Sometimes we get bored of gourmet food, obtrusive service and menus that read like a book. Which is one of the reasons why Art House Café is such a breath of fresh air.
The quirky and colourful spot is located in the grounds of Etihad Modern Art Gallery, a villa-based exhibition space with a dinosaur skeleton, colourful portraits of Sheikhs and brass sculptures. So it’s no wonder the café is just as fun. We’re talking plant pots made out of vintage kettles; chairs upholstered in strips of billboard canvases; and trees popping up through the brick floor.
The menu is succinct. There are only two columns featuring breakfast pastries, appetisers, salads, wraps, quiches and burgers. But even with such a small selection, there’s a vegetarian option for each category, something five-star restaurants often fail to provide.
Keen to have a light lunch, we opt for the roasted vegetable wrap, which comes generously filled with strips of roast zucchini, broccoli and butternut squash, lettuce and a coating of sweet chilli sauce. We balance it out with a portion of French fries.
Our guest dives into a deep bowl of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes drizzled in a light balsamic dressing, topped with thick slices of grilled halloumi and mango.
As we finish our meal, the chef arrives with a sample of Arabic-style drinks that will soon be introduced to the menu. We love the sahlab – a slightly sweet Egyptian beverage made with warm milk and rose water, topped with raisins and peanuts.
We end the meal with a cup of coffee and a cup of mint tea for our guest as well as a rich pot of chocolate caramel mousse.
The service is friendly and laid back throughout our lunch, which means we can catch up with our guest without being constantly interrupted.
Whether you want to refuel after browsing the art gallery or just want to enjoy a simple lunch with friends and family, Art House Café is worth a visit.
Rachael Peacock
details
What: Art House Café
Where: Etihad Modern Art Gallery, opposite Al Bateen Mall,
Al Falah Street
We say: No frills, no fuss
Cost: Starters from AED 30, mains from AED 40, desserts from AED 25
Contact: 02 666 0175
[email protected]
www.etihadmodernart.com/cafe
