Dubai’s café culture is a thriving scene that offers an eclectic mix of trendy spots, cozy retreats, and Instagram-worthy venues. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado, a tea enthusiast, or simply looking for a cozy place to unwind, Dubai has a café that’s sure to capture your heart. From chic urban settings to tranquil hideaways, the city’s diverse café culture reflects its dynamic and cosmopolitan nature. Here are ten must-visit spots for coffee lovers in Dubai.
Key Takeaways
- Dubai’s café culture is vibrant and diverse, catering to all tastes and preferences.
- LDC Kitchen + Coffee offers a perfect blend of delicious food and excellent coffee.
- Stomping Grounds is known for its specialty coffee and inviting atmosphere.
- The Sum of Us provides a unique experience with its artisanal coffee and freshly baked goods.
- Tom & Serg is a trendy spot popular for its hipster vibe and quality brews.
LDC Kitchen + Coffee
LDC Kitchen + Coffee is a two-storey structure with cosy minimalist interiors and a pet-friendly terrace, located at Jumeirah Lakes Towers. This cafe-meets-bistro is a welcome addition for breakfast enthusiasts, coffee lovers, and ice cream aficionados. The menu is packed with fresh selections, offering everything from nutritious and naughty breakfast items to pizza, pasta, sandwiches, desserts, and more. Pair these with an array of beverages, from iced or hot brews to detox juices.
Tucked away in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers, LDC Kitchen & Café emerges as a delightful haven for those seeking to blend their love of food and coffee. Characterized by its modern and inviting design, the venue encompasses two floors, each pulsating with a warm and welcoming ambiance, complemented by a delightful terrace that welcomes visitors and their furry friends.
Whether you’re looking to energize your mornings, host inspiring business meetings, or unwind during leisurely evening hours, LDC Kitchen & Café promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Stomping Grounds
Nestled in the heart of Jumeirah 1, Stomping Grounds stands out as one of Dubai’s finest coffee spots. This indie cafe, created by a former Dubai teacher, has taken cafe food to new levels with an array of Australian-inspired dishes that are bursting with color and flavor. From elevated breakfast dishes to crispy pizzas and healthy bowls, this cafe will do more than quench your coffee craving.
Any list of the best coffee in Dubai is incomplete without Stomping Grounds. Winner of the 2020 Time Out Dubai’s Best Breakfast award (and many others), Stomping Grounds is a firm favorite of locals and expats alike. The owner, Dubai-based Australian entrepreneur, Ryan Godinho, is considered one of the region’s pioneers in specialty coffee education and cafe culture development. And he is vocal about his love (and concern) for the industry.
If you’re looking to explore Dubai’s hidden gems, Stomping Grounds is a must-visit. The cafe’s unique blend of culinary delights and rich heritage makes it a standout spot in the city’s vibrant cafe scene.
The Sum of Us
The Sum of Us is an artisan establishment that serves wholesome treats prepared by skilled chefs. The cafe prides itself on using healthy ingredients, and even the eggs come from free-range hens. This is the perfect stop to savor healthy smoothies, detox juices, fresh salads, and meals that include delicious risottos, fish and chips, and organic burgers.
One of several highly successful, ultra-cool cafe concepts by Eatx, the group behind Tom & Serg and Common Grounds, The Sum of Us is a little bit of everything: a bakery, a roastery, a gourmet café, you name it. Located on the edge of DIFC, everything that can be made in-house is, from the melt-in-your-mouth sourdough to the piping hot coffee that uses Arabica beans roasted in the in-house micro-roastery.
The Sum of Us might not be in the most obvious of locations, but its Aussie-inspired interiors and tucked-away terrace both pack out with those hungry to tuck into the freshly baked goods, gourmet sandwiches, and bright salads.
The cafe uses free-range eggs and wholesome ingredients and also offers gluten-free and vegetarian items. The cafe opens and closes its doors early and serves breakfast and lunch. If you want to check out what it has to offer, make sure you do so before 3:45 pm, which is when the kitchen closes.
Tom & Serg
Tom & Serg is a beloved cafe and brunch spot that has shaped Dubai’s coffee culture. Founded by entrepreneurs Tom Arnell and Sergio Lopez, this Al Quoz cafe offers freshly roasted coffee and a menu featuring international dishes like banana and hazelnut bread, Turkish eggs, and banh mi baguettes. The friendly staff and quality offerings make it a top pick for coffee lovers.
Stylish and trendy, Tom & Serg is one of those unpretentious cafes that instantly draws you. Established by the founders of The Sum of Us, it’s large, brightly lit, chicly designed, and offers customers a range of flavors from mango chia puddings to Korean fried chicken burgers and Tom & Serg burgers.
Tom & Serg is a much-loved staple of Dubai’s coffee shop and weekend brunch scene, paving the way for the coffee culture we know in Dubai today. The brainchild of two Dubai-based entrepreneurs, Aussie Tom Arnell and Spaniard Sergio Lopez, and first outpost of the renowned EatX group, the cool, Aussie-like cafe is housed in a two-story trendy Al Quoz warehouse taking a no-frills (just incredible quality) approach with its freshly roasted and ground coffee.
