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Food & Drink
17 scenic garden cafes in Dubai
Tue, October 3, 2023
Surround yourself with natural beauty and sip your coffee in the great outdoors.
Surround yourself with natural beauty and sip your coffee in the great outdoors.
1
SEVA
Boho-chic vibes are in abundance at this zen-inspired oasis that blends cultures from Guatemala to Bali. Grab a seat at one of the wooden tables placed amid the greenery and enjoy their purely plant-based dishes. There's no Wi-Fi access, so visitors are invited to unplug and reset. Sign up for a morning yoga session prior to breakfast to fully appreciate the space and all it offers.
2
Arabian Tea House
Emirati hospitality is abundant at Arabian Tea House. Known for its chic outdoor spaces, all three Dubai branches – decked out in trademark turquoise and white – have excellent gahwa (Arabic coffee) and serve up local eats that you won't find elsewhere. Our top pick is the original site in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
3
Bounty Beets
This popular eatery prides itself on substantial vegan and vegetarian options. There are two branches in the city, each with expansive outdoor spaces to take in the fresh air. The large terrace at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi looks onto lush gardens and the Arabian Gulf, while at Le Méridien Dubai in Garhoud you can admire vibrant flamingo murals in a pretty courtyard setting.
4
Nette
Found within the jungle-esque grounds of Matcha padel tennis club, Nette features panoramic full-length windows, allowing plenty of natural light to flood in and a good look at the leafy surroundings. The menu offers an Asian twist on French cafe dishes, such as yuzu ponzu salmon salad, wakamame seaweed omelette and teriyaki chicken. The space is usually filled with people remote working, or catching up over a matcha latte, so try to go early if you want the place to yourself.
5
The Farm Restaurant, Al Barari
Perched in the middle of Al Barari's lush neighbourhood is the beautifully landscaped The Farm, one of the most scenic outdoor areas in Dubai. Take your place alongside the stream that flows by the restaurant and tuck into an eclectic menu that serves up everything from artisanal pizzas and butter chicken masala to light sandwiches and a great coffee selection.
6
maisan15
The term 'hidden gem' is often used to describe maisan15 – and if you discover it, you'll realise why it has such a legion of fans. Nurtured with love by Emirati art collector Rami Farooq, the relaxed boho vibe complements the innovative and always delicious dishes dispensed from the kitchen. Chicken shawarma pizza, chilli feta chips and a sumac-dusted 'Croque Maisan' are all part of the draw.
7
Kulture House
A multi-functional villa combining a concept store, cafe and exhibition space, Emirati-owned Kulture House puts a spotlight on eclectic finds. In the cooler months the windows are flung open, and the terrace becomes a buzzing hotspot for creatives. Take a seat and try something new from the menu, which features Arabian flavours such as labneh shakshouka, mezze platters and more.
8
Comptoir 102
An Instagram-favourite, the courtyard of Comptoir 102 is a light-filled casual haven decked out in bamboo with potted plants, mismatched woven rugs and relaxed seating. French owner Emma Sawko's health-conscious menu features highlights like buckwheat pancakes and spirulina granola. Located in Jumeirah, the venue is a reflection of the owner's creative, holistic vision.
9
Roseleaf Cafe
If a cup of Nightjar roasted coffee and slice of Basque cheesecake wasn't enough of a draw, then the sunlit, plant-laden interiors and backyard of Roseleaf Cafe at Emirates Golf Club should seal the deal. You're surrounded by greenery, and can choose to tee off on the rolling lawns after polishing off your breakfast, brews and bakes. We can't resist the salted caramel and chocolate tartlets.
10
The Cafe @ The Workshop
Those with creative inclinations should make a beeline to this Jumeirah villa transformed into an art shop and gallery. Its cafe is tucked away in the garden, so you'll be surrounded by a green scene while you sample their colourful salads, topped tartines and fresh smoothies. Our top picks include bresaola mozzarella salad with black olive dressing, and their waffle sticks.
11
HAPI
A lush outdoor setting, in the middle of Al Khazzan Park, adds to the allure of HAPI – an organic eatery that scores points for its healthy recipes, emphasis on sustainability and excellent coffee from The Barn. Bring the family to run around the playground, then feast on everything from bone broth and burgers to breakfast staples, while seated under the shade of a giant oak tree. Just don't forget to grab a scoop of their delicious homemade ice cream before you leave.
12
The 100 Café
The brainchild of local entrepreneur Asma Hilal Lootah, The 100 Café embraces the healthy living ethos of The Hundred Wellness Centre, where it is located. Nourishing, plant-based dishes that are free from dairy, refined sugar and gluten are incredibly tasty. The warm berry crumble shouldn't be missed and the seasonal brunch specials are always a delight.
13
The Grey
The chic, minimalist aesthetic of The Grey in Jumeirah welcomes a design-loving crowd. And, if you're lucky enough, you can get one of the much-coveted outdoor tables at this monochrome spot, so you can sip on your latte amid the artfully-planted greenery. Try the kimchi breakfast bun for a flavour-packed start to your morning, or the grilled halloumi bowl.
14
Harvest & Co.
Ensconced in the leafy oasis of Dubai Garden Centre, farm-to-table Harvest & Co. contrasts the industrial palette of its Al Quoz surroundings with a homely vibe. The lively farm-style open kitchen serves up seasonal and carefully-composed comfort eats. You'll enjoy the wholesome scrambled eggs seasoned with herbs, or the rich chocolate porridge which indulgently pairs dark Valrhona with black cherries, whipped bananas and vanilla cream.
15
Seven Seeds Cafe
This gem is much-loved by those who live in its Jumeirah vicinity, as it provides not just a space to refuel but has a real sense of community. Once you become a regular – as most patrons seem to be – skilled baristas know your favourite brew, and whether you're a fan of the exotic chia bowl or Farmer's short-rib Benedict or truffle-topped spaghetti bolognese. The industrial chic interiors are welcoming, yet we suggest you venture out to enjoy the lush terrace, teeming with greenery.
16
Splendour Fields
This neighbourhood spot in Jumeirah Lakes Towers is surrounded by the aptly named The Park, and is the latest brainchild of the team behind Tom&Serge and Common Grounds. Decked out in fresh mint hues, the soothing space comes complete with outdoor terrace tables shaded by striped parasols with a play area for little ones. Come for the scene and stay for the cuisine with the all-day Australian-inspired menu featuring breakfast staples alongside a speciality coffee bar, Rise&Dawn bakery and a florist.
17
Eugène Eugène
A chic brasserie overflowing with leafy decor, Eugène Eugène is a lush oasis hidden within Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. Once the hotel’s tennis court, this mesmerising greenhouse is now a picturesque restaurant. The space is relaxed yet elevated, with a green marble bar, rattan furniture and a cosy conservatory. During the daytime, natural light flows through the open space, bouncing off the foliage, while at night the restaurant feels like an atmospheric secret garden.
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