LOCAL, Abu Dhabi

Looking for that perfect cup of coffee in Abu Dhabi? Look no further than LOCAL, Abu Dhabi’s newest speciality coffee shop located in the Al Zeina Community.

Walk into LOCAL and you could be in Melbourne or London, but luckily for the capital’s growing coffee culture, it’s right here in Abu Dhabi, the homegrown concept is the creation of three young entrepreneurs. The Western influence is clear to see through the minimalist design and trendy vibe, but like its name, it embraces all things local, with coffee beans roasted in Dubai from Seven Fortunes Roastery and organic food choices sourced from local supplier Wheatfields.

Coffee aficionados will rejoice in the specialty coffee options, with the team of friendly and knowledgeable baristas on hand to make that perfect cup. Hot or cold there’s something on the menu for everyone, from the popular iced Spanish Latte to the unique LOCAL Latte, a regional blend created in-house with cardamom spice, date syrup and condensed milk. V60, Chemex and Aeropress, along with cappuccinos, matcha and regular lattes topped with latte art are also available. Not a coffee fan? No problem, there’s a range of Avantcha loose leaf teas, hot chocolate, iced teas and soft beverages to compliment the paninis, wraps and baked goods.

Inside, a large communal table takes centre stage under a bright neon sign, smaller tables are dotted around with high tables at the window and a cosy sofa area. Outside, benches and a soon-to-be completed al fresco dining area will extend the cafe space. Pop in anytime and you will see the capital’s digital nomads at work, plenty of sockets and free Wi-Fi make LOCAL the ideal choice for working out of the office. Open daily from 7.00am, for early birds who need their morning caffeination, until 10.00pm, for those who like a late-night coffee-fix.

LOCAL is not just about coffee but also cuts and consignment. An old-school style barbershop and sneaker consignment store complete the trio of concepts all under one roof. LOCAL barbershop provides traditional barbering in a state-of-the-art space, offering a bespoke experience that far exceeds anything on offer in the capital. A full range of services from a regular trim to the more specialised skin fade, full cut-throat shave and children’s cuts are also available, all bookable via Instagram. Barbershop customers can enjoy a complimentary coffee of their choice with each cut and there’s a full range of premium hair and beard products available for purchase.

Sneakers are a passion at LOCAL. The consignment store at the rear of the venue is offering a range of high-end, exclusive sneakers and streetwear, if you are a fan of sneaker and street culture this is the spot for you. The store will provide a new retail experience in the capital as well as a service for customers who currently have to source them outside the UAE. Pick up or unload coveted sneakers and streetwear along with the range of LOCAL merchandise that’s also for sale, including t-shirts and tote bags.

Cafes and barbershops are a great combination and a growing trend worldwide, LOCAL has brought this concept right to our doorstep, with the added bonus of a consignment store. It’s an all-round experience, a place to relax and socialise with friends and family as well as a cool spot to work on your laptop.

LOCAL, Al Zeina, 02 555 3339

Follow LOCAL on Instagram: @_localuae_

Photo credit: Luis Martins @luispfmartins

Words by Jo Brett https://anexpatabroad.com

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