In recent years, Alkhobar has witnessed a flurry of cafes opening and closing. Checking Google Maps prior to visiting a cafe has almost become a prerequisite due to the possibility of it being closed.
For those in search of a serene coffee shop to unwind or study in, Cafe Van Houtte stands out as one of Alkhobar’s best-kept secrets. Despite the saturated market and cutthroat competition in the area, this cafe has managed to maintain its position since its inception nearly four years ago. It continues to be an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil atmosphere in which to sip a cup of coffee or hit the books.
Located at the end of a cluster of eateries, Cafe Van Houtte spans two floors and offers a plethora of food and beverage options. In addition to the usual coffee choices, customers can also purchase their own blend of beans to brew at home. To eat, the cafe offers more than just baked goods and pastries, with a diverse selection of sandwiches, salads, pastas and pizzas. It frequently offers lunch and dinner specials, providing a complimentary drink with a combo meal.
To satiate our craving for a snack, we opted for a slice of lemon cake, which was topped with luscious white frosting and garnished with fresh raspberries. The slice provided a perfect balance between the tart and tangy fruit and the sweet cream. To complement this indulgence, we paired it with an iced latte.
In addition, we ordered Cafe Van Houtte’s chicken salad, which was served in a generous portion and made to order. The dressing was evenly distributed throughout the fresh veggies and we found it to be a pretty decent salad for a coffee shop.
Unlike many cafes in the area, this cafe is child-friendly and does not have any restrictions on young children. We saw a mother reviewing study materials with her young son at one table, while at another table nearby a young individual was typing away on their laptop, with a textbook open alongside a steaming mug of hot coffee.
For more information about Cafe Van Houtte’s operating hours and specials, check out its Instagram page @vanhouttekhobar.
