Spoilt for choice? The ultimate guide to cafes in Dubai

• Quirky cafes
• Homegrown cafes
• Healthy cafes
• Other Dubai cafes
• FAQs

Dubai is known for its vibrant culinary experiences and artisanal coffee culture, made all the more apparent with the plethora of cafes and coffee places in almost every area in the emirate. Some attract customers by offering quirky Instagrammable experiences, while others set themselves apart by offering luxurious perks, such as coffee made from premium-quality beans. Spoilt for choice? From wonderfully quaint cafes to the trendiest coffee shops in the emirate, here is our master list of the best cafes in Dubai.

QUIRKY CAFES IN DUBAI

Dubai has its fair share of quirky cafes. From coffee places where you can flip through your favourite paperbacks to those dedicated solely to board games, here are some interesting and unique coffee shops in Dubai:

BOARDGAME CAFES

Roll the dice and sip your favourite cuppa in these board game cafes in Dubai:

DICE BOARD GAME CAFE

Tucked inside Circle Mall JVC, is DICE. It’s a paradise for gamers, offering access to more than 1,000 board games, puzzles and mandalas. For just AED 40 per person, you can play as much as you like. When it’s time to recharge, the menu has you covered with everything from crisp salads and hearty burgers to pizzas, sharing platters, smoothies, milkshakes and plenty of coffee.

• Price for two: AED 200
• Location:  The Circle Mall, Jumeirah Village Circle
• Contact: +971-4-582-0108
• Opening hours: 10:00 am to 12:00 am

THE SIX

Another part of the coffee culture in the emirate is THE SIX. This is one of the best cafes to give board game establishments in Dubai a run for their money. Java junkies will also appreciate their signature blends available in a variety of hot and cold beverages.  

• Price for two: AED 80
• Location:  Downtown Dubai, Burj Vista Residence
• Contact +971-4-334-2666
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 12:00 am

THE HUNGRY MONKEY

For a barrel of laughs, bites and board games, head to The Hungry Monkey. Play for free after you pick anything from the menu. Make sure you make your bookings in advance!

• Price for two: AED 315
• Location: Donatello Hotel, Al Barsha
• Contact: +971-50-707-5307
• Opening hours: 12:00 pm to 03:30 am

Unique cafes 

Are you a motorbike enthusiast or love to gaze at pretty interiors? These unique cafes in Dubai are great for those looking at eclectic avenues to unwind.

FOREVER ROSE CAFE

Ever wanted to be a part of sketch art? A dining experience at Forever Rose Cafe makes it happen. The monochromatic 2D space is a feast for the eyes and the menu is commendable too.

• Price for two: AED 235
• Location: Al Safa
• Contact: +971-4-548-4210
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 12:00 am | 08:00 am to 01:00 am (Friday to Sunday)

CAFE RIDER

When it comes to themed cafes in Dubai, Cafe Rider is one of the first options that come to mind. Motorcycles and coffee don’t usually mix, but this cafe changes that. Sip on your chosen coffee cocktails, espressos and speciality brews while gazing at custom motorcycles and relaxing on leather sofas.

• Price for two: AED 130
• Location: Warehouse 7, 14 C Street – Al Quoz
• Contact: +971-4-321-4411
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 07:00 pm

THE PODS

Don’t like crowds? Dine in a cosy air-conditioned pod or enclosure at The Pods. The menu is just as interesting, with lattes served in unique ways.

• Price for two: AED 500
• Location: The Wharf, Bluewaters Island
• Contact: +971-4-453-8994
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 01:00 am

INSTAGRAMMABLE CAFES

Here are some of the most Instagrammable cafes in Dubai that can add some oomph to your social media feed.

TANIA’S TEAHOUSE

Looking for cute cafes in Dubai that make perfect fodder for the ‘Gram? Visit Tania’s Teahouse, also referred to as Tania’s, in Dubai Hills. The array of gorgeous tea cakes and light bites served with tempting beverages are guaranteed to make you whip out your phone and start snapping away. 

