This Aesthetic Cafe Near JB Customs Has Korean Pastries And Yuzu Salmon Ochazuke

Yeon Cafe is a Korean-inspired dessert cafe in Johor Bahru

Yeon Cafe is one of the more popular cafes in Johor Bahru, and it’s easy to see why. True to its name, the cafe exudes Korean-inspired vibes in every aspect, from its cosy, minimalist interior design to vibey K-pop tunes playing in the background. It’s also a convenient 10-minute drive from JB customs.

The experience begins right at the doorstep with a stone pathway leading to the entrance. Once inside, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Korean drama—the space is decorated with fluffy cushions, macrame table runners, pastel flowers, and books that add pops of colour to almost every corner of the cafe.

Windowside seats are the most sought-after, as they offer ample sunlight and the ideal backdrop for your obligatory food pics.

Once you’re done snapping your pics, head up to the counter and pick what you want from the beautiful display of baked goods. The names of the bakes and their prices are written on the transparent lids, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

We went for the aesthetic Genmaicha Mochi Tart (RM12+/~S$3.41+). Served warm, it features a buttery genmaicha tart crust filled with soft and chewy mochi, topped with crispy cookie crumbs.

This tart is great for those who enjoy mochi desserts with a strong matcha flavour.

Besides offering Korean mains such as Rainbow Kimbap (RM18+/~S$5.11+) and Spicy Chicken Kimchi Fried Rice (RM22+/~S$6.24+), the cafe also serves a slew of Japanese-inspired dishes, including Creamy Prawn Ramen (RM28+/~S$7.95+) and Salmon Yuzu Ochazuke (RM33+/~S$9.37+).

FYI, ochazuke is a traditional Japanese dish where hot tea is poured over rice. Our dish included a separate teapot of broth, which we used to immerse the rice and salmon.

The salmon is encased in a delicate, crispy batter and coated with yuzu sauce, adding a touch of citrus to the dish.

Wash everything down with the cafe’s selection of beverages, which includes soda, kombucha, milkshakes, and coffee. If you’re after something visually pleasing, we recommend trying the pink-hued Raspberry Milk (RM15+/~S$4.26+).

Packed with the vibrant and tart flavour of raspberries, this drink leans towards the sweeter side and is uber creamy too.

Another gorgeous cafe to check out in Johor Bahru is Re Patisserie, which has pistachio desserts and fruit tarts just a 10-minute drive from JB customs. If you’re planning to go cafe hopping in JB, check out our JB Mount Austin food guide.

Address: 12, Jalan Perang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily 10:30am to 10pm
Tel: +60 18-385 6899
Website
Yeon Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery but serves no pork or lard.

Photos taken by Kia Ee Hor and edited by Maisie Chong.
This was an independent visit by Eatbook.