Alison McLean
Audio By Carbonatix
Over the past decade, the U.S. has experienced a slow but powerful emergence of Yemeni cafes. Cafes and franchises are expanding nationwide. North Texas is no different. These spaces are most notable for traditional Yemeni drinks, specialty coffees, honeycomb bread, and, perhaps most uniquely, late-night hours.
These cafés have become quintessential third spaces in North Texas’ burgeoning cafe scene, welcoming aunts and uncles discussing the latest family news late into the night or busy professionals working remotely. These are also great spaces for coffee lovers to discover something new. The character of each lies in both the atmosphere and the menu, rooted in tradition and featuring specialty coffee from Yemen or Ethiopia (pre-tariffs).
A Quick Guide to Traditional Yemeni Drinks
Named after the port city of Aden, Adeni chai is a fragrant black tea brewed with evaporated milk. Mowafar, a dark roast with evaporated milk, may be an acquired taste, but it rewards the palate after a few sips. Conversely, Jubani coffee, infused with warm spices, provides a lighter alternative. For a less caffeinated drink, try Qishr, a drink made from coffee husks, ginger and spices.
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7 Yemeni Cafes in North Texas
Sayfani
817 MacArthur Blvd., Coppell
Sayfani’s has a lot to boast about despite its small size. The owner is just as proud of his single-origin specialty Ethiopian and Yemeni coffee beans as he is of hosting programs for a local mosque. This spot is known for its signature house latte and fragrant Adeni chai, but don’t shy away from trying their unique, high-quality matcha. They have a majlis, or traditional Arabic sofas, situated in front of a slab, and their design blends modern elements with elegant gold accents. Guests can enjoy chai, unwind, or work in Sayfani’s relaxed, less-crowded area.
Qamarhiah
1601 E Debbie Lane Ste 1111, Mansfield
There’s always a friendly face to greet you with a “Salam.” The white walls and large windows create a bright environment. Qamariah has a variety of seating options to accommodate guests. Near a coffee mural is a traditional red majlis with indents showing just how loved the seats are. Although the cafe offers many great drinks, we recommend the iced pistachio latte, which is made with pistachio sauce, and the honey cake is a must-try.
Arwa Coffee
7763 N MacArthur Blvd, Unit 375, Irving
Arwa has opened its second, larger location at MacArthur Park in Irving. High ceilings, geometric arches, and wicker lampshades create a laid-back, modern ambiance while Sami Yusuf’s instrumental drifts through the air. Perhaps the tan, color-blocked majlis best captures Arwa’s blend of modern touches with Middle Eastern influences. On the main floor, older uncles and aunties gather to talk about politics, while students study on the majlis. Don’t forget to check out the merch wall featuring Yemeni-themed candles, honey, coloring books and more.
Haraz Coffee House
10009 N. MacArthur Blvd, Irving
The largest cafe on our list, Haraz is adorned with light fixtures and beautiful wooden artistry on the walls. At any given time, people are working quietly or sitting around and talking with friends. At night, one can see the luminous fixtures from afar. Their most popular items include the honeycomb bread with cream cheese fillings and a drizzle of honey and the new Dubai chocolate cheesecake.
Port Coffee
411 E Royal Lane Ste 130 Irving
Port Coffee is the latest addition to the cafe scene. They have an extensive bakery section with sweet and savory items. The spinach and artichoke roll is a great savory option and the mango dragonfruit refresher for those with an extra sweet tooth. Amenities at Port include a conference room and a dedicated prayer space. They also house jewelry and other merchandise by Habibi Heritage.
Original Mocha Coffee House
222 E. Farm To, Murphy
For those on the outskirts of Dallas, don’t fret. The Original Mocha Coffee House in Murphy is a bright space with a distinct orange hue that complements the muted tones of the space. Besides the OM Signature Latte, there’s a Rose Velvet Latte not found on other menus on this list, as well as a Virgin Mojito. They also serve Dubai chocolate strawberries and cheesecake alongside the traditional Sabaya, a favorite made with layered pastry and butter. They’ve also got a fun sense of humor.
Qahwa House
8880 State Highway 121 Ste 164, McKinney
Qahwah House originally opened in 2017 in Michigan, inspiring the rise of Yemeni Cafes we see now. Since then, they have opened multiple locations across the nation. A signature of the franchise is a wooden world map, the size of an entire wall, that illustrates the coffee trade.
