With a surge of cool new homegrown cafés, Dubai‘s coffee culture is brewing. While you can still order a slow drip, flat white, or French press at super-speed, there’s now a new focus that’s drifting away from the fast coffee trends, towards a slower, more of a “walk-in-off-the-street” coffee experience. As International Coffee Day (October 1) is right around the corner, whether you’re looking for a quick cuppa as a pick-me-up, a lazy afternoon coffee date, or just a steaming cup of coffee to accompany you while you read, these are the best coffee shops in Dubai to check out.
One Life Kitchen & Cafe
Based in the heart of Dubai Design District, One Life is a modern café that serves clean, honest, and delicious homemade food. They roast their own specialty coffee and is a great place to work, meet, or just be alone with a good book. On October 1, all you need to do is post an Instagram story of the café while you’re there to claim a complimentary cup of coffee.
Nightjar Coffee
Located in the art-filled area of Al Quoz, this trendy coffee shop has been drawing those passionate about their coffee to Alserkal Avenue from far and wide ever since it opened. Part roastery, part eatery, expect more than just a delicious cup of coffee as there’s also an extensive menu of all-day breakfast, salads, and light plates described as food inspired by Al Quoz. It’s the ideal spot for a coffee when you’re wandering around the many art galleries in the Avenue.
Sikka Café
With its rich cultural vibe, Sikka Café is a local home-grown restaurant concept serving authentic Arabic, Indian and Persian cuisines. The café takes visitors on a trip down memory lane as they enjoy its varied fare and al fresco dining experience. This International Coffee Day, enjoy a complimentary cup of Emirati or Saudi Qahwa coffee, along with Arabic dates, at Sikka Cafe’s three locations in La Mer, City Walk, and Last Exit Khawaneej.
The Espresso Lab
It’s called a lab for a reason, so expect the unexpected as it’s never just a simple espresso-to-go at this homegrown Dubai coffee shop. Of course, you can get the definition of what a fine espresso should be, but there’s a range of variations, including the three-ways iced espresso with foamed milk, the signature orange citrus-infused espresso catalyst, or the affogato — a specialty coffee with gelato. There are also limited-edition seasonal cuppas for special occasions.
Daily Dose Coffee
This coffee shop is tucked away in a villa in Jumeirah 1 across the road from Mercato Mall. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect to engross yourself in a new read, work, or just watch a TV show. They have a nice selection of high-quality specialty coffee, as well as iced lattes and milkshakes. Their extensive food menu includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The iced Spanish latte is highly recommended if you want a refreshing change from your usual coffee.
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