Its a very nice atmosphere... <br/><br/>Located in Al Bastakiya.<br/><br/>If you are looking for a quiet & peaceful place, this is the one for you. <br/><br/>Its nice to go during the day. Its kind of outdoor with climate control. <br/><br/>They have one of the best Lemon Mint Drink I've tried in Dubai. Reminds me to the Spanish Granizado.<br/><br/>The menu is based in Vegeterian food.
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Milana Mirzoeva
Zomato
16 days ago
5.0
I went with my girlfriend to lunch. it was an unforgettable time. I really enjoyed walking these streets. these wall decals. there is a warm warm atmosphere. can be combined. I recommend to everyone
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Noor Ahmed
Zomato
22 days ago
4.0
Not bad <br/>Good experience
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Rowan Abu Rabee
Zomato
23 days ago
5.0
Lovely place to be visit. Great atmosphere. <br/>Should try their breakfast.
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WorldWithMaria
Zomato
7 months ago
4.0
It's not a cafe, it's an art!<br/><br/>A place that I stumbled upon by chance and it was love at first sight!<br/><br/>Calm, quite, peaceful, good food, good Books, and much more!<br/><br/>Be ready to be transported to the artistic and traditional Dubai! <br/><br/>Love love love this place and can never get enough of visiting it!<br/><br/>Bottom line:<br/>If you are tired of fancy, flashy restaurants and wish to visit a restaurant that will enchant you with its simplicity, then this is the place!
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Swathi Raman
Zomato
7 months ago
4.0
Peaceful and calming ambience coupled with some healthy food options on the menu. Quaint little cafe amidst the alleys in Bastakiya. Great service. Thoroughly enjoyed.
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FoodyMoody
Zomato
8 months ago
4.0
A really beautiful location in meena bazaar, where they have a beautiful looking tree in the centre of the restaurant. The seating is outdoor where the service is quick. Went here to have a cup of coffee and ordered for the cafe latte.<br/><br/>Dishes Ordered:<br/><br/>-cafe latte<br/><br/>Food: 4/5<br/>Quantity: 5/5<br/>Ambience: 5/5<br/>Quality: 4/5<br/>Service: 5/5
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Suha H Hilal
Zomato
8 months ago
5.0
I love this restaurant nice place and great food and friendly denbert
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Will Luu
Zomato
Sep 04, 2019
4.0
Great food. Had the Halloumi Wrap and Mint Lemonade
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Angelica Ann
Zomato
Jul 25, 2019
4.0
If you're looking for a peaceful place to just lounge around and get the creative juices going, this is it. What made me give 4/5 stars is the ambiance. I spent almost 5 hours reading and writing in the cafe. The staff is attentive and hospitable, too. I ordered a hot choco, perhaps they need to improve on their drink/food. The drink is not thick and there was nothing special to it. I am looking forward for improvements since the place is really promising.
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Nikki Shah
Zomato
Jun 22, 2019
4.0
Dropped in here twice for food whilst in Dubai recently. Pleasant selection of meals in cool and calm surroundings with a delightful selection of art.
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Healthy Roots
Zomato
Jun 03, 2019
4.0
Beautiful cafe enclosed within mud colored walls and peaceful atmosphere. Off the beaten track it resides in the XVA hotel which offers five star luxury in local Arab guise. Worth a visit
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Manu
Zomato
May 13, 2019
4.0
Quaint little cafe in the courtyard<br/>Relaxed place - service was slow but it is a cafe and people were chilling.<br/>We had a halloumi wrap and a bahar wrap - both the dishes were made with fresh ingredients and hit the spot on a warm Dubai day. Finished it off with a Turkish coffee.<br/><br/>Do take a walk to the art gallery while waiting for your order
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Sanyam Sethi
Zomato
May 11, 2019
1.0
Had this place bookmarked since such a long time, the reviews had me all excited too and alas, I finally got to try it. The only thing I really loved about it was the ambience. The feeling of dining in an ancient bungalow courtyard in undeniably unique and that too, in the heart of Dubai. The food, on the other hand, told another story. The watermelon in the salad was pale white/not ripe, the hummus (all three options) were coarse and not flavourful, the saffron cheesecake was tasteless, the pomegranate smoothie was just yogurt with a slight flavour to it, their bestseller rice dish was just basic veg pulao. The only thing we did like was eggplant with feta.<br/>I would love to visit the neighborhood, but perhaps will try out the many other cafes that have sprung up recently.<br/>
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Erta Serjani
Zomato
Apr 10, 2019
5.0
Beautiful courtyard,nice ambience,loved the music and the singing birds.Quiet and not touristy.Please make yourself a favor and order the eggplant with the feta cheese and their handmade cinnamon ice cream
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Sweta 😎
Zomato
Feb 21, 2019
3.0
In the heart of Bastakiya lies this little treasure of a cafe! 😍 This place has the rustic feel from old Dubai charmed by the goodness of art – it’s such a beautiful place. They also have a lot of community events promoting art and culture quite often. <br/><br/>Recommend the mezzo platter!
