REVIEW: Good Oriental style cafe in Johor Bahru, Malaysia: Xuan Cafe 轩•女皇烘焙

I finally made my way to Xuan Cafe 轩•女皇烘焙, and let me just say—it was worth every moment! Nestled in the bustling Taman Sentosa area, this cafe perfectly combines traditional Chinese elegance with a contemporary twist, making it an absolute gem for Instagram enthusiasts.

Address: 187, Jalan Sutera, Taman Sentosa, 80150 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia

Opening Hours: 10am - 7pm, Closed on Wednesday

A Picture-Perfect Entrance

The entrance alone is a masterpiece, with classic Chinese-style wooden doors that transport you to another world. As you step inside, you're greeted by a curved doorway leading to a picturesque garden, seamlessly blending Asian architectural elements with modern landscaping. Bonus points for the thoughtful addition of photo props—they truly understand their audience!

Shrimp Laoganma Spaghetti

This fusion creation intrigued me from the start. The spaghetti was cooked al dente and dressed in a spicy, aromatic Laoganma chili oil sauce, giving it a fiery kick. Topped with shrimp, crispy garlic bits, and freshly chopped scallions, the dish was flavorful and bold. However, the prawns were a slight letdown—not as fresh as I’d hoped, leaving them a bit too soft for my liking.

Truffle Mushroom Soup with Hand-Grabbed Pancake

I thoroughly enjoyed this comforting combo. The soup had a rich, creamy texture with hints of truffle, though the truffle flavor seemed to come mainly from the drizzle of oil. What stole the show for me was the hand-grabbed pancake—crispy and golden, served in convenient four-piece portions. Its texture reminded me of roti prata, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Signature Tiramisu

A dessert that truly lives up to its "signature" label! Served in an adorable oriental-style teacup, this tiramisu was not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. It was garnished with a creative mix of pretzel biscuits, blueberries, dried orange slices, and a fluffy dollop of cream dusted with coffee powder. The combination of flavors and the stunning presentation made it a memorable experience.

Matcha Lime Cheesecake

The standout dessert of the day! This matcha lime cheesecake was beautifully layered, with a smooth, earthy matcha base perfectly paired with a zesty lime mousse. The biscuit crust added a delightful crunch, while the whipped cream, lime slice, and cranberry on top made it visually appealing and extra refreshing. A light yet indulgent end to the meal!