Where Japanese sweets meet seaside vibes in one of Abu Dhabi’s coolest new cultural hangouts
Abu Dhabi just dropped a delicious little surprise for lovers of art, sweets, and seriously aesthetic cafés. And it’s all happening in the heart of Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District.
Say hello to Anko, a brand-new Japanese patisserie that’s quietly stealing the spotlight from even the art crowd at teamLab Phenomena (yes, the one everyone’s posting about on the ‘gram).
But let’s rewind for a second.
Saadiyat Island has long been the capital’s culture queen, home to icons like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat, and now, teamLab Phenomena, an immersive digital art space that feels part dreamworld, part sci-fi film set. It’s where tech meets imagination, and now… matcha meets mochi.
Where Zen design meets sugary bliss
Perched on the rooftop of teamLab Phenomena is Anko, a serene, minimalistic café serving up elegant Japanese confections with a view to match.
Think calm, white interiors, curved furniture, delicate floral details, and a sun-drenched outdoor terrace that overlooks the sea. Basically: your next favourite escape from the city buzz.
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Anko takes its design cues from Oshibana, the Japanese art of pressed flower arrangement.
It’s all very botanical-chic – organic shapes, soft tones, and an ambiance that feels like a warm hug from Mother Nature herself (if she were also a master pastry chef).
The menu? A sweet trip to Tokyo
Let’s talk food because trust us, you’ll want to arrive hungry.
Anko is all about traditional Japanese sweets (aka wagashi), with a menu that reads like poetry for pastry lovers. Expect delicate mochi, pillowy pan (Japanese milk bread), dainty yogashi (Western-style pastries with a Japanese twist), and tea that would make a Kyoto tea master proud.
Each bite is artfully crafted and thoughtfully presented, ideal for when you want a treat that’s Instagrammable and utterly delicious. Whether you’re a matcha fiend or have a soft spot for yuzu, this menu hits all the right notes.
No ticket? No problem.
You might be wondering – do I have to visit teamLab Phenomena to get to Anko? Good news: Anko is open to everyone. No museum ticket needed, no art-savvy credentials required. Just walk in, take a seat, and let your taste buds go on a cultural journey.
So even if digital art isn’t your thing (or you’ve already had your fill of immersive rooms and trippy projections), Anko is worth the trip on its own.
Come for the sweets, stay for the vibes
Between the calm interiors, artisanal treats, and the sea breeze from the terrace, Anko is the kind of place that lingers with you. Perfect for a lazy afternoon, a solo journaling sesh, or that much-needed catch-up with your most stylish friends.
And yes, your phone will absolutely love it here. Snap the matcha latte, film the sunlight dancing across the terrazzo tables, and definitely grab that rooftop selfie.
Here’s why you should go:
- It’s located at teamLab Phenomena, Saadiyat Island
- Serves traditional Japanese confections in a gorgeous setting
- Has rooftop sea views that make you forget you’re in a city
- No art ticket needed—just show up and treat yourself
So, next time someone asks you for cool things to do in Abu Dhabi, drop Anko’s name and watch their eyes light up. Because sometimes, cultural experiences taste better with a side of yuzu custard and sea breeze.
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