Read on for our top picks on what to do in JB’s trendiest neighbourhood 👇
To clear the air before we begin… no, there’s no summiting or hiking involved! Mount Austin is not an actual mountain, but a vibrant neighbourhood that has become the must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike. So if you’re planning for your next weekend trip up to JB but would like to try something different from the usual suspects close to the border, like City Square Mall or KSL City, then this Mount Austin JB guide answers the call.
Ready to dive into our top 21 things to do here? Let’s go!
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⚡️ Quick Guide: Mount Austin JB at a Glance
| Category | Top Picks | Why Visit | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🍽️ Must-Try Food | Eden by Wizards, Broloklok, Restoran Gim Cheng | Trendy cafes, authentic lok lok, best dim sum in JB | ~S$3 – S$22 per person |
| ☕ Cafes & Desserts | Slow Day Cafe, P-Loko, Tong Shui Mui | Instagram-worthy spots, fusion cuisine, Cantonese desserts | ~S$5 – S$15 per person |
| 🍲 Dinner Spots | Sae Ma Eul BBQ, Dai Tao Lala Pot, Hei Huang BBQ | KBBQ buffet, signature lala soup, fresh grilled seafood | ~S$12 – S$22 per person |
| 💆 Relaxation | 38°C Onsen, Borneo Oasis, HeartSpa | Couple-friendly onsen, massage therapy, head spa treatments | ~S$18 – S$60 per session |
| 🎨 Activities | Tutu Studio, Forever Twenty DIY, BangHistory Escape, The Rhythm | Tufting, beading workshops, escape rooms, rage room | ~S$15 – S$40 per activity |
| 🐾 Animal Cafes | Face Cat, Chill ‘N Chow, Meow Me Cat House, Da Little Farm | Exotic animals, Chow Chows, cat-friendly cafe | ~S$7 – S$26 per hour |
| 🛍️ Shopping | Aeon Tebrau City – Threads, NRN Concept Store | International brands, Taobao-style boutiques, mall entertainment | Varies |
| 🏨 Accommodation | Midori Concept Hotel, Hako Hotel, Cube8teens | Eco-friendly, modern interiors, near attractions | ~S$50 – S$70 per night |
| 📍 Location | 20 minutes from JB city centre | Easy access from Singapore via Causeway | – |
| ⏰ Best Time to Visit | Weekdays for smaller crowds, weekends for a full experience | Book activities in advance | – |
💡 Pro Tip: Lock in the best MYR exchange rates before you go to maximise your savings on food and activities!
Table of Contents:
- Why is Mount Austin JB So Popular?
- Must-Try Food
- Cafes & Desserts
- Dinner Spots
- Massage & Spas
- Activities
- Animal Cafes
- Shopping
- Mount Austin Accommodations
- Tips For Singaporeans Visiting Mount Austin JB
Why is Mount Austin JB So Popular?
Mount Austin has quickly become one of JB’s hottest neighbourhoods, and honestly? We get the hype. Located just 20 minutes from JB city centre and easily accessible from Singapore via the Causeway, this trendy district offers the perfect escape from the usual shopping malls.
Here’s why Mount Austin has become a must-visit spot:
- Foodie paradise: From authentic lok lok stands to trendy cafes and affordable KBBQ buffets, Mount Austin’s food scene is unmatched
- Instagram-worthy spots: Think aesthetic cafes, animal encounters, and creative DIY studios perfect for the ‘gram
- Wellness central: Affordable massages, couple-friendly onsens, and head spas that cost a fraction of Singapore prices
- Unique experiences: Where else can you tuft a rug, rage in a rage room, and cuddle exotic animals all in one neighbourhood?
- Easy access: Just 20 minutes from JB city centre, making it super convenient for day trips or weekend stays
- Great value: Everything from food to activities and accommodation offers amazing bang for your buck
Mount Austin Must-Try Food 🤤
For the Foodies: The number one rule when in JB? Eat your heart out. Here are some of our favourite, must-visit makan spots in Mount Austin JB to fuel up.
1. Eden by Wizards
Image Credits: Daniel Food Diary
Ambience matters when cafe-hopping, and Eden by Wizards absolutely passes the vibe check with its chic, garden-style setting. Beyond brunch staples like avocado toast and brioche French toast, standouts include the gochujang beef rice bowl and truffle scrambled eggs.
