This HK-Inspired Cafe In JB Has Kaya Liu Sha Bao, Truffle Char Siew Bao And More

Chi Bao Zi has kaya-salted egg bao and more in Johor Bahru

If you’re a fan of all kinds of bao, here’s a spot you should check out during your next JB trip: Chi Bao Zi. It’s not the most conveniently situated place, being a 20-minute drive away from Johor Bahru City Square, but it could well be worth it for its wide variety of buns—ranging from classic options such as char siew bao to more experimental picks.

Image credit: @chibaozicbz

You must try their Emerald Salted Egg Lava (RM7.80 for two pieces) bao. This treat takes the popular liu sha bao, AKA salted egg custard bun and combines it with a rich kaya filling. The result is a bun with a gorgeous emerald-gold core that brims with an exciting blend of sweet and savoury flavours.

Image credit: @chibaozicbz

Another essential pick is the Black Truffle Char Siew Bun (RM8 for two pieces), where classic char siew bao is perfumed with black truffle. This means that each bite has the sweet, meaty goodness of barbecue pork, but with the earthy goodness of truffle.

Image credit: yu wen

Aside from bao, there’s a good selection of other dim sum dishes too, including the Har-gow (RM8.50), Siumai (RM7.80), Si Zap Pork Ribs (RM7.80) and more.

Image credit: Alina Wee

You can also get noodle dishes here, such as the Hong Kong Plate Noodle (RM9.80), Pork Chop Plate Noodle (RM13.90) and more. Pair any of the aforementioned eats with drinks such as Seasalt Coffee (RM8.90) and NikoNeko Milk Tea (RM8.90) to make your visit truly worth your while.

Image credit: Vincent Loh

Before you leave, don’t forget to snap a shot for the ‘gram. The eatery sports a nostalgic interior inspired by old-school Hong Kong cafes, AKA cha chaan teng.

For JB spots to eat at the next time you cross the causeway early, read our best JB breakfast spots guide. For a popular bakery with traditional pastries at JB City Square, read our Ming Ang Confectionery coverage.

Address: 49, Jalan Indah 1/1, Taman Bukit Indah, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 8am to 5pm
Tel: +60 11-1112 5661
Website
Chi Bao Zi is not a halal-certified eatery.

Featured image adapted from @chibaozicbz and yu wen.