Food & Drink
15 of the most Instagrammable cafes in Dubai
Mon, April 24, 2023
From pretty plating and photo-worthy settings to creative cups of coffee, these picturesque spots will set your social media feed alight.
From pretty plating and photo-worthy settings to creative cups of coffee, these picturesque spots will set your social media feed alight.
Forever Rose Cafe
It's impossible not to get a great shot at this 2D monochrome space which offers up a feast for all the senses. The black and white interiors provide the perfect backdrop for many brightly-hued desserts. Those in the know opt for the high tea, served in an actual doll's house, which features multiple mini sweet and savoury treats – just set up your camera for the big reveal as you open the door. The only other pop of colour? The single red Forever Rose that adorns every table.
Saya Brasserie
Pink hues and floral fantasies abound at Saya Brasserie, which now has several branches in the city. Maximalist interiors featuring canopies overflowing with blooms provide a vibrant backdrop. Pose alongside plastic flamingos while tucking into a pink burger, lavender bubble tea or blue Spanish latte. This social media-savvy spot even serves up a cascading milk cake. Regulars head to Wasl 51, where there are two halves to the decor with a monochrome illustration setting too.
Tania's Teahouse
Intricate latte art, pastel hues and plenty of puns make this venue a big hit. One of the first to capitalise on Instagram-worthy interiors and dishes, the 'Habib-tea' slogan adorns the quirky merchandise on sale too. Head to this picture-perfect spot for a dose of 'positivi-tea' and delicious food that is made in-house, from scratch.
Brunch & Cake
The Barcelona-born brasserie has cemented its place as an Instagram hotspot. The boho-chic interiors combine wickerwork, rattan chairs and cacti with generously portioned, signature plates. Presentation is key at this popular haunt with the avo toast, acai bowls and rainbow cakes all providing prime photo fodder. Brunch & Cake's second outpost, at The Pointe, also has a waterside setting with Atlantis, The Palm in the background and dancing fountains too. The cafe has a third Dubai venue as well, at Jumeirah Islands.
Bounty Beets
Known for its strong selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes, Bounty Beets is a top pick among healthy-eating foodies. Plus it's decked out in pale pinks with photo-fabulous slogan walls, pun-tastic dish names and murals that make the ideal capture. Fans also love the inventive breakfast options here, especially the towers of gluten-free charcoal pancakes.
SEVA Table
A plant-based haven set in a serene green garden in the middle of Jumeirah, SEVA Table seems to ooze holistic vibes. Take a seat at rustic wooden tables punctuated with colourful cushions and ethnically-diverse decor, before exploring the vegan dining options on offer. Casual, relaxed and low-key, this hidden gem also offers therapeutic classes like gong healing and yoga.
Cassette
From the moment this sustainability-minded cafe opened its doors, it was a runaway success, and Cassette remains a perennial favourite for both visitors and residents alike. Tucked away in Al Quoz's The Courtyard, the mint and monochrome venue puts a spotlight on its twin loves of music and food. The all-day dining options are as photogenic as the interiors – don't miss the duck confit piled on savoury waffles.
Secret Garden by L'ETO
Cascading pink blossoms, decadent desserts and a prime people-watching location in the middle of Dubai Mall's Perfumery & Co have together ensured that Secret Garden by L'ETO is definitely not under the radar. For serious snap-worthy drama, make sure to order the Candylicious drink that comes enclosed in a glass case and a feather-light cotton candy topping.
Mazmi Coffee and More
This 'casa' on Dubai Creek blends together the two different cultures of the couple who own it. Emirati and Italian accents pepper both the plates – their saffron ice-cream and dark chocolate hummus are highlights – as well as the decor. Perched on the edge of the water, with alfresco seating offering views of the abras and dhows drifting by, it is the ideal place to take a break while exploring Bur Dubai.
Roseleaf Cafe
Common Grounds
Enjoy fusion flavours such as Moroccan seared salmon, fresh wraps and breakfast staples, alongside vibrant smoothies and coffee roasted on the premises. Common Grounds has many different locations in the city – with the first three at Dubai International Financial Centre, The Beach and Mall of the Emirates. Each has its own ambiance, but they all consistently deliver on hipster credentials and fresh plates.
Vibe Cafe
With celebrity visitors that include Drake, Huda Kattan and Ne-Yo, it's no surprise that Vibe at Jumeirah and Dubai International Financial Centre features high on the list when people are looking for spots that will fire up the 'gram. Wholesome food features on the menu cooked up by owner Noora Salem, with vegan dishes a big draw. Their take on eggs Florentine and coconut pancakes are as pink as the decor, which includes neon signs, pink palm trees and pineapples.
Two at Symphony
The brainchild of a dynamic sisterly duo – Mouza and Salama Alabbar – Two at Symphony is justifiably one of the hottest places to sit, sip and satiate your cravings in Dubai Mall. Step inside this homegrown Emirati hit and be instantly soothed, thanks to its Terrazzo marble slabs, pastel seating and burnished brass accents. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll love the gahwa-infused French toast.