Pair it with their speciality coffee and take your time — this spot is made for slow, chill hangs.
- Address: 19, Jln Tiong Emas, Kawasan Perindustrian Tiong Nam Tebrau 3, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs, 10 AM – 6 PM, Fri – Sun, 10 AM – 10 PM
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2. Broloklok
Image Credits: Eatbook.sg
No JB trip is complete without lok lok, and Broloklok is a must when you’re in Mount Austin. Pick from classic skewers like tiger prawns and otah, or go bold with century egg and beef tripe, all grilled over open fire and dusted with their signature seasoning.
Dine indoors or grab a red stool outside for the full lok lok experience.
- Address: 41, Jalan Mutiara Emas 2A, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 7 PM – 2 AM, daily
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3. Restoran Gim Cheng
Image Credits: Daniel Food Diary
When in Austin Heights, the early bird catches the… freshest dim sum. This spot is famous for some of JB’s best, most affordable dim sum. It’s old-school and fully self-service: grab a table, then pick from towering baskets at the counters.
Pro tip: listen out for the aunties calling out fresh trays — it’s first-come, first-served.
- Address: 2, 2, 1, Jalan Sagu 36, Taman Daya, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Thurs – Tues, 7 AM – 1 PM. Closed on Wednesdays
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☕ Mount Austin Cafes & Desserts
4. Slow Day Cafe
Image Credits: Confirm Good
Need a breather? Slow Day Cafe is a cosy hideout with calm vibes, tea-based drinks, and even an art jamming space. Sip on their strawberry matcha latte, snack on the hojicha tea cake, and actually slow down for once.
- Address: No. 2-01, (1st Floor Only, Jalan Austin Heights 7/8, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Sun, Mon, Wed, Thurs, 12 PM – 8 PM, Fri & Sat, 12 PM – 12 AM. Closed on Tuesdays
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5. P-Loko
Image Credits: Foodpanda
P-Loko is a halal-friendly, super aesthetic cafe serving fusion dishes like lemak pasta and nasi kuning rendang at wallet-friendly prices. They’ve also got solid pastries and desserts, plus fun drinks like a tiramisu latte that are way more exciting than your usual kopi. After all, holiday calories don’t count… right?
- Address: 01-20, Menara Hartamas, Block B, Jalan Austin Heights 8/4, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM, daily
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6. Tong Shui Mui
Image Credits: Tourism Johor
Food trucks are a dime a dozen in JB, and unsurprisingly, they often serve up some of the best dishes around. Enter Tong Shui Mui, a multi-chain dessert truck offering pocket-friendly Cantonese treats!
Expect dim sum favourites like taro cake, carrot cake, and egg tarts, plus classics such as mango sago, red bean soup, and tangyuan. Perfect for a post-dinner sweet fix.
- Address: In front of Mount Austin RHB Bank
- Opening Hours: 1 PM – 10 PM, daily
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Mount Austin Dinner Spots 🍲
7. Sae Ma Eul BBQ Austin Crest
Image Credits: Confirm Good
We Singaporeans love our KBBQ, but it can get pretty expensive at times. If you’re looking for an affordable and delicious KBBQ option in Mount Austin, then Sae Ma Eul is the place to be. Their 100-minute BBQ buffet starts at just 39 MYR (~S$11.83), or go for value set meals from 70 MYR (~S$21.24) if you want specific cuts.
Bonus: rice and noodle dishes plus unlimited banchan to round it all out.
- Address: 2, Jalan Jaya Putra 7/5, Bandar Jaya Putra, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Mon, 4 PM – 12 AM, Tues – Sun, 12 PM – 12 AM
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8. Dai Tao Lala Pot
Image Credits: Confirm Good
Dai Tao Lala Pot hits all the hot pot goals: rich broth, packed ingredients, and yes, free refills. Clams are stir-fried with a special spice mix before the umami broth hits, and you can customise at the DIY station with garlic, chilli, huadiao wine, and more. A hearty lala hot pot is just 38 MYR (~S$11.53) — worth the wait!
- Address: No.49, Jalan Austin Height 8/5 , Taman Mount Austin Johor Bahru, 81100 Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 5 PM – 3 AM, daily
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9. Hei Huang BBQ Grill Fish
Image Credits: Hei Huang BBQ Grill Fish
Seafood lovers, Hei Huang BBQ Grill Fish is a must. Fresh and affordable, their sambal stingray and lala hit all the flavour notes, and you can even dabao from other stalls to eat here. Pro tip: don’t miss Ah Ma Fried Oyster nearby for crispy edges, juicy oysters, and pure eggy bliss.
