Café Van Houtte, Jumeirah 1

In December 18, 1919, Albert-Louis Van Houtte officially assumed ownership of Camille Hussenot’s import shop (located at 321, Ontario Street East), hence becoming its proud new owner. This was a wonderful opportunity for both parties. On one hand, Mr. Hussenot was planning to retire, but had not yet found anyone to take over his business. On the other hand, Albert-Louis was looking to fulfill a dream. In Mr. Hussenot’s shop, one could come across Vichy mineral water, olive oil, foie gras, French and Spanish wines, tea, coffee, French press coffee makers, mushrooms, asparagus, vanilla and household soaps
Mr. Hussenot purchased green coffee which was then roasted by an external roaster to be later sold in his shop. Albert-Louis continued this type of practice, although the taste of the coffee was a far cry from the European brew he enjoyed so much. While trying to come up with a European dark roast coffee, Albert-Louis requested a darker coffee from his roaster. Unfortunately, the coffee beans were never dark enough and Albert-Louis came to the conclusion that he had no other choice but to roast the coffee himself.
The idea behind it is quite simple – How to better serve customers who are busier than ever, while serving fresh products? Over 50 recipes were crafted wholeheartedly and were tested before being launched on the market. The final products were carefully selected, keeping in mind to only offer our loyal customers the best. Everything was designed to meet our ever changing society’s needs, where quality products can be eaten on the go. Café Van Houtte’s mission is to prepare hand-made products with natural foods. The company’s goal is to avoid additives and preservatives nowadays used in “prepared” and ”quick” meals served everywhere.