Ukiyo: French-Japanese Dessert Cafe Hidden In A Pilates Studio At Mount Austin

Ukiyo is a pretty dessert cafe in Johor Bahru Mount Austin

There are plenty of cafes in JB, but Ukiyo scores for its hidden location, pretty-in-pink decor, and stunning array of handcrafted desserts. Located in Mount Austin, which is a 30-minute car ride from the customs, this cafe specialises in dainty French-Japanese cakes and barista-brewed coffee.

The cafe sees girly pink furnishings, terrazzo tables, and rattan seats for that chic, resort-like ambience. It’s spacious, with a variety of seats to choose from. Snag a table inside for a more intimate setting, or choose to sit near the main entrance where it’s brighter, if you’re snapping pics.

Ukiyo doubles up as a pilates studio, so you can get your workout in before indulging in a sweet treat!

To order, head to the counter where there’s a glass display lined up with an array of dainty desserts that rotate from time to time.

Do note that the pastry menu is subject to change, so the items we enjoyed during our visit may not be available when you’re there.

If you’re feeling spoilt for choice, start with the best-selling Sicily (RM28++/~S$8.50++), an Ispahan-inspired dessert featuring crispy raspberry mille-feuille layers with a rose-spiked cream and pistachio praline middle.

This delicate treat was well-balanced in flavours and texture—no wonder it’s a crowd favourite. You can also get this in matcha flavour!

Then there’s also the Genie (RM22++/~S$6.70++), a fudgy matcha cube with a rich dark chocolate middle. Matcha fans will love the bittersweet tea notes in this number, which pair excellently with the chocolate centre.

For those who love tropical flavours, the bright yellow Hawaii (RM26+/~S$7.90+) will surely put a smile on your face. This layered dessert comprises a sweet and fragrant mango crémeux, tangy passionfruit jelly, and a coconutty base for added texture.

Offset the sweetness with a cup of Caffe Latte (RM13++/~S$4++) for the perfect afternoon tea treat. Otherwise, Ukiyo also serves offered flavoured coffee, if that’s something you prefer. Try the Tiramisu Coffee (RM16++/~S$4.90++), or the Rose Flavoured Latte (RM15++/~S$4.60++) for a floral-scented beverage.

Ukiyo is tucked in a modern capsule hotel called Hako Hotel. If you’re looking for more food within the vicinity, check out our Mount Austin food guide. Alternatively, read our JB zi char guide if you’re hankering for a full-on feast across the border!

Address: 17-02, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 12pm to 7pm
Tel: +60 12-936 9760
Website
Prices are subject to a 10% service charge and 6% SST.
Ukiyo Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery, but their food contains no pork or lard.

Photos taken by Tan Zi Hui.
This was an independent visit by Eatbook.sg.

Anthia Chng

As the Associate Editor of Eatbook, Anthia survives on a steady diet of cake and coffee. With a decade of writing experience in food, fashion, and beauty—including six years at Expat Living Singapore—she’s passionate about sharing stories that excite and inspire, whether it’s discovering the latest restaurant opening or shining a light on a heritage hawker stall.