Taking a short getaway to Johor Bahru (JB) isn’t complete without tasting its culinary delights, especially wanton mee (also spelled wonton mee or wantan mee). The chewy texture of the noodles, the charred flavour of the toppings, the dark soy sauce... uuuhh, even just describing this to you has me salivating. If you’re keen on this dish, here are some of the best wanton mee in JB for you to try.

Address: 45, Jalan Mutiara Emas 10/2, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor

This local gem is known for its dark sauce wanton mee with springy noodles, crispy fried dumplings, and strong kopi. The chilli version is a crowd favourite. The biscuits served with drinks are a nice touch. Friendly staff and a chill ambience make this place a repeat visit.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.9/5

Address: 8, Jalan Austin Heights 8/4, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru

Their wanton mee is known for bouncy noodles, meaty wantons, and the option of added chicken feet. Offers variety like fried prawn wontons and kolo mee. From the review I read, the service here is fast and efficient. The place also has spacious and easy parking.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.9/5

Address: 7, Jalan Dedap 17, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru

This is an old-school kopitiam that has served traditional JB wanton mee for over 30 years. The dumplings and meatballs are homemade and pair well with their signature sauces. The vibe is authentic and nostalgic. I highly recommend it to heritage food lovers.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.2/5

Address: 68, Jalan Abiad, Taman Maju Jaya, Johor Bahru

This Johor wanton mee stands out with hand-pulled noodles served in either black or white soy sauce. It’s topped with lean char siew and crispy lard, while the juicy wantons and spicy chilli add a flavourful punch. Also known as Hai wei wanton mee JB and becoming a favourite among locals and Singaporeans, it’s also a great spot for late-night cravings thanks to its long opening hours.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.5/5

Address: BLK 9B-G1, Bestari Terrace, Jalan Bestari 15/2, Taman Nusa Bestari, 81300 Johor Bahru

Another branch of the same popular shop of wantan mee JB, this one serves the same chewy noodles and tasty dumplings. The reverse-white noodles and soft wontons are highly praised. Coffee here is strong. It’s better to go small unless you want a caffeine jolt.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.8/5

Address: 145, Jalan Harimau, Taman Century, Johor Bahru (opposite KSL Mall)

Also called as Yit Foh Wanton Mee JB, this is a long-standing favourite wanton mee offering firm, springy noodles in a light and flavourful broth. The char siew is sliced thin, and the wantons are silky with a balanced filling. Its less-sweet profile appeals to those who enjoy a more traditional, no-frills style. A dependable choice for classic wanton mee lovers.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.0/5

Address: 79, Jalan Bentara 20, Taman Ungku Tun Aminah, 81300 Skudai, Johor

This one of the best wanton mee JB shops also offers a versatile menu like mala, laksa, and dry-style wanton mee. The noodles are springy with free-flow pork lard. Mala version is numbing and spicy, perfect for heat lovers.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.5/5

Address: 766, Lorong Anggerik, Kampung Parit Mesjid, 82000 Pontian, Johor

Famous for its unique tomato ketchup-based sauce, this wanton mee Johor Bahru shop has the flavour is sweet-savory and nostalgic. Wantons are meaty, and the soup is flavourful. A must-try for those into Pontian-style noodles.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.0/5

Address: 2, Jalan Dedap 22, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru

Better known for its Penang-style char kway teow, but wanton mee is also served. Cooked with charcoal and duck egg, offering rich aroma. Noodles are slurpy and well-seasoned. Uncle Huang’s dedication makes this place special.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.5/5

Address: Pasar Tani Kekal Datin Halimah Jalan Taruka, OFF, Jln Datin Halimah, Larkin, Johor Bahru

One of the rare halal wanton mee options in JB. Their shrimp noodle stands out for its rich aroma and complex flavour. The portion includes various toppings, giving good value.

Halal status: Halal

Rating: 4.2/5

Address: Jalan Sri Pelangi, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor

Char siew here is smokey and the sauce is dark and savoury. The noodles are cooked just right with a nice chew. Pair with their porky soup for full flavour… it’s perfect! Popular morning stop with locals.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.3/5

Address: 42, Jalan Molek 2/2, Taman Molek, 81100 Johor Bahru

Though known for zi char, their wanton mee is also praised. Topped with sambal and pickled chilli for extra flavour. Noodles are firm and balanced. A hidden gem worth checking out.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.6/5

Address: 2, Jalan Jenang, Batu Pahat, Johor (near OCBC Bank)

A legendary Batu Pahat wanton mee spot since the 1940s, famous for its thick, house-made egg noodles. Served with tender char siew and large, flavourful wantons. The light sesame oil sauce brings everything together. A nostalgic eatery beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Halal status: Non-halal

Rating: 4.7/5

Whenever I need a quick break without hopping on a plane, Johor Bahru is my go-to escape. It’s just a short trip from Singapore whether by car, bus, or train to Johor Bahru and in less than two hours, I’m checking into a comfy hotel and diving into local eats. I bet you love to visit Johor Bahru from time to time like me too, don't you?

Staying for a night or two is just enough to unwind, explore the city’s vibrant food scene, and squeeze in a bit of shopping or even a massage. The vibe is chill, the food’s incredible (don’t get me started on the best wanton mee in JB i’ve listed above), and everything just feels a bit slower in the best possible way.

If you’re planning a night or two, I’d suggest staying around Johor Bahru City Centre or in areas like Danga Bay or Nusa Jaya. They’re well-connected and packed with great food and things to do. A few of my favourites include Shama Suasana All Suites Hotel, Holiday Villa, and Legoland Malaysia Hotel. I usually book everything through Traveloka, from hotels, flights, to attractions tickets. It just makes the whole trip smoother, and I like having everything in one place. You should try them too!