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Priyanka
Zomato
Dec 25, 2018
4.0
We stayed at XVA art hotel. Very good option when you want to visit and experience Dubai but don’t feel like the Vegas style hotels. The art hotel is cozy and the cafe is very nice. It serves delicious breakfast in the morning and traditional (and only vegetarian) food in the evening, all this in a simple but traditional setting! Staff is very nice too!
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Goli Vossough
Zomato
Dec 09, 2018
4.0
Wonderful place, cozy, quaint and charming, we had the apple juice and it was 100% freshly squeezed. Last visited few years ago and happy to say it is still as good as i remember it
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Valerie Moumdjian
Zomato
Nov 27, 2018
4.0
Went there for breakfast. We ordered cinnamon waffles, an omelette and Bastakiya breakfast. Food is good/average. <br/>The place is super super nice though and you should definitely pass by and take a look at this place.
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Bashaar
Zomato
Sep 13, 2018
4.0
Went there today to relax at the art themed cafe! Has a nice art gallery with it. Had cappuccino it was really good. Good place to just zone out from the hustle of the city.
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Mayulacoquette
Zomato
May 10, 2018
5.0
Most of the times I go to Bastakiya I have breakfast there! I love the oat waffles with berries and the Sadiqi omelet.<br/>The place is located inside of a small hotel and surrounded with art.<br/>There is trees and cute decoration inside.<br/>Thanks to the Philipino waitress she is always very nice!
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Arno Quinton
Zomato
May 06, 2018
3.0
One of my favourite places in dubai. This air conditioned courtyard cafe is in the heart of Mankhool and is also an art gallery. <br/><br/>I wanted to give it 5 stars but unfortunately we found a sharp wooden object in our tuna cakes (photo attached). <br/><br/>The drinks were delicious and very refreshing, especially considering the temperature on the day of our last visit. We had the apple ice tea and elderflower spritzer. <br/><br/>The food was delicious and the portions were generous. We shared a mezzo platter and for mains had tuna cakes and I had the spinach with rice dish (I can’t recall the actual names). The downside was finding a sharp foreign wooden object in the tuna cakes. I shudder to think what would’ve happened if I swallowed without thoroughly chewing. I can only be grateful my girlfriend was there so I was on my best behaviour instead of wolfing food down like I would’ve if I was on my own. <br/><br/>The coffee wasn’t good at all. And I would recommend skipping coffee and going straight to dessert.<br/><br/>They also have pencils and paper so for a lazy afternoon of doodling or perhaps drawing each other for a laugh. It was good fun overall and I would go back although perhaps not for tuna cakes (even though they were delicious 😭)
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Sonia Khiara
Zomato
May 03, 2018
3.0
Hidden in one corner of Bur dubai i would say it’s literally a hidden gem. Visited this place for breakfast so I ordered the XVA breakfast which had everything. Toated bread with jam cheese butter, your choice eggs, I ordered the scrambled eggs, tea coffe and juice, with hash browns.<br/><br/>Loved the ambiance its so beautiful.
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Mustafa Sheikh
Zomato
Apr 01, 2018
5.0
one of my favorite spots. amazing ambiance, fresh juices, full of natural light (in daytime) and surrounded by art. it is a must visit if you are in that neighborhood
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Varunya Venkatesh
Zomato
Mar 19, 2018
5.0
XVA Cafe has a special place in my heart for the support they offer for Goodwill Tribe - Dubai Chapter to organize community events that promote kindness. The cozy warmth of the cafe and the artistic touch definitely make it a wonderful space to be self.
