The Rise of Yemeni Coffee in America

December 01, 2025 • Read in 5 minutes

Dear Hyphenly Readers, 

The Guardian labeled Gen Z “generation sensible.” Others are calling them “sober curious.” This is because Gen Z have ditched night clubs and bars to make way Pilates and book clubs. And the effects have been felt all over (even we did an episode on Pilates earlier this year). 53% Americans believe that even moderate drinking is harmful and therefore, alcohol sales have been falling.

So, what’s changed in consumption habits? Coffee. That’s right; the hot beverage that starts your day is a whopping 376-billion-dollar industry. Gen Z has started drinking coffee at the early age of 15 and this consumption is redefining café culture in the US.

It is perhaps to no one’s surprise that Yemini coffee is becoming popular all over the US.

Qahwa House, a shop in Manhattan’s West Village offers the scents of cardamon and ginger with a side of Arab music. The coffee shop opened first in Detroit in a Muslim majority area and has since expanded to seven states in the country. According to CNN there are nineteen Qahwa House locations in the US right now, with many more set to open. This new age of café chains is providing a “third-space” option to young consumers today.

Coffee beans originated in Ethiopia and appeared in Yemen through trading routes where it was first cultivated. When Arab immigrants came to the Detroit area, they wanted coffee shops where they could socialize and exchange stories. Now Yemeni cafes are entering the American mainstream. Qahwah House founder, Ibrahim Alhasbani immigrated from Yemen to New York in 2011 and is the eighth generation of a coffee farming family. 

Many like the aromatic chocolate taste of Yemini coffee beans. Others like the vibes and desserts. So, if you’re looking to try out your local Yemini café, Hyphenly has got your back. Here are our top 3 picks.

ADENI CHAI

Adeni Chai is a black tea mixed with cardamon and nutmeg. If you enjoy an aromatic strong tea, this one’s for you. If you’re not a tea person, try Mowafar Coffee which blends medium roast coffee with cinnamon, cardamon, and ginger.

PISTACHIO LATTE 

Order this if you like a bold nutty flavor but with a familiar feeling. Or try it out if you went all out with the Dubai chocolate trend – we promise, this does not disappoint.

HONEYCOMB BREAD

Khaliat Nahal or honeycomb bread is a soft bread filled with cheese balls and drizzled with honey. Perfect for when you want a dessert that’s not too sweet but full of flavor.

So, what are your favorite coffee spots? Reply to this email and we will feature your answers on Instagram.

Until next time,

Team Hyphenly

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This newsletter was curated by Suhasini Patni.

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Hyphenly curates the latest news, art, and businesses from immigrants around the world. Have a tip or story we should feature? We’d love to hear from you.