Cool Coffee Project: Johor Bahru's Hidden Moody Coffee Sanctuary

In the ever-evolving café landscape of Johor Bahru, where Instagram-worthy interiors often overshadow substance, Cool Coffee Project emerges as a refreshing anomaly. Hidden between two mechanic shops, this micro-roastery and café represents everything the serious coffee aficionado has been yearning for: uncompromising quality, artisanal craftsmanship, and an atmosphere that prioritises the coffee experience above all else.

Interior and Vibe

The café's location might initially perplex first-time visitors – nestled between automotive workshops, it's the sort of place you'd stumble upon only through word-of-mouth recommendations or dedicated café hunting expeditions.

The interior embraces a moody, industrial aesthetic featuring predominantly dark tones of black and dark brown, creating an intimate coffee bar atmosphere. This isn't your typical bright, airy café designed for lengthy brunches and laptop sessions. Instead, Cool Coffee Project feels deliberately contemplative, almost shrine-like in its devotion to coffee culture.

The Coffee Experience: An Omakase Approach

What sets Cool Coffee Project apart from Johor Bahru's crowded café scene is their unique coffee tasting or omakase-style experience, where patrons can sample a variety of rare coffee brews not typically found elsewhere. This Japanese-inspired approach to coffee service transforms a simple caffeine fix into a guided exploration of flavour profiles, brewing methods, and bean origins.

Like a Japanese sake bar, guests enjoy their brews in ceramic cups of their choosing – all handmade by the owner, adding a personal touch that reinforces the artisanal nature of the establishment. This attention to detail extends beyond mere aesthetics; it demonstrates a fundamental understanding that coffee appreciation involves all the senses.

The pricing reflects the premium nature of the offering, with coffee starting from RM20. Whilst this might seem steep compared to conventional café prices, it's justified when considering the curated selection of rare beans and the expertise required to extract their optimal flavours.

Beyond Coffee: The Matcha Experience

Whilst coffee remains the establishment's primary focus, Cool Coffee Project’s repertoire also includes standout matcha offerings. The Hot Matcha Latte (RM15, ~S$4.55) utilises premium Niko Neko Matcha to create a rich and smooth flavour profile that invigorates the senses.

What elevates this matcha experience beyond the ordinary is the attention to presentation and ritual. The latte is also served in a handmade ceramic bowl, transforming each sip into a tactile experience where the unique texture of the vessel enhances both the aroma and warmth of the drink. This approach aligns perfectly with the establishment's philosophy of elevating beverage service into mindful ritual.

Food Offerings: Complementary Confections

The food menu deliberately keeps things minimal with three house desserts: Canelé (RM9, ~S$2.73), Pudding (RM12, S$3.64), and Japanese Cheesecake (RM19, S$5.76). This restraint in menu size speaks to the establishment's focused philosophy – rather than attempting to be everything to everyone, Cool Coffee Project excels within its chosen parameters.

Final Verdict

Cool Coffee Project is perfect for both coffee connoisseurs and adventurous coffee drinkers. This isn't a space for hurried takeaway orders or casual social media scrolling. Instead, it invites patrons to slow down, engage with the brewing process, and develop a deeper appreciation for specialty coffee culture.

In Johor Bahru's rapidly expanding café ecosystem, where many establishments prioritise visual appeal over substance, Cool Coffee Project represents a return to coffee fundamentals, providing a dedicated space for coffee exploration without the distractions of extensive food menus or overly casual atmospheres. Its commitment to quality over quantity, expertise over trends, and experience over convenience marks it as a significant addition to the city's coffee scene.

Address: PTD52709 B, Jalan Ros Merah 2/2, Taman Johor Jaya, 81100 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: 10am–7pm (Tues to Sun)