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Rhythm
Zomato
Mar 18, 2018
5.0
A medieval delight .. loved the ambience . The vibe of the place .. just sets your mood right .<br/>We tried the Turkish coffee .<br/>It was served with a date on side . Loved the experience of sipping our coffee in the midst of a beautiful calmness this place has.<br/>We are surely back to try the food .<br/>Happy Eating
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ThePenOf_Salma
Zomato
Feb 22, 2018
3.0
(Feb 16-17, 2018) I was attending a workshop here for a couple of days, and found it convenient to have lunch in the XVA cafe. The tea they serve is very good, as is the chocolate dipped orange peels. <br/><br/>The menu is completely vegetarian, except for a few dishes. For my first day, I had the eggplant burger. The next day I got the XVA Thali. Portion sizes are acceptable, if a little overpriced. The food is all very underseasoned; the dishes are crying out for a little hint of salt at the very least.<br/><br/>Cafe staff are welcoming and friendly, and the overall atmosphere is very enjoyable. Keep in mind that, although it is enclosed, it is still outdoor seating. I wouldn't consider going in the summer because it was already hot in February, can't imagine how it would be in the summer months.<br/>
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April Padayao
Zomato
Jan 10, 2018
4.0
Everything is great only downfall is it’s kinda pricey due to the taxes but all in all experience was great! Place 👍🏻👍🏻 Food 👍🏻 value for money 🤞🏻 <br/>
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Umesh Pherwani
Zomato
Dec 06, 2017
3.5
This is a cool place to just chill with your thoughts or write (in case you are a writer), or just read a good book. Relaxed and calm, I ordered for an americano and sank into my book. Next time will try their menu dishes
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Silvia
Zomato
Sep 25, 2017
4.5
Beautiful place in Bastiakia!!<br/>Perfect for relaxing after a tour in this amazing area of Dubai! <br/>I had a fresh apple tea! From the blackboard I had read good plates to have the next time!!
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Mai
Zomato
Aug 11, 2017
5.0
For a resident in Dubai sometimes you just wanna see a cozy place where art and a good cup pf coffee is combined. In the heart of what they call the "Old Dubai" comes a hidden gem cafe where they serve coffees and cakes while enjoying the view of the different art designs. Try their rose cheesecake 😍
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Shrinidhi
Zomato
Jul 24, 2017
4.0
If u r looking for a quiet/relaxed place and experience the local traditional architecture of Dubai then XVA Cafe and restaurant is THE place to be. I love the ambience and theme maintained here.<br/><br/>The food served is all vegetarian except couple of dishes that includes fish and tuna. I ordered a Halumi sandwich in pita wrap and the ingredients were fresh and healthy. On my second visit ordered a Veg thali and a pudina lemonade which was a better choice. The taste is low in flavour and spices but you do not feel heavy despite the quantity.<br/><br/>Recommended for those who puts ambience and relaxed time over a heavy mouth watering meal.
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AyuTanimoto
Zomato
Jun 29, 2017
4.5
If you are a vegetarian or do you want to know how vegetarian's food looks like, here is the best place to visit. I ordered tofu burger and it quite tasty remembering there was no meat inside. I also loved the interior, it's unique and artistic.
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Eat.design.travel
Zomato
Jun 28, 2017
3.0
Slightly disappointing. Considering it's location, one just expects more from such a setting. It gave the vibe of a deserted cafe.<br/><br/>With regards to the food, the menu is exciting and unique. However the food doesn't live up to the excitement n uniqueness. Soggy sweet potato fries says it all.<br/><br/>The management needs to look at enhancing the overall experience.
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Felix Heald
Zomato
Apr 14, 2017
4.0
The setting is incredible. Bastikiya at sunset is really magical and fun. This cafe, hotel, gallery, is the centrepiece of it. The food is good, and the drinks are nice. Don't go expecting Michelin star, but just think of it as an accompaniment to a beautiful setting. Order a lemon mint, or a shake, or a coffee, and just sit and enjoy the lovely place they have there.
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Leo Ehrlich
Zomato
Mar 17, 2017
1.0
If you wanna wait 20 minutes for the service and eat terrible food this is your place. It's a pity because the location is amazing. But it's better to look for an alternative nearby.
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Gio Gio
Zomato
Feb 27, 2017
4.0
In the middle of Bastakia, old Dubai, there is this tiny cozy little hotel/art gallery with a lovely cafe. When you are there anything seems quiet and far from Dubai buzzing. Food is nice, nothing amazing but if you stop by for a cappuccino and brownie "Fridae" you can already feel the vibe. Sometimes they have really nice art pieces but even if there s not any specific collection, it is still VERY recommended to go check it out
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Shyamala Radhakrishnan
Zomato
Feb 20, 2017
3.5
Beautiful place in dubai old neighborhood. Plenty of vegetarian options.. was a breath of fresh air for vegetarians compared to the other options available. A lil pricey but okay for trying once a while.
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Iule
Zomato
Feb 09, 2017
4.5
I love the decor of this place simple but artsy and the chilled atmosphere. I liked the food too, I had the spinach with grilled halloumi and egyptian rice.
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Nada.hechema
Zomato
Jan 15, 2017
5.0
If you want to visit a traditional Emirati house that had been transformed to a guest house then you should go and visit XVA and taste their fresh mint lemonade. <br/>Don't forget to visit the art gallery showing painting and photos
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MJ
Zomato
Jan 08, 2017
4.5
This place is beautiful and so far away from new age dubai! It's an art cafe with art galleries. Their food is fresh and different. A whole lot of options for vegetarians! Most importantly, this place is all about soaking in the peace and calm if offers. It's a secret little gem.