- Address: 29, Jalan Mutiara Emas 2A, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 5 PM – 2 AM, daily
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Mount Austin Massage & Spas 💆♀️
Don’t forget to pamper yourself when you’re here! Here are some of our favourite ways to relax and unwind at Mount Austin JB.
10. 38°C Onsen
Image Credits: Citynomads
For a luxurious onsen experience without the hefty price tag, 38°C Onsen fits the bill. Couples can unwind together, starting with a kimono, a foot bath, and a mineral-rich onsen soak. Cap it off with sweet treats and a full-body massage. Pure bliss.
- Address: Akademik Suite, Block A #G, 05, Jalan Austin Heights Utama, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 9 PM, daily
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11. Borneo Oasis
Image Credits: Ayu Borneo
For the ultimate R&R in JB, Borneo Oasis is a Mount Austin fave. Expect top-notch service, a wide range of treatments, and seriously chill vibes. Hit up their happy hour deals for budget-friendly pampering, and book ahead to secure your spot.
- Address: 49, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 12 AM, daily
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12. HeartSpa
Image Credits: @heart.spa_jb
If traditional facials or full-body massages aren’t your thing, try a head spa at HeartSpa. It’s perfect for stress relief, tension release, and total relaxation, all in a calming, beautifully designed space.
- Address: 27 Jalan Austin Heights 7/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM, daily
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Mount Austin Activities 🎨
13. Tutu Studio
Image Credits: Tutu Studio (Facebook)
Whether you’re into crafts or not, Tutu Studio is a bright, inspiring spot to get creative. Try tufting and building a unique variety of objects like mirror and bag projects (pick up your masterpiece in a week). Or craft quick DIYs like decorating your own phone case and fluid bear art.
No walk-ins, so book ahead!
- Address: 51, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM, daily
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14. Forever Twenty DIY Studio
Image Credits: Klook
Whether you’re a raver, a Swiftie, or anywhere in between, Forever Twenty DIY Studio is perfect for beading and crafting. Make friendship bracelets, necklaces, phone charms, or customise phone cases and mirrors. It’s a great solo, as a couple, or with your squad!
- Address: 51-02, Jalan Jaya Putra 7/6, Bandar Jaya Putra, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 7 PM. Closed on Wednesdays.
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15. BangHistory Escape Amusement
Image Credits: The Travel Intern
For unique thrills, BangHistory has it all. Smash stress in the rage room, try the labour pain simulator (seriously), or tackle their escape rooms — some with horror themes for extra adrenaline.
- Address: 16 Persiaran Austin Heights 8/6, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Mon – Fri, 1:30 PM – 11 PM. Sat & Sun, 12:30 PM – 12 AM
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16. The Rhythm
Image Credits: Johor Now
While Mount Austin boasts a few popular KTV joints, we recommend directing your attention to The Rhythm. Why? Because here, you can do the ultimate combo: hotpot and KTV.
Prices are very affordable, and the best part? If you hit the minimum food spend (which is quite easy), you get to enjoy the first three hours of singing for free!
- Address: 55, Jln Austin Height 8/8, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs, 12 PM – 12 AM, Fri & Sat, 12 PM – 2 AM
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Mount Austin Animal Cafes 🐾
17. Face Cat
Image Credits: Lemon8 (@Clara Soh)
In Mount Austin, you can do just about anything under the sun, including treating yourself to an express facial for just 59 MYR (~S$17.90) at Face Cat! It’s a great pick-me-up during long days out and a lovely way to pamper yourself with some TLC.
- Address: Jalan Austin Heights 7/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM. Open daily.
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18. Chill ‘N Chow Cafe
Image Credits: The Travel Intern
At Chill ’N Chow Cafe, sip coffee while chilling with friendly Chow Chows. Entry costs 20 MYR (~S$6) on weekdays or 23 MYR (~S$7) on weekends, and includes a free coconut ice cream. Don’t forget socks! They’re required, but extras are just 3 MYR (~S$0.90)
- Address: 16-01, Jalan Austin Heights 8/4, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM. Closed on Mondays
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19. Meow Me Cat House
Image Credits: Lemon8 (@Clara Soh)
Meow Me Cat House is a cat-friendly cafe with no time limits or entry fees. Enjoy coffee and snacks—dirty latte for a caffeine kick or yuzu lemon soda to refresh. They also offer pet boarding and even tarot readings for a quirky, spiritual twist.
