Sometimes, you’re not looking for a complete meal and just a warm sip, a quiet seat, and something indulgent to slow the day down. We were in San diego downtown after a meal at Halal Burger Co. I was craving for some Karak chai and Dubai Chocolate and that’s precisely what we found at caf dubai in downtown San Diego. It’s not your typical café. No sandwiches, no salad bowls just chai, coffee, hookah and their signature dubai chocolate and honestly, that’s all it needs.
If you’re wandering through East Village and searching “best chai San Diego” or “unique dessert drinks downtown,” this hidden gem on F Street is worth the stop.
Location & Atmosphere at Cafe en Dubai – F Street, San Diego
Located on the quieter end of downtown’s East Village, cafe en dubai brings a warm and stylish break from the city’s buzz. Inside, it’s small but thoughtfully designed with modern Middle Eastern touches, a low-key vibe, and aromatic spices floating through the air.
It’s a perfect pit stop for solo coffee sippers, a quick catch-up with a friend, or a quiet place to scroll and sip.
What We Ordered at Dubai Cafe - San Diego:
We sampled all the signature drinks, including Noon Chai (Kashmiri), Dubai-style karak chai, and the famous Afghan tea on the menu, because why not?
Dubai Style Karak:
Bold, creamy, and perfectly spiced. The cardamom hits just right, and it’s sweet but not overpowering.
Noon Tea ( Kashmiri):
Signature Milk Dubai Chocolate :
Thick and milk velvety chocolate with a hint of luxury. Freshly made Dubai Chocolate.
Signature Dark Dubai Chocolate :
Freshly made from dark chocolate, if you don't try it, you'll regret it.
Besties Cafe Dubai San Diego Courtesy & Service
The service at besties cafe dubai San Diego is amazing and inviting. I met Nadeem, who knows how to make tea at best . He will take your order at the counter. The drinks are freshly prepared and delivered with a smile. The barista offered helpful suggestions and explained the differences between the various chai styles, which we appreciated.
If you're a tea lover exploring more cozy spots, don't miss our review of Chai Ho Jai – The Tea Room in Naperville for an authentic desi chai experience.
Dubai Cafe Menu & Prices
The dubai cafe menu is short, sweet, and focused and we love that. Drinks range from $5 to $8, depending on size and add-ons. Everything is freshly made, and portions feel just right for a mid-day reset or after-dinner treat.
Note: No food dubai cafe menu here. This spot is all about drinks and vibes.
Our Rating: 4.8/5
Pros:
- Cozy, relaxing atmosphere
- Authentic chai and standout hot chocolate
- Friendly service and beautifully presented drinks. I loved their cups
- Unique, niche experience downtown
Cons:
- Limited seating during busy hours you might need to wait to get a spot
- No food options (come after you’ve eaten!)
Practical Details
Address: 803 F St, San Diego, CA 92101
Neighborhood: East Village / Downtown
Website: https://www.dubaicafesd.com
Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (check for weekend hours)
Kid-Friendly: Yes (especially the chocolate!)
Best For: Chai lovers, coffee breaks, dessert drink dates
Why You’ll Love It
- Coffee in America with Arab Twist – Chai, coffee, Dubai chocolate all good.
- Flexible Vibes
- Community-Centric Friendly Vibe
Looking for more unique coffee experiences in Illinois? Check out our visit to The Qahwa Coffee House in Bridgeview, IL a perfect blend of tradition and modern vibes.
My Last Drop Review
Looking for a quiet spot in downtown to unwind with something warm and cozy? Dubai Cafe San Diego offers just that no frills, just flavor with love. From creamy karak chai to silky chocolate that tastes like dessert in a cup, it’s a hidden haven for sippers and slow-down seekers.
Craving something sweet after a downtown dinner? Skip the usual dessert and try the chocolate here instead.
For more cozy drink spots and foodie gems, keep following FoodvLove where flavor meets inspiration, one sip at a time.
FAQs
Dubai Cafe specializes in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, offering dishes like shawarma, falafel, kebabs, hummus, and flavored hookah options in a relaxed lounge setting.
Yes, Dubai Cafe serves halal food. Many of their meat dishes, including lamb and chicken, are prepared using halal-certified ingredients.
Yes, the cafe is known for its hookah lounge experience. They offer a variety of shisha flavors in a chill indoor and outdoor setting, perfect for late-night hangouts.
Dubai Cafe typically operates late into the night, often until 2 AM. However, hours may vary, so it's best to check their website.
Yes, there is paid street parking and public garage parking nearby in Downtown San Diego. Weekends can be busy, so plan accordingly.
Dubai Cafe mostly operates on a walk-in basis, but for larger groups or special events, it’s a good idea to call ahead and check availability.
Absolutely. It’s a popular spot for group outings, post-dinner hangouts, and late-night meals or shisha with friends.
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