Newcomer to Midtown, Rahha Café, promises a comforting oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown Detroit. The brainchild of three Wayne State University alumni – Fadel Al-Marsoumi, Ramzy Aiyash, and Farook Salah – this Middle Eastern-inspired café is set to bring a much-needed slice of Yemeni culture to the neighborhood.
Located inside the Hannan Center at 4750 Woodward Avenue, Rahha Café is designed to be an inclusive space where students, workers, and locals can gather for affordable breakfast and lunch options. The founders aimed to create a modern brunch spot that blends the rich flavors of the Middle East with Detroit's signature comfort food.
The café's menu is focused on Yemeni coffee – a bold, 500-year-old tradition known for its distinct taste and aroma – as well as Adeni chai, spiced Arabica beans dried in the sun to bring out their chocolatey undertones. Fans of traditional American fare will also find pancakes and waffles on the menu.
According to Al-Marsoumi, "Yemeni coffee is not just a drink, it's an experience." He hopes that Rahha Café will become a welcoming spot for faculty, staff, and neighbors from across Midtown to come together over a cup of coffee or a quick bite. The café seats about 70 diners inside the Hannan Center, a space previously occupied by Mediterranean and soul food restaurants.
The grand opening celebration is set for November 17th from noon to 2 pm, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12:30 pm. As the founders explain, "We're not trying to cater to an extravagant model where prices are very expensive." Their goal is to create a cozy atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and included.
Rahha Café is set to bring a taste of Yemeni hospitality to Midtown, and with its commitment to affordability and community engagement, it promises to become a cherished gathering spot for years to come.
Located inside the Hannan Center at 4750 Woodward Avenue, Rahha Café is designed to be an inclusive space where students, workers, and locals can gather for affordable breakfast and lunch options. The founders aimed to create a modern brunch spot that blends the rich flavors of the Middle East with Detroit's signature comfort food.
The café's menu is focused on Yemeni coffee – a bold, 500-year-old tradition known for its distinct taste and aroma – as well as Adeni chai, spiced Arabica beans dried in the sun to bring out their chocolatey undertones. Fans of traditional American fare will also find pancakes and waffles on the menu.
According to Al-Marsoumi, "Yemeni coffee is not just a drink, it's an experience." He hopes that Rahha Café will become a welcoming spot for faculty, staff, and neighbors from across Midtown to come together over a cup of coffee or a quick bite. The café seats about 70 diners inside the Hannan Center, a space previously occupied by Mediterranean and soul food restaurants.
The grand opening celebration is set for November 17th from noon to 2 pm, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12:30 pm. As the founders explain, "We're not trying to cater to an extravagant model where prices are very expensive." Their goal is to create a cozy atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and included.
Rahha Café is set to bring a taste of Yemeni hospitality to Midtown, and with its commitment to affordability and community engagement, it promises to become a cherished gathering spot for years to come.