Let's Color The Drawing
I'm not sure about other cultures, but we Filipinos have this thing called "a drawing", which basically refers to a plan that never materializes. Say for example, a group of friends who plan for a reunion or an outing, but months or even years later, it remains a plan thus, a "drawing". When we color the drawing, it just means that it is finally happening!
I am happy to share that my friends and I recently colored a drawing that has been pending for a very long time-- over two years, actually, since before the pandemic happened. The covid restrictions in Abu Dhabi eased a bit so one of our friends from Dubai decided to come over for a long overdue get-together.
Coffee Lovers, Reconnect!
We all love good coffee and a cozy cafe where we can stay and pass the time. We can actually just sit and have two rounds of coffee until the shop closes!
After a very heavy late lunch, we headed to Al Bateen Area in Abu Dhabi, where this very cozy coffee shop is situated.
Art House Cafe
Art House Cafe – Al Bateen
Al Huwelat street, Bateen Area,
Opp Al Bateen – Villa No 15 – 4 Al Manhal Street – Abu Dhabi
UAE
We found this gem away from the city buzz, a few years ago. It's been a while and so we headed here for a post-lunch coffee.
The cafe is the product of the owner's love for arts and his dedication to the environment, where most of the things you will see around are upcycled from materials that have been deemed "garbage" already by others.
It also became an art gallery where a lot of art pieces are on display.
The entrance is adorned with paintings on bricks and plates.
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I honestly failed to realize when I was taking the below photo that those round things overhead this open seating area are bicycle rims. We only had the chance to have a good second look when we were leaving already. How ingenious!
A few more weeks and this area will be a lovely spot to stay once the weather becomes cooler.
There seems to be a wall of painted plates anywhere I turn... There are some upcycled chairs and table here too.
The place is not just a coffee shop, but there are several galleries here as well. It's unfortunate that we did not have the chance to go around to check the art pieces on display. Last time I was here I was able to wander about but was unable to take some photos.
Interior.
The seating inside has more upcycled seats and tables. The ones below are container drums. How cool are they, ey?
The glass walls made it look like it's an open space, but it is not. The place is fully airconditioned. Can you imagine just sitting here, sipping hot coffee, day dreaming?
Almost like a non-negotiable in coffee shops like these here in Abu Dhabi, there is a huge flat screen tv at the far end, showing game of football.
Further inside is a bigger dining area again with a wall of painted plates! The bicycle base of this table caught my attention. Pure genius, would you agree?
I really admire how they were able to upcycle and repurpose a lot of objects that I never imagined would be in a coffee shop.
Okay, a kettle may truly belong in a coffee shop, but not as a lamp, right?
We finally settled in this corner where we could see the pathway from the entrance. The sun has already set and the place is now warmly lit. Wait, are those lamps on the ceiling, buckets?
Let's have coffee!
They have a big menu of appetizers, salads, wraps and sandwiches, main dishes, and of course, coffee, drinks and desserts.
I remember their pasta is good from my last visit here but we came for coffee, not for any heavy meal.
Anyway, my friend and I settled for Americano which honestly disappointed us a bit. It's not as smooth as we expected and it tastes sour more than bitter.
My other friend tried "Piccolo" on their menu which is basically a latte. It's a small shot, which is a bit overpriced at AED 20 ($5.44) in my opinion.
I have to give it to the presentation though. The coffee art looks cute. LOL.
We truly enjoyed the french toast served with maple syrup on the side, vanilla ice cream and fresh berries. The toast itself is not too sweet, but the syrup and ice cream perfectly complement it. It is crusty on the outside but soft inside, it almost melts in the mouth.
Gifts
This sweet friend drove all the way to Abu Dhabi from Dubai for an overdue catch up chat. She also graciously gave us these beautiful bracelets that she made herself during the lockdowns.
We had a great time together and hopefully we will already be complete the next time around. We were not the ones to close the coffee shop (we used to linger in coffee shops up to 2am!) but it was lovely to be able to catch up with these ladies. I already look forward to the next one!
All photos are owned by the author.
