Dubai is never short of homegrown local eateries, that come with rich history and a story. When it comes to homegrown the UAE is always proud to create concepts that scale and eventually open up in other parts of the world.

From the best brews to traditional delectable delights, these local cafés have grown immensely over the years amongst both tourists and residents.

Whether you’re looking for a quaint space to unwind or to simply catch-up with your friends, we’ve got you covered. We know that each cafe’s kitchens and cooking styles is built around four key pillars of authenticity, diversity, accessibility and value.

Overall, homegrown cafés offer a unique charm and personal touch that often sets them apart from larger, chain establishments. These homegrown cafes typically emphasise quality, community, and local culture.

With an emphasis on high-quality coffee and food, often with specialty coffee roasts and artisanal baked goods. They ensure a key focus always lies on fine attention-to-detail, to reflect the owner’s personality or local culture.

By regularly host community events, such as open mic nights, art shows, and book clubs, they enhance the community’s wellbeing and continually grow it with more interactive evenings.

So, if you’re looking for spots to unwind at, why not visit these local cafés that have made a mark for themselves in the F&B space.

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Kulture House

This lifestyle space is home to a melting pop of lifestyles, cultures and traditions. Known for its boho-themed interiors, this this historic villa from the 80s showcased immense potential and became their sole focus, to acquire and transform it into the Kulture House it is today. With an Indian-inspired archway and a host of intriguiging items on display, Sheikha Jawar has beautifully showcased her pieces throughout the restaurant. The furniture has been carefully curated to bring the space to life by fusing the right dose of industrial minimalism. It's located on 106 Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, it’s open daily from 9am to 7pm.

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Amongst Few

This Dubai-based space echoes minimal hues and textures with both an outdoor area for relaxing and an indoor for working from. By using simple materials such as natural wood, steel counters and lots of plants, this café also serves organic fair-trade coffee and fresh seasonal dishes to match the standards. With refreshing raw finishes, one can’t help but notice how seamlessly the café blends with a creative space. Located in Villa 3 on Al Wasl Road, Palm Strip and Jumeirah Beach Road, it’s open daily from 9am to 7pm.

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Arabian Tea House

To experience fine Emirati hospitality, this venue has provided the first Emirati cuisine since 1997. With authentic elements such as rattan chairs, lace curtains, turquoise benches, visitors can enjoy a cup of traditional Arabic coffee known as gahwa to explore the city’s past. As a relaxing oasis to talk and unwind, customers can go back in time to when old architecture reigned supreme. This concept is situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood which was previously known as Al Bastakiya.

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Project Chaiwala

Born in Dubai, this homegrown chai brand contributes to the multicultural heritage of the UAE and the new generation of Chai drinking culture. With handcrafted blends using high quality tea sourced directly and ethically. The overarching concept represents the culture, lifestyle and the global Chai movement. Founded by Ahmed Kazim and Justin Joseph in 2017, the concept brings the UAE’s raw street culture to life through every cup of tea. The starter packs and bundles are even available to shop online. Located in Alserkal Avenue, Cinema Akil, it’s open daily from 9:30am until 10pm.

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Lana Lusa

With Portuguese roots, the restaurant revives the neighbourhood soul of old southern Europe. By working in an open kitchen, the chefs create a series of mouth-watering dishes ranging from salted cod to grilled chicken. For a secluding and calming environment, this restaurant is an ideal place to leave the relentless pace of city outside. If you want a quick bite or a candlelit dinner, this restaurant has it all. Located in Plaza 1, Al Wasl road, it’s open on weekdays from 8am to 12am and on weekends from 9am to 12am.

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Mirzam

This homegrown bean-to-bar concept and chocolate factory is the first of its kind in the emirate with an experience for everyone to relish on their visit. From roasting cocoa beans to hand wrapping each bar, the concept is inspired by the spice root as an ode to its rich heritage to create incredibly smooth chocolate with no additional additives.

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Parka

Escape the ordinary with this minimalist coffee shop, that offers a calming ambience to help you refuel for the day. With simple interiors and delicious coffee, ranging from hot to cold brews with alternative milk preferences, guests are sure to enjoy this refreshing space in Dubai. Complimenting the coffee is a range of decadent pastries, muffins, tarts and croissants to ensure you relax, snack and unwind with your loved ones. Located in Town Square, it’s open daily from 7:30am to 11pm.

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SEVA Table

Since 2014, SEVA has been a trailblazer in the region as the first 100 per cent plant-based, gluten-free, cane-sugar-free, and GMO-free venue. While you may come for the delicious, healthy and environmentally conscious food and beverage options, you’ll stay for the secluded and laid-back vibes. This place embodies a Sunday morning kind of vibe. It’s casual, healthy, and holistic, making it a great place to decompress with a meal away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai.

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Society

This aesthetic café is known for its visually appealing textures and Instagram-worthy dishes. From delicious coffees to appetizing dishes, this bespoke haven is surely one visit. The dishes vary from their mouth-watering shibuya toast to a honey cake with several layers of perfection. It’s open daily from 8am to 11pm for all-day dining and breakfast until 3pm and is located in Jumeirah 1.

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Two at Symphony

This haven is an elegant yet casual boutique cafe experience that brings to life flavourful comfort foods, fresh beautiful bakes and elegant sips inspired by the latest food trends and reminiscent flavours. The name ‘Two at Symphony’ stems from the story of two inspiring sisters, Mouza & Salama Alabbar. An all day cafe eatery, Two celebrates the start of the day with fresh offerings, from eggs to French Toast and more. Located in The Dubai Mall, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 9am to 12am and Friday to Sunday 9am to 1am.

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The Grey

This bespoke coffee haven is the epicentre for creative freedom, where a subtle yet charming aura is felt throughout the space. From luxe coffees to a relaxing meeting place, for different cultures, minds and communities to unite, The Grey is definitely a must-visit here in Dubai. Located on Al Wasl Road, it’s open daily from 8am to 11pm.

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IYKYK

Hidden inside a flower studio and concept store called Villa Aumedan, IYKYK is an ethereal space with a crystal-clear swimming pool and plush interiors, for a uniue experience in Dubai. Located in Villa 9, Jumeirah 1, It’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 12am, Thursday to Friday 10am to 1am and Saturday 10 to 12:30pm.

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Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @parkacoffee