Dubai is experiencing a vibrant bakery renaissance, with an array of exciting new establishments popping up throughout the city. From light and airy pastries to hearty loaves, the latest bakeries are serving a diverse range of baked goods that reflect different cultures and traditions, all while creating inviting spaces for their communities. While beloved institutions such as Birch, BKRY, Pekoe, and Three By Eva continue to thrive, here’s a look at some of the freshest spots to indulge your cravings for sourdough, empanadas, and delightful pastries.
Pancita
Pancita has taken the Dubai foodie scene by storm with its astonishing Argentinian medialunas, a labour of love that takes three days to prepare yet disappears in mere seconds. With a crispy topping and impossibly light texture, these pastries come in various flavours, including a standout sweet-savoury combination of cheese and date syrup topped with sesame seeds. Following a successful summer pop-up at Le Guépard, Pancita has established a permanent home in Wasl Square, serving a loyal crowd of carb enthusiasts.
The menu doesn’t stop at medialunas; it also features Latin breakfast classics like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles. However, the real triumph lies in the freshly made empanadas, available in classic beef, chicken béchamel, four cheese, and cheese and onion options. At Dhs110 for half a dozen or Dhs200 for a full dozen, these savoury treats are a glorious addition to any meal.
pH5
At pH5, head baker Nayaz Lamik’s attention to detail reflects the name, signifying the ideal acidity level for sourdough starters. What began as a simple pizzeria has blossomed into a micro-bakery and pizzeria in Dubai Hills, where small batches of artisanal loaves are made daily. With co-owner Fahd Aboobacker, Lamik aims to serve the local community with freshly baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches.
Only 10 to 15 loaves are baked each day, so an early visit is essential to avoid disappointment. If you miss out, treat yourself to a cinnamon roll made from brioche dough, or sample their artisanal pizzas featuring high-quality toppings like pepperoni and wagyu beef. Don’t forget to try their legendary grilled cheese before leaving.
Crunch
Newly opened at Wasl 51, Crunch is a bakery and café brought to life by two Kazakhstani bakers inspired by European and Scandinavian traditions. Their offerings include freshly baked sourdough and focaccia, alongside an enticing all-day breakfast menu. One of the highlights is the croissant-filling bar, where customers can choose their preferred fillings, while the mini croissant cereal adds a whimsical touch to the menu.
852 Bakery
Hiding within Jun’s in Dubai, 852 Bakery is a testament to Chef Kelvin Cheung’s culinary roots and his love for Hong Kong cuisine. Named with significance, the bakery embraces Cheung’s ‘Third Culture Cooking’ philosophy with a menu blending East and global influences. Their house-made bagels come stuffed with unique fillings such as spiced masala omelette and cured pastrami, while the Pineapple Bun— a golden bun filled with cold salted French butter—is a must-try alongside a cup of Hong Kong milk tea.
BKRY (Nad Al Sheba)
The new BKRY at Nad Al Sheba marks a continuation of the beloved Alserkal venue, known for its meticulous approach to baking. This new space incorporates elements of the original with a glass-fronted production bakery, allowing customers to view the dough shaping and proofing process. With exclusive products crafted for the local community, BKRY ensures there is always something new to discover for even the most dedicated fans.
Aura Bakery
Opened by Milan-born Chef Manuel Balarini on Al Wasl Road, Aura Bakery marries classic Italian artistry with contemporary flair. The menu features a harmonisation of classic pastries and innovative creations, including a must-try Cocoa Bean pastry topped with hazelnuts and hot chocolate glaze. The inviting interiors make for an ideal spot for a quick espresso or a leisurely afternoon treat.
Cherry House
Cherry House, located in Al Safa 1, combines a coffee roaster and artisan bakery in a dramatic setting. Founded by Emirati entrepreneur Mohamed Matar Al Falasi, the café features a striking conveyor belt system showcasing the coffee production process, while the open bakery allows patrons to witness sourdough fermenting for up to 48 hours. A visit here often requires patience, as tables tend to be in high demand.
Tonton Bakes
Proudly situated in Wasl 51, Tonton Bakes is the brainchild of Palestinian restaurateur Basil Yassin. Known for its exquisite croissants, Tonton elevates traditional baking with creative twists like the zaatar-inspired version and intriguingly stuffed options like fried chicken and pizza croissants. The bakery’s playful atmosphere makes it as delightful as its offerings.
Subko
Located in Alserkal Avenue, Subko stands out as a unique destination created by Rahul Reddy, spotlighting the Indian subcontinent’s prowess in coffee, cacao, and baking. Their artisanal approach allows customers to witness the roasting and lamination processes firsthand. Among their offerings, the buttery kouign amann is a divine choice, paired exquisitely with homemade chocolate honeycomb bites.
Crisp by Reif
Chef Reif Othman has expanded his culinary repertoire with Crisp, a bakery born from his five-week immersion in Scandinavian baking culture. Noteworthy items include Shio Pan, a glossy Japanese salt bread, and a pandan kaya jam doughnut that reflects his Southeast Asian influences. Crisp seamlessly combines originality with a nod to established baking methods.
Shukr (COMING SOON!)
Anticipation grows for Shukr, a new venture set to introduce the ensaymada to Dubai. This Filipino pastry, known for its soft, buttery texture and delightful swirl, will surely be a hit. Set to launch in September, this delivery-only establishment from the team behind Michelin-starred 11 Woodfire promises a unique take on traditional flavours.
Whether you’re in search of a croissant that rivals those in France or a freshly baked sourdough to accompany your meal, Dubai’s nascent bakery scene has something to satisfy every craving. With each new spot offering its special take on baked goods, there’s never been a better time to indulge in the city’s culinary delights.