Dubai’s coffee culture is growing fast — and it’s not just about your average latte anymore. Whether you’re a specialty coffee lover or just looking for a cozy café with character, the city is full of amazing roasters and brewers. Here are the Top 5 Coffee Roasters and Specialty Cafés in Dubai you need to visit for the perfect cup.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why Choose Specialty Coffee Over Commercial Chains?
Specialty coffee stands out for a reason. These cafés focus on bean origin, roasting quality, and precise brewing.
Compared to commercial chains, specialty spots care deeply about flavor, sustainability, and the coffee experience. You get unique blends, fresh roasts, and personal touches you won’t find in mass-market shops.
1. The Espresso Lab
Characteristics
Founded by Emirati coffee pioneer Ibrahim Al Mallouhi, The Espresso Lab is all about precision and passion.
Advantages
- In-house roasting with single-origin beans
- Minimalist interior and expert baristas
- Perfect for espresso lovers and purists
Pricing
AED 25–35 ($7–$10) for handcrafted drinks
What Makes It Different
It’s a lab-style café that treats coffee as both science and art.
👉 Visit: https://theespressolab.com/
2. Seven Fortunes Coffee Roasters
Characteristics
A leading local roaster based in Al Quoz, Seven Fortunes supplies beans to many top cafés in the region.
Advantages
- Sells beans by region, roast, and tasting notes
- Hip industrial-style café space
- Great for coffee gear and merchandise
Pricing
AED 28+ ($8) for drinks; beans from AED 60 ($16) per bag
What Makes It Different
It’s a community-driven roastery offering deep coffee education and premium beans.
👉 Shop: https://sevenfortunes.com
3. % Arabica (Dubai Mall & City Walk)
Characteristics
This Kyoto-born brand has taken the world by storm with its sleek design and focus on consistency.
Advantages
- Iconic white aesthetic and clear branding
- Uses beans from its own farm in Honduras
- Consistently good espresso and lattes
Pricing
Drinks range AED 25–40 ($7–$11)
What Makes It Different
It offers Instagram-friendly vibes without compromising coffee quality.
👉 Discover: https://arabica.coffee
4. Brew Café
Characteristics
Tucked away in Jumeirah, Brew Café is a hidden gem known for creative coffee creations and calm vibes.
Advantages
- Offers alternative milks, cold brew, and AeroPress
- Quiet indoor seating and laptop-friendly
- Known for artistic presentation
Pricing
AED 20–35 ($6–$10); pastries from AED 15+
What Makes It Different
It’s low-key, local, and welcoming, making it ideal for working or relaxing.
👉 Follow: https://www.instagram.com/brewcafe_uae/
5. Nightjar Coffee
Characteristics
A bold, funky roastery and café located in Alserkal Avenue, Nightjar is where creativity meets caffeine.
Advantages
- Full brunch and food menu
- Funky interior and energetic staff
- Specialty roasts and signature cold brew cans
Pricing
Coffee AED 25–45 ($7–$12); meals from AED 60+
What Makes It Different
Nightjar is playful and experimental, making coffee fun again.
👉 Explore: https://www.nightjar.coffee/
Customer Reviews
“Espresso Lab gave me the best cup I’ve ever had. Smooth, rich, and balanced.”
“Seven Fortunes is my go-to for beans. Always fresh and well-packed.”
“Nightjar feels like a party in a cup — bold, fun, and flavorful!”
My Personal Opinion
As a true coffee lover and café explorer, I’ve visited all these spots more than once. Personally, Seven Fortunes wins for bean quality and friendly staff — it’s where I buy my home brews. But for a peaceful solo morning, Brew Café is my happy place — calm, minimal, and warm.
Each café brings something different, which is what I love most about Dubai’s coffee scene.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a die-hard coffee geek or someone who just wants better mornings, these Top 5 Coffee Roasters and Specialty Cafés in Dubai offer something unique. From bean sourcing to latte art, you’ll taste the difference. So skip the basic chains — and brew smarter.
For more Dubai coffee guides, lifestyle picks, and hidden spots, visit our wonderful website: https://dubaisouking.com