Featured Post

Where to Eat the Pasta in Johor Bahru: 12 Restaurants to Bookmark

Looking for the pasta in Johor Bahru to try? Whether you’re craving a comforting plate of creamy carbonara, a fragrant seafood aglio olio, or freshly made pasta done the Italian way, Johor Bahru has quietly become a hotspot for quality pasta and Italian dining. From cosy neighbourhood cafés in Taman Pelangi to polished Italian restaurants near JB town and Eco Botanic, the city offers a surprisingly diverse range of pasta experiences that rival those across the causeway.

In this curated list, we round up 12 pasta restaurants in Johor Bahru that are worth making the trip for — featuring everything from handmade pasta, classic Italian trattorias, modern cafés serving Western-style pasta, to casual spots perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Whether you’re planning a weekend JB food trip, searching for authentic Italian pasta in JB, or simply wondering where to eat pasta near City Square, Toppen, or Mount Austin, this guide has you covered.

Expect crowd-favourite dishes like seafood aglio olio, truffle pasta, carbonara, and slow-cooked ragù, along with must-know details such as locations, opening hours, and what each restaurant does best. If pasta is your love language, these pasta places in Johor Bahru deserve a spot on your must-try list.


1. Rosmarino Italian Restaurant

📍 Address: 65, Jalan Kuning 2, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
⏰ Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM & 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Closed Mondays)

Rosmarino Italian Restaurant, located in Taman Pelangi, Johor Bahru, is a popular spot for authentic Italian dining, known for its hearty portions, homemade pasta, fresh pesto, and well-loved tiramisu. The restaurant offers good value with reasonable prices compared to other Italian eateries in the area, and many diners appreciate its generous serving sizes and lunch specials.

Rosmarino’s Spaghetti Aglio Olio Peperoncino e Frutti di Mare is a classic Italian seafood pasta that highlights the freshness of the ocean. The dish features al dente spaghetti tossed in fragrant olive oil, garlic, and a hint of chili pepper, giving it a light yet flavorful base. It is generously topped with an assortment of seafood such as prawns, mussels, squid, clams, and crab, each adding its own sweetness and briny depth to the pasta. The seafood juices mingle with the oil to create a natural, savory sauce that coats each strand of spaghetti. 


2. Gianni’s Trattoria

📍 Address: 110 Jalan Serampang, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor
⏰ Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–10:30 PM

Gianni’s is a refined, long-standing Italian gem led by Chef Hans Durst. Its softly lit interior feels both upscale and intimate, perfect for date nights or celebratory dinners. Their Fettuccine alla Carbonara comes rich and velvety, with egg and pancetta coating every strand in indulgent creaminess. An extensive wine list complements the menu, and their knowledgeable sommelier can guide you to the perfect pairing. While prices are on the higher side for JB, many diners find the authenticity and presentation well worth it. Booking ahead is recommended, especially on weekends.


3. fifty.ii

📍 Address: 52 Jalan Permas 15/1, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, 81750 Johor Bahru, Johor
⏰ Hours: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM; closed Tuesday

fifty.ii is a trendy, innovative pasta bar known for pushing creative boundaries while maintaining strong Italian roots. Located in Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, this stylish spot appeals to adventurous diners eager to try unique flavors and contemporary twists on classic pasta dishes.

Their Cheese & Pepper (Pappardelle) is a luxurious take on the classic cacio e pepe, built on wide ribbons of pappardelle that hold the sauce beautifully. The base flavor comes from Grana Padano DOP, which lends a nutty, savory richness, while Sarawak black pepper from Borneo adds a unique, earthy spiciness that’s fragrant rather than harsh. The pasta is coated in a silky emulsion, with a touch of brown butter that deepens the flavor, giving the dish a warm, nutty backbone. It’s simple in composition but layered in taste — creamy, peppery, and indulgent.



4. Molino Pasta Fresca

📍 Address: No36, Jalan Jaya Putra 7/5, Bandar Jaya Putra, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
⏰ Hours: 11am - 10pm (Closed on Tuesday)

Molino Pasta Fresca is a beloved local spot renowned for its commitment to crafting fresh, house-made pasta daily. The cozy, no-frills eatery embraces an old-world charm, focusing all its efforts on quality pasta dishes that highlight authentic Italian flavors.

