South African favourite Tasha’s has just expanded its UAE empire, launching two new cafés in Al Ain and Sharjah. These rapid openings bring the brand’s total footprint to eight locations across the Emirates. This solidifies its presence in key community hubs.
The new Al Ain branch opened its doors on 19 May, followed swiftly by the Sharjah location on 20 May. This strategic move reinforces Tasha’s commitment to bringing its distinctive all-day dining experience to a wider audience. It does so beyond traditional city centres.
New Horizons: Al Ain & Sharjah Welcome Tashas
- Al Ain: Located at the Al Mu’tarid Lifestyle Centre, the Al Ain café operates from 8 am to 12 am daily. Its interior design draws inspiration from Al Ain’s tranquil surroundings, creating a serene atmosphere. Contact: 02 517 6944.
- Sharjah: The Aljada development now hosts the second new Tasha’s café. This location’s design pays homage to the original Atholl café in Johannesburg. It connects to founder Natasha Sideris’s vision for unique branch personalities while honouring the brand’s heritage.
The Tasha’s Classic Menu: Generous Portions, All-Day Dining
Tasha’s Classic Menu is celebrated for its generous portions and diverse offerings, catering to all-day dining. Expect breakfast favourites alongside substantial lunch and dinner options.
Signature Dishes Not to Miss:
- St Francis breakfast tortilla: Scrambled eggs, a subtle chilli kick, and fresh avocado.
- Brioche French Toast: A sweet, indulgent treat.
- Texas Salad: A refreshing blend of textures and tastes.
- Salmon Teriyaki: A rich, savoury option.
- Chicken Prego: A hearty South African classic sandwich.
This commitment to an all-day dining experience, combined with consistently generous portions, resonates strongly with UAE diners. It offers value and satisfying meals for families and groups.
Unique Design Philosophy: What Sets tashas Apart
Each Tasha’s Café boasts a unique interior design, a hallmark of founder and CEO Natasha Sideris’s vision. Unlike many chains, every branch offers a completely distinct aesthetic, drawing inspiration from local surroundings or brand heritage.
- Al Ain’s Serene Aesthetics: Features soft neutral tones, handmade details, and natural textures, with a bespoke ceiling installation as a focal point. This reflects the Garden City’s calm.
- Sharjah’s Homage to Heritage: Its interiors are a direct tribute to the original Atholl café in Johannesburg. This connects the new location to the brand’s foundational vision.
Tasha’s Story: From Johannesburg to the UAE Phenomenon
Founded in Johannesburg in 2005 by Natasha Sideris, Tasha’s has grown into a beloved international brand. Its expansion into the UAE, now with eight cafés, reflects a strategic vision. The brand aims to bring its distinctive hospitality to community-focused neighbourhoods.
Natasha Sideris’s entrepreneurial vision infuses the brand with an inherent ‘South African warmth’ and hospitality. This spirit was evident at the Al Ain launch, where staff spontaneously performed the South African classic ‘Shosholoza’. This performance captured the brand’s authentic cultural integration.
Tasha’s steady expansion into cities like Al Ain and Sharjah demonstrates a calculated move to tap into the demand of expat communities and local families residing in these growing emirates. This solidifies its market position across the UAE.
Plan Your Visit: tashas UAE Locations
tashas now operates eight exceptional cafés across the UAE. Most cafés operate from around 8 am until late evening, often extending to 12 am.
For the new Al Ain branch at Al Mu’tarid Lifestyle Centre, operating hours are 8 am to 12 am daily. Contact: 02 517 6944. For details on other branches, check directly with the individual café or their official online channels.
