10 best JB brunch spots for a laid-back day

How do you typically recharge after a long, hectic week? For me, it’s all about indulging in a good brunch, sitting back, and soaking in the moment. I love immersing myself in places where the air is filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm bread. It’s as if the week’s fatigue just melts away.

Now, imagine enjoying a relaxed morning with delicious food while visiting JB— sounds like the perfect combo! Luckily, the city has plenty of spots where you can savour a satisfying brunch. So, without further ado, here are my top 10 favourite brunch spots in JB to help you escape reality.

1. The FOUNDERS Cafe

The FOUNDERS Cafe - Store front
The FOUNDERS Cafe - Store front

JB brunch kaki will not be unfamiliar with this OG brunch spot. Over the years, it has seen ups and downs with new establishments and even closures. But today, it has been rebranded to showcase itself as The FOUNDERS Cafe at Tiong Nam Tebrau. And there’s one more thing you should know— its old establishment was visited by Jay Chou! I’m equally amazed.

The FOUNDERS Cafe - Quesadilla and coffee
The FOUNDERS Cafe - Quesadilla and coffee

How can anyone overlook the OG dish at the restaurant? It’s timeless. According to the menu, the Quesadilla (RM29.90) reigns supreme among all dishes, and after trying it, it didn’t disappoint. The tortilla wraps around fluffy tomyam scrambled eggs, chicken ham, sliced tomatoes, Alexa’s sriracha aioli, coriander, and cheddar cheese, garnished with grated parmesan cheese, pomegranate seeds, and lightly drizzled with pesto oil. Yum!

The savoury ham and cheese blends perfectly with the robust tanginess of the tomyam scrambled egg— while it may look exotic, the taste is a harmonious delight. The addition of pomegranate seeds on top adds a refreshing touch. Complete your meal with a cup of Cappuccino (RM13.50), delivering rich coffee aroma in every sip— a treat for coffee lovers.

Tiong Nam Tebrau, 45, Jln Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
+607 360 9101
Sat to Thu: 9am – 10pm
Fri: 9am – 3.30pm
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2. Rowan & Parsley

Rowan & Parsley - Store front

Rowan & Parsley is another gem on my list. I particularly enjoy its forest-like ambiance, which creates a cosy atmosphere and makes me feel rejuvenated, almost as if I’m surrounded by nature. Despite its location in the unassuming industrial area of Masai, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a jungle retreat.

Rowan & Parsley - Brunch dishes

The restaurant serves brunch dishes from 11am to 6pm. The menu features 9 items, with the Little Brother Benedict (RM36) being particularly popular. It consists of an English muffin topped with smoked pulled pork, poached egg, and hollandaise sauce, served with a side of mixed greens. The combination is hearty, savoury, and lively.

For those who prefer classic brunch fare, the Regular & People Breakfast (RM38) is a must-try. This generous spread includes rye bread, sautéed mushrooms, baby potatoes, Thuringian sausage, pork bacon, and your choice of egg (scrambled, poached, or sunny-side up). Each dish is perfect for a satisfying brunch. The place has also been a witness of numerous love stories; it’s a great venue for weddings!

17, Jalan Cenderai 20, Taman Perindustrian Kota Puteri, 81750 Masai, Johor
+6011 1005 4747
Daily: 11am – 10pm
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3. Doña Bakehouse

Doña Bakehouse - Store front
Doña Bakehouse - Store front

Starting as a poké bowl specialty restaurant in JB, the partners have come a long way to establish Doña Bakehouse at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee. The eatery impressively holds a 4.4-star rating on Google from 684 reviews (at time of writing), clearly reflecting its quality. It not only offers excellent pastries but also delightful brunch options.

Doña Bakehouse - Brunch dishes
Doña Bakehouse - Brunch dishes

The brunch menu offers a concise selection of 6 options, with the standout (personal preference) being the Eggs Benny (RM30). This dish delights with poached eggs, classic hollandaise sauce, baby spinach, smoked chicken ham, mashed avocados, and cherry tomatoes.

The runny egg yolks add a creamy texture, while the vegetables and avocados provide a refreshing contrast to the savoury ham. Each component harmonises perfectly, creating a delightful blend of flavours that tantalise the palate. Don’t miss out on their tempting pastries, priced between RM8 to RM17, each offering its own unique appeal that is sure to impress.

14, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6010 667 8625
Daily: 8.30am – 5pm
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4. Flowers in the Window

Flowers in the Window - Store front

If you love a rustic, nature-inspired vibe, I have another recommendation for you at Jalan Dhoby. Conveniently located near CIQ, Flowers in the Window is a long-standing brunch spot in town that is popular among cafe-hoppers.

You might mistake it for an abandoned shop due to the abundance of plants clinging to the walls, but it’s this lush, overgrown look that adds a mysterious charm, making it feel like a hidden gem amidst overgrown ruins.

Flowers in the Window - Brunch dish

The restaurant’s menu features a fusion trend, offering a variety of cuisines. For a hearty brunch, try the Mexican Breakfast (RM28), which includes chicken chorizo, cheddar, avocado, and a sunny-side-up egg on a tortilla, served with a side of nachos and salsa. The bold Mexican flavours will surely kickstart your day.

Known for its exceptional bread, this spot is a must-visit for bread lovers. One standout option is the Smoke Salmon (RM19) with sourdough. This dish pairs robust smoked salmon with refreshing homemade basil pesto and fresh arugula, topped with perfectly runny poached eggs— it’s a taste of paradise!

9, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor
+607 222 7489
Daily: 9am – 4pm
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5. Hiritsu Coffee Roastery

Hiritsu Coffee Roastery - Store front

The newly buzzing Hiritsu Coffee Roastery has recently become a hotspot for brunch enthusiasts. Located strategically in Taman Melodies, the establishment attracts diners from both Singapore and JB. While the shop features a modest minimalist storefront, it conceals a wealth of delectable dishes.

Hiritsu Coffee Roastery - Brunch dishes

Indulge in the brunch staple Big Boy Breakfast (RM39), Hiritsu-style. This generous plate includes chicken & herb sausage, sautéed mushrooms, roasted potatoes, cherry tomatoes, sourdough bread, and your choice of poached egg, scrambled egg, or sunny-side-up.

Alternatively, the Truffle Mushroom Toasty (RM30) is a great choice. This dish comes with 2 free-range poached eggs, garden salad, and honey mustard dressing. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll enjoy the Berry Ricotta Hotcake (RM36). It features a fluffy blueberry hotcake topped with mixed nuts, salted caramel crumbles, seasonal fruits, and whipped ricotta, then drizzled with sugar-free maple syrup. Despite the attractive offerings, the only downside is the slightly hefty prices.

89, Jln Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6011 6135 5658
Daily: 9am – 7pm
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6. Lune24

 

Lune24 - Store front

Often described as a hidden sanctuary, Lune24 is an Instagram-worthy restaurant located in Taman Sutera. Nestled within a botanical glasshouse, it brings the tranquillity of nature to your dining experience.

Lune24 - Brunch dishes

The place offers a variety of breakfast and brunch sets, with one of the most popular being the English Breakfast Set (RM26). This dish is likely familiar to many, featuring smoked sausage, chicken slices, mushrooms, fries, egg, hashbrown, baked beans, and chia seeds bread— a timeless classic that has been a favourite of many.

Among its brunch sets, one dish that stood out to me was the Mango Salsa Fish Fillet Brunch Set (RM28). It includes fried fish fillet served with mango salsa, mushrooms, fried egg, hashbrown, baked beans, and chia seeds bread— another satisfying brunch option.

If seafood isn’t your preference, there’s also the Chicken Chop Brunch Set (RM24), which comes with the same sides but with a grilled chicken leg chop instead, accompanied by your choice of teriyaki or Japanese BBQ sauce.

2, Jalan Roda 2, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor
Mon, Thu & Fri: 10am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 6pm
Closed on Tue & Wed
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7. ORdinary

ORdinary - Store front

If you’re an active internet surfer, you’ve probably come across ORdinary online, a brunch spot beloved by many. Conveniently located in Iskandar Puteri, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a great meal after your long journey into JB from Tuas.

ORdinary - Brunch dishes

Whether you’re in the mood for brunch dishes, pasta, light snacks, or dessert, ORdinary has you covered! Their brunch menu offers a variety of options, including the hearty Reuben Sandwich (RM29). This unique dish features sourdough filled with beef pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing.

