Qahwah House traces its origins to the coffee-growing highlands of Yemen, where the Al-Hasbani family has cultivated Arabica beans for over eight generations.1 Founded by Ibrahim Alhasbani in 2017, the café reflects his deep familiarity with coffee traditions developed from a young age. This background shaped both his technical knowledge and his appreciation for coffee’s cultural role in Yemeni society. Qahwah House blends traditional preparation methods with modern techniques, creating drinks that remain authentic while appealing to a broader audience. Today, it has expanded to over 30 cafés across the United States, continuing to share Yemeni culture through coffee.
Coffee holds significant historical and cultural value in Yemen. Although it originated in Ethiopia, Yemen was among the first regions to cultivate and trade coffee across the Red Sea.2 The word “qahwah,” meaning coffee in Arabic, reflects its central role in daily life. Beyond its functional purpose, coffee serves as a symbol of hospitality and respect, often shared during social gatherings. Qahwah House carries this tradition forward by emphasizing quality and cultural experience rather than speed, offering drinks that are less common in typical American coffee chains.
The atmosphere shifts throughout the day. During the mornings and afternoons, it provides a quiet environment for studying, often accompanied by traditional Yemeni music. In the evenings, the space becomes more lively, filled with conversation among diverse communities, including many young Muslims and Middle Eastern visitors.3 With warm lighting and comfortable seating, the café encourages people to stay.
Through repeated visits, it has become a space I associate with both productivity and connection, whether studying alone or introducing friends to new drinks.
Where passion meets pour: Qahwah House, rooted in Yemeni tradition, offers a space where culture, community, and centuries-old coffee practices come together, allowing visitors to experience the deeper meaning and heritage behind every cup.
Campus: College of Staten Island
Professor: Jane Marcus Delgado
Location: 8602 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209.
References:
Ramishah Maruf, and Monica Haider. 2024. “What the Rising Popularity of Yemeni Coffee Shops Says about Third Places.” CNN. October 26, 2024. https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/26/business/yemeni-coffee-shops-us-popularity/index.htm.
“Qahwah – Qahwah House.” 2024. Qahwahhouse.com. 2024. https://qahwahhouse.com/.
- “Qahwah – Qahwah House.” 2024. Qahwahhouse.com. 2024. https://qahwahhouse.com/. ↩︎
- Ramishah Maruf, and Monica Haider. 2024. “What the Rising Popularity of Yemeni Coffee Shops Says about Third Places.” CNN. October 26, 2024. https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/26/business/yemeni-coffee-shops-us-popularity/index.htm. ↩︎
- Ramishah Maruf, and Monica Haider. 2024. “What the Rising Popularity of Yemeni Coffee Shops Says about Third Places.” CNN. October 26, 2024. https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/26/business/yemeni-coffee-shops-us-popularity/index.htm. ↩︎