• Price for two: AED 100
• Location:  Dubai Hills Business Park
• Contact: +971-4-282-4606
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm

PARLOUR BOUTIQUE

The coffee cups from Parlour Boutique will be all over your social media feed once you visit. The contemporary French dining, delicate pastries and artisanal coffee blends make this cafe a winner on social media. 

• Price for two: AED 140
• Location:  Ground floor, One Central Building, Trade Centre Area, Dubai
• Contact: +971-4-386-5333
• Opening hours: 07:00 am to 07:00 pm

DEPRESSO

With Insta-worthy drinks to try and take a selfie with, Depresso is a definite option to try from our list of cafes in Dubai. A trip to Depresso will definitely help you make a splash on your Instagram feed. 

• Price for two: AED 60
• Location:  Umm Suqeim, near Kind Care Medical Centre
• Contact +971-50-244-5434
• Opening hours 07:00 am to 12:00 am

THE SUM OF US

With a café experience that is as unique as its name, The Sum of Us offers European classics with a hint of vintage vibes added to the mix. Try their freshly brewed coffees and delicious breakfast for a gourmet cafe experience in Dubai.

• Price for two: AED 130
• Location:  Trade Centre Area, Burj Al Salam Residence Tower, Ground Floor
• Contact: +971-56-445-7526
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 09:00 pm

FRIENDS AVENUE CAFE

The Friends Avenue Cafe is one of the best cafes in Dubai. This Insta-worthy cafe offers stunning coffee concoctions that look like bona fide artwork. Visit any of their two branches in The Ribbon Mall or Jumeirah Lake Towers.

• Price for two: AED 165
• Location:  The Ribbon Mall, Motor City | Jumeirah Lake Towers
• Contact: +971-4-243-2866 (Ribbon Mall) | +971-4-554-5813 (JLT)
• Opening hours: Vary

ARROWS AND SPARROWS CAFE

This dog-friendly café is perfect for pictures with your pooch. Plus, the food is stunningly presented! While the cafe is more popular during cooler winter months when pet owners can enjoy the outdoors with their furry companions in tow, their iced caffeinated beverages keep the customers coming even when the weather gets hot.  

• Price for two: AED 170
• Location:  The Greens, Emaar Business Park, Building 4
• Contact: +971-4-558-8141
• Opening hours: 07:00 am to 11:00 pm

ANGELINA

Next on our list of good cafes in Dubai is Angelina, a Paris-themed spot which offers a range of traditional French desserts and classic beverages.

• Price for two: AED 355
• Location:  The Dubai Mall, Fashion Avenue, Ground level
• Contact: +971-4-442-8814
• Opening hours: 09:00 am to 01:00 am

HOMEGROWN CAFES

If you are looking for new places in Dubai for your coffee fix, try the local brands which have built a solid reputation with coffee lovers in the city. These homegrown cafes in the emirate are just as amazing as the rest of the entries on this list.

MIRZAM

A haven for chocoholics, Mirzam is a chocolate factory that specialises in crafting the finest chocolate with roasted cocoa beans. Their wide selection of caffeinated drinks also makes it an ideal choice for coffee aficionados looking for new experiences.

• Price for two: AED 145
• Location: Al Quoz Industrial Area 3
• Contact: +971-4-333-5888
• Opening hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm 

RAW COFFEE COMPANY

An ideal spot for die-hard coffee fans, the Raw Coffee Company creates its caffeinated concoctions from premium beans sourced from around the world.

• Price for two: AED 140
• Location:  Al Quoz 1, Corner of Street 7a and 4a, Dubai
• Contact: +971-4-339-5474
• Opening hours: 07:30 am to 06:00 pm

FILLI CAFE

This is the café which put Dubai’s tea culture on the global map. FiLLi Café has several branches in Dubai and the rest of the UAE. The famous teahouse was the brainchild of Indian entrepreneur Rafih FiLLi, who established his first branch in Dubai. 

