Crossing the Causeway from Singapore to Johor Bahru (JB) just to eat is a favourite weekend tradition for many. Thanks to the favourable exchange rate and strong food culture, JB is packed with buffet options that offer great variety and value.
Whether you’re in the mood for Japanese sashimi, bubbling hotpot, or a lively seafood spread, there’s a buffet in Johor Bahru to match your cravings.
Below are 6 buffets in JB – grouped by style – that are well worth planning a trip for.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.8 stars on Google Reviews)
Located at TD Central, Kuroma Buffet & Dining is Johor Bahru’s first premium Japanese buffet. This establishment prides itself on offering an exquisite dining experience with the freshest air-flown seafood. With a menu designed to cater to various tastes, Kuroma is the perfect destination for sushi enthusiasts and lovers of Japanese cuisine alike. Make sure to secure your spot by making a reservation through their website.
Address: 3, Jalan Sagu 21, Taman Daya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 stars on Google Reviews)
For a unique dining experience, Bao Jun Hot Pot is located at The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey. Offering an extensive selection of meats, seafood, and vegetables, this hot pot restaurant allows you to customize your meal to your heart's content. The interactive nature of hot pot dining, where you can cook your ingredients right at your table, adds to the fun. Do remember that the restaurant only accepts cash payments, so it’s wise to come prepared.
Address: Level 3, zone 3F, unit T-055, The Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, 1, Persiaran Southkey 1, Southkey, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4 stars on Google Reviews)
Makan Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience some of Malaysia’s finest cuisine. Located in the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru, this all-day dining restaurant offers an array of local specialties prepared right before your eyes. The lively atmosphere, complemented by live cooking stations and a juice bar, makes it a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With seafood options available, it’s perfect for those looking to indulge in a seafood buffet experience.
Address: 12 Jalan Ngee Heng, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.8 Stars on google Review)
At Austin Mookata Buffet, located just a stone's throw away from Mount Austin's attractions, you can enjoy a Thai charcoal hot pot experience starting from RM39 (~S$12) per adult. This restaurant features a selection of ingredients such as sliced fish, chicken liver, and crab, making it a great spot for those who enjoy a mix of grilling and steamboat. Its casual setting makes it ideal for a fun dining outing with friends or family.
Address: 2, Jalan Mutiara Emas 5/9, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4 Stars on Google Review)
Genesis Steamboat has garnered a reputation for offering a delightful steamboat experience without stretching your budget. With locations in both Jalan Mutiara and Plaza Mentari, you can indulge in their buffet, which includes a variety of soup bases and fresh ingredients. The mala soup is particularly popular, drawing many patrons to this hidden gem.
Address: Various locations in Johor Bahru
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1 stars on Google Review)
Guo Ma Steamboat, a Taiwanese franchise, provides a unique buffet experience featuring two different soup bases: the popular mala and a clear chicken broth. With a diverse range of ingredients, including pork, chicken, and various side dishes, this restaurant is perfect for those who appreciate a hearty meal. Don’t forget to try their signature Honey Lemon Plum drink and indulge in some sweet desserts afterward.
Address: 55, Jalan Austin Heights 8/5, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Whether you're craving Japanese cuisine, a hot pot adventure, or a seafood feast, Johor Bahru offers an impressive selection of buffet options that cater to every palate. Exploring these dining spots not only satisfies your culinary desires but also provides an enjoyable outing across the causeway.
Thinking of visiting these delightful buffet places? Consider using SGMYTravel for a hassle-free journey. With our reliable transport services, you can relax and focus on enjoying your dining experience without worrying about logistics.
Make your buffet adventure stress-free by letting SGMYTravel handle the cross-border journey. Our private hire car service takes you:
You travel in one comfortable vehicle, clear immigration in the car, and avoid the hassle of changing buses or carrying bags through checkpoints.
Book your ride with SGMYTravel and focus on what really matters: enjoying good food and good company.
Are buffets in Johor Bahru cheaper than in Singapore?
In general, many buffets in JB offer more attractive pricing compared to similar concepts in Singapore, especially for hotpot and steamboat. Exact prices vary by restaurant and promotion, so it’s best to check the latest rates on their official pages before you go.
Do I need to make a reservation for these buffets?
For popular spots like Kuroma Buffet & Dining, Makan Kitchen, and busy Mount Austin hotpot places, advance reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays.
Are these buffets halal or Muslim-friendly?
Some buffet restaurants in JB are halal-certified or Muslim-friendly, while others may not be. If halal status is important, always check the restaurant’s official information or contact them directly before your visit.
Which area in JB has the most buffet options?
Mount Austin is known for its variety of hotpot and mookata buffets, while the city centre has hotel buffets like Makan Kitchen and mall-based options such as Bao Jun Hot Pot at Mid Valley Southkey.
Is it worth crossing the Causeway just for buffet in JB?
Many Singaporeans do exactly that. With a good mix of Japanese, hotpot, steamboat, and seafood buffets, plus generally better value than in Singapore, a JB buffet trip can be a fun day out – especially if you combine it with shopping or café hopping.
How do I get to these buffets from Singapore?
The easiest option is a private car from Singapore to Johor Bahru with SGMYTravel. You travel door-to-door, clear immigration in the vehicle, and can ask your driver to drop you at your hotel, mall, or even near the buffet restaurant you’ve booked.
