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Love discovering new cafes?

So do we! Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen a surge of new cafes popping up all over Singapore, and it seems the cafe scene has grown across the border too. With plenty of hipster cafes with cool, unique decor and delicious brunch-fare in JB, there’s one more reason to cross the border.

If you live for decadent brunches, chill vibes and lazy, care-free afternoons, you’ll fall in love with these hipster cafes. Not only do they have their own distinct aesthetic, they also have signature foods (and drinks!) you won’t find in Singapore.

Here are 15 hipster cafes in JB we think are worth crossing the border for.

1. Bev C (Halal)

Image Credit: @morethanconquerors75

Housed along the street, along with a string of other hipster cafes is this nook that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. With its entrance bedecked in rustic, earthy tones of wood and brick, it certainly has a homely quality to it.

Image Credit: @bevccafe

With its in-house boutique merging seamlessly with its cafe, Bev C proves that one can master both the crafts of coffee and fashion with finesse. Check out its clothing label here.

Image Credit: @bevccafe

Feast your eyes on their Chocolate Mint Pies that you’ve probably squealed over a thousand times on Instagram. For fans of Windowsill pies, you’ll love this one as well.

Image Credit: @annngiaw

Yummy pies aside, this cafe offers the renowned Ice Cube Espresso with Milk and Caramel, which ensures diluted coffee will not be an issue as you sit and chat with your pals.

Must Try: Charcoal Croissant with Smoked Salmon, Chocolate Mint Pie, White Chocolate Truffle Pie, Ice Cube Espresso

Bev C
Address:
 54 Jalan Tan Hiok Nee 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Tue – Fri: 1 pm – 11 pm; Sat & Sun: 12 pm – 11pm, Closed on Mon

2. B.LO.C. (Halal)

B.LO.C, short for The Banana LOver Cafe, will take your goreng pisang love to new heights.

Image Credit: B.LO.C Facebook

Situated opposite Taman Sentosa, at B.LO.C, you can drown your crispy goreng pisang in cheese or dark chocolate; you can even dunk it into creamy ice cream! Better yet, coat it with crunchy golden cereal, drizzled with hot caramel sauce. The flavour combinations are limited only by your imagination.

Image Credit: Pictaram

Besides their goreng pisang specialties, this cafe serves mains, desserts and a decent cuppa as well.

Image Credit: Pictaram

Must Try: Chocolate Cheese, Ice Cream Nut, Caramel, Chocolate Cornflake Goreng Pisang, Caramelised Banana Vanilla Milkshake, Banana Blossom Fried Rice

B.LO.C
Address: Block A, #1-40, SouthKey, Johor Bahru
Opening hours:  Tue – Sun: 12pm – 10pm; Closed on Mon

3. Chaiwalla & Co. Honest Tea (Halal)

It’s no wonder this cafe is housed in a container–its owner had ridden the high seas for 13 years before settling back on Malaysian shores.

Image Credit: Chaiwalla & Co. Facebook

Handcrafted artisan teas with 5 bases, 15 flavours (e.g. saffron rose, pure yoghurt, winter melon) and a selection of 9 different toppings (e.g. coffee jelly, pearls, nata de coco), these customisable drinks are the perfect pick-me-up as you go on your cafe hunt.

Image Credit: My Food Fever

Just like Koi and Gong Cha, the sweetness level can also be adjusted to your liking.

Image Credit: Chaiwalla & Co. Facebook

Must Try: Thai Iced Milk Tea, Iced Chai Latte

Chaiwalla & Co. Honest Tea
Address: Lot 2810, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Bandar Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Mon – Thu: 9.30am – 6.30pm; Fri – Sun: 9.30am – 6.30pm, 8pm – 1am

4. Coffee Signature

It’s raining, it’s pouring Sweet Little Rain. As its name would suggest, expect a large, poofy cloud to deliver melted droplets of cotton candy into your piping hot black coffee or tea.

Image Credit: @benjibaykon

Other beverages served here include Green Tea Latte served in a big light bulb, and their unique Huevos Rancheros egg dish that’s more than just a run-of-the-mill Eggs Benedict.

Image Credit: @carvne

In Mini Sunshine Brilliant, you’ll find a crispy ham bowl bearing a yummy mixture of eggs, cream and cheese.

Must Try: Sweet Little Rain, Huevos Rancheros, Mini Sunshine Brilliant, Ice Blended Green Tea

Coffee Signature
Address:
53, Jalan Serampang, Taman Sri Tebrau, 80050 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 12pm – 10pm; Fri – Sat, 12pm – 11pm

5. Coffee Valley (Halal)

Image Credit: Nomsaurus

To get to this cafe, watch out for a quaint flight of stairs to the second storey, hidden by a kopitiam.

Image Credit: imgrum.org

They are best known for one provocative dish: the Egg Slut. Bringing to life all your food porn fantasies, this dish will leave you feeling satisfied with its tantalising combination of flavours–a wobbly egg nestled in potato purée, cheese and sauteéd mushrooms.

Image Credit: kaleidowords

The feasting doesn’t end there; their waffles are pretty sensational too.

