Abu Dhabi may be known for its glittering skyline and cultural landmarks, but ask any local and they’ll tell you mornings here are just as exciting. The breakfast in Abu Dhabi scene is a mix of heritage and modern flavors, where Emirati chebab pancakes sit comfortably alongside French pastries, and shakshuka shares the table with fluffy American pancakes.
Whether you’re looking for a calm marina view with your cappuccino or a bustling buffet with flavors from around the world, Abu Dhabi’s cafés and restaurants have it all. From hidden neighborhood gems to elegant seaside terraces, breakfast here is more than food, it’s an experience that sets the tone for the rest of the day.
1. Joud Café – Al Bateen
Walk into Joud Café on any morning and you’ll find it buzzing with energy. Known for its rich coffee and generous portions, this café has become a community favorite. The halloumi and avocado toast is a star, but their shakshuka and fluffy pancakes are just as loved. With its cozy interiors, free Wi-Fi, and shelves lined with books, Joud feels like a home away from home. Many regulars say it’s where they start their most productive mornings. It’s not just a café, it’s a social hub that captures the city’s rhythm and is a reliable choice for both locals and visitors who want comfort with their breakfast.
2. Jones the Grocer – Al Mamoura & Al Raha Beach
Back in 1996, Jones the Grocer opened in Sydney and became famous for artisanal food and specialty coffee. Today in Abu Dhabi, it’s one of the most popular breakfast chains, especially loved by families. Their eggs benedict, French toast, and hearty big breakfasts keep tables full on weekends. At Al Raha, the sea view adds another layer of charm, while Al Mamoura offers a more laid-back vibe. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients and modern café culture, Jones the Grocer bridges global flavors with Abu Dhabi mornings. Whether you’re after something indulgent or balanced, this spot makes breakfast feel like an occasion.
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3. Rain Café – Al Zahiyah
If Instagram had a favorite breakfast spot, it might just be Rain Café. Minimalist interiors, soothing pastel tones, and beautifully plated food make it a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. Their acai bowls and pistachio lattes are customer favorites, while the croissant sandwiches and pancakes bring in the morning crowds. Many younger residents flock here not only for the food but also for the aesthetic, it’s as much about the experience as the meal. Rain’s charm lies in the way it combines international café trends with Abu Dhabi’s laid-back morning culture. It’s the perfect place to begin a day slowly, savoring each sip and bite.
4. Tawa Bakery – Al Muneera
Tawa Bakery is a game-changer in Abu Dhabi’s food scene because it’s 100% gluten-free. Opened by a young Emirati entrepreneur, it caters not just to those with dietary restrictions but also to anyone who enjoys creative, flavorful meals. Their almond pancakes, quinoa porridge, and eggs with fresh veggies have earned glowing reviews. The interiors are bright and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the Al Muneera waterfront. For many, Tawa proves that gluten-free doesn’t mean boring, it means innovation. It’s a go-to for health-conscious diners or anyone curious to try something different while enjoying breakfast with a view.
5. Café 302 – Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana
Café 302 is more than just a hotel café, it has become a neighborhood hangout. Known for its all-day dining, it serves one of the most versatile breakfast menus in the city. From açai bowls and avocado toast to hearty English breakfasts, the variety appeals to every taste. Locals often stop by for a quick coffee on their way to work, while visitors linger over long brunches. With its modern industrial décor and friendly service, Café 302 feels approachable yet stylish. The café has a loyal following for its consistency, every plate is comforting, fresh, and generous, making mornings here feel relaxed yet energized.
6. Al Farah – Khalidiyah
In Khalidiyah, mornings often begin with the scent of freshly baked manakeesh drifting from Al Farah. This family-friendly spot is known for its generous platters of foul, hummus, and labneh, served alongside warm bread straight from the oven. The shakshuka here is one of the best in the city, rich with spices and served still bubbling. Al Farah has become a favorite for those who enjoy sharing their breakfast mezze-style, where everyone dips, spreads, and tastes together. It’s a great pick if you want a traditional Abu Dhabi breakfast spot that combines authenticity with warmth.
7. Meylas – Al Raha Beach
Meylas was founded by two Emirati sisters with one mission: to keep the flavors of their childhood alive. The restaurant is decorated like a cozy Emirati living room, making it feel instantly welcoming. Breakfast here includes chebab pancakes drizzled with date syrup and cream cheese, along with regag bread stuffed with eggs or honey. These are the kind of dishes Emirati families grew up eating, and Meylas serves them with both tradition and flair. Sitting on Al Raha Beach, it’s a great choice for visitors curious about where to have breakfast in Abu Dhabi with a truly local twist.
8. Beirut Sur Mer – Saadiyat
Few places in Abu Dhabi combine sea views with flavors as well as Beirut Sur Mer. This Lebanese restaurant sits on the Saadiyat promenade, where waves lap gently just steps away. Their breakfast menu celebrates classic Levantine flavors, fluffy eggs with sujuk, creamy labneh drizzled with olive oil, and zaatar-topped manakeesh fresh from the oven. Families love ordering the sharing platters, where small plates of mezze create a colorful morning spread. If you’re searching for a seaside spot for the best breakfast in Abu Dhabi, Beirut Sur Mer offers a combination of food and views that’s hard to beat.
9. Brunch & Cake – Al Bateen
Brunch & Cake came to Abu Dhabi from Barcelona and quickly became a sensation. Their motto, “Grandma’s cooking with a modern twist,” perfectly captures the menu. Expect towering pancakes topped with berries, rainbow-colored smoothie bowls, and avocado toast presented like art. The café’s boho-chic interiors make it a magnet for young foodies, while families love the generous portions. Even on weekdays, the place buzzes with energy as people snap photos before diving into their plates. It’s more than a meal, it’s a cheerful, vibrant experience that makes mornings feel like celebrations.
