As the lunar calendar turns to the Year of the Horse in 2026, the streets of Johor Bahru begin to glow with red lanterns, but the true pulse of the season is felt in the city’s hotel lobbies. For many locals, booking a Top 3 JB New Year Buffet has become a modern Malaysian ritual—a way to reward a hardworking team or simply bypass the exhausting labor of a traditional home-cooked reunion.In JB, this dining culture is about more than just a meal; it’s a social anchor. Whether it’s a company wrap-up dinner or a multi-generational family gathering, the conversation always centers on: “Where are we tossing the Yee Sang this year?”
1. Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel: The Art of Balancing Elegance and Diversity
Mention the Renaissance in Permas Jaya, and the first word that comes to a local’s mind is “Grandeur.” The hotel’s CNY decor is famously vibrant, setting a high bar for festive spirit.
What makes this a standout in our Top 3 JB New Year Buffet list is its “dual-track” approach. For those craving traditional formality, Wan Li Chinese Restaurant offers refined set menus and private rooms—perfect for a prestigious “Abalone Lou Sang” experience. Meanwhile, Café BLD caters to the modern crowd with its high-energy buffet (Feb 16–18). The spread is a meticulous blend of premium seafood and interactive live stations. They also pay special attention to the “elderly palate,” often including traditional dim sum and warm herbal soups.
- Best for: Multi-generational families and high-end corporate dinners.
- Pro-Tip: Parking can get tight during peak wedding/CNY hours; arrive early or use e-hailing.
2. Holiday Inn JBCC: Urban Convenience Meets Modern Chic
For the “city dwellers” who prioritize ease of access, Dine@Eight at Holiday Inn JBCC offers a “Metropolitan Minimalist” flair. Situated right in the city center and connected to Komtar JBCC, it’s the ultimate choice for those who want to avoid the cross-town crawl.
Their “Auspicious Blossom Feast” (Feb 16–17) is designed for the younger crowd and small-to-medium teams looking for a high “CP value” (cost-performance). While the variety is focused, the quality is high—expect thick-cut sashimi and fresh seafood on ice. The bright, open-window design of the restaurant provides a relaxed backdrop for a festive catch-up before a post-dinner stroll through the nearby malls.
- Best for: Young professionals, small startups, and families with young children.
- Pro-Tip: Expect Causeway-related traffic nearby; pre-booking is essential given the city-center location.
3. DoubleTree by Hilton JB: A High-Energy Multi-Cultural Extravaganza
If you want your CNY dinner to feel like a full-blown celebration, Makan Kitchen at DoubleTree is the place to be. Known for its “live kitchen” concept, the energy here is palpable—you can hear the sizzle of the grills and see the steam rising from the dim sum baskets.
As a fixture in the Top 3 JB New Year Buffet circuit, Makan Kitchen celebrates Malaysia’s diverse heritage. Alongside the mandatory Yee Sang and roast duck, you’ll find authentic Malay and Indian festive dishes. This “melting pot” menu ensures that every member of a diverse team finds something they love. From Feb 16–17, the atmosphere is loud, red, and joyous—complete with appearances by the God of Fortune.
- Best for: Large friend groups and corporate team buildings (Team Bonding).
- Pro-Tip: It gets loud! If you’re looking for a quiet place to discuss business, this might be too rowdy for you.
Expert Tips: How to Avoid the “Buffet Trap”
- Check for Halal Certification: Most hotels in JB (like Makan Kitchen and Dine@Eight) are Halal-certified. This is ideal for diverse groups, but if you have a specific craving for “traditional roast pork,” verify the menu before booking.
- The “Live Station” Rule: During the CNY rush, look for “Live Stations” (cooked to order). Freshly prepared noodles and carved meats always taste better than dishes that have been sitting in a warmer.
- Timing is Everything: For families with seniors, the first seating (usually 6:00 PM) is the sweet spot. The food is at its peak freshness, and the floor is less crowded.
Conclusion: Connection is the Real Feast
In JB, a New Year buffet isn’t just a competition of who has the largest lobster. In our fast-paced city, the true luxury is the time spent together—shouting “Huat Ah!” during the Yee Sang toss and sharing a laugh without checking your phone. Whichever spot you choose, the warmth of the company is what makes the meal memorable.
