There’s no school like the old school, and Restoran Hua Mui JB has found that sweet spot that’s kept them in business since 1946. Not to be confused with IT Roo Cafe, which is the other famous chicken chop go-to near Customs, we were tipped off by more than one Grab driver that Hua Mui is now the better of the two.
The exchange rate is RM1 = ~S$0.33 as of 26 February 2026.
You can’t walk past Hua Mui and miss it—the corner unit is decked in peeling, faded coral-red paintwork, and a huge white signboard. If you’re sitting at one of the tables on the ground floor, you’ll see a manual pulley system in the kitchen that stands in place of a dumbwaiter.
The first thing, and only dish if you must, to order is Hainanese Fried Chicken Chop (RM21.90). Restoran Hui Mui lays claim to serving The Original Hainanese Fried Chicken Chop, and it’s really worth checking out.
Each order comes with a crisp, well-marinated chicken chop, battered the traditional way with crushed biscuits, grilled tomato, slaw, and potato wedges. It’s also served with a bowl of brown mushroom sauce that you ought to dip the wedges and chicken in.
If you’re not looking for the classic, there’s also a Salted Egg (RM25.90) and Mongolian Volcano (RM27.90) version, said to be extra spicy.
Their expansive menu will have you covered, however, whether you’re looking for Butter Kaya Toast (RM3.20), Nasi Lemak (from RM12.90), dry Mee Siam (from RM12.90), or the Hainan Curry Chicken with Rice (RM13.90).
Finish your meal with their large selection of beverages such as Hainan Kopi (from RM3.90), Teh Cincau Ice (RM6.50), or Milo Gozilla Special (RM13.90).Â
If you’re looking for a more new-age hangout, consider Sunday Morning, which is just a short walk away from Restoran Hua Mui. Otherwise, check out our list of JB cafes to hit up!
Address: 131, Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 8am to 5pm
Tel: +60 7-224 7364
Website
Restoran Hua Mui JB is not a halal-certified eatery.
Photos taken by Brad Harrison Lee
This was an independent visit by Eatbook.sg
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