Let’s face it, us Singaporeans can’t resist a great bargain. I’m all about scoring deals, especially when it comes to shopping in Johor Bahru, and let’s not forget the food— got to satisfy that craving!
Even though we’ve got plenty of seafood spots in Singapore, there’s something about the fresh and tasty sea treasures across the causeway that keeps us going back for more (and it won’t break the bank).
With that, I’ve curated a food guide on 10 Johor Bahru seafood restaurants that are worth braving the insane checkpoint jams for. Let’s go makan in JB!
1. 亚发代炒
Pronounced as ‘Ya Fa Dai Chao’ in Chinese, 亚发代炒 located within Kedai Kopi Seng at Kechil Pontian has been there for over 10 years. What makes dining here unique is that patrons bring their own seafood and vegetables, which the restaurant chefs then prepare.
Well, don’t panic. Because right behind the joint, there’s Pasar Awam Pontian— a dope wet market with all sorts of fresh seafood straight from the local fishermen’s catch of the day.
We spent RM100 for 2 pomfrets and RM85 for a dozen medium-sized prawns— a tad pricey, we thought. Oh, and we grabbed some Kangkong (RM3.40) from the provision stall next door as well.
If you have cheaper places to buy seafood (and happen to have an icebox in your car), I’d recommend checking out other spots for seafood— you might score a better deal elsewhere.
For the cooking fee, this was the breakdown:
- Assam Pedas Pomfret— RM24
- Steamed Pomfret— RM20
- Prawns (Signature Style)— RM18
- Kangkong (Sambal Style)— RM12
The Assam Pedas Pomfret was a bomb of flavour, nailing the ideal mix of tangy and spicy notes. The fish was as fresh as it gets, boasting naturally-sweet flesh. It was served with tomato wedges and green capsicum pieces.
As for the Steamed Pomfret, it was simplicity at its finest but oh-so-satisfying. It was paired with egg beancurd, pork slices, shredded ginger, red chilli and tomatoes— a combo that hit all the right notes.
The owner recommended the Prawns (Signature Style) and we’re glad we went with it. The sauce hugging the fresh prawns was a mixture of sweet and savoury, giving me vibes of kung pao chicken. And let’s not forget the sambal kangkong— pure deliciousness!
Our meal for 5 pax came up to RM262 which is equivalent to about S$77. Expensive or reasonable? Let me know in the comments. Personally, I think it’s well-worth the price.
No.13, Taman Suraya Indah, Jalan Kukup, 82000 Pontian, Johor, Malaysia
+6013 791 8183
Tue to Sun: 8am – 2pm
Closed on Mon
2. Restoran Todak (Orang Asli)
Situated by the sea is Restoran Todak (Orang Asli), which constantly draws crowds of both locals and Singaporeans. When you arrive, don’t expect a physical menu. Instead, you can engage with the service staff to discuss your desired dishes.
The restaurant is situated by the sea and has a rustic, kelong vibe. If you look directly opposite at a distance, you’ll be able to spot the districts of Sembawang and Admiralty in Singapore.
We tried the Red Snapper (RM72) and we chose the Steamed Hong Kong Style. The fish was clean-tasting and very fresh. The soy gravy underneath was delightfully savoury and paired really well with the fish.
We also tried the Tiger Prawn (RM30) cooked in curry. It came in a claypot and we ordered Mantou (RM1 each) along with it. Although the sauce was watery, I still enjoyed its creamy taste and it was lovely dunking the fried buns in the gravy— absolutely delish!
You can also get Lala cooked ‘Gan Xiang‘ Style (RM24) and stir-fried veggies like Kai Lan (RM18). Do note that there is a 6% service tax as well as a charge for peanuts and wet towels.
Here’s an additional tip: if you come across a guy selling otah, don’t bother trying it. It turned out to be quite ordinary and nothing remarkable.
1, Jalan Dedaru 11, Kampung Teluk Jawa, 81750 Masai, Johor, Malaysia
+607 386 3696
Daily: 11.30am – 11.30pm
3. Ikan Bakar Tampin
Take a quick 5-minute car ride from KSL Shopping Centre to experience Ikan Bakar Tampin, situated in the middle of a residential area. Renowned for extended wait times during peak hours, practising patience is essential when dining here.
