Comptoir 102

Comptoir 102 occupies a villa at 102 Jumeirah Beach Road and combines three things under one roof: a healthy café, a lifestyle concept store and an organic grocery. Its French-influenced interior is designed to feel like a home rather than a shop, with furniture, homeware, fashion and gifts arranged through the rooms, and it has built a loyal following among Jumeirah residents for unhurried breakfasts and light lunches.

The café describes itself as a healthy café, and its food philosophy, set out on the website, centres on wholesome, nourishing ingredients. Expect light breakfasts, salads, fresh plates and juices rather than heavy brunch dishes. The current menu is published online as a downloadable file, so it is worth a look before you go if you have particular dietary needs, and the staff can advise on ingredients. Coffee and teas are also served.

The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, making it a good spot for a long breakfast with a book or a catch-up with friends. Comptoir 102 is open every day from 8am to 8pm. Weekend mornings are the busiest time, so arrive early for a table. Prices are moderate, slightly higher than an ordinary café, reflecting the organic ingredients and the setting.

After eating, take time to browse the concept store, which stocks clothing, jewellery, design pieces and homeware chosen by the owners, as well as an organic grocery with products to take home. It suits couples, solo visitors and anyone interested in design and healthy eating; families are welcome, though the store has plenty of breakable items. The café also delivers through Deliveroo.

The villa is on Jumeirah Beach Road in Jumeirah 1, and a taxi is the easiest way to arrive, as there is no Metro station within walking distance. If you have a free morning in this part of the city, a slow breakfast here followed by a walk on the beach is one of the more relaxing ways to spend it. In summer, plan to arrive early, before the heat makes the walk between car and door uncomfortable. Jumeirah Mosque, the Etihad Museum, J1 Beach and the boutiques along Jumeirah Road are all within a few minutes' drive, so it fits easily into a day in this part of the city.