The Bagel Factory: A Hidden Gem Bringing Artisanal Bagel Culture to Johor Bahru

Nestled along the vibrant Jalan Wong Ah Fook in Johor Bahru's central business district, The Bagel Factory has quietly established itself as one of the most compelling additions to the city's burgeoning café scene. Located just a stone's throw from the JB CIQ checkpoint, this charming establishment has garnered considerable attention amongst both local food enthusiasts and cross-border diners seeking an authentic bagel experience with a Malaysian twist.

A Cosy Haven in the Heart of the City

What immediately strikes visitors upon entering The Bagel Factory is its refreshingly laid-back atmosphere – a welcome respite from the bustling energy of one of Johor Bahru's busiest thoroughfares. The café greets guests with a cosy, laid-back atmosphere, and the friendly service makes visitors feel right at home. The establishment's intimate setting creates the perfect environment for both quick breakfast stops and leisurely afternoon breaks, with its warm ambience proving equally appealing to business professionals and weekend travellers.

Artisanal Bagels Crafted with Passion

At the heart of The Bagel Factory's appeal lies their commitment to crafting bagels from scratch daily. Their bagels are made from scratch daily, and come in a large variety of flavours such as Green Onion, Blueberry, Sesame, and Earl Grey White Chocolate. This dedication to freshness is immediately apparent in both the texture and flavour of their offerings, with each bagel boasting the ideal balance of a golden, slightly crisp exterior and dense, chewy interior that proper bagel aficionados demand.

Signature Offerings

Among the café's standout offerings, several items have garnered particular acclaim from visitors. The Green Onion (RM18, ~S$5.40) bagel features a unique fusion of bold flavours with green onion, chicken slice and cream cheese all served on a toasted bagel.

For those seeking more adventurous flavour combinations, the establishment doesn't disappoint. The Mala Little Bit Spicy Fried Chicken Bagel (RM28, ~S$8.45) is an absolute treat. The fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and coated in a perfect amount of mala sauce. The spicy kick has just the right balance – enough to satisfy cravings for something bold and flavourful but not overwhelming.

The cafe’s sweet offerings prove equally impressive. The Taro Gao Sweet Bagel (RM22, ~S$6.65) features a texture of chewy nian gao that pairs wonderfully with the smooth, slightly sweet taro, creating a harmonious and unexpected flavour combination that is both comforting and indulgent.

The cafe’s extensive flavour selection demonstrates remarkable creativity, and they also have unique creations such as Pistachio Cheesecake (RM25, ~S$7.55) and The Kunafa (RM20, ~S$6.05), inspired by the recent kunafa dessert craze. This fusion approach allows the establishment to honour classic bagel-making traditions whilst embracing the diverse culinary landscape of Asia.

Coffee and More: The Perfect Pairing

No brunch experience is complete without a refreshing beverage, and The Bagel Factory offers a selection of drinks that perfectly complement their bagels. From rich coffees to unique lattes, there's something to satisfy every palate.

One of the cafe's standout drinks is the Tiramisu Latte, an iced coffee topped with a creamy foam and cocoa powder. This delightful concoction is served with a petite bagel on the side, making it a charming addition to your meal.

For a sweeter option, the Bananananananana drink is a must-try. This banana-flavoured milk is topped with a slice of banana cake, creating a delightful pairing that is both refreshing and indulgent.

Pricing Structure and Operating Details

The Bagel Factory's prices reflects excellent value for the quality and creativity on offer. With most items ranging from RM18 to RM38, the establishment positions itself as an accessible option for a diverse clientele.

The café's strategic location at Jalan Wong Ah Fook also places it within easy reach of major shopping complexes and local attractions, making it an ideal pit stop for those exploring the city centre.

Final Verdict

The Bagel Factory is a refreshing change from the usual cafés in the area and it's definitely worth a visit if you find yourself nearby – especially if you're looking to try something creative and satisfying. The establishment successfully bridges the gap between traditional bagel craftsmanship and contemporary Malaysian café culture, creating an experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly innovative.

For those seeking an authentic bagel experience enhanced by creative local influences, The Bagel Factory represents one of JB's most compelling café offerings. Its combination of artisanal quality, innovative flavours, and welcoming atmosphere positions it as a worthy addition to any food enthusiast's itinerary.

Address: 28, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: 9am-6pm (Tues to Sun)