“Eating vegetarian doesn’t mean you have to eat boring, humdrum dishes.” Chef Marcus Samuelsson
As a longtime vegetarian it’s a never-ending struggle to find tasty veggie options and dependable outlets that look after their plant eating guests. Options for us herbivores have definitely improved in the capital as of late and now Café 302, located in the heart of the city at the Al Maha Arjaan, has introduced three vegetarian gourmet burgers to its already sizable cafe menu.
A twist on their classic beef burger the three veggie options are presented in a traditional way, encased in a bun and served with sides of ‘healthy’ sweet potato fries (or regular by request) and a deli salad. Presented on slabs of black slate the burgers certainly look appetising, my favourite being the delicious moist red lentil and cauliflower burger topped with a mild curry mayo.
Also on offer is the chunky portobello mushroom and black bean burger topped with a fresh red cabbage slaw and Cafe 302’s signature homemade dressing. The third option is the red quinoa and white bean burger with avocados, rocket, alfalfa sprouts and a tangy ranch sauce. The thing that really stands out, alongside the modern presentation, is the combination of flavours and consistency of all three burgers which take it from me is not always the case with vegetarian burgers.
What goes perfectly with burgers? Well huge calorie ridden milk shakes of course! Café 302 has introduced a choice of on-trend (and insta worthy) freakshakes. Those with a sweet tooth (like me) can choose from the chocolate Triple Trouble or perhaps the Jigsaw, the Original Twist or the Thunder Wonder. In keeping with the cafes healthy eating vibe there are two more nutritious options, the Bananas over Açai and the Passion Story.
Café 302’s ever-evolving menu now includes a dedicated Kids Menu that’s available everyday. Choices include breakfast dishes, everyday day classics, some tempting desserts and creative activities to keep the younger members of the family entertained during mealtimes, always a bonus in my book. Also in the pipeline is a separate Vegan menu to satisfy the growing demand from those meat and dairy free diners.
A varied assortment of other meat-free options are also available on the Café 302 menu from healthy salads to varied breakfast choices and baked goods. Stop by for a signature coffee including Japanese Kyoto style or chemex coffee, maybe a freshly squeezed juice, a smoothie or one of those indulgent freakshakes. Grab a seat inside the large modern interior or enjoy the weather with an alfresco meal. It’s a cool place to relax, meet friends, conduct a business meeting or just perfect for digital nomads to set up their laptops and work with a really good cup of coffee. Don’t forget to check out the retail section too as there’s a lovely selection of organic and artisan products as well as some trendy household goods.
Café 302
Location: Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana, Hamdan Street, PO Box 5946, Abu Dhabi.
Opening Hours: 6:00 am – 11:00 pm
Telephone: 02 610 6666
I was invited to review the vegetarian burgers at Café 302. All views are my own. Unless otherwise stated, all photos on this page © Jo Brett 2017. All rights reserved.
Read more about Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana and Café 302 in previous post Staycation | Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana
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