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7 Must-Try Cafes and Restaurants in Bahrain

Eat your way around the island.

Manama, the capital city of Bahrain, is known for its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the city offers an array of dining options that cater to every taste and preference. From traditional Bahraini cuisine to international flavours, Manama’s cafes and restaurants are a food lover’s paradise for every budget and occasion. It’s easily accessible (about an hour flight from Dubai, or a nine-hour road trip), and it isn’t your typical island getaway. Plus, it’s home to some of the best and innovative creatives in the region, and holds rich significance in the history of the Gulf region since the dawn of civilisation.

In this list are some of some of Manama’s popular and best-loved classics that are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you with an unforgettable dining experience.

Photo credit: Monsoon

Monsoon

Monsoon is an institution that has only gotten better with time; for nearly two decades, it has held its place as one of Bahrain’s top restaurants. From its idyllic and serene atmosphere to authentic Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese dishes and adventurous drinks, Monsoon is perfect for date night, lunch with the girls, or a large gathering with friends and family. The menu has something for everyone, including a set menu, sharing platters, sushi plates, and mains geared towards the adventurous and conventional foodie alike. The drinks menu is innovative and tightly curated with changing specials, and the excellent service elevates the entire experience. 

Monsoon, Adliya, Manama. +973 1774 9222, @monsoonbahrain

Photo credit: Lumee Street

Lumee Street

Lumee refers to dried limes, called loomi, which are a key ingredient used in Gulf cooking to season everything from soups, stews, fish, meat, barbecues to tea and desserts. In its powdered form, it’s also a component of baharat, adding a sour and sweet note to dishes. At Lumee Street, this spice is the star in a fast-casual street food concept and though ubiquitously incorporated throughout the menu, it always manages to surprise in a wonderful way without being repetitive. Speaking of which, Lumee’s menu brings together a mixture of Middle Eastern staples interspersed with regional flavours, like the Lumee Achar Hummus, Tikka Lumee, and Chicken Tah Chin.

P.S.: Make sure to leave room for dessert – the Rahash Chocolate Chip ice cream is not to be missed. 

Lumee Street, The Avenues at Sea Front, Manama. +973 1743 4300, lumeestreet.com/

Photo credit: Mahnoor Bari

The Orangery

Head down to The Orangery for some amazing coffee and decadent cakes made fresh daily (I loved the San Sebastian cheesecake, signature blueberry and lemon tea cakes, as well as the chocolate cake with creme brulee filling). Whether you want to take in a view of the water at Bahrain Bay or soak up the chill Mediterranean street vibes of Adliya, The Orangery comes through with the dessert fix. If it’s late in the day or coffee isn’t your thing, take the plunge and sample from the wide selection of exotic teas – there are 17 types to choose from. There are also plenty of goodies – macarons, homemade jams, cookies, and specialty coffee – to take home that can also make for great gifts. 

The Orangery Tearoom & Patisserie, Adliya and The Avenues Mall, Manama. +973 1736 9696, @orangeryme

Photo credit: Darseen Cafe

Darseen Cafe

Located inside the Bahrain National Museum, Darseen Cafe is great for a bite to eat after touring the museum, but I did it the other way around based on a solid recommendation: arrive early at the museum to have the breakfast platter at Darseen first and then leisurely explore the exhibits. I’m so glad I did it. 

The breakfast platter – good for two, but can be done solo if you’re ambitious – consists of an eclectic mix of traditional local breakfast staples: hearty, filling yet light and deeply aromatic foul medammes, qeema, eggs your way, a spiced scrambled egg and tomato, and Bahraini kebabs, served with a side of light, crispy bread and a great iced Spanish latte. The flavours were well-balanced and complementary rather than repetitive; overall, familiar foods done well. 

P.S.: If you’re still thinking about the heavenly samboosa at the Expo 2020 Dubai’s Bahrain pavilion (and why wouldn’t you?), you can get your fix at Darseen.

Darseen Cafe, 2209 Block 322 Building 455, Manama. +973 7733 6600, darseencafebahrain.com  

Photo credit: Mahnoor Bari

English Rose Tea Room 

This bright, floral cafe is the perfect cosy spot for those long-overdue catch up sessions, to get some work done on a quiet afternoon, or if you’re looking for a change of pace on a night out in Adliya.

The honey cake is superb, as are the teas, and the breakfast comes highly recommended. Plus, there’s outdoor patio seating if you want to drink in the vibe with your afternoon tea while you people-watch. The eatery is owned by a friendly Bahraini and British couple passionate about food, who have made sure to include authentic English staples like fish and chips and a full English breakfast, along with some delicious fusion fare. 

