Friends Avenue Cafe JLT — Restaurant in Dubai

I didn't hate this place as Google suggests for a one star rating, it has potential and yes it's a bit cool and busy on the Friday midday I saught it out. It's a place to be seen, if you are into that, but I've seen cooler and I've been to real hidden gems in Dubai. It's was recommended by a colleague and as I love breakfast and tea and live in JLT I thought I'd give it go. The food was acceptable and it's close to Damac metro so it has that going for it, but... I'm a tea lover and I'm going to make a point of commenting and scoring the tea in places. First off the pot filed with hot water, tea bag, packaged, on the side, had bits floating in it, coffee apparently, I can't think of anything worse to pollute my tea drinking experience, plus the retirement tea put was broken, tut, tut, lose one star. Second, after getting the attention of the white shirted glasses wearing hipster he did rectify and amend the afrontage, but he's constant smart phone gazing losses the place another star. Trust me buddy there is always someone looking for your gaze to get your assistance or a table to check on, something they never did while I ate. Finally I'm taking two stars off as tables are too high for both the couches and most of the chairs, plus the table I say out was rocky. Seriously guys this is fundamental, sort it out. I'll come back to revise my opinion of they bother to read this and invite me.

Makes note to highlight actual hidden gems and cool places in Dubai as he tries...

Today, I visited friends Avenue cafe Al Thanya at 3 pm. By the time we scanned the menu and decided what we wanted to order, it was 3:10 pm. When we gave our order to the waiter, he informed us that it was 3:10 pm, and they no longer serve breakfast. We explained to him that we are nurses who work all day and are starving. My blood sugar has dropped, and as vegetarians, there is nothing for us to eat from the menu except breakfast. However, the waiter was very robotic and kept saying no to everything we asked. I asked him if he could just give us the sandwich without chicken or beef, but he continued to repeat “no” like a robot without any empathy or willingness to help I didn’t get his name but he had a dark skin. We left the table and asked for the manager, who was watering the flowers outside I didn’t get her name but she was from Philippines. She informed us that all their food is frozen, and when a customer order their food they heat the food and served. This is why their menu is not customizable or has any flexibility to change. I informed her that I am starving and my blood sugar has dropped, and I genuinely need to eat. We are paying customers, not asking for anything free. She offered me broccoli, saying it was a side dish that I could have. Why do you promote fresh and healthy food if all you have is frozen food ?? And there isn’t a single vegetarian option in the entire menu besides soup...

Friends Avenue Cafe in JLT is a great spot for a delicious and healthy lunch, especially if you’re into fresh, flavorful meals. I tried the chicken with mushroom and was impressed by how well it was cooked—the flavors were rich, and the mashed potato portion was generous, making it both filling and satisfying. Their protein shakes are also a standout, perfect for anyone trying to stay on the healthier side while dining out.

Despite visiting during Saturday lunch hours, which are usually packed, the staff was quick and efficient in getting me a table—super appreciated! That said, I’d recommend making a reservation for peak lunch times on Saturdays and Sundays, just to be safe.

The only downside is that the space at JLT can get quite loud due to its compact and enclosed layout, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a quiet place to work. In contrast, their Silicon Oasis branch has a more open and relaxed vibe, perfect for remote work or meetings.

Still, the interiors in JLT are beautifully done, with fresh plants and well-placed mirrors that make the space feel vibrant and stylish. All in all, Friends Cafe JLT is a must-visit for healthy food lovers in Dubai—just maybe bring a friend rather than...