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Reviving Yemen’s Coffee Culture in the U.S.

A growing number of Yemeni coffee shops across the United States are elevating coffee culture by combining exquisite aesthetics with rich traditional flavors. These establishments often feature spacious, beautifully designed interiors with comfortable seating, offering an inviting atmosphere for customers. At these locations, Yemeni coffee beans are roasted on-site and served in elegant glass or ceramic cups, frequently accompanied by sweet, fluffy honeycomb breads and an assortment of traditional pastries.

The beverage menu typically includes Jubani, a unique concoction that incorporates coffee and coffee cherry husk, seasoned with cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon. Another specialty is Mofawar, a delightful coffee served with cardamom and cream. Additionally, Qishr, a drink made from steeped coffee cherry husks flavored with ginger and cinnamon, as well as Adeni chai, a blend of Yemeni black tea, cardamom, nutmeg, and milk, are commonly found.

Yemeni coffee shops place a strong emphasis on visual appeal, with interiors that capture the essence of Yemen. The design elements often include earthy tones, intricately tiled walls, decorative tableware, and ample plush seating, contributing to an atmosphere that reflects Yemeni culture. “Our coffeehouses differ significantly from regular cafes; they are created to be luxurious and aesthetically pleasing, designed to offer a family-friendly space that promotes social gatherings late into the night,” shared entrepreneur Almatrahi. In Texas, and more recently in Illinois, Alwa Coffee mirrors this aesthetic with designs such as geometric inlays inspired by the Queen Arwa Mosque, one of Yemen’s oldest mosques.

Almatrahi, who has deep personal ties to Yemen, stated, “Growing up in Yemen, coffee and tea have always been central to our daily routines.” He emphasized the communal aspect of Yemeni society, where meals and social activities are enjoyed together, reinforcing the idea that coffee and tea are staples in family gatherings.

Ibrahim Alhasbani, founder of Qahwah House, immigrated to the U.S. from Yemen in 2011 and opened a pioneering Yemeni coffee shop in Dearborn, Michigan, which is known for its diverse Arab and Muslim community. He reflects, “As the eighth generation in a coffee-farming family, I grew up believing that Yemen produces the finest coffee in the world.” However, he noted the unfortunate reality that many in the West were unaware of Yemen’s rich coffee history and cultural significance.

While Ethiopia is often credited as the birthplace of coffee, historical accounts indicate that Yemen was the original site of coffee cultivation, as detailed by World Coffee Research. Alhasbani pointed out that even the word “mocha,” synonymous with quality coffee today, has its origins from the coffee exported from Mokha port in Yemen.

“My goal is to restore awareness of Yemen’s vital role in the coffee industry,” Alhasbani stated, and his ambitions are evident. He currently oversees 26 coffee houses across the country, with aspirations of expanding to 100 locations by 2027.

Unlike mainstream coffee chains such as Starbucks and Tim Hortons, which Alhasbani describes as prioritizing quick sales over the rich cultural experience of coffee, his venture aims to encapsulate the essence of Yemeni coffee culture. He explained that the uniqueness of Yemeni coffee lies in its naturally sweet and chocolatey flavor profile, paired with low acidity, setting it apart in the crowded coffee marketplace.

Source
www.bonappetit.com