7 Cafes In Dubai That Will Bring Out The Artist In You
Dubai is not all about shopping and skyscrapers! The city boasts an intriguing side, which comes to light through its rich art and culture. And, the best part- there are some places that club art with food and we simply love the combination.
Dubai is not all about shopping and skyscrapers! The city boasts an intriguing side, which comes to light through its rich art and culture. And, the best part- there are some places that club art with food and we simply love the combination.
So, if you love art, with a side of coffee and quick bites, here are cafes you must head to. These cafes offer more than just a hot cuppa for sure!
1. Sketch Art Caf¨¦ & Sketch Studio
Let¡¯s begin with a disclaimer - It¡¯s ok to draw on the walls at this caf¨¦! Drawing, painting, and sculpting are all on the menu at the Sketch Art Caf¨¦. Unleash your inner Picasso at this cool caf¨¦ that is split into two sections- one-part studio and one-part caf¨¦. The brainchild of Emirati artist Mattar Bin Lahej, the studio will let you draw, paint, sculpt and even try printmaking.
Get creative and make your coffee mug. The caf¨¦ encourages guests to make their own ceramic mugs by providing a kit, with all the materials. You¡¯ll have a ceramic coffee cup, made by you from scratch to end, in just four steps. Firstly, paint the cup using the paints provided. Once done, hand over the cup to one of the caf¨¦ members. The caf¨¦ will then layer your artwork with a protective covering and then call you when it¡¯s ready to be picked. How cool is that! The experience will cost you around INR 2,200. Oh, and the caf¨¦ serves all-day breakfast and some decadent desserts.
2. StepUp Ceramic Caf¨¦
Art has no age, and that¡¯s the mantra behind StepUp Ceramic Caf¨¦. StepUp Ceramic Caf¨¦ is a cosy woody feel home-like setting where people of all ages, families and friends, clubs, groups and events, and corporate teams can gather to paint ceramics, canvas, glass, or simply sit back and relax. The caf¨¦ offers a wide range of activities including ceramic painting, splatter painting, canvas painting, T-shirt painting, glass painting, and more. And, if you need some inspiration, head to the Gallery and you¡¯ll know where to get started.
In addition, the caf¨¦ also offers many different types of in-person workshops with all our favourite handpicked artists. In a nutshell, this is the perfect place to learn a new craft and also a great way to meet like-minded people. As for the food, you¡¯ll be able to gobble decadent milkshakes, cakes, waffles and much more.
3. Caf¨¦ Ceramique
Imagine a stylish space where you can catch up with your friends, and be inspired. Caf¨¦ Ceramique is just that! This is where the artist in all of us is given free rein to paint beautiful works of art.
Part caf¨¦, part artist studio, Caf¨¦ C¨¦ramique is open to all whether you are a seasoned artist or are new to art. Besides, the caf¨¦ also hosts lots of kids and team-building classes, so keep your eyes peeled.
Of course, you don¡¯t have to paint to enjoy Caf¨¦ C¨¦ramique, if you simply prefer to meet up with friends and linger over coffee or something to eat. The innovative menu appeals to all palates and includes a great selection of breakfasts, bagels, homemade soups, sandwiches, and desserts as well as a large variety of gourmet coffees and exotic beverages.
4. The Workshop
A unique interdisciplinary community space, The Workshop serves as a platform to highlight emerging artists. The cafe boasts of a laid-back vibe and is home to a quaint garden where you can get lost in your favourite book with some home-style food and heavenly coffee. A perfect spot if you want some ¡®me¡¯ time, and to let your creative juices flow.
5. Maisan 15
An arty caf¨¦ in Al Barsha South, Maisan 15 is a restaurant-slash-cafe-slash-gallery-slash-garden-slash-library. Isn¡¯t that inviting enough? For starters, its courtyard has a stunning fountain surrounded by trees, perfect to sip on coffee and unleash your creativity. Enter in and you¡¯ll be treated to a cute library with booth-style seating. Climb down the stairs to get a sneak peek of their gallery with stunning artworks on display. The walls boast of art pieces created by the caf¨¦¡¯s owner and a few other renowned artists. And, a few are up for sale as well. So, go on and shop!
The best part is that these art pieces undergo a regular refresh, so you¡¯ll always be treated to new ones. Besides, the caf¨¦¡¯s menu changes as much as the paintings. Head for breakfast, lunch or dinner and you won¡¯t be disappointed. With artwork to admire on one side and the open kitchen whipping lip-smacking treats on the other, this caf¨¦ is all heart.
6. Boston Lane
If you enjoy a good coffee with a side of all things arty, we¡¯ve found the place for you. Nestled inside The Courtyard at Al Quoz, Boston Lane is hitched in a spot where you can sip on your coffee and stroll a stunning Arts Gallery. The Total Arts Gallery at Courtyard is one the oldest in Dubai and hosts exhibitions that display art from regional and international artists. Indulge in some humble yet delicious treats at the Boston Lane and walk through The Total Arts Gallery to discover futuristic installations as well as some traditional pieces. With food and art sorted under one roof - this will be a day well spent, if you ask us!
7. XVA Gallery
Offering a range of Middle Eastern inspired vegetarian options served in any of the three shaded courtyards, XVA Gallery¡¯s caf¨¦ is one of Dubai¡¯s best kept secrets. Apart from their signature mint lemonade, the caf¨¦ is also famous for its internationally acclaimed art gallery. The gallery displays contemporary works of artists from the Arab world, India and Iran. You¡¯ll spot works of Al Braithwaite, Halim Al Karim, Sabhan Adam, and Jonathan Gent. Exhibiting both locally and internationally, XVA also has exhibitions alongside other galleries and international affairs ¨C like Art London, SH Contemporary and Art Basel Hong Kong.