• Price for two: AED 80
• Location:  Knowledge Park
• Contact:+971-52-308-7726
• Opening hours: 08:30 am to 07:00 pm

ARABIAN TEAHOUSE

Also known as one of the more popular Emirati restaurants in Dubai, The Arabian Teahouse started its journey from the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood before expanding to another popular area in Dubai.  

• Price for two: AED 225
• Location:  Multiple including Al Fahidi Historical
• Contact: +971-4-353-5071 | +971-4-341-2855
• Opening hours: 07:30 am to 12:00 am (Bur Dubai)| 08:00 am to 12:00 am (The Mall)

SAYA BRASSERIE

Born in Dubai, Saya Brasserie is the perfect retreat for those looking for Middle Eastern sweet treats and traditional Arabic Qahwa. If you are more inclined to try international blends, you will love their Pistachio Spanish Latte.

• Price for two: AED 280
• Location:  Al Safa, Dubai
• Contact:+971-50-541-8373
• Opening hours: 09:00 am to 01:00 am

HEALTHY CAFES IN DUBAI

For the health-conscious out there, these cafes in Dubai are excellent spots to relax with a wholesome drink.

WANDR

Are you on a health kick? A visit to Wandr is the answer when hunger hits. Enjoy healthier versions of classic favourites like Kung Pao Chicken and Shawarma. All in all, it’s hailed as one of the good cafes in Dubai for vegans.

• Price for two: AED 80
• Location: Jumeirah Lake Towers, Cluster T
• Contact: +971-4-554-3514
• Opening hours: 09:00 am to 09:30 pm | 09:00 am to 10:00 pm (Friday to Sunday)

THE ACAI SPOT

The Acai Spot has several branches in Dubai. The Brazilian cafe has an array of healthy options on the menu apart from coffee and beverages made from popular superfood. 

• Price for two: AED 80
• Location: Multiple including Dubai Marina
• Contact: +971-4-580-7635 (Dubai Marina)
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm

Comptoir 102

Enjoy healthy bites and a relaxing ambience at Comptoir 102. This café doubles as a clothing boutique and organic grocery store, making it a gorgeous spot to while away the day.

• Price for two: AED 235
• Location: Opposite Beach Centre, Jumeirah Road
• Contact: +971-4-385-4555
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm

OTHER TOP CAFES IN DUBAI

From cafes in Business Bay to Umm Suqeim, here are the other best cafes in Dubai you can add to your growing list of must-visits: 

BohoX

BohoX spreads across two floors with plenty of space to chill indoors or outdoors, all wrapped in lush greenery. The all-day breakfast is a winner, serving up everything from shakshuka and croque monsieur to fresh Mediterranean bowls.

• Price for two: AED 350
• Location: Downtown Dubai
• Contact: +971-52-103-2646
• Opening hours: 09:00 am to 01:00 am

CIRCLE CAFE DUBAI

This café is a favourite with residents and is also one of the best book cafes in Dubai. The well-known bistro has outlets in Business Bay, Dubai Media City, World Trade Centre and many more across the emirate.

• Price for two: AED 205
• Location:  Multiple including Dubai Studio City
• Contact:+971-800-247-253
• Opening hours 08:00 am to 08:00 pm

Cassette

Enjoy Parisian inspired dishes while listening to music from selected artists at Cassette. It’s also a great place to brainstorm creative ideas.

• Price for two: AED 230
• Location:  Al Quoz
• Contact: +971-4-349-1966
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 07:00 pm

Lazy Cat

This Kuwait-based eatery has a branch in Dubai and is considered one of the nice cafes in Dubai for options like fluffy Japanese Cheesecake. A location near Al Quoz Pond Park makes it a popular hangout.

• Price for two: AED 130
• Location: Al Quoz Pond Park.
• Contact: +971-4-345-2542
• Opening hours: 07:00 am to 09:00 pm | 07:00 am to 10:00 pm (Weekends)

Lowe

Expect an open kitchen serving Japanese and Middle Eastern cuisine with plenty of freshly brewed coffee options to choose from.