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Mishkat Ahmed
Zomato
Jul 24, 2016
5.0
Visited this place for a late lunch on a very hot day. Thankfully, this courtyard was air conditioned which made it very comfortable. This is a cafe along with an art exhibition. Plenty of art books to read and browse while you are waiting and free wifi as well. <br/>Since we are vegetarian we thoroughly enjoyed the food. The food has a twist to it so seemingly simple dishes will surprise you!<br/>Go here for a quiet meal and soak in the art! You can also walk around the historic neighbourhood.
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Laya Nadin
Zomato
Feb 08, 2016
4.0
The place doesnt boast a big menu but whatever little it serves ,is fresh and tasty .most importantly the ambience - quiet , calm , ancient art cafe .Loved the spicy cheesecake.#dubaihiddengems
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Pat
Zomato
Jan 16, 2016
3.0
Vegetarian restaurant/cafe in an art environment. With free exhibition. <br/>Food came very fast and dishes were tasty. European flair. Nice waiters. Didn't like the fact that they add 10% taxes AND 10% municipality fee on top. So in the end you have to pay 20% more. Normally in Dubai it's already included.
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Nikita Bala
Zomato
Aug 11, 2015
4.5
Been here two New Year's Eves in a row after strolling around Bastakiya and taking in all the beautiful art and culture. Totally in love with this cute little cafe in the middle of the gallery. My favourite dish is the mujadara which is flavourful and extremely satisfying. Also loved the rose cheesecake they had as it was a new taste and very refreshing. They also have some great fresh drinks to compliment the food. Look forward to going back when the weather is nicer.
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Tanya
Zomato
Mar 29, 2015
3.5
Love the setting and place, serene and calm and crazy interesting stuff around you. The food was good too, just a shame it was let down by the slightly rude service
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Radhica Capoor
Zomato
Mar 09, 2015
5.0
Away from the modern and new dubai's hustle bustle are quite a few good places and one of them is xva. The food is the vegetarian version of the local cuisine which is filling and at d same time tasty. The place is in an old courtyard in d old bastakiya section of the city. Mint lemonade , eggplant burgers and grilled haloumi sandwiches are great , so as mujadra ! <br/>
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Pureflame
Zomato
Nov 09, 2014
1.0
Great location...so so food but a big time rip off. 20% on the top of the food bill. When questioned, the waiter replied 10% tax for al fahidi / Bastakiya location. I live in Dubai so this is the first time I heard about this, as almost all cafes include these charges in their price. The cafes nearby did not impose this. It has become over commercialized and a tourists trap kind of place. It is a pity.
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VeggieCow
Zomato
Apr 29, 2014
4.5
A vegetarian paradise smack in the middle of bustling Bur Dubai. And the menu is not Indian. Fabulous fresh flavours and a wholesome homely touch with gracious service in a bohemian setting. This is the place to unwind.
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Noreen Solomon
Zomato
Nov 28, 2012
5.0
The atmosphere and style. I like small homely hotels which give me a taste of history and culture. XVA had that as well as being classy. It was a haven from the noisy outside world of Dubai city. I loved the "arty" nature of the rooms, the gallery and the shop. Places like the XVA don't have to create glitz or glamour - they have style. The staff were pleasant and friendly.
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Salim Huseini
Zomato
Nov 28, 2012
5.0
Good food... Great Staff...XVA CAFE Dubai ... Rocks!!
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Salma El Saadany
Zomato
one month ago
5.0
Such a timeless place and relaxing
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Zeina
Zomato
one month ago
1.0
The Atmosphere was Very Nice and Traditional <br/>Menu Was poor and Many essential Stuff were Missing (Labneh , Olive , orange Juice ,etc🤷🏻♂️)<br/>The Plates were missing alot of Easy And Very Cheap things But can Add Alot to table (omelette with Some Pcs of Bread this Is Not Dish Minimum some Added Vegetables and herbs 🌿 to give Colors to the Plate , fried Eggs was Well done from Out side and Medium from Inside means he used A very Hot pan with Less Butter ,<br/>Omelette was with Alot of Onion and Tomato only not other vegetables like green and Red pepper
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Parker
Zomato
one month ago
5.0
We loved the beautiful heritage environment, the cafe offers various Middle Eastern vegetarian options. This place is beautiful for peace and serenity. Must visit . We had the whole place to ourself on a Friday morning for breakfast. Will visit frequently
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Nour Awad
Zomato
one month ago
1.0
The experience was bad, the restaurant was really dirty, the service wasn’t good and the food was not good.<br/>