Cassette, Al Quoz

Step through the doors of The Courtyard and you feel like you are no longer in Dubai. On a partially open air cobbled street with a nearby water fountain, Cassette is a popular cafe, perfect for socialising, working or grabbing a quick bite. I visited on a Tuesday and it appears this hidden gem isn’t that well hidden, with nearly every table filled. There’s a cool vibe to the cafe, with a strong emphasis on art, music and design.

Inside the cafe boasts both small and large tables, perfect for collaboration working or a cute date spot. There’s a collection of vinyl records for sale as well as cool, contemporary art pieces on the wall, also for sale.

The breakfast menu had great options including a savoury waffle duck confit, but unfortunately for me only available on weekends. There are also many vegan and gluten free options. I went for the Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon, which arrived quickly and fresh, with a small glass bottle of hollandaise to pour yourself. Paired with a coffee the late breakfast was filling, with no room to try the Butter Milk Pancakes - next time.

And there will be a next time as overall The Cassette is a great breakfast spot, but don’t tell too many people because I’ll never get a table!

Highlight: Pour your own hollandaise