• Price for two: AED 235
• Location:  Canvas – Legends
• Contact: +971-4-320-1890
• Opening hours: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm | Closed on weekends

Kulture House

This cafe is actually an 80s-style Emirati villa turned coffee shop. The place is decorated with pictures taken by the original owner. Do try the coffee!

• Price for two: AED 195
• Location:  Villa 106
• Contact: +971-56-515-0500
• Opening hours: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm |09:00 am to 08:00 pm

BROTHAUS

Brothaus is a German bakery and bistro that doesn’t fail to impress. Apart from the awesome breakfast menu, they serve a variety of coffee, tea, salads, soups and other items.

• Price for two: AED 285 
• Location:  Steigenberger Hotel, Ground floor,  Business Bay
• Contact: +971-4-369-0000
• Opening hours: 07:30 am to 02:00 am

THE KANA CAFE

For those who would rather enjoy steaming hot mugs of coffee with a view, The Kana Café in Business Bay is worth visiting. Apart from the regular café fare, try their milkshakes, coffee blends and mocktails. 

• Price for two: AED 120
• Location:  Fifty One Tower, Business Bay – Dubai
• Contact +971-50-844-1819
• Opening hours: 10:00 am to 03:00 am

THE HAMPTONS CAFE

All branches of The Hamptons Café are highly rated by patrons. The café is designed to look like the boho-chic cafes in Hampton, with a variety of eclectic brews and delicious bites on offer. 

• Price for two: AED 240
• Location:  Multiple, including Emirates Hills
• Contact: +971-4-564-5770 (Emirates Hills)
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm

LADUREE

From gourmet teas to their own blends and a range of excellent drinks, there is something for every café-goer in Ladurée.

• Price for two: AED 230
• Location:  Multiple including Dubai Mall
• Contact: +971-4-339-8520 (Dubai Mall)
• Opening hours: Vary

YAMANOTE ATELIER

Our next mention in the list of best cafes in Dubai is the popular Japanese eatery, Yamanote Atelier. Studio Ghibli fans will love the artfully decorated baked goods and sinful pastries.   

• Price for two: AED 100
• Location:  Al Ferdous 2, Shop 1, Wasl Road, Al Safa
• Contact: +971-4-399-9559
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 10:00 pm

COMMON GROUNDS

From jerk chicken to coffee and sweet potato fries, Common Grounds is one of the best places to get your daily eats and caffeine fix. 

• Price for two: AED 80
• Location:  Mall of the Emirates, Level 2, Al Barsha
• Contact: +971-50-478-1049
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm | 08:00 am to 12:00 am (Weekends)

GF FERRE CHOCOLATE BAR

This dessert parlour and café earns props for a chocolate-focused menu. A delicious range of hot chocolate, coffees, iced lattes and breakfast items will make you keep coming back for more. 

• Price for two: AED 80
• Location: Mall of the Emirates, Level 1
• Contact: +971-56-188-3849
• Opening hours: 08:00 am to 12:00 am

MAISAN 15

Located in Barsha South, Maisan 15 is a favourite hangout for residents. The beverage section is extensive with categories like black tea, iced coffee and more.

• Price for two: AED 160
• Location:  Beside Maisan Towers, Barsha South
• Contact: +971-4-244-7291
• Opening hours: 08:00 pm to 11:00 pm

STOMPING GROUNDS DUBAI

As a speciality coffee hub, Stomping Grounds deserves a place on our picks for the best cafes in Dubai. Owned by an Australian expat couple, this cosy cafe has a great selection of blends from around the world. 

• Price for two: AED 190
• Location:  Villa 98, Jumeirah 1
• Contact: +971-4-344-4451
• Opening hours: 07:30 am to 11:30 pm

FAQs

We hope our recommendations for the best cafes in Dubai can serve as your guide to the emirate’s top coffee shops and eateries. For experiences a little out of the ordinary, consider visiting the RoboCafe in Dubai. Our guide for cafes in Sharjah will also help you find the best cafes in the emirate. If you looking to sate your inner cookie monster, here is a list of places to buy cookies in Dubai.

For more updates on restaurants in the UAE, stay tuned to MyBayut.