12 cafes in this guide · updated 2026
Long before flat whites arrived, Bahrain's social life ran on gahwa — lightly roasted coffee brewed with cardamom, poured from a dallah into small finjan cups and served with dates. The coffee houses on this page keep that tradition, and several have been pouring for generations.
Muharraq is the heart of it, with heritage shops around the old souq and the Shaikh Ebrahim cultural centre. Elsewhere on the island you will find Turkish coffee, karak chai and Bahraini breakfast served in the same relaxed, unhurried style. Etiquette is simple: accept the first cup, and shake the cup gently when you have had enough.
One of the oldest and most beloved coffee shops in Bahrain (formerly Al Bindaira). Famous for authentic Arabian coffee experience, Turkish coffee, and Arabic coffee with dates. Don't miss the pistachio kunafa.
Located inside the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research. Offers all kinds of coffees and teas with an Arabian twist on classic dishes from around the world.
Al Aali Mall branch of the legendary Bindaira Café. Authentic Arabian coffee experience in a convenient mall location.
Historic coffee shop open since 1937 in the heart of Muharraq. Old school and simple - enjoy coffee with dates, or tea with or without milk. An authentic OG Bahraini coffee experience.
Quality specialty coffee with a focus on Ethiopian coffee heritage. Named after Kaldi, the legendary Ethiopian goat herder who discovered coffee.
Classic espresso bar focused on authentic Italian-style coffee. For purists who appreciate traditional espresso culture.
Authentic Italian coffee experience. Camardo is a historic Italian coffee brand bringing true espresso culture to Bahrain.
Known for excellent Arabic coffee and specialty brews. A cozy spot with a warm atmosphere.
Adliya branch of Bindaira Café in the heart of the arts district.
Modern cafe with Arabic influences. The name 'Kafed' plays on the Arabic word for coffee. Fusion of traditional and modern coffee culture.
City Centre Bahrain branch of the beloved Bindaira Café chain.
Ethiopian-style coffee experience. Authentic African coffee traditions in Bahrain.
Muharraq is the best place. Bu Khalaf Coffee has been serving since 1937, House of Coffee at the Shaikh Ebrahim Centre offers a cultural setting, and Bindaira Cafe serves Turkish coffee and Bahraini breakfast across several branches.
Gahwa is lightly roasted Arabic coffee brewed with cardamom and sometimes saffron or cloves. It is poured from a dallah into small handleless cups and served with dates, and refills continue until you gently shake your cup.
Arabic coffee is a spiced, unsweetened coffee served in small cups. Karak is a strong milky tea brewed with cardamom and sugar, sold cheaply at cafeterias and hugely popular across Bahrain.