Yemeni Cafe Culture Flourishes in the US Amid Starbucks’ Challenges
A recent report by The National, a leading English-language newspaper based in the UAE, highlights a remarkable surge in Yemeni-themed cafes across the United States. These cafes are growing rapidly at a time when larger coffee chains like Starbucks are facing significant economic challenges.
As Starbucks grapples with declining sales and market value, Yemeni cafes are emerging as a key trend in American coffee culture. From the bustling streets of San Francisco to the quiet suburbs of Ohio, these cafes are quickly becoming popular destinations for coffee enthusiasts seeking unique flavors and cultural experiences.
Qahwah House, a franchise that has expanded to a dozen locations across the Midwest and Northeast, is leading this movement. In Dearborn, Michigan, where the franchise operates three branches, cafes are filled with customers of all ages from morning until late at night, offering spaces for studying, socializing, and relaxing.
Ibrahim Alhasbani, the owner of Qahwah House and an eighth-generation Yemeni coffee farmer, moved to Michigan in 2016. Observing the local passion for coffee, he recognized an opportunity to introduce high-quality Yemeni coffee to the American market. The first Qahwah House opened in 2017, and since then, the franchise has grown steadily, with further expansion plans in place.
The rise of Yemeni cafes comes as Starbucks faces mounting challenges, including public backlash over its perceived support for Israel and ongoing disputes with unions. These issues have contributed to an $11 billion loss in market value for the coffee giant in the US. Meanwhile, Yemeni cafes are capitalizing on this moment, offering an alternative that blends tradition with a modern coffeehouse experience.
Alhasbani’s journey into Yemeni coffee began in Dearborn, where he turned his dining room into a coffee lab, experimenting with various flavors and ingredients. Each Qahwah House branch in Dearborn caters to specific customer needs, from grab-and-go options to spaces designed for those who want to linger over a cup of coffee.
One of the most popular beverages at Qahwah House is Jubani coffee, named after the Yemeni city of Juban. This blend, featuring coffee bean husks, cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon, offers a distinctive taste that appeals to both Arab-American and broader American audiences.
As demand for Yemeni coffee grows, Qahwah House has expanded its operations to include a roastery, warehouse, and even a bakery. The franchise’s ambitious plans include increasing its number of locations to 25 by the end of the year and reaching 100 within the next five years. However, Alhasbani faces challenges in sourcing enough coffee beans from Yemen, where qat cultivation remains a more lucrative option for many farmers.
The National also highlights Delah Coffee, another Yemeni cafe chain that has established itself in the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded by Omar Jahamee and his uncle Majed, Delah Coffee opened its first branch two years ago and has since expanded to three locations, with further growth planned in Chicago.
Jahamee, originally from the Yemeni city of Rada’a, has been passionate about coffee since his teenage years and has worked to create a menu that balances traditional flavors with innovative offerings. The cafe’s beverages, which often include spices like nutmeg and cloves, have attracted a diverse customer base.
Despite the challenges of maintaining quality and navigating the complexities of the coffee market, Yemeni cafes in the US are poised for continued success. As demand for their unique offerings grows, these cafes are redefining the American coffee landscape, bringing the rich heritage of Yemeni coffee to a new audience.