10. Sanderson’s – Al Seef Village Mall
Founded by award-winning chef Sergio Lopez, Sanderson’s is all about wholesome food with a positive vibe. Their breakfast bowls, sourdough toasts, and homemade granola are made with natural ingredients, focusing on balance without losing flavor. The café has a bright, sunlit design that instantly lifts your mood. Guests especially love the smoothie bar and fresh juices that accompany the food. Sanderson’s has become a wellness hub for those who want their mornings to feel nourishing and uplifting. It’s the kind of place where you leave feeling lighter, both in body and spirit, ready to take on the day.
11. Shakespeare and Co. – Various Branches
With its Victorian-inspired interiors and quirky décor, Shakespeare and Co. is one of Abu Dhabi’s most recognizable cafés. Their extensive breakfast menu ranges from classic English breakfasts to Middle Eastern favorites, making it a crowd-pleaser. Their croissants and omelets are particularly popular in the mornings. Families and groups enjoy the cozy yet elegant atmosphere, where every corner feels like a storybook setting. With branches spread across the city, Shakespeare and Co. is also one of the most convenient choices, perfect when you’re not sure what you’re craving but want variety and comfort under one roof.
12. Café Arabia – Al Mushrif
Housed in a villa near Umm Al Emarat Park, Café Arabia feels like a hidden gem. The walls are decorated with local art, and the cozy rooms create a homey atmosphere. Breakfast here blends Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, think zaatar bread, shakshuka, and freshly squeezed juices. Visitors love the terrace on cool mornings, where you can sip Arabic coffee while watching the city slowly wake up. The café doubles as a cultural space, hosting art exhibits and small events, so mornings here feel warm and creative. Café Arabia is a true neighborhood favorite where breakfast feels personal.
13. Market at EDITION – Al Bateen Marina
Inside the chic Abu Dhabi EDITION Hotel, the Market restaurant sets the tone for mornings with its sleek yet calm design. The breakfast menu balances health and indulgence, avocado toast topped with pomegranate, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, and hearty egg dishes cooked to order. For those who prefer something lighter, there are smoothie bowls and fresh juices packed with color and flavor. It’s considered one of the most elegant breakfast places in Abu Dhabi, perfect if you want a stylish start to your day.
14. Café Firenze – Khalifa City
Tucked away in Khalifa City, Café Firenze brings Italian charm to the breakfast table. Guests rave about the cappuccinos paired with buttery pastries, but the egg dishes are just as impressive. The truffle scrambled eggs and ricotta pancakes are especially popular among regulars. With rustic wooden interiors and warm lighting, it feels like a slice of Florence in Abu Dhabi. Many locals appreciate the slower pace here, where mornings are about savoring simple pleasures. Café Firenze may not be flashy, but it’s a neighborhood treasure for those who value comfort, quality, and authenticity in their breakfast.
15. Leopold’s of London – Al Maryah Island
Leopold’s of London combines a gourmet approach with a relaxed café vibe. Located in The Galleria, it offers views of the waterfront alongside its impressive breakfast menu. From eggs florentine and fluffy waffles to an array of pastries and teas, mornings here are indulgent yet refined. The café’s tea library is a highlight, offering dozens of blends from around the world. Whether you’re on a business breakfast or a casual weekend outing, Leopold’s delivers both sophistication and comfort. It’s a spot that consistently impresses with its balance of flavor, service, and atmosphere.
16. Art House Café – Al Bateen
Part café, part art gallery, Art House Café is one of Abu Dhabi’s most creative spaces. Tables are decorated with colorful mosaic tiles, and visitors can even paint on plates or canvases while they wait for their food. The breakfast menu is hearty, with everything from pancakes and omelets to Middle Eastern platters. Guests especially love the cozy garden seating, which feels like a hidden oasis in the city. Art House Café is perfect for those who want their breakfast to come with a dose of creativity and inspiration. It’s a place where food and art blend seamlessly.
17. Raclette – Saadiyat Island
On Saadiyat’s Mamsha promenade, Raclette adds a French flair to Abu Dhabi’s breakfast scene. The star here is, of course, the melted raclette cheese that oozes over bread, eggs, and potatoes, creating a rich and indulgent start to the day. But the menu doesn’t stop there, freshly baked croissants, delicate omelets, and buttery brioche make appearances too. The restaurant’s minimalist décor lets the food shine, while the seaside location makes every breakfast feel like a special outing. For travelers exploring Saadiyat, this is a memorable option for breakfast in Abu Dhabi by the sea.
18. The Third Place Café – Corniche
Located near the Corniche, The Third Place Café gets its name from the idea that everyone needs a “third place” beyond home and work. It’s a cozy, welcoming café where people come to study, meet friends, or just relax. The breakfast menu offers simple yet delicious plates, think scrambled eggs with salmon, granola with yogurt, and freshly baked muffins. The atmosphere is laid-back, with comfy sofas and shelves full of books and board games. It’s the kind of café where time slows down, making it perfect for mornings when you want both good food and peace.
Wrapping up
The variety of breakfast in Abu Dhabi proves the city thrives on diversity and flavor. One morning might take you to a traditional Emirati café where recipes have been passed down through generations, while the next could be a chic European-inspired spot serving dishes as pretty as they are delicious.
Whether you’re an early riser chasing the sunrise by the Corniche or someone who loves a slow weekend brunch on Saadiyat, there’s a place for every mood and every craving. With so many choices, the only challenge is deciding where to start. But no matter which spot you choose, breakfast in Abu Dhabi is guaranteed to be memorable and full of taste.