The Tagliolini Black Ink with Fresh Tiger Prawn Aglio Olio from Molino Pasta Fresca is a striking and flavorful dish that combines the elegance of Italian pasta with the boldness of Asian ingredients. The dish takes on a deep black hue and a subtle briny flavor due to the black ink, adding both visual appeal and a delicate seafood essence to the dish. The dish features succulent tiger prawns sautéed in a classic aglio olio style—garlic and olive oil—enhanced with chili for a hint of spice. The prawns are cooked nicely, offering a sweet and tender contrast to the rich pasta.


5. D’LaPasta @ Toppen

📍 Address: L1-02, Toppen Shopping Centre, 33, Jln Harmonium, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
⏰ Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Located inside the bustling Toppen Shopping Centre, D’LaPasta offers a modern and fun twist on Italian classics in a casual mall setting. The bright and vibrant décor invites shoppers and pasta lovers alike to enjoy hearty meals. A highlight here is their signature pasta tossed tableside in a giant wheel of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese — a creamy spectacle that enhances the flavor and presentation. Popular dishes include the creamy Carbonara, the garlicky Aglio Olio, and rich Tomato Basil pasta. The restaurant’s menu also features fresh salads and delicious desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta, making it a perfect all-around dining spot for families and groups. The service is friendly and efficient, ideal for a relaxed meal during a day of shopping or casual outings.

The Creamy Carbonara at D’LaPasta in JB is a comforting plate of al dente spaghetti tossed in a smooth, velvety cream sauce that’s rich. It’s generously loaded with slices of ham and mushrooms, which add a savory depth and earthy balance to the creaminess. At the center of the dish sits a perfectly soft half-boiled egg — once broken, the runny yolk blends into the sauce, making it even more luscious and indulgent. This carbonara is hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.



6. Manzanita Pâtisserie & Boulangerie - Komtar JBCC

📍 Address: Lot 05, 06, 07, Ground Floor, Komtar JBCC, City Centre, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
⏰ Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Manzanita Pâtisserie & Boulangerie - Komtar JBCC is a chic café and bakery located in the heart of Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Situated on the ground floor of the Komtar JBCC shopping mall, it offers a cozy and stylish ambiance that has quickly made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Manzanita does offer a selection of Western café pastas on its menu. These are generally comfort-style dishes—think creamy or tomato-based pastas designed to complement a relaxed café meal

🍝 Creamy Prawn Pesto Pasta
A visually vibrant plate of spaghetti tossed in a luscious green pesto sauce, accompanied by juicy prawns and sweet cherry tomatoes. The sauce is creamy yet well-balanced, with refreshing basil notes and a gentle nuttiness that complements the seafood. Every strand of pasta is evenly coated for a satisfying bite that isn’t too heavy. The prawns, though flavorful, would be more convenient if peeled. A sprinkle of grated cheese adds the final savory touch.


7. Aglios – Bandar Johor Bahru

📍 Address: 52 Jalan Yahya Aldatar, Taman Serene, 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor
⏰ Hours: Daily 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Closed on Monday)

Aglios stands out with its industrial-chic design featuring exposed brick walls, Edison bulb lighting, and two floors of contemporary dining space. It’s a trendy spot for young crowds and families alike who appreciate a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. The menu focuses on Italian-inspired dishes with a few unique twists. A popular dish is the Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Prawn, which highlights perfectly cooked pasta tossed with garlic, chili, fresh prawns, and olive oil for a simple yet flavorful meal. The portion sizes are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making Aglios a popular spot for casual dinners or weekend get-togethers.




8. Chaos Natural Wine Bar

📍 Address: 73, Jalan Kemuning, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
⏰ Hours: 6 pm–12 am (Closed on Wednesday and Thursday)

Chaos Natural Wine Bar is a modern dining spot in Johor Bahru that combines culinary finesse with experimental flavours, offering a concise but thoughtfully crafted menu. Each dish reflects a bold interpretation of familiar elements, elevated with house-made ingredients and precise technique. Although the focus is on wine, the handmade pastas and small plates here are a major draw.

Carbonara / Tagliatelle

This dish features a rich, silky carbonara sauce made the traditional way—without cream—using egg, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Vaccino Romano cheese. It's paired with freshly made tagliatelle and their own house-cured bacon, adding a smoky depth that complements the umami-rich cheese blend.