English Rose Tea Room, Unit 200, Road 3806, Adliya, Al Qudhaibiya, Manama. +973 3311 1193. @theenglishrosebh

Photo credit: Mahnoor Bari

Café Lilou

Don’t be intimidated by the menu in French; once you get your bearings (and with Café Lilou’s helpful staff) you’ll be well on your way to enjoying one of Bahrain’s most reliable and well-loved Parisian-style cafes. Start off with the apple and peach iced tea and the Bouchées Vagabondes, which is essentially arancini, consisting of perfectly fried breaded white risotto balls filled with mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, pesto and parsley in tomato sauce. Follow with a main or head straight to dessert with the collection of patisserie.

Café Lilou, Building 108, Road 3803, Block 338, Adliya, Manama. +973 1771 4440, @cafelilou

Photo credit: Iskenderun Grills

Iskenderun Grills

For some of the best grills with a Turkish flair, head to Iskenderun Grills, a lowkey affair opposite the Marina Beach Garden Park that’s been around since the 1980s. The mixed grill is a star for the high quality of meats, and the hummus is top-notch. Don’t miss the lamb chops, sandwiches, and shawarmas. The starters are great and Iskenderun offers great value for money overall for a budget-friendly meal.

Iskenderun Grills Restaurant, Tarafa Avenue, Manama. +973 1729 3334, @skandroonbh

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Applelicious Delights: Top 3 Irresistible Desserts

Sweet Apple Bliss

When it comes to desserts, apples are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in various ways. From classic apple pies to unique and creative treats, there’s no shortage of apple desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. These top 3 irresistible apple desserts are sure to become your new favourites.

Classic Apple Pie

This timeless dessert is a staple in many households around Dubai. The flaky crust, warm apple filling, and aromatic spices make this a winner.

Serving Size:
4 – 6
Time:
1 Hour
Difficulty:
Medium

To make a classic apple pie, you’ll need:

Ingredients

  • 6-7 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Add the sliced apples to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
  5. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
  6. Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust and dot the top with small pieces of butter.
  7. Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top of the apples. Crimp the edges to seal the pie.
  8. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  9. Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg.
  10. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  11. Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars

We urge you to try these caramel apple cheesecake bars. The combination of creamy cheesecake, tart apples, and gooey caramel is a match made in dessert heaven. Perfect for a party, a celebration or just for a picnic, and they’re sure to pull on the heart strings of your loved ones.

Serving Size:
4
Time:
50 Min
Difficulty:
Medium

To make caramel apple cheesecake bars, you’ll need:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 medium-sized apples, peeled and diced
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter.
  3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
  5. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
  6. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
  7. Sprinkle the diced apples over the top of the cream cheese mixture.
  8. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centre is set.
  10. Let the bars cool before slicing and serving.

Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts

If you love to experiment I’m the kitchen, it’s time you tried these baked apple cider doughnuts. These doughnuts are moist, flavourful, and have a subtle apple cider taste that will leave you wanting more. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option for your kids, coworkers or friends!

Serving Size:
4
Time:
30 Min
Difficulty:
Easy

To make baked apple cider doughnuts, you’ll need:

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup apple cider
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, melted butter, Greek yoghurt, egg, and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  5. Spoon the batter into a greased doughnut pan, filling each mould about 3/4 full.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
  7. Let the doughnuts cool before removing them from the pan.
  8. Optional: Dip the top of the doughnuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for added flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Classic Apple Pie a timeless favourite, and are there any variations to enhance its flavour profile?

Classic Apple Pie is beloved for its comforting blend of sweet and tart apples encased in a flaky crust. The timeless recipe provides insights into creative variations, ensuring your apple pie experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

How do Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars combine the richness of cheesecake with the sweet crunch of caramelized apples, and can they be customized for dietary preferences?

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars offer a decadent fusion of creamy cheesecake and luscious caramelized apples. The delightful marriage of flavours can be achieved by substituting sugar with Our Allulose Sweetener to accommodate your dietary preference, ensuring everyone can indulge in this heavenly treat. Our Allulose Sweetener is a non-GMO corn-based natural sweetener. It tastes just like sugar, with a clean and moderate sweetness and no aftertaste. Because Allulose is not digested by the body, it has extremely few calories and has no effect on blood sugar levels. Allulose offers roughly 70% of the sweetness and intensity of sugar without any of the health hazards. As a result, it is becoming more common as a sweetener in food and beverages. Allulose has the remarkable feature of browning like sugar, making it the preferred sugar alternative for baking. Allulose has been demonstrated in studies to lower blood sugar and insulin levels, as well as aid in weight loss.

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