More often than not, the sheer variety of dessert cafes in Johor Bahru tends to leave us feeling spoilt for choice. Even though it’s hard to go wrong with trendy bingsu, gelato, and Shibuya toast, there are times when only Hong Kong-style desserts will do.
If you feel the same, here’s a lesser-known dessert spot worth checking out on your next visit across the causeway — Tian Ban Desserts Bistro.
The relatively hidden cafe, which opened in July 2023, boasts a charming “70s kampung-inspired” interior with modern accents (think sunset lamps and camping chairs).
It’s also conveniently located about 20 minutes away from Woodlands Checkpoint.
You can look forward to an arsenal of authentic, freshly made desserts inspired by the owner’s time in Hong Kong, all of which can be ordered via a QR code.
If you’re visiting on one of those unbearably hot days, the refreshing Mango Pomelo 杨枝甘露 (S$4.34, RM14.90), packed with chunks of mango, sago, and juicy pomelo chunks, will cool you down in an instant.
Alternatively, order the Mango Roll 椰芒肠粉月(S$3.17, RM10.90), comprising fresh mango slices rolled in coconut milk jelly and drizzled with mango syrup — it’s definitely a unique dessert option you don’t come across every day.
Although you may be tempted to just order the smooth, nutty, and subtly sweet Black Sesame Paste (S$2.88, RM9.90), the cafe’s signature Peanut Paste 花生糊 (S$2.88, RM9.90), which is, interestingly enough, served cold, is worth a try.
There’s also rich and custardy Steamed Egg Pudding 糊炖蛋 (S$4.05, RM13.90) topped with Peanut Paste, Black Sesame Paste, or Almond Paste.
Don’t miss out on the Black Sesame Peanut Mochi 黑芝麻花生日式麻薯 (S$3.76, RM12.90), soft and chewy mochi topped with ground peanuts and black sesame — kinda like a modernised muah chee.
If traditional desserts are not your thing, you can go for the Original Egg Waffles 原味鸡蛋仔, the cafe’s take on one of Hong Kong’s most popular street snacks, and enjoy it with either kaya or chocolate spread.
But that’s not all — Tian Ban Desserts Bistro is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your (well-behaved) furry friends with you.
Now you know where to go whenever you feel like indulging in a sweet pick-me-up in between all that shopping and feasting!
Tian Ban Desserts Bistro 甜伴甜品
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???? 58, Jalan Yahya Aldatar, Taman Serene, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
???? 2pm–11.30pm (Tue to Thu), 1pm–11.30pm (Fri to Sun), Closed on Mon
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I'm always feelin' either boozy or boujee ✨