In light of World Environment Day on June 5, we spotlight how the food industry across the Middle East and North Africa is contributing to a more sustainable future. A growing number of restaurants are embracing eco-friendly practices such as zero-waste initiatives, renewable energy, and locally sourced, organic ingredients.
Here is a list of standout eco-conscious restaurants and cafés across the MENA region that are leading the way in sustainable dining..
BOCA – Dubai, UAE
Located in Dubai International Financial Centre, BOCA is a Mediterranean restaurant focused on sustainability, which also features a European and Spanish influence on its dishes. The restaurant sources local ingredients, uses renewable energy, and implements zero-waste strategies.
Also, BOCA was honored with the Sustainable Restaurant Award 2025 by the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Lowe – Dubai, UAE
Situated in KOA Canvas, Al Barari, Lowe serves contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine with a strong focus on sustainability. Initiatives include waste reduction, composting, and the use of energy-efficient equipment.
Lowe holds a Michelin Green Star for its eco-friendly dining commitment for the fourth consecutive year.
Evergreen Organics – Doha, Qatar
Qatar’s first fully vegan café, Evergreen Organics, operates with a strict plastic-free policy and sources its ingredients from organic suppliers. It’s a health-conscious spot dedicated to sustainability and plant-based eating, focusing on juices, healthy bowls, wraps, and other dishes that are delicious and nutritious.
Respire Lounge – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
This minimalist café champions sustainability with plastic-free practices and recycling programs. Respire Lounge features a recycling machine for plastic bottles and uses solar-powered refrigeration to minimize its carbon footprint. The café is known for its tiramisu, keto cheesecake, salads, and other dishes.
Petiole Café – Janabiyah, Bahrain
A zero-plastic vegan café and grocery store, Petiole Café advocates for environmental awareness, veganism, and social justice. The café prioritizes natural, eco-friendly products and promotes sustainability in all its operations.
Their cuisine features Mediterranean dishes, pastries, and sweets, with popular offerings including shawarma, Buddha bowls, and a variety of plant-based burgers.
Zooba – Cairo, Egypt
Founded in 2012, Zooba offers a modern take on traditional Egyptian street food. The restaurant eliminates single-use plastics and sources ingredients locally, expanding its eco-conscious philosophy internationally.
Zooba also values its chefs and employees, offering profit-sharing and performance-based incentives to encourage dedication and excellence.
Baron – Beirut, Lebanon
Located in Mar Mikhael, Baron emphasizes local produce and sustainable dining practices, actively reducing waste and supporting local farmers. It was ranked No.12 in MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022 and No. 42 in the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025.
The menu features Mediterranean-Lebanese and some Japanese-influenced dishes, often incorporating unexpected sauces like Kewpie mayonnaise or miso butter. They also cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
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