First Week in JB: Accommodation, Cafes, and Daily Life
This article summarizes my experiences during my first week working in Johor Bahru (JB), Malaysia, covering accommodation, favorite cafes, and a glimpse into my daily routine.
Accommodation: Mosaic Apartment
We rented a 1-bedroom apartment at the Mosaic, conveniently located across from Mid Valley Southkey.
- The location allows for a quick 10-minute walk to the mall for food and groceries.
Apartment Features
The apartment is spacious, featuring:
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A queen-size bed.
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A study desk, ideal for work-from-home days.
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A clean toilet.
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Condo facilities include an outdoor pool, a play area for families, and a decently equipped gym.
All of this cost $47 per night for two people.
Top 5 Cafe Recommendations
During the week, I visited six different cafes and various local eateries. Here are my top five recommendations.
1. Hitu Coffee Roastery
Hitu Coffee Roastery easily serves the best coffee I had in JB. I visited three times in my first week.
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They roast their own coffee beans, creating a wonderful aroma.
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The space is conducive to remote work with plugs and Wi-Fi.
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This is now my go-to spot for remote work.
2. KJ Coffee (Formerly Outstand Coffee)
KJ Coffee boasts a modern, minimalistic interior design.
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It's a perfect cafe to chill and spend the afternoon.
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I enjoyed a dirty latte that was naughty and fragrant.
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They offer a range of pastries.
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The Alaska Pollock sandwich was worth the wait - the filet was fresh and juicy and paired well with the homemade tartar sauce.
3. Legendary Roadside Burger Stall
This legendary roadside burger stall serves food alongside the creep.
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Dine outdoors and enjoy the sunset (if you arrive early).
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Open daily from 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM (except Mondays).
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Offers a variety of options, from regular Rumble Burgers to homemade ones.
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The portions are very generous.
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The satay from the creep is also recommended.
4. Pine Chicken Rice
Pine Chicken Rice offers a unique dining experience, feeling like you're in someone's living room.
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They sell different cuisines of chicken rice, including nasi lemak, claypot chicken rice, and Hainanese steamed chicken.
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The nasi lemak and Hainanese chicken rice are on the pricier side (around 25 per dish).
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The fried drumstick was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
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The coconut rice is fragrant and fluffy, worth a try.
5. Pallets & Bagels AND Restaurant Teck Sing (Tie)
This was a difficult decision, as both locations offer different culinary experiences.
Pallets & Bagels
Located a 3-minute walk from Pine Chicken Rice.
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Offers a whole range of bagels from parmesan cheese to black truffle.
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The interior design is impressive.
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It is one of the pricier cafes.
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The "dirty pillow" and "Thai Cham" (Thai milk tea and coffee mix) are good choices.
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"The mother-o" goes well with the Truffle Bagel.
Restaurant Teck Sing
Known for their paper wrapped herbal chicken (herbal chicken wrapped in paper).
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The chicken is tender and easily falls off the bone.
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They also offer curry fish head.
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The wall of fame for the chicken is impressive.
A Typical Day in JB
My days aren't just about eating; here's a typical weekday.
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Morning: Start with a workout.
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Breakfast: Simple breakfast nearby.
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Work: Begin work at 9:00 AM, typically from the apartment.
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Lunch: Head to a cafe for food and coffee and usually continue working from the cafe.
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After Work: Meet up with a friend after her class ends and do some grocery shopping.
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Evening: Most nights, we prefer to eat at home and watch shows.
This has been my experience during the first week. It may still be the honeymoon phase, so things could change in the future.
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