If you are in Johor Bahru and no matter if you’re craving for fresh sushi, comforting ramen or a full izakaya-style dining experience, JB offers plenty of options that can rival bigger cities.
In view of this, we have concluded the top 10 Japanese restaurants that are loved by locals for their quality, consistency and authentic flavours.
1. Awagyu Restaurant
Awagyu Restaurant is a halal eatery at Taman Abad that takes pride in serving high-quality A5-graded wagyu. Imported from Tanifuji ranch, located in Tokushima’s pristine environment, the establishment offers all parts of the premium wagyu, featuring up to 26 cuts!
Address: 25c, Jalan Dato Abdullah Tahir, Taman Abad, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: Daily: 12:00pm – 3:00pm, 5:30pm – 10:00pm
(Fri–Sun: 12:00pm – 10:00pm)
2. Kuroma Buffet & Dining
Double your happiness at Kuroma Buffet & Dining with an unlimited feast! This restaurant at Taman Daya is widely recognised for its sashimi buffet, making it a popular spot for festive celebrations. They offer various types of Japanese buffet options beyond sashimi, ensuring all palates are well taken care of.
Address: TD Central, 3, Jalan Sagu 21, Taman Daya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: Open Daily, Closes at 10PM
3. Kirishima Shuzou Japanese
Being a steadfast presence in JB, Kirishima Shuzou Japanese Restaurant is well-known among locals, including the older generation. Established in 1998, it pioneered JB’s Japanese dining scene, offering excellent dishes on the first floor of Crystal Crown Hotel.
Location: 1st floor, Crystal Crown Hotel, 117 Jalan Tebrau, Taman Century, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor
Opening Hours: Tue–Sun: 12:00pm – 2:30pm, 6:00pm – 10:30pm, Closed on Monday
4. Shin Mura Wagyu Robata
Most are familiar with the essence of Japanese cuisine soy sauce, mirin, sake often indulging in sushi, ramen, or perhaps wagyu when feeling extravagant. But only few have truly explored another level of Japanese culinary artistry. In the heart of Johor Bahru, Shin Mura Wagyu Robata is your best bet if you’re seeking such an experience.
Address: Malaysia, 12, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak (Susur 4), Larkin, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: Daily: 12:00pm – 4:00pm, 6:00pm – 11:00pm
5. Don House
Japanese cuisine offers diversity beyond sashimi, sushi, and soba. If you’re a fan of donburi, Don House Japanese Restaurant in Mount Austin is the perfect destination for you, as the name suggests.
Address: 27, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim1
Operating Hours: Open Daily, Closes at 10PM
6. Hanazen Japanese Restaurant
The understated facade of Hanazen Japanese Restaurant often goes unnoticed amidst the lively street of Mount Austin. However, beneath its unassuming exterior lies a treasure trove of affordably-priced Japanese delicacies.
Address: 28, Jln Austin Heights 8/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: Daily: 12:00pm – 4:00pm, 5:00pm – 10:00pm
7. Okuya Ramen
Okuya Ramen is a neighbourhood ramen shop tucked away in unassuming shop houses at Taman Daya. Occupying only half a shop lot, the humble eatery has garnered significant positive reviews online for its exceptional flavours.
Address: 27, Jalan Sagu 33, Taman Daya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: Mon, Wed–Sun: 11:30am – 4:00pm, 5:30pm – 9:00pm, Closed on Tuesday
8. Kyu Izakaya
I’ve seen many netizens singing praises of Kyu Izakaya for its delicious dishes. Founded by the team behind Kyudon, this modern izakaya eatery in Taman Pelangi has even been acclaimed as the best Japanese restaurant in JB by diners, a highly esteemed accolade.
Address: 46, Jln Sri Pelangi 4, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Operating Hours: Sat–Sun: 12:00pm – 10:30pm
Mon, Wed–Fri: 12:00pm – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 10:30pm
Closed on Tuesday
9. Yawata No Kami Japanese Restaurant
Mount Austin has attracted many foodies with its vibrant dining scene. Yawata No Kami Japanese Restaurant is one of those spots that has drawn plenty of regular customers. There must be something unique about these restaurants to have that kind of appeal.
Address: 28, Jln Austin Heights 8/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
Opeating Hours: Mon–Sun: 12:00pm – 4:00pm, 5:00pm – 10:00pm
10. Sushi Mentai
Established in 2011, Sushi Mentai has consistently been a popular Japanese spot favoured by students for its affordable prices. Over the years, it has expanded its footprint from the south to the west, and even to the East coast and Sarawak, marking its popularity among locals.
Address: No. 0116, Level 1, Jalan Indah 15/3, Bukit Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: Mon–Fri: 12:00pm – 10:00pm
Sat–Sun: 11:30am – 10:30pm
Explore Johor Bahru’s Japanese Food Scene with Ease
Johor Bahru’s Japanese food scene continues to grow, offering something for every type of diner, from premium restaurants to casual spots. Exploring them all is part of the fun, especially if you’re planning a food hunt across different areas of the city.
With SGMYTaxi, getting around Johor Bahru becomes simple and stress-free. Travel comfortably between restaurants without worrying about traffic or parking, and focus on enjoying your food journey.