☕ Introduction: Experience the Heart of Dubai’s Café Culture
Dubai is famous for its glittering skyline and world-class dining, but beneath the luxury lies a more grounded and cherished side — the local cafeterias in Dubai. These spots are where residents gather for their morning karak, evening samosas, and long conversations that define community life. In 2025, cafeterias in Dubai are evolving with modern menus and Instagram-worthy interiors while keeping their authentic charm intact.
Whether you’re a resident or a traveler looking to experience Dubai like a local, exploring its cafeterias gives you a true taste of the city’s pulse. Here’s a curated list of the top cafeterias in Dubai loved by locals that combine comfort, flavor, and culture.
① ☕ Al Hara Cafeteria – The Classic Local Favorite
Among the oldest and most cherished cafeterias in Dubai, Al Hara Cafeteria has stood the test of time. Known for its karak tea and shawarma, this place captures the essence of old Dubai. Locals flock here after work or late at night for affordable snacks and lively conversations.
- Must Try: Chicken shawarma, karak chai, and paratha rolls.
- Location: Al Karama, Dubai.
- Vibe: Old-school charm, bustling energy, and friendly service.
With its consistent taste and friendly staff, Al Hara Cafeteria represents the soul of cafeterias in Dubai, where nostalgia and flavor blend beautifully.
② 🍔 Raju Omlet – For Egg Lovers and Breakfast Enthusiasts
A quirky and creative addition to the growing list of cafeterias in Dubai, Raju Omlet has become a favorite among locals who crave hearty breakfasts. Inspired by Indian street cafés, Raju Omlet offers a variety of egg dishes infused with spices and served in rustic, nostalgic décor.
- Must Try: Cheese masala omelet, bun maska, and cutting chai.
- Location: Al Karama and JLT.
- Vibe: Funky retro ambiance with Bollywood vibes.
Raju Omlet showcases how cafeterias in Dubai can reinvent classic flavors while staying true to local café culture.
③ 🥤 Al Ijaza Cafeteria – A Legendary Street-Side Spot
When it comes to iconic cafeterias in Dubai, Al Ijaza Cafeteria stands as a landmark. Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, it has been serving generations of locals since the 1980s. Its extensive menu features everything from fruit cocktails to spicy sandwiches, all served quickly to your car.
- Must Try: Zinker sandwich, Chips Oman roll, and avocado shake.
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road.
- Vibe: Drive-thru nostalgia and community vibes.
No list of cafeterias in Dubai is complete without Al Ijaza, a true testament to the Emirate’s fast-paced yet friendly food culture.
④ 🧁 Filli Café – The Modern Karak King
If you ask locals where to get the best karak tea, most will instantly name Filli Café. What began as a small tea stall has transformed into one of the trendiest cafeterias in Dubai with branches across the UAE and beyond.
- Must Try: Signature Zafran Karak Tea, samosas, and club sandwiches.
- Location: City Walk, Jumeirah, and various malls.
- Vibe: Contemporary design meets traditional taste.
Filli Café redefines cafeterias in Dubai by merging tradition with modern presentation, making it a beloved brand among Emiratis and expats alike.
⑤ ☕ Project Chaiwala – The Hipster’s Favorite Hangout
Blending nostalgia with innovation, Project Chaiwala is one of the trendiest cafeterias in Dubai. With its roots in the traditional tea stalls of India, it brings chai culture into modern urban settings.
- Must Try: Chaiwala Karak, Bombay toast, and chili cheese fries.
- Location: Alserkal Avenue, Jumeirah, and Expo City Dubai.
- Vibe: Industrial chic interiors and sustainable design.
Project Chaiwala attracts young professionals and creatives, representing the evolution of cafeterias in Dubai into lifestyle hubs rather than simple eateries.
⑥ 🥪 Café Isan – A Hidden Thai-Inspired Gem
While not a traditional local cafeteria, Café Isan has earned its place among the best cafeterias in Dubai because of its authentic food and relaxed community vibe. Tucked away in JLT, it’s a small, family-run spot that serves fresh Thai dishes loved by locals.
- Must Try: Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and Thai iced tea.
- Location: Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT).
- Vibe: Homely, welcoming, and full of character.
Café Isan captures the spirit of local dining in Dubai — warm hospitality, authentic flavor, and community connections.
⑦ 🧋 Karak House – Tradition Meets Trend
Located near the Burj Khalifa, Karak House takes the concept of cafeterias in Dubai to a premium level. It combines Emirati-inspired dishes with global fusion in a chic, modern setting. Perfect for those who want a taste of tradition with a stylish twist.
- Must Try: Karak chai, balaleet, and Emirati breakfast.
- Location: Downtown Dubai.
- Vibe: Upscale local cafeteria with elegant interiors.
Karak House redefines what cafeterias in Dubai can be — elevating casual dining without losing the cultural essence of local flavors.
⑧ 🥯 HumYum Café – For Emirati Comfort Food Lovers
HumYum Café is a locally grown gem that brings authentic Emirati flavors to the forefront. It’s a must-visit among cafeterias in Dubai if you want to try homegrown specialties in a cozy and contemporary atmosphere.
- Must Try: Luqaimat, regag, and Emirati karak tea.
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road and Abu Hail.
- Vibe: Warm, family-friendly, and proudly Emirati.
HumYum Café perfectly blends authenticity with innovation, embodying the new wave of cafeterias in Dubai that celebrate local heritage.
☕ Conclusion: Celebrate Dubai’s Local Café Culture
The cafeterias in Dubai are more than just places to grab a cup of tea or a quick snack — they’re cultural cornerstones that connect communities. From the humble tea stalls of Al Karama to the chic spots of Jumeirah, these cafeterias showcase the diversity, unity, and warmth that define Dubai’s food culture.
Whether you’re in the mood for a zesty shawarma, a steaming cup of karak, or an authentic Emirati dish, the cafeterias in Dubai offer something for everyone. They’re where stories are shared, friendships are made, and flavors linger long after your visit.
So, next time you explore the city, skip the big chains and head to one of these local gems to experience the true spirit of Dubai — one cup of tea at a time.