Best Fried Fish in Johor Bahru (JB)

Planted in a serene spot amidst Taman Sri Tebrau, this well-known eatery has fish lovers go bananas. Despite steamed fish clings onto the name of the restaurant, the real deal here is their deep-fried boneless fish. Oh yeah, you read that right, just dig in straight away, the fish is totally unarmed. The drool-inducing fish swims in the hot oil till a crispy crust is formed then liberally showered with Thai-style sauce, mayonnaise, a drizzle of soy sauce and chopped spring onions sprinkle. It certainly rounds up a rhapsody of flavours, sweet, tangy and spicy at every mouthful. 

This humble restaurant has been the best bet to satiate banana leaf rice with a reasonable price-tag. Once the huge verdant leaf is graced up with colourful sides, white rice and curries, you’ll constantly see crimson-red morsels accompanying the meal. Say hello to their boneless fish which is marinated with rich spices then fried to a firm outer layer. Spear the bite-sized cubes with the mildest touch to unveil the moist flesh within. Best massaged with rice and curry, or delved on its own. 

Slices and fillets are worthy yet nothing erupts an ecstasy like a whole deep-fried sea bass. For one that is highly vaunted by the locals and never requires to break the bank, make your way to Restaurant Rahmat. With a sea-shanty-like dining space that overlooks the clear and calm ocean, it just tows an old-school ambiance that encourages a little respite from all hustle of life. Simplicity is the name of the game here and it sure shines. The fish has a satisfyingly crispy exterior guarding the tender and moist flesh beneath that kicks in a little brininess which is easily neutralised by the addictive sambal that tags along. Other seafood delights are worth to be devoured too, you just need a few like-minded buddies.

Fish is utterly versatile and has that oomph to take any dish to a whole new level, especially the fish head noodles, a stellar meal in Johor Bahru. This renowned restaurant has been a magnet for those who crave a hearty bowl of noodles drenched in a broth that is infused with evaporated milk and topped with shriveled golden-brown fillets as well as a sprinkle of herbs. The fillet is firm, flaky and downright enhances the flavour in the bowl. 

This humble establishment has set a flagship as the best Asam Pedas in town which is justified by the never-ending crowd. It’s one of those dishes that make a cold or rainy day much-loved. Conversely their deep-fried threadfin fish has been a pull for punters too. Biting into the delicate fish gives you that audible crunch followed by lumps of flesh that retains the natural goodness of the fish. As it’s easy on the wallet, stacking up a few of this delicious latter won’t do harm. 

Nasi Lemak is a staple brekkie meal of Malaysians but we just yearn for it around the clock, especially during late nights. However this isn’t a real issue for those in Johor Bahru as this notable nasi lemak joint has been chock-full till supper for more than 10 years. The word simple only applies for the ambiance as well as the combinations but definitely not for the flavours. With various sides contending to be a part of their coconut rice and spicy sambal combo, the fried fish is among the fastest to run out. It’s deep-fried to perfection and never greasy, you could just wolf down the whole fish together with the bones like a bulldozer.