Beef Ragu / Pappardelle

A heartier offering, the beef ragu is slow-baked to tenderness, layered over wide ribbons of pappardelle. The dish is accented with habanero oil for a gentle heat and finished with Beemster cheese and mixed herbs, giving it an aromatic, spicy edge.

Ravioli

Delicate pockets of handmade ravioli are filled with creamy ricotta and spinach, then tossed in nutty burnt butter and perfumed with fresh sage. It’s a comforting and earthy dish, perfect for those who enjoy the elegance of simplicity.







9. Bottega JB

📍 Address: 8 Jalan Meranti, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim
⏰ Hours: Wed–Mon 11 AM–11 PM (closed Tue)

Tucked in Taman Melodies, Bottega JB blends Italian trattoria charm with a modern deli concept. The space is lively, filled with the aroma of wood-fired pizza and freshly baked bread. A modest onsite grocer stocks authentic European cheeses, cured meats, olive oils, and pasta—perfect for a take-home surprise. Their showstopper pasta, Lo Scoglio (seafood linguine), combines plump prawns, mussels, and clams in a briny, buttery tomato broth. Also notable is the Formaggiosa cheese pizza, which pairs perfectly with house cocktails or a bold Italian red. Service is warm and upbeat with attentive staff. Parking is limited, but nearby street spots are usually available. Reservations are wise—but walk-ins often find a cozy spot by early evening. Definitely cap off the meal with the Tiramisu, generously portioned and authentic in flavor.

Source: https://maps.app.goo.gl/k3Khgw1r2Zdt3Fxy8



10. Basilico Restaurant

📍 Address: 17, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
⏰ Hours: Daily 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Basilico Restaurant sits nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Mount Austin, known for its warm, inviting bistro-style atmosphere. With its rustic wood finishes and cozy lighting, it’s perfect for casual dining or intimate dinners. The kitchen excels in authentic Italian fare with a special focus on fresh seafood and handmade pasta. 

The Spicy Seafood Aglio Olio Fettuccine here isn’t your run-of-the-mill garlic pasta. It’s Basilico’s signature spicy seafood pasta — a dish that’s been highlighted in local food guides and reviewer mentions as one of their most talked-about pastas.

Unlike typical spaghetti, this version is served with fettuccine, which is a slightly wider, thicker ribbon-like pasta that’s great at holding onto oil and flavour — perfect for garlicky, chilli-infused sauces. The pasta is cooked al dente, meaning it’s firm to the bite, so the texture pairs beautifully with the seafood.

Source: https://share.google/sGiyKYZh3lABepW2F




11. Anmour Café Pelangi

📍 Address: 61, Jalan Kuning 2, Taman Pelangi, 80400 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
⏰ Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Anmour Café Pelangi offers a laid-back and cozy dining experience in one of Johor Bahru’s popular foodie neighborhoods. The café’s bright and casual interior is perfect for family gatherings or relaxed meals with friends. The menu is extensive, featuring Italian classics alongside other Western favorites, with an emphasis on hearty, flavorful pastas. 

The Prawn & Clam Aglio Olio is a simple but flavourful take on the classic garlic-oil pasta style. Instead of heavy cream or tomato sauce, this dish relies on olive oil infused with garlic and a touch of chilli (if you ask for spice) to build flavour. On top of that aromatic base, you get generous portions of fresh prawns and clams, which are stir-fried together with the pasta so that the seafood juices mingle with the garlicky oil.

Anmour’s Carbonara Pasta leans toward the creamy, comfort side of Western pasta. Unlike the classic Italian carbonara that uses eggs, pecorino/Parmesan, and guanciale without cream, what you’ll get here is more of a Western-style cream carbonara — rich, smooth, and cheesy. 

Source: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qi6ahyHShDDmQbxg7


12. DaVincenzo Restaurant (Eco Botanic)

📍 Address: 34A Jalan Eko Botani 3/6, Taman, Persiaran Eko Botani, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta'zim, Malaysia
⏰ Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 12pm – 8.30 PM; Friday–Sunday 12pm – 10PM (Closed on Monday)

Set amidst the green surroundings of Eco Botanic, DaVincenzo blends a trendy café atmosphere with Italian culinary flair. The open-air garden seating adds a refreshing vibe, perfect for daytime lunches or relaxed evening dinners. Their Pasta alla Maradona, a simple but flavorful dish featuring garlic, chili breadcrumbs, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, is a crowd favorite for those who appreciate bold yet balanced flavors. 

Comments