Must Try: Egg Slut, Four Seasons Waffle, Mixed Berries Waffles

Coffee Valley
Address: 12A Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru 80000 | L2-550A, Sutera
Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu – Sun: 11.30am – 8pm; Closed on Wed

6. EH HE Art Cafe

Image Credit: @misterkym

Stepping through the doors of this cafe is almost like entering the home of a quirky collector who’s obsessed with art in all its forms. Everywhere you turn, you’ll be greeted with one-of-a-kind sculptures and paintings.

Image Credit: @deruii_insta

If you’re craving something a little different, give the coffee here a shot. You’ll notice their coffee has a distinct aroma, for they use traditional beans that are homegrown in Johor, unlike the trendy Arabica beans brewed in countless other cafes.

Image Credit: @thee_meiyen

Besides their old-timey drinks, EH HE serves up wonderfully old school nosh too. Red Bean Soup, Chendol, Nasi Lemak and Curry Chicken are some of the items that make an appearance on their menu.

Image Credit: @prollyfrolic

Must Try: Chendol, Kopi-O, Fried Mee Siam, Red Bean Soup

EH HE Art Cafe
Address: No. 1, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru 80000, Johor Bahru (Around the corner of Hiap Joo Bakery)
Opening hours: 12pm – 11pm daily

7. Faculty of Caffeine (Halal)

Image Credit: Cafehopping

The brainchild of two childhood best friends–an interior designer and a doctor–this cafe epitomizes these three words perfectly: stark, abstract, and minimalist. With its raw, industrial concept, it’s a great place to spam OOTDs and we-fies.

Image Credit: @stormscape

Great interior decor aside, this cafe offers food and drinks that’ll exceed most expectations. Sink your teeth into Madam Lim’s chewy chocolatey brownie, and feast on their waffles for some great food therapy.

Image Credit: @malaysiancafes

Must Try: Dark Churros with Salted Egg Yolk Dip, Curry Soft Crab Waffles, Friendly Eggs Benny

Faculty Of Caffeine
Address:
 33, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: 10am – 10pm daily

8. Flowers in the Window  

Image Credit: @sinsze52_w

Brought to us by the same team behind the famed Roost cafe, this two-storey cafe is lush with greenery and overflowing with flowers from every nook and cranny.

Image Credit: @biee.yu

If you’ve ever fantasised about stumbling onto a Fairies’ Tea Party in the woods, this comes very close.

In keeping with its theme of flora and fauna, this cafe sells flowers and plants, and incorporates edible greenery and flowers in its food. That makes for some pretty whimsical food which will no doubt gain you several more Instagram followers.

Image Credit: @flowersinthewindow09

Their cakes, freshly-baked daily, come in a bunch of unique and yummy flavours, such as their Rose Pistachio Cake, Pina Colada Cake and Pomegranate Brownie.

Image Credit: @flowersinthewindow09

For a real surprise, try the Rosemary, Chilli and Lemon Drink. It’s unexpectedly tasty! Who knew these flavours would work so well together?

Image Credit: @tof5u

Must Try: Rose and Pistachio Cake, Lemon Meringue Tart, Pina Colada Cake, Rosemary, Lemon and Chilli Drink, Watermelon Strawberry Juice

Flowers in the Window
Address:
 9, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: 10am – 9pm daily

9. The Ice Cream Project

It turns out that the secret to creamy, delicious ice cream is liquid nitrogen, as we learnt at this cosy, yet roomy cafe.

Image Credit: Three Black Windows

The Ice Cream Project, otherwise known as TIP, combines the freshest ingredients using liquid nitrogen, right before your eyes. Lo and behold, out comes ice cream with a rich consistency and taste, free of icy crystals or frozen bits that can mar the ice cream’s texture.

Image Credit: @tip_theicecreamproject

The Butterscotch Ice Cream is a silky dollop of milky cream and smooth butterscotch–an utterly tasty combo. While savouring the ice cream, sip on some of their many teas for an interesting flavour contrast.

Image Credit: @tip_theicecreamproject

Must Try: Butterscotch Ice Cream, Brownies & Cream Ice Cream

The Ice Cream Project
Address: 31 Jalan Dhoby, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Sun – Thu: 1pm – 10pm; Fri & Sat: 1pm – 12am

10. Kafuka Cafe & Music Studio

Image Credit: @kafukacafe

At this quaint little space, you’ll be able to find refuge from the busy, modern cafes and their ubiquitous hipster decor.

Inspired by Japanese elements, the cafe space doubles as a music studio where instruments are displayed, complementing the serenity of the place. Here and there, mini potted plants add a touch of life to the otherwise zen space.

Image Credit: @ellis_soo_

Not only do they offer plenty of matcha-flavoured foods for those who love their matcha, their menu features a wide variety of good ol’ cafe nosh too.