Upon arrival, proceed directly to the counter to place your order. The service staff will provide you with a number, and all that’s left is to wait until a table is assigned to you.
There are over 13 varieties of grilled fish including Pali (Stingray) (RM10 per 100g), Tenggiri (RM9 per 100g) and Bawal Putih (RM15 per 100g). All of them are slathered with a layer of spicy and umami-rich sambal. Give the flesh a refreshing burst of citrus with the added calamansi.
The Udang Besar (large prawns) (13RM per 100g for small, 14RM per 100g for medium, 15RM per 100g for extra large) is delicious when cooked in luscious salted egg sauce. Alternatively, you can indulge in Sotong (10RM per 100g).
94, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Century, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
+6016 743 1286
Thu to Mon: 5pm – 12am
Closed on Tue & Wed
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4. Hai Kee Seafood Restaurant
If you’re open to outdoor dining and don’t shy away from a smoky atmosphere, check out Hai Kee Seafood Restaurant nestled in Taman Sri Tebrau Hawker Centre. It stands out among numerous seafood joints, and is known for its affordable and high-quality dishes.
The seafood menu is mostly stated as market price, so make sure you check with the staff on the cost of each seafood dish before you proceed.
If you are a spice fan, order the Sambal Clam (RM16). For those looking for a cheaper alternative to lobster, get the Black Pepper Crayfish (Market Price) instead.
There’s also various types of Fish Head (Market Price) available such as Bittergourd Fish Head, Hong Kong-Style Steamed Fish Head and Curry Fish Head.
5. Restoran Sulam
For over 35 years, Restoran Sulam along Jalan Sulam in Taman Sentosa has been dishing out fresh seafood, with a special focus on its renowned curry fish head. The owner, Mr. Teh, personally crafts the recipe for the fish head curry from scratch, ensuring a meticulous and authentic preparation that continues to delight patrons.
Embrace the taste of tradition with the Ikan Kukus Teochew (RM48 to RM78). Fresh red snapper is seasoned lightly to bring out the natural sweetness of the fresh fish and is complemented with tangy sour plum and pickled veggies.
Relish in their various prawn offerings such as Nestum Prawn (RM28 to RM54) and Claypot Curry Prawn (RM28 to RM54) or indulge in the Sotong Telur Masin (RM24 to RM38) (deep-fried squid fried with butter and salted egg).
No trip to Restoran Sulam is complete without trying their 3 kinds of curry fish head: Dry Sambal Fish Head, Asam Fish Head and Curry Fish Head (RM48 to RM78 for all 3 types).
51, Jalan Sulam, Taman Sentosa, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
+6012 732 2113
Thu to Tue: 11am – 3.30pm & 5pm – 9pm
Wed: 11am – 3.30pm
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11 best makan places in JB [Oct 2024 update]
6. Grand Bayview Seafood Restaurant
Feel the gust of sea breeze when you choose to dine at the open-air section of Grand Bayview Seafood Restaurant, which is located at Danga Bay.
The restaurant showcases a striking array of tanks at the entrance, housing live seafood such as lobsters, crabs, fish, clams, and more. This ensures customers receive only the freshest offerings from the sea. Clear prices for each item eliminate any possibility of overcharging or fishy(!) business.
If you love freshly-shucked oysters, the US Oyster (RM23++ each) are served on a bed of ice together with lemon wedges and Tabasco. Looking for some delicious clams? Order the White Clams (RM6.5++ per 100g) or the more substantial and heartier Philippines Sea Melon (RM8++ per 100g).
For large gatherings, explore their assortment of fish which are perfect for sharing: Sea Bass (RM6.50++ per 100g), Red Tilapia (RM5.50++ per 100g), Long Hu Grouper (RM14++ per 100g), and Red Grouper (RM29++ per 100g).
Lot PTD 21349, Batu 3 1/2, Skudai Hwy, Danga Bay, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
+607 226 1688
Daily: 11.30am – 11pm
7. Restoran Chua Kee
Restoran Chua Kee is a kampung-style seafood restaurant that has occupied the district of Gelang Patah in Johor for over 30 years. Beyond its seafood offerings, the eatery boasts a diverse menu featuring chicken, beancurd, fried rice, and more— reminiscent of a zi char establishment.
