Dubai dining scene is usually known for its glossy restaurants, sky-high views, luxurious fine-dining and chain restaurants, but Alserkal Avenue is a refreshing change.
Tucked away in Al Quoz, this former industrial district has evolved into one of Dubai’s most exciting, creative neighborhoods. It is a place where contemporary art galleries, design studios, independent brands, good food and coffee come together.
You can easily spend an evening wandering between exhibitions and studios, but for me the food is reason enough to make the trip.
From specialty coffee, freshly baked goodies and Mexican tortillas to smash burgers, live-fire cooking and plant-based plates, here are 10 restaurants and cafes in Alserkal Avenue that deserve a spot on your Dubai food map.
1 Wild & The Moon
Wild & The Moon offers wholesome, fresh, organic, plant-based and gluten-free food, with everything from nourishing bowls and breakfast to fresh juices and coffee.
My go-to is their nourishing bowl, fresh juice and plant-based breakfast.
2 Nightjar Coffee Roasters
No visit to Alserkal Avenue feels complete without a coffee stop at Nightjar. Known for its speciality coffee, in-house roasting and creative cafe menu, it’s the kind of place where coffee is taken seriously without the atmosphere ever feeling pretentious.
I usually grab a cortado or pour-over and something from their savory breakfast option.
3 Lila Molino + Café
Lila Molino brings a little bit of Mexico to Alserkal Avenue. The concept revolves around traditional Mexican masa and handmade corn tortillas. There is also a retail space.
The food is vibrant, flavorful and authentic. My favorites are their handmade tortillas, tacos and churros.
4 Window
If you’re looking for a food-focused venue I’d recommend Window. The restaurant is centered around live-fire cooking, giving the food that unmistakable charred, smoky depth. It feels contemporary without being overly formal.
Every dish in their concise menu is great, or you can ask for the chef’s live-fire specialities and share a few dishes. Their coffee flan is a must-order.
5 Middle Child
For playful, creative comfort food with lively vibes head over to Middle Child. The food is approachable but far from boring, with plenty of playful touches that makes it a great new addition to the culinary scene in Alserkal Avenue.
Pick a few dishes to share and don’t leave without trying one of their sweet treats.
6 Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar
If you want an alternative to Dubai’s endless speciality coffee shops, then Pekoe is the perfect place. Known for its tea and bread, they focus on freshly baked bread and carefully prepared drinks.
Pekoe is a great spot for all-day breakfast and bakery lovers.
7 Piehaus
Sometimes, all you need is a perfectly baked pie- and Piehaus delivers exactly that. The menu celebrates the humble pie in a way that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. Expect a comforting combination of buttery pastry and generous, flavor-packed fillings.
Try both the sweet and savory varieties. Piehaus is best for a quick bite or a comforting pastry break.
8 Subko Specialty Coffee Roasters & Bakehouse
Mumbai-born speciality coffee brand Subko has brought its distinctive take on coffee and baking to Alserkal Avenue and it is definitely worth visiting.
This spacious venue combines speciality coffee, a bakehouse and a celebration of Indian ingredients from the Indian subcontinent. Expect carefully sourced coffee alongside sourdough, croissants, cacao and beautifully executed baked goods.
9 BKRY
I believe that a good day starts with something freshly baked and BKRY perfectly embodies that. This modern bakery is all about beautifully crafted breads, pastries and sweet treats, with the kind of irresistible aroma that makes it difficult to walk past without stopping.
It is an ideal place to grab something warm and flaky while exploring the galleries and creative spaces around the Avenue.
10 By Ganache
I always end my trip to Alserkal Avenue with a visit to By Ganache chocolatier. Known for its beautifully crafted chocolate creations, Ganache brings a touch of elegance to Alserkal Avenue.
From rich chocolate treats to beautifully presented confections, everything here is absolutely delightful. I always pick up a box of their signature ganache-based chocolates to take home.
The best way to experience Alserkal Avenue is not to treat it as a destination for just one meal, start with a coffee at one place, wander through the galleries and independent spaces, stop for a pie or pastry at another place and come hungry later for a proper meal to a different venue. My suggestion will be to go on a foodie trail and try 4-5 different places.
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