Image Credit: @rientan

Must Try: Matcha Red Bean Pancake, Crushed Oreo Belgian waffle, Chocolate and Banana Pancake, Matcha Latte

Kafuka Cafe & Music Studio
Address:
16A, Jalan Bendahara 12, Tmn Ungku Tun Aminah, Skudai, Johor
Opening hours: Sun – Wed: 11am – 10pm; Fri – Sat: 11am – 11pm; Closed on Thursday

11. Maco Vintage

Image Credit: Wix

Started up by Singapore pastry chef, Maco, this cafe is famed for its mille crepe cakes.

Image Credit: @_sabrinasalleh

As photogenic as they are tasty, the cakes come in flavours ranging from Trio Chocolate to Musang (mao shan wang 猫山王) durian flavour. You won’t have trouble finishing a slice all by yourself, as the cream is light and not overly gelat like some cakes can get. 

If you’re thinking of having it to go, their dry ice sachets will keep the cakes chilled for about an hour.

Image Credit: @smileycooly

Besides the cakes, you’ll find a satisfying selection of appetizers, mains, desserts, and hot and cold beverages served here.

Must try: Matcha Azuki, Bailey’s, Rainbow, and Musang Mille Crepe Cakes

Maco Vintage
Address: Jalan Ibrahim, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 12.30pm – 11pm; Sat: 11am – 12.30am; Sun: 11am – 11pm

12. Miyakori Cafe (Halal)

Image Credit: @lovekimis

Coffee with cute, stenciled animals and cakes with faces–these are some of the things you’ll find at this lovely cafe. It was an immense struggle deciding on the animals for our cakes and drinks. Not to mention, having to destroy these cute works of art killed us a little bit inside.

Image Credit: @catherinechewkailay

Sip on a cute kitty with this “Cat-puccino”, a brew with a nutty, chocolate-y aroma and a lingering sweetness. If you’re wondering, Miyakori’s coffee beans are imported from El Salvador, Sumatra, and Brazil.

Image Credit: @whyohwhyareyouxy

Their cutesy image is backed up with substance, for the cafe serves pretty good cheesecake and brownies. The cheesecake is warm and light, while the brownie leaves no chocolate lover in want with its rich and dark aftertaste.

Must Try: Oreo Cheesecake, Brownie, Strawberry Shortcake, Matcha Latte, Cat-puccino

Miyakori Cafe
Address:
 41, Jalan Indah 22/14, Bukit Indah 2, Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm daily

13. Monsta Cafe

Image Credit: @suann84

Old school meets cute-slash-psychedelic at this cafe. Retro school lockers, carpet grass and cloud motifs on the walls… We love the eclectic vibe of this coffee spot. At the entrance, look out for a large pink behemoth, the guardian of this 2-storey cafe.

Try their much raved about Cold Brew coffee, and sip on one of their lattes, which come with customisable latte art. Pick your design, or let the barista surprise you!

Image Credit: @annyew

Dig into their Monsta Espresso Chicken Chop that comes with a shot of Espresso, lending the sauce a unique kick of flavour. The Monsta Mamee Burger is also crunchy and addictive, but we advice eating it deconstructed, as it’ll fall apart after a bite.

Must try: Cotton Candy Affogato, Cold Brew Coffee, Monsta Mamee Burger, Monsta Espresso Chicken Chop

Monsta Cafe
Address:
157 Jalan Bestari ⅕ Taman Nusa Bestari Skudai. 81300 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 10am – 12mn; Fri – Sun: 11am – 1am

14. Roost Repurposed & Recycled

Image Credit: @egotisc

An old beer crate, a plastic container and empty glass bottles are given a new lease of life at this cafe that really knows how to turn waste into wonder.

Image Credit: @immissmai

Not only are they pros at recycling, they’re just as adept at serving tasty grub. Share a plate of chicken meatballs and mashed potatoes with your friends. After that, have a bowl of their signature frozen yogurt for dessert.

Image Credit: @sueann_y

Must Try: Frozen Yogurt, Chicken Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes, Smoked Salmon Salad, Eggs Benedict

Roost Repurposed & Recycled
Address:
 14 Jalan Trus, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 12am; Sun: 6pm – 12am

15. Victoria Rossa English Tea Room (F.K.A. The Teavana)

Image Credit: @mrscheryltan

In this English princess-themed cafe, you’ll can’t help but lift your pinky while taking a sip of your latte.

With its porcelain tea sets, pastel colour scheme and floral printed furniture and crockery, dining here will awaken your inner princess.

Image Credit: @____aat07.17777777

Not only do they serve delicious mains, their deserts and pastries do not disappoint. Choose from cakes, scones or muffins, and a selection of coffees and teas.

Image Credit: @aloeverararara

Must Try: Pasta Sampler, Korean Beefy Cheesy Fries, Cloudy Toast, Lavender Latte

Victoria Rossa English Tea Room
Address:
128 Jalan Dato Sulaiman Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm daily

If looking at these pictures worked up an appetite, there’s only one thing left to do: cross the border for some delicious, wallet-friendly eats! Plus, there’s no better time than now, with the KTM shuttle charging ridiculously lows prices and taking you to JB in under 10 minutes.

Also read 8 Instagram-Worthy Drinks That Will Have Your Followers Spamming The Like Button

(Header Image Source: @bevccafe)