- Address: 28-01, Jalan Austin Height 7/7, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 12 PM – 9 PM. Closed on Wednesdays.
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20. Da Little Farm
Image Credits: Shout
For a wild twist on pet cafes, Da Little Farm delivers. Meet fennec foxes, meerkats, skunks, and a free-roaming alpaca—all in the city! Entry is 48 MYR (~S$14.50) weekdays, 58 MYR (~S$17.60) weekends; combo with Shi-Ba Café costs 70–85 MYR (~S$21–$26).
Book ahead, appointments only!
- Address: 12-02, Jalan Austin Heights 8/4, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM daily
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Mount Austin Shopping 🛍️
21. Aeon Tebrau City
Image Credits: DowntownJB
Beat the heat at Aeon Tebrau City, a huge mall with international brands, local boutiques, and a movie theatre. For unique finds, check out cult favourites like Threads and NRN Concept Store — affordable minimalist fashion that feels like Taobao IRL.
- Address: S15 level 2, Centre Court, Aeon Tebrau City Shopping Centre, Persiaran Desa Tebrau, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
- Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs, 10 AM – 10 PM, Fri & Sat, 10 AM – 11 PM
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Mount Austin JB Accommodation 🏨
While there are plenty of gorgeous hotels and homestay options, here are some tried-and-tested options for you to consider!
*Room rates are taken for June 2025
1. Midori Concept Hotel
Image Credits: Trivago
Midori Concept Hotel is a boutique hotel that prides itself on being eco-friendly and is conveniently close to the main shopping district. It’s clean, offers essential amenities, and best of all, it’s super affordable — leaving you more to spend on the fun things that matter!
- Best Price: From S$55/night. Get an additional 10% off with Agoda via YouTrip Perks
- Address: 57, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, Tebrau, Johor Bahru, Malaysia, 81100
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2. Hako Hotel Taman Mount Austin
Image Credits: Hako Hotel
Don’t be fooled by this hotel’s exterior — step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a delightfully modern interior. We love Hako Hotel for its spacious rooms, which are perfect for travelling with a larger group. The generous breakfast buffet is a nice perk, but with so many delicious food options just a short walk away, you might want to save some room!
- Price: From S$70/night.
- Address: No.17-02,17-03,17, 04, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
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3. Cube8teens by Nest Home
Image Credits: Booking.com
If you prefer the Airbnb life, this cosy, no-frills aparthotel is a great option. Cube8teens offers all the essential facilities, including a gym for shedding those extra calories! We also love that it’s just a walking distance from AEON Mall, making it super convenient after a full day of shopping.
- Price: From S$50/night. Get up to 10% cashback with Agoda via YouTrip Perks
- Address: No.17-02,17-03,17, 04, Jalan Austin Heights 8/3, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
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Tips For Singaporeans Visiting Mount Austin JB
- Bring MYR or use YouTrip: Skip the money changers and lock in the best rates with YouTrip for zero fees and easy payments.
- Go early for dim sum & popular cafes: Spots like Restoran Gim Cheng and Eden by Wizards get crowded fast.
- Book activities in advance: Places like Da Little Farm, Tutu Studio, and onsens require reservations.
- Dress comfortably: You’ll be walking, eating, and exploring, so comfy shoes and light clothing are a must.
- Plan for traffic: The Causeway can get busy on weekends; consider leaving early or returning late to avoid jams.
Weekend Getaway? Settled!
You’re probably no stranger to JB already, so we hope that this shortlist of things to do and eat in Mount Austin JB will come in handy! Before you go, don’t forget to save with the best MYR rates with YouTrip!
Singapore’s go-to multi-currency wallet helps you save with great FX rates and zero fees. Skip the money changer and get a free YouTrip card + S$5 YouTrip credits with code <YTBLOG5>.
Then, head over to our YouTrip Perks page for exclusive offers and promotions — we promise you won’t regret it. Join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and Community Group (@YouTripSquad) for travel tips, event invites, and more!
Happy travels!
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