Charlotte Embraces the Rise of Yemeni Coffee Culture with New Cafes

Charlotte Welcomes a New Wave of Yemeni Coffee Culture

In the vibrant city of Charlotte, North Carolina, coffee lovers are in for a treat. With an ever-growing food scene that offers something for everyone, a delightful new trend has emerged: Yemeni-owned coffee shops! These cafes are more than just spots for a caffeine fix; they’re vibrant community hubs serving up Middle Eastern-style coffee and food that captures a rich heritage.

A Coffee Revolution

2024 marked the arrival of Haraz, the first in a line of Yemeni coffee shops, nestled along Central Avenue. This cafe has quickly become a staple of the Charlotte late-night scene, with folks lining up day and night to sip on their remarkable brews. Following in its footsteps is Qahwah House, which opened its doors on Pecan Avenue in December. The highly anticipated Bayt Almocha is set to debut in 2025, bringing even more excitement to coffee aficionados.

So, what’s the connection here? All three establishments share a strong bond: they are Yemeni-owned and proudly showcase a coffee culture rooted in history. Many of their ties trace back to Dearborn, Michigan, an area recognized for its bustling Arab-American population. Saeed Saleh, owner of Haraz, pointed out, “That’s where Haraz started, in Michigan.”

The Heart of Charlotte’s Coffee Scene

Charlotte may not have quite the same make-up as Dearborn (where Middle Eastern or North African ancestry makes up a whopping 54% of the population), but it has its own unique charm that draws a diverse crowd. Recently ranked 9th in WalletHub’s 2024 Most Diverse Cities in the U.S., Charlotte is rapidly growing and evolving, with coffee culture leading the way.

“We wanted to share something different with Charlotte residents,” explained Saleh. “It’s a unique coffee shop experience that the city doesn’t offer.” When you step foot into Haraz, you’re greeted with a selection that extends beyond traditional Yemeni fare—think sweet pistachio lattes and mouthwatering pastries like Dubai chocolates and milk cakes.

The Unique Flavors of Yemen

Moving over to Qahwah House, the vibe is equally welcoming. Sulaiman Abidu, the franchise owner and a UNC-Charlotte student, aims to create a cozy late-night gathering spot. “Outside of bars, nothing really stays open past 9 p.m.,” he said, recognizing a gap in Charlotte’s nightlife. At Qahwah House, patrons can indulge in Yumeni coffee that is roasted right on-site, alongside delectable treats like Khaliat Al Nahl, a honey-drizzled dessert made from soft rolls filled with butter and cheese.

What makes Yemeni coffee so special? For Mohamed Ahmed, the corporate marketing manager at Qahwah House, it’s all about the flavor. “Yemeni coffee has an undertone of a chocolatey flavor,” he explained. The country has been cultivating coffee since the 12th century, and it’s from here that the world’s coffee craze really began. Who would have thought a simple cup could provide such a rich taste of history?

A Gathering Place

While many coffee shops cater to solo customers glued to their laptops, the vibe at Haraz and Qahwah House is refreshingly different. “This is where we naturally gather to socialize,” Saleh shared. “You won’t see many phones out; people are engaged in real conversations.” Abidu echoed this sentiment, explaining that Qahwah House aims to fill Charlotte’s social space. “I felt like it was missing, and we’re proud to bring that to the city,” he said.

If you’re a newcomer to Middle Eastern coffee, both locations have some fantastic recommendations. At Haraz, the Adeni tea—a black tea brewed with cream and cardamom—provides an authentic introduction to Middle Eastern flavors. Or you can try the Harazi Mufawar, a luxurious Yemeni coffee that’s blended with cream and cardamom. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!

Final Thoughts

Charlotte is buzzing with a culinary excitement that’s hard to ignore, and Yemeni coffee shops are taking the city by storm. Whether you choose to sip on their delightful coffee during the day or experience the late-night buzz, there’s a warm cup waiting for everyone in this city that truly embraces its diverse fabric.

If you haven’t yet stopped by Haraz or Qahwah House, or if you’re eagerly marking your calendar for Bayt Almocha, consider this your official invite to dive into an experience that’s rich in history and flavor. Grab a friend, bring a book, or settle in for leisurely chats, because in Charlotte, the coffee culture is brewing like never before!