Johor's nightlife is undoubtedly a colourful one, with rows of clubs in Pelangi, shady watering holes in Stulang, and chic bars in Mount Austin, so variety is never an issue, so let's take a look at the best drinking spots in the state. But Before that, this list is intended for non-muslims aged 21 or older, drink responsibly and do not drink and drive.
Mulligan's Pub And Bistro
Photo by Mulligan's Pub and Bistro
For The Best Irish Beer On Tap
Mulligans is an Irish pub, through and through, the atmosphere here is lively with friendly patrons and staff all ready for a good chat if you have stories to tell, just like a regular pub you'd find on the street in Dublin. Speaking of Dublin, the Guinness here is the freshest and most crisp pint of stout you'll ever have, it's as if they got it right out of St. James Gate. Another amazing beer on tap that you must try, if they have it available, is Kilkenny. Similarly to their Guinness, Mulligan takes great care in ensuring you are getting the most authentic of Ireland's best ale. Aside from these two beers, you can't go wrong with whatever they have on tap, or if you're feeling rather hungry, go for their Irish stew, it's sure to fill you up for a few good rounds at the bar.
JJ Wine & Tapas Bar
Photo by JJ Wine & Tapas Bar
For A Wide Selection Of Wine
The minute you step into JJ Wine & Tapas, you'd probably think you walked into the wrong venue, as you see shelves filled with a multitude of wines for sale, but walk deeper into the store and you'll be greeted by a seating area with a bar. Primarily, they are a wine store, which also allows patrons to have their newly purchased bottles uncorked at the dining area so they can enjoy it with some wings (RM18) or cheese baked rice (RM28) as well as some fine dining pieces like their smoked duck Bruschetta (RM18). As for price, each bottle of wine or spirits differs depending on the age and quality so the best way to find out is to walk in and enquire, but prices do start at RM100 for a bottle of wine. They also serve beers here for RM18 a bottle. For more information on their price list drop them a message on Instagram here.
Whisky House Johor Bahru
Photo by Whisky House Johor Bahru
For A Cocktails In A Lounge
Whisky house (no that's not a typo) has the most cosy and relaxing ambience, with their live band serenading patrons and a seating area that ranges from comfy armchairs, to bar stools, this is a place for anyone who wants to relax for the weekend. A variety of whiskey-based cocktails await customers, such as a classic old fashion, rusty nail, and Lynchburg lemonade, all of which are priced at RM34 a glass. For the purists, you can sample fine whiskey by the glass, and they have a large selection to choose from, almost 40 different brands of whiskey with variants for each grade and age, and that's just the ones in the menu, you can ask the staff for limited period bottles or specials and the list just goes on and on, for reference, a glass of 10-year-old Glen Grant goes for RM35, while a glass of 18-year-old Macallan is RM80.
Sky 26
Photo by Sky 26
For Sky High Drinks
As the name suggests, this bar is located on the 26-floor of Holiday Villa, and it's a great place to have a drink and gawk at the city skyline. While you're high above the city, it would be a good idea to try out the drinks on offer at Sky 26. For cocktails you can get the whiskey and soda (RM26), which is a simple mixture of house soda and whiskey, just the right amount of bubbly fizz to compliment the atmosphere. If you're afraid of heights get either the B-52 (RM56) or Graveyards (RM66) as the punch these packs will surely be enough to ease any tension you have. Bottles of whiskey are also on sale for those of you who came with friends, for reference, a Blue Label goes for RM1088.
TÃ N izakaya
Photo by TÃ N izakaya
For Japanese Beers
For all things Japanese, drop by TÃ N izakaya in Mount Austin, which serves Suntory Premium malt on tap. Both gold and black variants are available (RM23 for a pint RM100 for a bucket), and if you're looking for full-bodied flavour, try the black one, which is a dark lager that, similarly to stout, gets its colour from the roasted malt used to make it. Besides beer, there is a selection of Japanese bar bites and other alcoholic treats available, namely sake (as low as RM35 a glass), as well as Japanese made Vodka (RM30) and Whiskeys (RM40).
