7 best bars in Johor Bahru that you will love:
Also within the same compound as JWC Cabinet 8 is JWC’s Gin Bar, Johor Bahru’s first gin bar. This hidden bar has a different look than its sister bar, embracing a very neon-filled Chinese retro theme reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s. Naturally, gin-based cocktails are mainstays here, each lovingly created by the waiters.
ADDRESS: 65, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor
Quite the opposite of hidden bars, you definitely won’t miss Mulligan’s Pub & Bistro thanks to its extremely bright blue and yellow exterior. This Irish-style pub serves classic ale and stout on tap, along with an extensive menu of food that will keep you full and wanting more. Think hearty pies, potato and leek soup, and more, which pair perfectly with beer. Mulligan’s Pub & Bistro is definitely the kind of no-frills bar you’d want to go to and relax with a pint.
ADDRESS: No. 17, Jalan Permas 10/2, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, 81750 Masai, Johor, Malaysia
These days, when most people mention a retro-themed bar, they immediately think of an old Chinese-style interior. 90洋服.龟来 bar (or 90 Tailor Bar) is visibly retro but strays away from the red Chinese interior most are familiar with. Instead, it focuses on vintage accessories like the manual sewing machine, wicker chairs, and concrete floors that our grandparents loved to have. Sip a few cocktails while enjoying the retro concept of it all.
Did we mention that 90 Tailor Bar is also a boutique? The shop offers suit rentals and sells some custom-made suits, hence the name.
ADDRESS: 8b, Jalan Pendekar 10, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
If the name sounds familiar, it’s because bartender Justin Tay of Cabinet 8 by JWC was the Malaysian finalist in the 2018 La Maison Cointreau cocktail competition. You’ll find this bar tucked away at the back of The Bear & Fish cafe, where they make sexy looking cocktails. The interior is just as stylish, just ask to have your photos taken and featured on social media.
ADDRESS: 65, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor
Another hidden bar and also one of a best bars in Johor Bahru to visit in JB is Haiiro Usagi, which also embraces a Sino-Japanese retro concept. It’s pretty well hidden, so look for the letters 75A above a metal door. Go for the Instagram-worthy interior, but stick with the more-than-decent cocktails. “Earl”Mazing is one of the popular selections on the menu, featuring an earl gray tea-infused gin with orange liqueur and salted milk foam.
ADDRESS : 75a, Jalan Maju, Taman Maju Jaya, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Do you love a good view? Then Sky 26 is your kind of bar. Located on the top floor of the Holiday Villa Johor Bahru hotel, it is the only bar in the city that will give you unparalleled views of JB. There is also a DJ playing sets on certain days, so come prepared to party. Naturally, the drinks here will cost more compared to other bars on the ground floor, but it will be worth it for the view you get.
ADDRESS: Holiday Villa, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
By day, The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen is a stunning sunlit cafe, filled with the delicious aroma of coffee and brunches. At night, switch your appetite to their sunset tapas and a good selection of craft beers that you would otherwise be hard-pressed to find in this city. The cafe still looks just as good at night as it does during the day, and the extensive food menu will ensure you keep you going all night.
ADDRESS: 33, Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
