From India with Affection. Not a new film title, but the debut of one of India’s leading specialty coffee brands in Dubai, which opened towards late 2025, enhancing the vibrant specialty coffee landscape in the city. I had previously come across Subko, having first met their founder, Rahul Reddy, at the 2023 World of Coffee event in Dubai. During our initial encounter, he graciously bestowed upon me some exclusive arabica coffee beans to take home, and I also sampled their chocolate.
Their brand piqued my interest, as they source the finest specialty coffee beans and cacao from India and its neighboring regions, nurturing them to create something extraordinary for the Indian coffee sector.
Fast forward to 2025; after making a guest appearance at a coffee shop in London, I was thrilled to discover that they were set to launch a coffee shop in Dubai before the year concluded, marking the first Indian specialty coffee establishment in the city, to my knowledge.
Situated in the trendy and increasingly popular Alserkal Avenue, I was unsure what to expect… another coffee shop, a roastery, or…
A lot more.
A coffee shop, a coffee roastery, a chocolate production facility, a kitchen, a bakery.
The Space
Upon entering, there’s a dedicated coffee brewing bar with a three-group La Marzocco espresso machine, offering takeaway coffee, pastries, their canned coffee, and bread for quick pickup.
During my first visit, I thought this was all there was to it, but I was mistaken. Just wait.
As you navigate through the expansive space, you’ll find merchandise ranging from t-shirts to coffee, tea, and more. To the left, there’s a small office-style cubicle for meetings, then a compact Giesen coffee roasting machine, leading you to the back of the area, underneath the stairs, where you can observe chocolate-making in action and sample some too.
If you pivot to your right, you’ll notice them baking bread and pastries… tempting.
Upstairs is crafted to serve as a sit-down café, featuring its own brew bar and another La Marzocco Strada.
The seating area boasts an intriguing layout, with artwork and tables tucked away, so if you can’t locate a seat, delve further inside.
The Menu
So, what can you expect?
With an extensive menu encompassing not just coffee beverages but also sandwiches, breakfast dishes, pastries, and desserts, you’ll be overwhelmed with choices as the menu resembles a book.
I visited not once, but three times in their inaugural month, accompanied by friends and family.
Their Coffee
In brief;
Their coffee is “meticulously sourced from the Subcontinent. Skillfully crafted by trained Arabica Q Graders, each bean is handpicked from local plantations, ensuring a journey of unmatched quality and flavor.”
They engage in direct trade relationships at the source with coffee estates and smallholder farmers who harvest and often experimentally process coffees, striving to curate only SCA 85+ point scoring coffees” (source: https://www.subko.coffee/pages/coffee )
During my initial visit, I savored a cortado and a Basque cheesecake, which I persuaded my wife to try on my subsequent visit.
That said, when it came to coffee, I must admit I preferred their batch brew, utilizing Project Pearl – but be sure to request it hot.
Their Food
You will truly be spoiled for choice, and you might get perplexed about what to order. They serve their take on shakshuka, temptingly delicious pastries, a multi-layered croissant that I tried, non-coffee non-alcoholic coffee cocktails, and exciting sandwiches.
I had the Harrira Moroccan inspired chicken sandwich on their tasty sourdough, a butter chicken-style sandwich that may sound filling but was delightful, with my kids requesting it twice in one meal.
On my third visit, my friends and I indulged in their exquisite sourdough.
So, what other delights await?
You’ll have to discover that yourself, BUT honestly, I believe you’ll be captivated by what they are creating, as when I met their owner on my last trip, he mentioned their plans were still underway.
Highly recommended.
Find them at
Alserkal Avenue – Warehouse 15 – Al Qouz Ind.first – Al Quoz – Dubai (Pro tip: At the rear of Alserkal Avenue)
**Discovering SUBKO Specialty Coffee Roasters and Bakehouse in Dubai**
Dubai, a city celebrated for its luxury and creativity, has evolved into a hub of cultures, flavors, and experiences. Among its numerous attractions, the city showcases a thriving coffee culture appealing to both residents and visitors. One of the premier spots for coffee enthusiasts is SUBKO Specialty Coffee Roasters and Bakehouse, where the craft of coffee converges with the art of baking.
**A Distinct Coffee Adventure**
SUBKO, which stands for “Subcontinental,” is a brand that originated in India and has made waves in Dubai by infusing a unique aspect of South Asian coffee culture into the Middle East. The roastery and bakehouse is situated in a lively area of Dubai, conveniently accessible and a must-see for anyone eager to explore the city’s diverse culinary landscape.
Upon entering SUBKO, patrons are welcomed by a minimalist yet cozy interior, crafted to foster a warm and inviting ambiance. The scent of freshly roasted coffee beans permeates the air, setting the foundation for an unforgettable coffee experience. The establishment prides itself on selecting premium beans from various locations, ensuring that every cup of coffee reflects the rich tastes of the subcontinent.
**The Mastery of Roasting**
At the core of SUBKO’s operations lies their cutting-edge coffee roastery. The team at SUBKO is passionate about the craft and science of coffee roasting, utilizing methods that accentuate the unique traits of each bean. Guests have the chance to observe the roasting process up close, gaining insight into the careful attention to detail that contributes to crafting the perfect cup of coffee.
The knowledgeable staff is always ready to share their insights, providing recommendations tailored to individual tastes. Whether you favor a bold espresso or a smooth pour-over, SUBKO’s extensive menu has something for everyone. Each cup is brewed to perfection, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience that lingers long after the final sip.
**A Culinary Indulgence**
In addition to its outstanding coffee, SUBKO is also an oasis for baked goods lovers. The bakehouse presents a tempting array of pastries and breads, each made with the same commitment to quality and flavor as their coffee. From flaky croissants to artisanal sourdough, the offerings highlight the skill and creativity of the bakers.
The menu is carefully designed to complement the coffee selections, featuring choices that range from sweet to savory. Whether you’re craving a classic pain au chocolat or an inventive fusion pastry, SUBKO’s bakehouse is sure to please your palate.
**A Community Center**
Beyond its culinary delights, SUBKO acts as a community hub where coffee enthusiasts can unite to share their love. The space frequently hosts events, workshops, and tastings, providing locals and visitors a chance to connect over their shared enthusiasm for coffee and baking.
**In Conclusion**
A trip to SUBKO Specialty Coffee Roasters and Bakehouse in Dubai offers more than a simple coffee break; it’s an immersive experience that honors the rich traditions of coffee and baking. With its dedication to quality, innovation, and community, SUBKO emerges as a must-visit spot for anyone wishing to indulge in life’s finer aspects. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee lover or a curious explorer, SUBKO guarantees an experience that is both enriching and gratifying.
