In the immortal words of Elle Woods: “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.”
So, you followed through, you’ve just smashed that 5K Mallathon, logged your miles, soaked up those slivers of morning light, and maybe even uploaded that smug post-run selfie with the Strava overlay. Now, it’s time to reward yourself, and what better way than with another endorphin boost?
Whether you’re craving a saintly açaí bowl with a side of green juice or a sinner’s stack of pancakes dripping in double syrup, Dubai’s brunch scene has you covered.
We’ve rounded up the city’s best post-run pit stops you can slide into as you cool down. Whatever you fancy, from a protein-packed Georgian spread to a carby Italian affair that undoes just enough of your calorie burn, you’ll be able to refuel, recharge, and keep that runner’s glow going all day.
Vapiano
“Unwind, eat well, and stay as long as you like.” That’s the Vapiano motto. Build your own DIY spread with custom salads and your choice of fresh pasta. For breakfast, we recommend the Bruschetta Mozzarella, a perfect balance of fresh flavours and indulgence. Or, go for one of their handmade pizzas because, let’s be honest, how different is pizza from a breakfast toast, really?
📍 Where: City Centre Deira
L’eto
Channel London’s Soho vibes as you hit your protein goals with a full English breakfast at L’eto. Eggs take centre stage here, but our pick is the Breakfast Rib-eye Steak & Eggs, a protein-fuelled kick that starts your day strong without the mid-morning slump.
📍Where: City Centre Mirdif
Zaatar w Zeit
You did it! You took on the Mallathon like a champ and now want to return to the familiar. It doesn’t get more comforting than a shawarma (what? It’s got all the food groups). Try their wraps and, obviously, the zaatar flatbreads. Don’t skip their pocket-sized fresh juices, it’s the perfect way to end your meal.
📍Where: Dubai Festival Plaza
Shvili
Can’t decide between sweet or savoury? Go for a Georgian breakfast spread that nails both. Start with an army of jams and dips, then move on to a main, we’d suggest the Adjarian Khachapuri, which is as Instagrammable as it is delicious.
📍Where: Dubai Festival City
Kaşıbeyaz
No breakfast list is complete without the iconic Turkish breakfast. While you might not be jetting off to Istanbul anytime soon, you can bring Turkey to you with a platter of cheeses paired with floral honey and the heavenly gift that is Turkish bread.
📍 Where: Dubai Hills Mall
Time Out Market
The last thing you want after a workout is the mind-numbing “hmm, what do you feel like eating?” conversation. Imagine this instead: 17 unique food concepts under one roof, just a short stroll from Dubai Mall. From Portuguese croquettes to Greek yogurt bowls fit for the gods, Time Out Market has even the pickiest diners covered.
📍 Where: Dubai Mall
Tashas
At Tashas, breakfast isn’t just a meal, it’s a lifestyle. Served until 6 PM, so you can have their brioche French toast with crème anglaise and still come back later for mushrooms on toast (on sourdough, so it’s good for your gut, duh!).
📍 Where: Dubai Marina Mall
Bread Ahead
Sometimes, the best things in life are simple, and breakfast is no exception. Try their newest Sourdough Avocado Salmon topped with capers, or the more adventurous fig and feta flatbread for a taste of southern Italy. You’ll probably be hooked, so take a loaf home while you’re at it.
📍 Where: Mall of the Emirates
Le Pain Quotidien
The only “pain” you’ll feel here is remembering that last 200m sprint. Their organic, stone-ground flour means you can load up on carbs without the bloat. Go for the signature mushroom tartine with creamy garlic sauce for some indulgence that feels good, not guilty.
📍 Where: The Springs Souk
Want more food recs? Find them here.
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