We ordered 2 Signature Black Pepper Crab (RM168). The flesh was naturally sweet and firm. It packed a sweet and mild-spicy punch from the black pepper but it wasn’t as fiery as the renditions I’ve had in Singapore.
We also gave the Butter Sotong (RM18 for small) a go. At first glance, it resembled a plate of battered calamari that was tossed with shallots and curry leaves; unimpressive and seemingly dry at first glance.
Upon trying it, I discovered I had been mistaken. It was crispy and the robust, fragrant butter flavour together with the aroma of the fried curry leaves flooded my taste buds.
We were also recommended the small Volcano Beancurd (RM35) which looked like a yam basket. It was a large battered beancurd stuffed with squid, prawns, mock abalone, red onion cubes and sliced celery, then topped with Thai-style sweet chilli.
Regrettably, the beancurd didn’t possess the expected soft and silky texture; instead, it resembled the firmness of a fishcake. The experience left us with the decision that it would be our first and last time trying it.
No.67, Jalan Kacang Panjang, Gelang Patah, 81550 Gelang Patah, Johor, Malaysia
+6012 761 0529
Thu to Tue: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Closed on Wed
8. Senibong Bay Seafood
Discover comfort and relaxation at Senibong Bay Seafood, where you can enjoy a soothing atmosphere and occasional live band performances.
Whether you prefer the cosy indoor setting with air-conditioned comfort or the refreshing outdoors with a stunning sunset view of the bay, this is the perfect destination for your dining experience. This restaurant is Muslim-friendly and its dishes have no pork and lard.
Some of their signature star dishes include the Special Consomme Gravy Lobster, Hot & Spicy Squid in Hot Stone Pot and Herbal Sauna Prawn.
For Crabs, there are 4 types of sauces to choose from: Special Chilli Sauce, Salted Egg, Black Pepper and Golden Cream Sauce. For folks who do not want to get their hands dirty, there’s also the Soft Shell Crab Fried With Chilli & Salt.
PTB 120714, Kampung Senibong, Plentong, 81750 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
+6019 710 1280
Daily: 12pm – 3pm & 5pm – 11pm
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9. Restoran Tian Lai Seafood Garden
Visit Restoran Tian Lai Seafood Garden in Gelang Patah, a mere 20 to 25 minutes drive from Tuas Checkpoint, offering a tempting array of fresh seafood and a diverse menu to satisfy your cravings.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to luxurious Lobster options such as Cheese, Salted Chilli, Steamed, or Fried Ginger Garlic (Market Price) to elevate your dining experience. For a hassle-free and healthier choice, you can consider the heartwarming Soup Lala (RM35).
If you’re considering what flavour to try with your Crab (Market Price), why not get the Kam Heong (a mix of chilli padi, dried shrimp, curry powder, curry leaves, and soy bean paste)? It’s uniquely Malaysian and not commonly found in Singapore. Otherwise, you can also consider the Sweet & Sour, Garlic or the creamy Salted Egg.
The menu also has 12 kinds of fish including unique options like Grey Featherback and Parrot Fish. Enjoy it in 7 cooking styles including Thai Style, Nyonya and Steamed In Sweet Carrot.
Do note that this place imposes a 2% service charge and service tax as well.
158 Jalan Leong Bee, Gelang Patah, 81550 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
+607 510 1521
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 10.30pm
Closed on Mon
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10. Ong Shun Seafood Restaurant
If you don’t mind a noisy and slightly humid atmosphere, check out Ong Shun Seafood Restaurant, a Halal-certified restaurant serving a wide spectrum of dishes including fresh seafood, Chinese-style zi char dishes and even vegetarian choices— there’s something for everyone.
Indulge your love for fish with options like Red Snapper, Seabass Siakap, or Grouper (Market Price). With 16 enticing styles including Fried Butter Cream, Ginger Steamed, Fried Assam, and Steamed Tropical Sauce, there’s a variety to satisfy every palate.
Craving something different? Try the enticing Black Bean Sauce Clams instead or spice things up with Dry Curry, Sambal, or Black Pepper variations.
67, Jalan Abdul Samad, Kampung Bahru, 80100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
+607 223 8953
Tue to Sun: 1pm – 12am
Closed on Mon
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