Looking for your next JB cafe fix? 😜
I recently checked out The Early Bird in Taman Melodies and I’m already dreaming about going back. If you love that industrial-retro aesthetic without the insane Keijometo crowds, this is the spot for you! 🕊️
🍽️ food & drinks - [4.5/5] ⭐️
• Smoked Duck Carbonara 🦆🍝
• Fish & Chips 🐟🍟
• Truffle Tater Tots 🥔
• Sparkling Passion Fruit ✨💜
• Sparkling Yuzu ✨💛
The Tater Tots with Truffle Sauce are a total game-changer; super crispy and the truffle scent is 10/10. I’d come back just for these! 🥔✨
📍 location - [4/5] ⭐️
Located in the quiet Taman Melodies area. It’s super close to the main shopping hubs but tucked away enough to feel like a hidden gem.
• 86, Jln Beringin, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
• From CIQ (JB Sentral): It’s about a 10–12 minute drive depending on traffic.
• From KSL City Mall: Super close! Only a 3–5 minute drive (around 2km away). If you’re feeling active, it’s about a 15 minutes walk, but honestly, just Grab! it’s usually under RM 15 MYR
🎭 ambience & staff - [5/5] ⭐️
Super cozy vibes with lots of natural sunlight. The staff are very prompt and friendly, which makes the whole experience so much better. Definitely a 100% "chill with besties" kind of place.
⌛️the wait - [3/5] ⭐️
It can get a bit busy during the peak lunch hour, but usually, you can get a seat pretty quickly compared to other viral cafes.
💬 final verdict
A must-visit! Great food, prompt service, and very Instagrammable. Don't skip the tots!
Pro-Tip: If you're planning to try their famous Soufflé Pancakes, order them as soon as you sit down! They take about 20-30 minutes to prep because they’re made fresh. 🥞
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If you're visiting Johor Bahru and want to experience more than just a typical cafe, The Early Bird truly stands out with its unique blend of a cozy industrial-retro atmosphere and exceptional menu offerings. From personal experience, the Smoked Duck Carbonara offers a perfect balance of smoky richness and creamy pasta that keeps you coming back for more. The Fish & Chips is another classic done right, featuring crispy batter and fresh fish that pairs wonderfully with their sparkling passion fruit and yuzu drinks—perfect for a refreshing uplift. One thing that genuinely impressed me was the Truffle Tater Tots. The aroma of truffle combined with perfectly crispy tots is unlike anything you’d expect at a casual cafe, making them an absolute must-try. Whether you're there for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with friends, the natural sunlight-filled space enhances the overall relaxed vibe, and the staff’s friendly, prompt service adds to the pleasant experience. For those unfamiliar with the area, Taman Melodies offers a peaceful escape from the busy city hustle yet remains conveniently close to main spots like CIQ and KSL City Mall. Guests commuting from JB Sentral can reach the cafe within 10 to 12 minutes by car, while a Grab ride from KSL typically costs under RM 15, making it an accessible spot for both locals and visitors. Timing your visit can help avoid peak lunch hour waits, but even during busy times, seating tends to be quicker than at some of the more viral cafes around Johor Bahru. Don’t miss ordering the Soufflé Pancakes right when you arrive—they’re freshly made and worth the 20-30 minute wait. Overall, The Early Bird is a fantastic find for anyone looking for a charming cafe with outstanding food and drink in JB. It’s perfect for cafe hopping and capturing those Instagram-worthy moments while indulging in flavorful dishes. Next time you’re in town, give it a try—you’ll likely find yourself dreaming of a return visit just like many others.
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