The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, is well known for its opulent malls, glitzy towers, and breathtaking cultural treasures. The city does, however, have a strong coffee culture, and its secret cafes are the ideal places to sample the enticing flavours and Arabic coffee the Emirati has to offer. Let’s uncover some of these scrumptious hidden gems
First on the list is Cafe Arabia, located in the Al Karamah neighbourhood. With a variety of Middle Eastern breakfast items, sweet desserts, lunch options, and evening entrees, along with excellent Turkish coffee and foamy cappuccinos, this quaint cafe is the ideal place for a quick recharge. Lanterns, plush couches, wall paintings, bookcases with items from other cultures, and an outdoor rooftop patio give the cafe a chic Arabesque feel. The menu features regional specialities like Egyptian karkade, and Spanish lattes with alternative varieties including matcha, turmeric, and coconut (hibiscus iced tea). Cafe Arabia is ideal for catch-ups with friends, business meetings, or a quiet coffee during a stopover.
Next up is Oud Cafe. Located near Al Wahda Mall, this cafe is a hidden gem offering customized coffee and desserts with a unique presentation. The relaxed ambience features clean interiors, modern Arabic music, and eye-catching decor with a touch of Arabic flavours. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’re sure to enjoy the warm hospitality and quality food at Oud Cafe. The staff is excellent, and the service is cheerful and helpful. Comfortable tables and long Arabic seats make the space spacious and homely. This beautiful cafe is a must-visit for quality food and warm hospitality.
The Montauk Boutique Cafe in Al Bateen is a chic cafe inspired by the Hamptons beach houses. It offers an extensive menu of delicious hot and cold breakfast, lunch, and dinner options catered to various dietary preferences. Their home-baked cakes and desserts are the highlight, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon with friends, family, or colleagues, it’s open all day and into the evening.
A hidden gem with one of the best views in the city, Aptitude Cafe is located in the beautiful Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum. Recently renovated, the cafe now boasts a bright, contemporary décor, more seating, and a bigger kitchen, making it the ideal stop for all museum visitors. The menu has a classy new look and a larger choice of mouthwatering goodies, such as hot dishes and breakfast items, as well as crowd-favourite pastries and signature coffee. The pleasant setting with a picture-perfect view of the museum, sky, and sea is as beautiful as ever. Whether you’re exploring the museum, looking for a break from the bustling city, or simply craving a cup of coffee and a bite to eat, Aptitude Cafe has everything you need. The friendly and welcoming staff adds to the overall experience, making you feel right at home.
Looking for a charming new spot to grab a coffee in Abu Dhabi? Fil, a quaint café and florist located in the sunny Al Bateen neighbourhood is a spot that is a must-try! Cosy and inviting, this place is perfect to unwind with a cup of coffee and soak in the beautiful floral arrangements that adorn every corner of the interior! The atmosphere is both romantic and charming, making it an ideal spot for date night or a step away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The menu is packed with delicious drinks and treats that are sure to please. Plus, with late open hours until it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Enjoy a little slice of floral paradise in the heart of Abu Dhabi and you can leave with a bunch of your own!
A perfect blend of culture and coffee, The Espresso Lab is one of the top coffee shops in Abu Dhabi. Situated on the capital’s oldest landmark, this café offers a stunning view of the city’s skyscrapers during sunset, making it an ideal spot for coffee lovers who enjoy a good view and great company. Although the café has a limited interior area, it is one of Abu Dhabi’s top outside coffee shops. The Espresso Lab’s speciality coffee includes a range of varieties from cold drip and Fika to Affogato. If you love sweet treats, you should try their traditional Emirati dessert, which perfectly complements their cold drip coffee. The staff is sweet and passionate about their craft, making your visit all the more enjoyable.
Echo Cafe is a unique coffee shop that stands out with its bespoke, in-house roastery. The cafe’s quirky and eccentric interior makes it a one-of-a-kind establishment. From the staff’s cool graphic T-shirts to the carefully selected ceramic tableware, Echo Cafe’s attention to detail is impeccable! The cafe’s in-house roastery ensures that the coffee is nothing short of outstanding! Not only do they serve excellent coffee, but also offer interesting brew-at-home kits for those who want to recreate delicious coffee at home. The kits are a great way to take a piece of the cafe experience home. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just someone looking for a caffeine fix, Echo Cafe is definitely worth a visit. The cafe’s atmosphere is ‘chill’, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. Echo Cafe is a must-visit coffee shop for anyone in search of a unique coffee experience.
Located in the Al Qana neighbourhood of Abu Dhabi, the Cave is a coffee shop that offers a unique and aesthetic experience for all coffee lovers. The Cave is a welcome change from the usual bright and floral cafe décor with its underground setting and raw, minimalist vibe. The asymmetrical rocky outcrops in a general colour scheme of brown and olive green resemble a real stone integrated perfectly. The light brown wooden furniture blends in really well with the grey background. The cafe is a great place for caffeine-loving Instagrammers because of its visually pleasing menu, which has gained popularity on social media. The Cave has already gained a reputation of being one of Abu Dhabi’s best coffee shops. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a unique experience, the Cave is definitely worth a visit.
Bee Café is a unique coffee shop near Mafraq Hospital in Abu Dhabi. Run entirely by determined individuals with disabilities, this cafe is the first of its kind in the UAE. Started as a part of the “Be the Change” campaign, it aims to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities and promote inclusivity. The café opened an exterior branch in the Abu Dhabi Department of Health’s offices in 2021, overseen by the Zayed Higher Organization for Persons of Determination. The Bee Café is more than just a coffee shop, it is seen as a representation of inclusivity and hope.
Drop Coffee has opened its first café at Yas Bay Waterfront in Dubai. Its international team of baristas offer a revolutionary coffee experience with nine different brewing techniques. The café has collaborated with renowned UAE Chef Reif Othman for its first-ever food menu, featuring tasty options like chicken schnitzel, pancake sandwiches, and Drop burgers. The café has a modern, sleek design with a black and white colour scheme that highlights the food and coffee, and also gets ample natural light.
With the thriving food culture in the capital city, discovering Abu Dhabi’s hidden cafes may be a delightful experience for all the foodies. These cafés provide a varied selection of options to satisfy all palates and cravings, from local specialities to international cuisines. Next time you’re in the city, don’t be afraid to go off the usual track and experience these delicious secrets for yourself.
