yuzu and sour plum drink.
Shopping and Snacks
After our afternoon tea, we headed to a mall for some shopping. I found an interesting scalp care scrub that I couldn’t resist buying. I also controlled myself from buying too many snacks, opting for my favorite toffee danish and a delicious cheese tart instead.
Final Meal Before Heading Home
Before heading back to Singapore, we returned to Kinsashi Japanese Restaurant, our beloved spot. I couldn’t help but feel at home with the familiar menu. I ordered maki sushi with salmon, tempura don, and a soft shell crab temaki. While the flavors weren’t anything groundbreaking, they were all delicious!
The grilled salmon was particularly memorable, melting in my mouth, while the karaage chicken was juicy, though a bit salty after a few pieces.
Conclusion
Our day trips to Johor Bahru were filled with delightful food, charming cafes, and a unique atmosphere that made every moment enjoyable. Whether it’s a quick meal or a leisurely stroll through the streets, JB offers a little bit of everything for everyone. I can’t wait for my next adventure in this vibrant city!
Thanks for joining me on this culinary journey through Johor Bahru. Until next time, happy travels!