One Life Kitchen and Café
Nestled in the heart of Dubai, One Life Kitchen and Café is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike. This café is not just about coffee; it’s a holistic experience that combines innovative recipes with a focus on nutrition. Their menu is packed with dishes that are both delicious and healthy, ensuring you fall in love with every bite.
One Life Kitchen and Café offers a spacious indoor seating area as well as a charming outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying Dubai’s beautiful weather. Whether you’re looking to have a quiet meal or catch up with friends, this café provides the ideal setting.
Be ready to pay AED 170-AED 480 for a meal, but trust us, it’s worth every dirham. The quality of food and the ambiance make it a worthwhile experience.
If you’re in Dubai and looking for a café that offers more than just coffee, One Life Kitchen and Café should be at the top of your list. From their innovative recipes to their cozy seating options, this café has something for everyone.
The Espresso Lab
Located in Dubai’s D3 development – Dubai Design District – The Espresso Lab is a popular haunt for the creatives and fashion types who work in the area. The minimalist grey and whitewash space is the perfect spot to hide away with a laptop or meet with friends, appealing to true coffee aficionados with its so-called ‘exotic varietals’ and expert baristas. The brand roasts its own coffee and has won UAE Barista Champion four years in a row, and UAE Brewers Champion for six years in a row.
To be fair, there are many establishments serving high quality specialty coffee in Dubai. But The Espresso Lab excels at making that their singular focus. Expect rare microlots. Cup of Excellence winners. The Dubai Design District location is always packed with a very loyal, local customer base. If you have time though, visit the roastery. It’s out of the way and the only reason to head to that area. But it’s really worth it to see where the magic actually happens.
For coffeeshop interior design inspiration, The Espresso Lab at Dubai Design District is a must-visit.
Friends Avenue Café
Nestled in the heart of Dubai, Friends Avenue Café is one of Dubai’s hidden gems. This cozy spot is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With its laid-back vibe and friendly staff, it’s no wonder this café has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The menu at Friends Avenue Café is a delightful mix of healthy and indulgent options. From their famous avocado toast to their decadent pancakes, there’s something for everyone. Don’t leave without trying their signature coffee blends, which are sure to give you the perfect caffeine kick to start your day.
Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely brunch or a quick coffee break, Friends Avenue Café offers a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
For those who love exploring unconventional beauty, this café is a must-visit. It’s not just about the food and coffee; it’s about the experience. The décor is chic and modern, with a touch of bohemian flair that adds to its charm. If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, make sure to add Friends Avenue Café to your list of must-visit spots.
Common Grounds
Drawing inspiration from Melbourne’s health-conscious coffee culture, Common Grounds has established itself as a popular destination for fresh smoothies, juices, salads, sandwiches, and exceptional coffee. With six locations across Dubai, this community-focused cafe caters to various needs throughout the day, from breakfast to supper. The cafes feature light, minimalist designs with plenty of greenery. Must-try items include their acai bowl, hearty salads, freshly baked treats, and a variety of specialty coffee.
Situated in Mall of the Emirates, Common Grounds is known for its specialty coffee and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their dedication to quality and customer experience is evident in every cup.
Locations:
- Mall of the Emirates
- DIFC
- JLT
- JBR Beach
- Dubai Hills Mall
- Nakheel Mall
Wild & The Moon
Wild & The Moon is an import from Paris, bringing a touch of European charm to Dubai. Nestled amidst the artistic tranquility of Alserkal Avenue, this café is a beacon for health-conscious and sustainable food enthusiasts. The minimalist decor, long oak tables, and hanging plants spilling from the industrial-style ceiling create a serene and inviting atmosphere.
The menu is a colorful array of healthy juices, bowls, and desserts, with many vegan-friendly and gluten-free options available. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing juice or a hearty bowl, Wild & The Moon has something to satisfy your cravings.
Wild & The Moon is not just a café; it’s a space that seamlessly blends creativity, comfort, and wholesome cuisine, making it a distinctive addition to Dubai’s café landscape.
Location: Al Wasl Rd – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai
Nightjar Coffee Roasters
Nestled in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, Nightjar Coffee Roasters has been drawing those passionate about their coffee since it opened. Thanks to an in-house roastery and their commitment to long-term relationships with the farms from which they source their coffee beans, this spot is a haven for coffee aficionados. Part roastery, part eatery, part party hangout, expect more than just a delicious cup of coffee – there’s also an extensive menu of all-day breakfasts, salads, and light plates described as food inspired by Al Quoz. A bonus? Nightjar’s got nitro cold brew on tap.
Nightjar Coffee Roasters lives up to its cool location, with a lofthouse-style vibe featuring exposed ceilings, dark woods, and a huge wrap-around bar.
They recently opened a second location in Citywalk, expanding their presence and offerings. Whether you’re there for the coffee, the food, or the atmosphere, Nightjar is a must-visit for anyone exploring Dubai’s best coffee shops.
Conclusion
Dubai’s café culture is a vibrant and diverse tapestry that offers something for every coffee lover. From chic urban settings to tranquil hideaways, the city’s coffee scene is a testament to its dynamic and cosmopolitan nature. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, exploring these must-visit spots will not only satisfy your caffeine cravings but also provide a unique glimpse into the social and cultural fabric of Dubai. So grab your coffee cup and embark on a delightful journey through the best cafés this city has to offer. Happy sipping!