For more classic choices, try their Shakshouka (RM24), a baked egg dish with mixed mushrooms in tomato sauce, served with sourdough and mixed greens. They also offer a rare find in JB restaurants— Rösti (RM24), pan-fried grated potato topped with a poached egg and cream cheese, served with a chicken sausage and mixed greens.

68-01, Laman Niaga Sunway, Persiaran Medini 3, Sunway City, 79250 Iskandar Puteri, Johor
+6016 720 0068
Daily: 10am – 7pm
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8. Lapérousse

Lapérousse - Store front

Looking for some excellent brunch in JB? You have to try out Lapérousse at Kebun Teh. The restaurant boasts a glowing 4.8 stars on Google based on 183 reviews (at time of writing)— that’s pretty impressive! The environment is predominantly designed in a Japanese wabi-sabi style, creating a warm and cosy ambience.

Lapérousse - Brunch dishes

The menu at Lapérousse is simple yet satisfying, with its signature dish being the Truffle Ham Benedict (RM29.90). This dish features a soft, fluffy brioche bun topped with chicken ham, sautéed spinach, truffle hollandaise, and a perfectly poached egg— a delightful way to start your day. For those preferring seafood, try the Salmon Benedict (RM32.90), which is substituted by smoked salmon and mentaiko hollandaise for a richer flavour.

If you crave variety, opt for the Brekkie Plate (RM35.90), which includes sourdough, sautéed mushrooms, chicken ham, German sausage, and your choice of poached egg or sunny-side-up. Visit this Instagrammable spot and explore it for yourself!

13, Jln Beringin, Taman Kebun Teh, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6016 738 4297
Daily: 11.30am – 12am
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9. Principle by T.A.M

Principle by T.A.M - Store front

Principle by T.A.M has 2 branches at JB City Centre and Mount Austin, both of which have very good reviews on Google. The City Centre branch has a rating of 4.7 stars based on 1.3k evaluations while the Mount Austin outlet scores a 4.8 star rating out of 1.1k ratings (at time of writing). For both establishments to maintain such high ratings, it’s no coincidence. So, what makes this place so good?

Principle by T.A.M - Brunch dishes

If you’ve checked them out online, you’ll see many ordering the Avocado (RM32.90). This dish features toasted house bread topped with poached eggs, cherry tomatoes, mashed avocado, baby radish and herbs. The egg yolk adds depth of flavour to the avocado which would otherwise be bland on its own.

They also have thoughtfully prepared vegan options to cater to different tastes. One of the standout dishes in this selection is the PCT (RM19.90), which includes toasted brioche with charred broccoli, poached egg, truffle mashed potato, baby radish and hollandaise sauce. Don’t forget to round off your meal with a piece of cake for dessert to enjoy an inclusive dining experience.

51, Jalan Austin Heights 3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
+6018 203 2803
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 8.30pm
Fri to Sun: 10.30am – 9pm
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10. D’ Cafe

D’ Cafe - Store front

Do you have a penchant for a botanical vibe? Check out D’ Cafe in Taman Sri Tebrau! Since its establishment in 2021, it has become a popular Instagrammable spot, attracting many visitors. Besides its beautiful decor, the eatery offers good coffee, tasty brunch options, and delicious snacks.

D’ Cafe - Brunch dishes

Don’t overlook Turkey’s OG (RM28), ideal for those who enjoy a touch of spice in their meal. Served with bread, this dish includes Greek yoghurt, poached eggs, paprika, garlic, and fresh dill. The mild heat from the paprika will definitely add a kick to your brunch. If you’re craving something hot beyond this, try the Wrap-it-Up (RM26)— a tortilla wrap filled with crispy fried chicken, cheddar cheese, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, hot sauce, and a mixed salad.

Alternatively, opt for the Pulled Benny (RM28), featuring pulled chicken, poached eggs, hummus, pickled cabbage, and hollandaise sauce atop toasted bread. Complete your brunch with a cup of hot Oat Latte (RM14) for a wonderfully laid-back day.

9, Jalan Kelewang, Taman Sri Tebrau, 80050 Johor Bahru, Johor
+607 332 3311
Daily: 10am – 7pm
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