Mani’s Café

Mani's Café opened in 2016 on the first floor of Jawharat A'Shatti, a shopping and dining complex in Shatti Al Qurum, close to the beachfront. It has a warm atmosphere, and its appeal rests on doing the basics properly: the café bakes its own bread and makes its own jams, sauces and granola, rather than buying them in.

The menu leans towards brunch. Shakshuka, smashed avocado on house sourdough and a pumpkin hummus toast are among the savoury dishes, and açaí bowls offer something lighter. The cake counter is a big part of the appeal, with homemade macarons and a lemon and blueberry cake that regulars return for. Coffee is made with single-origin Arabica beans, so it holds its own against the specialty chains.

Mani's works for a late breakfast, a light lunch or an afternoon coffee and cake. Weekend mornings can be busy, so arrive early if you want a relaxed table. Prices are moderate. Because so much is made in house, popular items can run out, so if you have your heart set on a particular cake, come earlier in the day.

It suits couples, friends meeting for brunch, solo travellers and remote workers looking for a calm spot. A slice of cake and a coffee is a good way to break up an afternoon in Shatti Al Qurum, especially in the hotter months when sitting indoors is more comfortable than the seafront. Hours change during Ramadan, so check before visiting then.

The café's focus on house-made bread and preserves also makes it a good place to pick up a cake for a celebration. Ask in advance if you need a whole cake, as baking takes time. If you have dietary requirements, ask the team, as the house-made approach can make it easier to adjust dishes.

Jawharat A'Shatti is in Shatti Al Qurum, one of the city's main hotel and dining areas, a few minutes by taxi from the Royal Opera House, W Muscat and Bareeq Al Shatti. A coffee here pairs well with a walk on the seafront, and the restaurants of Shatti Al Qurum are close by for dinner.