Lately, working in an SEZ zone has become a frequent affair. Because of work, I stumbled across Rahmat Siakap Goreng.
Usually, when I am on a work trip in Johor, we do not go for discoveries like this.
I was in Pasir Gudang Industrial Park for a factory visit when my colleague suggested, “Want good fish for lunch?” I said yes, expecting a café restaurant tucked somewhere in the nearby area.
What I did not expect is to visit Rahmat Siakap Goreng, a seaside eatery locals love but few Singaporeans know exists.
It’s probably not that far from where I was, but if coming from the JBCC location, it’s likely to be a 45-minute ride.
It was a rustic feel and experience for lunch.
What Is Rahmat Siakap Goreng?
Rahmat Siakap Goreng is a humble, no-frills restaurant located right on the coast of Pasir Gudang, Johor. Specialising in siakap goreng (deep-fried sea bass), it seems to be a favorite for the locals from nearby factories and residents, based on the go-to for lunch crowds.
There are no Instagrammable murals or fancy menus. Just honest, home-cooked-style Malay seafood—served hot, by the water, under the shade of sea-facing huts. I actually feel the rustic look ironically makes it Instagrammable.
I guess the place is well-known among Johoreans but still under the radar for most Singaporeans. If not for my Johorean colleague, we wouldn’t have known about it.
Which is surprising, because:
- It’s scenic, rustic feel and serene by the sea
- It’s affordable
- And it feels like homecook Malay food
If you’ve ever wondered what makes Rahmat Siakap Goreng unique, I love the rustic feel, by the sea, where you can suddenly feel time come to a stop and simply just sense that you left the city behind.
Why It’s Worth the Adventure to Go There For Singaporeans
Let’s be clear: most eateries out there have probably already been reported as gems. 😝 But if you want to experience like a local, love authentic local Malay dishes, here’s why Rahmat Siakap Goreng deserves the ride:
🌊 The Atmosphere
Anchored right by the sea bank, the restaurant faces the Strait of Johor. You dine overlooking the sea, and guess what? You can spot Singapore’s Punggol and Ubin region from the distance. I highly recommend sitting by the edge of the sea. (Unfortunately, it’s always reserved, and we ended up sitting far from the edge!)
It’s tranquil, airy, and delightfully unpolished. A small jetty nearby invites a post-meal stroll!
🍽️ The Food
- Rahmat siakap goreng signature: Crispy on the outside, moist inside, and perfectly paired with sambal that leans more tangy than fiery.
- Fried prawns and sambal kangkung round out the must-order.
This is Malay home-cooking with confidence—no gimmicks, no overselling. And you probably understand why we all love home-cooked food occasionally.
💰 The Value
For me, it’s well worth the value. You can get a home-cooked meal, relax by the sea, and enjoy the rustic experience. This is like a nice healing break after my work appointment.
The ‘Switch Off’ Value: Why It Feels Good to Be Here
Will I go back to Rahmat Siakap Goreng again? Of course I will. I am hoping for another chance to go there again.
The best way to understand how people perceive Rahmat Siakap Goreng is to look at the reviews. I always like to see how tourists perceive this place, so I asked Perplexity.ai to search and summarize for me.
Here it’s what it says:
TripAdvisor Review Summary: Rahmat Siakap Goreng
- Reviewer’s Impression: The reviewer describes Rahmat Siakap Goreng as a hidden gem, a “secret” spot that many people in Johor Bahru (JB) are not aware of.
- Ambiance: The place offers a relaxing atmosphere, enhanced by the refreshing sea breeze.
- View: Diners can enjoy a scenic view of Singapore from the location, adding to the overall dining experience.
- Overall Vibe: It’s portrayed as a great spot to unwind and enjoy both the food and the natural surroundings.
Interestingly, the summary aligns with how I felt about the place, and this feels like real luxury.
How to Get to Rahmat Siakap Goreng
🚗 Getting There:
- From JBCC or City Square: about 40–50 minutes by Grab (if traffic behaves).
- From central Pasir Gudang: less than 15 minutes.
- It’s “Grab-able” to the restaurant — but heading back can be tricky during off-peak hours. Plan accordingly or arrange a return driver.
- Cash — payment was still cash-based at last check.
Final Thoughts: Rahmat Siakap Goreng
Rahmat Siakap Goreng may not be a secret lunch escape for long especially with the development of SEZ. And I hope to make another work trip there so that I can pop down for another lunch date with the place.
So, follow the locals the next time you find yourself in Johor—or just need a reason to get out of your Singapore bubble or to go for a micro-cation!
You might just find your hidden gem waiting beside the water!
Location: Jalan Pantai, Kampung Pasir Putih, 81700 Pasir Gudang, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
