Common Man Coffee Roasters - Joo Chiat Road

Imagine a perfect morning starting with the aroma of freshly roasted beans in a historic quarter. The Joo Chiat Road coffee bar is not just a cafe, but a true embodiment of modern coffee culture, located in the city of Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The establishment occupies the corner of a colorful shophouse, catching the eye of passersby with its stylish blue awning and eclectic interior.

Joo Chiat Road Coffee Bar. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Inside, guests will find a thoughtfully designed industrial-style space: marble countertops sit alongside warm wooden furniture, and shelves are lined with craft merch and bags of coffee. The spacious hall with excellent natural lighting accommodates 80 people, offering both cozy indoor corners and outdoor tables for those who want to watch the street life.

This place is rightfully considered a magnet for specialty coffee connoisseurs and quality brunch lovers. Here, roasting traditions meet modern design, creating a unique atmosphere that sets the bar apart from many other establishments in the city.

For your convenience, we have compiled all the necessary contact details in one table so you can easily book a table or check availability.

The main reason to visit is undoubtedly the specialty coffee made from Arabica beans. Be sure to try the exclusive varieties, such as the Ethiopian Boledu with its exquisite notes of tropical fruit and wine. The baristas' skill here is elevated to an art form, so every drink—from a classic flat white to alternative brewing methods—offers an unforgettable taste.

The food menu is just as impressive as the coffee list. Visitors are offered the legendary sourdough pancakes, which can be served as a dessert with chocolate ganache or as a savory dish with bacon and maple syrup. On the all-day brunch menu, the Common Man Full Breakfast and the vegetarian masterpiece Veggie Wonderland are also well worth your attention.

In addition to the food, you can enjoy some pleasant shopping in the dedicated retail zone. It sells signature coffee blends, granola, caramel sauces, and elegant Loveramics ceramics. It is a great place to pick up a gift for yourself or loved ones, taking a piece of the cafe's atmosphere home with you.

There are several ways to reach this cozy corner. If you prefer public transport, the most convenient way is to use the MRT. The nearest station, Dakota (EW5), is about a 10–15 minute leisurely walk away; you can also use Eunos (EW7) station, though the walk from there is slightly longer.

For those taking the bus, many routes pass through the area, including 2, 7, 13, 21, 24, 67, and 155. A stop within walking distance will quickly bring you to the entrance with its characteristic blue awning. If you plan to arrive by taxi or private car, keep in mind that parking in this residential area can be limited, so it's better to arrive a bit early.

The story of this place began in 2013 when the Common Man Coffee Roasters brand opened its first location with the goal of developing specialty coffee culture in the region. The cafe quickly earned a reputation as one of the pioneers of the "third wave of coffee," offering guests only high-quality Arabica roasted using proprietary techniques.

The Joo Chiat Road branch became the third in the network and fits harmoniously into the historic district's aesthetic. The establishment occupies the corner of an old shophouse, preserving the charm of the past while adding modern industrial touches. The bright blue awning and original window frames have become the signature look of this location.

Today, the project is part of the well-known Spa Esprit Group and continues to collaborate with Australian partners Five Senses Coffee. This allows the venue to not only serve exceptional drinks but also educate guests on the finer points of coffee craftsmanship, offering unique lots from Ethiopia and other corners of the world.

For a standard visit including a leisurely brunch and a tasting of signature coffee, you should set aside about 1–2 hours. This is quite enough time to enjoy the atmosphere and high-quality cuisine.

If you plan to browse the retail zone to pick out coffee beans, stylish ceramics, or home accessories, your stay could extend to 3 hours. This place encourages slow relaxation, so you definitely won't want to rush.

The establishment welcomes guests daily, though the schedule varies slightly by day of the week. On Monday, doors are open from 07:30 to 17:00, which is perfect for an early breakfast or a lunch break.

From Tuesday to Sunday, the cafe operates on extended hours—from 07:30 to 21:30. Please note that the kitchen usually takes the last order 30 minutes before closing, so plan your visit in advance to enjoy the main dishes.

A stroll through the neighborhood after a cup of coffee will allow you to better feel the local flavor and discover new interesting places. Exploring the area around Joo Chiat Road is a great way to combine gastronomic pleasure with cultural leisure.

Below are some attractions located relatively close by that may interest the curious traveler: