Expo City Dubai is packed with places to recharge, from specialty coffee bars and dessert spots to global restaurants worth planning your day around. Below is your quick-start guide to the best Expo City cafes and restaurants, including what to order, where they’re located, typical costs and timings.
Short on time? Expect everything from street-food favourites and family-friendly bites to plant-forward concepts and late-evening treats—many just steps from headline attractions.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN EXPO CITY
A former global stage for culture and innovation, Expo City Dubai remains a destination for food lovers. Whether you want a fast grab-and-go coffee, a sit-down lunch with the family or a post-show dinner, you’ll find a world of flavors in one walkable, photogenic area.
Al Baik
A legendary name from Saudi Arabia, Al Baik is famous for ultra-crispy chicken with juicy centers and zesty sauces. If you missed it during the mega exhibition, now’s your chance: think Big Baik sandwiches, BBQ thighs, chicken fillet nuggets and prawn options that keep queues moving and appetites satisfied.
- Location: Opportunity, opposite Saudi Pavilion
- Average cost for two: AED 55
- Timings: 11:00 am to 09:30 pm
Al Wasl Plaza Cafe
Set right beneath the iconic Al Wasl Dome, this café blends international crowd-pleasers with regional favorites—perfect for a leisurely bite between shows or after photo ops under the trellis. Expect wraps, mezze, pastas and indulgent desserts alongside mocktails and quality coffee.
- Location: Al Wasl Avenue, Expo 2020, Dubai
- Average cost for two: AED 160
- Timings: Weekdays, 7:30 am – 10:00 pm | Weekends, 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Note: This eatery is temporarily closed.
Talhan
Discover Turkmen hospitality at Talhan, where slow-cooked stews, rice dishes and hand-crafted, flour-based starters tell the story of Central Asia’s comfort food. It’s an inviting, lesser-explored culinary pathway that rewards curious diners with warm, generous portions and honest flavors.
- Location: Turkmenistan Pavilion, Mobility District, Horizon Avenue
- Average cost for two: AED 165
- Timings: Every day, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Q Coffee
Q Coffee brings Rwanda’s specialty beans to Expo City with a strong purpose-driven ethos. Sourced from women-led cooperatives, the brews pair beautifully with pastries, sandwiches and light bites inspired by African flavors. A must for coffee lovers who value sustainability as much as taste.
- Location: Opportunity District, Expo City Dubai
- Average cost for two: AED 100
- Timings: Daily, 07:00 am to 08:00 pm
7seven7 Coffee & Bakery
A homegrown grab-and-go concept that keeps things fresh and flavorful. Order the 777 Cloudy Matcha or a rich cappuccino, then add a crispy sandwich, wholesome wrap or salad. Finish with cheesecake or a flaky pastry if you’re lingering.
- Location: Al Wasl Avenue, Al Wasl Plaza
- Average cost for two: AED 100
- Timings: Daily, 07:00 am to 10:00 pm
Choy Restaurant
One of the standout Uzbek kitchens in the city—with plov, lagman and manti done right. Expect hearty plates, warm spices and aromatic breads, sometimes with the buzz of traditional music to set the mood. It’s lively, filling and ideal for sharing.
- Location: Quarter A – Sidr Avenue
- Average cost for two: AED 120
- Timings: Daily, 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
Milky Ice
When the Dubai sun calls for something cool, Milky Ice answers with soft-serve cones, sundaes and thick milkshakes. It’s a simple, happy stop that turns a stroll into a treat break—great for kids and the young at heart.
- Location: Al Wasl Avenue – Madinat Al Mataar
- Average cost for two: AED 45
- Timings: Daily, 12:00 am – 10:00 pm
PDL Coffee Co.
Serious about coffee, playful about the experience. From pour-overs and cold brew to punchy espresso drinks, PDL Coffee Co. hits the sweet spot for caffeine aficionados. The vibe is energetic, making it as social as it is specialty-focused.
- Location: Al Wasl Dome
- Average cost for two: AED 120
- Timings: Daily, 12:00 am – 10:00 pm
Philly Jawn by Ghostburger
A love letter to the Philly cheesesteak—Dubai-style. Expect toasted rolls stacked with juicy, seasoned meat and melted cheese, plus sides like loaded fries and thick shakes. It’s comfort eating with serious swagger and generous portions.
- Location: Mobility District
- Average cost for two: AED 150
- Timings: Monday – Friday, 12:00 am – 10:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday, 09:00 am – 10:00 pm
PXB Café
Bright, plant-led and big on sustainability, PXB Café proves that eco-conscious dining can still be indulgent and exciting. Colorful bowls, crisp salads, wholesome brunch plates and vibrant smoothies make this a top pick for feel-good fuel.
- Location: Sidr Avenue – Madinat Al Mataar
- Average cost for two: AED 220
- Timings: Monday – Friday, 09:00 am – 08:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 am – 08:00 pm
Rubia Gallega Restaurant
A celebration of Galician cuisine, with wood-fired beef that’s smoky and deeply flavorful. Add vibrant tapas and a smart selection of Spanish classics and you’ve got a dinner spot that feels both refined and fun.
- Location: Al Wasl Plaza
- Average cost for two: AED 250
- Timings: Tuesday – Sunday, 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Ten11 Coffee Boutique
A showcase of Dubai café culture with a focus on craftsmanship. Whether you’re into a silky flat white, a slow-steeped cold brew or a seasonal signature, pair your cup with fresh pastries or light bites for a satisfying pit stop.
- Average cost for two: AED 180
- Timings: Daily, 07:00 am – 10:00 pm
The Daily
Global flavors, casual vibes and plenty of choice. From burgers and sandwiches to pastas and wholesome bowls, The Daily works for breakfast through dinner and caters to mixed groups—easy ordering, big smiles.
- Location: Horizon Avenue – Madinat Al Mataar
- Average cost for two: AED 250
- Timings: Daily, 06:30 am – 11:00 pm
Yamanote Collective
Japanese dining with a playful twist: think creative sushi, soul-warming ramen and fun small plates built for sharing. An excellent choice when you want something distinctive yet accessible.
- Location: Al Wasl Dome
- Average cost for two: AED 60
- Timings: Monday – Thursday, 08:00 am – 05:00 pm
What to eat where: quick picks
- Best for a quick coffee: PDL Coffee Co., Q Coffee, Ten11 Coffee Boutique
- Best for a hearty meal: Choy Restaurant (Uzbek), Talhan (Turkmen), Philly Jawn by Ghostburger
- Best for plant-led plates: PXB Café
- Best for a sweet fix: Milky Ice, 7seven7 Coffee & Bakery
- Under the Dome vibes: Al Wasl Plaza Cafe (temporarily closed), PDL Coffee Co., Yamanote Collective
Planning tips for stress-free dining
- Time your meals: Aim for early lunches or early dinners to avoid peak periods before and after major shows under Al Wasl Dome.
- Dress for comfort: Expo City is wonderfully walkable. Light layers and comfy shoes make café-hopping easier.
- Consider reservations: For dinner-centric spots like Rubia Gallega, advanced bookings can help secure preferred times, especially on weekends.
- Budget smart: Quick bites can land near AED 45–100 for two; sit-down dinners generally range AED 150–250 for two depending on cuisine and drinks.
- Getting there: The Expo 2020 Metro Station drops you close to core attractions and many dining options; driving and taxi/ride-hailing are straightforward with ample wayfinding once on-site.
FAQs
How do I get to Expo City Dubai to reach its cafes and restaurants?
Take the Dubai Metro to Expo 2020 Metro Station for the most convenient access; from there, cafés and restaurants are a short walk away. Taxis, ride-hailing and driving are also easy, with clear on-site signage.
Are there food trucks or street-food options at Expo City?
Yes. You’ll find a rotating line-up of food trucks and kiosks offering everything from quick snacks to global street-food favorites, especially near high-footfall zones.
Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Absolutely. PXB Café emphasizes plant-forward menus, and many cafés offer vegan or vegetarian dishes, salads and bowls. Always ask staff for the latest specials and substitutions.
Do I need a reservation for dinner?
Not always, but reservations help for popular evening spots and weekend visits—especially if you prefer indoor seating or a specific time.
What are the typical prices at Expo City cafes and restaurants?
Quick treats and coffees can be around AED 45–100 for two, while casual-to-restaurant meals generally range AED 120–250 for two, depending on venue and dishes.
Are there kid-friendly dining options?
Yes. Family-friendly choices are plentiful, including Al Baik, Milky Ice, The Daily and several cafes with high chairs and flexible menus.
What time do most places open and close?
Timings vary by venue, but many cafés open by 7:00–9:00 am and restaurants typically serve through the evening. Always check the latest hours as schedules can change during events and seasons.
From quick coffees to destination dinners, these Expo City cafes and restaurants make it easy to fuel up the tasty way as you explore one of Dubai’s most exciting urban districts.