1. Laksa Johor

· What It Is: A unique take on the traditional laksa, this dish is made with spaghetti instead of rice noodles and is served with a rich, spicy fish-based gravy.

· Where to Try: Many local eateries and hawker stalls in Johor Bahru serve this dish, but it’s particularly famous at restaurants specializing in Malay cuisine.

2. Mee Rebus

· What It Is: A popular noodle dish in Johor, Mee Rebus consists of yellow noodles in a thick, sweet, and spicy gravy made from mashed sweet potatoes, dried shrimp, and a blend of spices.

· Where to Try: Haji Wahid Mee Rebus, located at Plaza Angsana, is a well-known spot for this dish.

3. Kacang Pool

· What It Is: A Johor specialty inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, Kacang Pool is a hearty dish made from fava beans cooked with spices, topped with a sunny-side-up egg, and served with toasted bread.

· Where to Try: The most famous place to enjoy Kacang Pool is Kacang Pool Haji, located in Larkin.

4. Nasi Briyani Gam

· What It Is: A fragrant rice dish, Nasi Briyani Gam is a Johorean specialty where the rice is cooked together with marinated meat, usually lamb or chicken, in a sealed pot to lock in all the flavors.

· Where to Try: Restoran Saujana in Batu Pahat and Nasi Briyani Gam An-Nur in Johor Bahru are popular spots to try this dish.

5. Otak-Otak

· What It Is: A grilled fish cake made from ground fish, spices, and coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves. It’s a popular snack in Johor and is often eaten with rice or on its own.

· Where to Try: Otak-Otak Johor is widely available, but you can try it at Otak-Otak Cheng Boi in Muar for a well-known version.

6. Roti Canai

· What It Is: A crispy, flaky flatbread served with dhal curry, sambal, or sugar. It’s a common breakfast item in Johor and across Malaysia.

· Where to Try: Various mamak (Indian Muslim) stalls and restaurants in Johor Bahru serve excellent Roti Canai, with Restoran Murtabak Majid in JB being a popular choice.

7. Murtabak Singapore

· What It Is: A stuffed pancake filled with minced meat, onions, and egg, often served with curry or pickles. Despite its name, it’s a popular dish in Johor as well.

· Where to Try: You can find it at Restoran Murtabak Majid in Johor Bahru, which is famous for its rich and flavorful version of the dish.

8. Asam Pedas Johor

· What It Is: A spicy and tangy fish stew made with tamarind, chili, and various local spices. It’s typically served with rice and is a staple in Johor’s food culture.

· Where to Try: Warung Saga in Johor Bahru is well-known for serving authentic Asam Pedas.

9. Satay

· What It Is: Skewered and grilled meat, usually chicken or beef, served with a rich peanut sauce. Johor’s version of satay is known for its slightly sweet marinade.

· Where to Try: ZZ Satay in Johor Bahru is a popular spot for enjoying this dish.

10. Kuih-muih

· What It Is: Traditional Malay desserts that include a variety of sweet treats like Kuih Lapis, Onde-Onde, and Pulut Tekan. These are often colorful and made with ingredients like coconut, pandan, and glutinous rice.

· Where to Try: You can find these treats at local markets like Pasar Karat in Johor Bahru.