Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street
A charming heritage street in Johor Bahru, blending colonial and Chinese shophouses with a vibrant cafe and culinary scene.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming heritage street in Johor Bahru, blending colonial and Chinese shophouses with a vibrant cafe and culinary scene.
"Must try the best egg tarts and Orh Nee tarts, with a great vibe for cafe hopping!"
🚶♀️ Walk from JB Sentral
It's just a short walk from JB Sentral, making it super accessible for day-trippers.
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Enjoy delicious meals and snacks without breaking the bank. Combo meals offer great value.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cafe Hopping
Various cafes along the street
Explore charming cafes with unique vibes, from Melbourne-inspired to plant-filled havens. Perfect for a coffee break or a light meal.
Local Delicacies
Various eateries and bakeries
Indulge in must-try local treats like the famous egg tarts and Orh Nee tarts. Many reviewers rave about their deliciousness!
Heritage Architecture
Along the street
Admire the blend of colonial and traditional Chinese shophouses, a testament to Johor Bahru's rich history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Culinary Adventure Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from JB Sentral
It's just a short walk from JB Sentral, making it super accessible for day-trippers.
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Enjoy delicious meals and snacks without breaking the bank. Combo meals offer great value.
📸 Insta-worthy Spots
Many cafes and street corners offer great photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
🍰 Don't Miss the Tarts!
Reviews consistently praise the amazing egg tarts and unique Orh Nee tarts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from JB Sentral
It's just a short walk from JB Sentral, making it super accessible for day-trippers.
💰 Budget-Friendly Eats
Enjoy delicious meals and snacks without breaking the bank. Combo meals offer great value.
📸 Insta-worthy Spots
Many cafes and street corners offer great photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
🍰 Don't Miss the Tarts!
Reviews consistently praise the amazing egg tarts and unique Orh Nee tarts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street for its delicious food, particularly the renowned egg tarts and Orh Nee tarts. The charming heritage architecture and the vibrant cafe scene are also major draws, offering a delightful blend of history and modern culinary experiences. While generally positive, some find parking challenging during peak times.
"Travelled by foot about 15 min from west gate of City Square. First visit this place and enjoy the food at one of the restaurants. Numbers of restaurants may good to visit next time due to raining this afternoon. Bought a favorite bananas cake at 12 ringgits."
Ls Lin
"Best food in JB town! Must try chicken rice and
4pax combo super valuable and yummy."
inez lim
"Good food ,good service & oh yes they sell yhe best egg tart ever !!!!"
joycelyn wong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street is easily accessible from Singapore. You can walk from the Larkin Sentral bus terminal or take a short taxi/Grab ride. Many visitors also find it a convenient stop after crossing the causeway, as it's within walking distance from JB Sentral.
Yes, Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street is conveniently located within walking distance from JB Sentral, making it a popular destination for those arriving by public transport.
Besides walking from JB Sentral, you can use ride-sharing apps like Grab, which are readily available and affordable in Johor Bahru. Local buses also serve the area.
Driving is an option, but parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours. It's often easier to park at a nearby mall like City Square and walk over.
The street is quite walkable and easy to navigate on foot. Most attractions, cafes, and shops are concentrated along the main stretch.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street is a public street and does not require an entrance ticket. You are free to explore the area at your leisure.
The street itself is always accessible. However, individual shops, cafes, and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from late morning to evening. It's best to check with specific establishments if you have a particular place in mind.
Generally, there are no entrance fees for exploring the street or its heritage buildings. Some cafes or restaurants might have minimum spending policies, but this is not a general entry requirement.
While there aren't official ticketed tours for the street itself, many local guides or tour operators in Johor Bahru may include it as part of a city heritage tour. You can also explore independently.
Most establishments accept cash (Malaysian Ringgit) and credit/debit cards. Some smaller stalls might prefer cash. Using e-wallets or apps like Youtrip can also be convenient.
📸 📸 Photography
The street itself, with its charming shophouses and vibrant cafes, offers numerous photo opportunities. Look out for unique architectural details, colorful murals, and the inviting interiors of cafes like Naug Cafe.
Yes, most cafes welcome photography, especially for their food and decor. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other patrons and ask for permission if you're taking close-ups of people.
Street photography, architectural shots, food photography, and lifestyle content are very popular here. The blend of old and new provides diverse visual elements.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. However, commercial photography or filming might require permits. Always be respectful of private property.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the street's ambiance. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reviewers highly recommend the egg tarts and Orh Nee tarts. You can also find delicious chicken rice, pai tee, and various local Malaysian dishes.
Absolutely! Cafes like The Replacement - Lodge & Kitchen offer Melbourne-inspired brunch, while Naug Cafe is known for its plants and ambiance.
You'll find a mix of traditional kopitiams (coffee shops), Chinese restaurants like Kin Hua, and modern cafes catering to diverse tastes.
While many traditional dishes are meat-heavy, some cafes offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment.
Prices vary, but many reviewers note that the food is reasonably priced, with combo meals offering good value. Cafe prices can be slightly higher.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid overwhelming crowds. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the novelty of trying local treats like tarts and pastries can be a fun experience for kids. Some cafes might have more spacious seating arrangements suitable for families.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Singapore
Plan to spend a few hours here to enjoy a meal, grab some famous egg tarts, and soak in the heritage atmosphere. It's a perfect blend of culinary exploration and a brief cultural immersion before heading back.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Focus on the details of the shophouses, the colorful displays in cafes, and the candid moments of daily life. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting conditions for atmospheric photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of History: The Culinary Scene
Beyond the sweet treats, you can find hearty meals like chicken rice and other local delicacies. The blend of old and new eateries means you can experience authentic Malaysian cuisine alongside trendy cafe fare. This makes it a perfect spot for a food crawl, allowing you to sample a variety of tastes in one go.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, cafes like The Replacement offer a Melbourne-inspired ambiance with a focus on healthy and delicious brunch options. Naug Cafe, on the other hand, provides a serene, plant-filled environment perfect for enjoying a coffee and soaking in the atmosphere.
Exploring the Heritage Architecture
Walking along Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street feels like stepping back in time. The intricate details on the facades, the classic shop signs, and the overall layout of the street evoke a sense of nostalgia and cultural significance. It's a visual feast for anyone interested in history and urban heritage.
Many of these heritage buildings now house trendy cafes, boutiques, and eateries, creating a unique juxtaposition of old and new. This revitalization effort ensures that the street remains a dynamic and engaging destination, offering visitors a glimpse into Johor Bahru's past while enjoying its present-day offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit