Yemeni Coffee Houses Grow in Philadelphia as Demand Rises for Alcohol-Free Spaces

A new wave of Yemeni coffee shops is taking root in the city, offering late-night gathering spots without alcohol and introducing many to an ancient coffee tradition.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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A new wave of Yemeni coffee houses is growing in Philadelphia, offering residents a late-night gathering spot without alcohol and introducing many to one of the world's oldest coffee traditions. Haraz Coffee House, which opened a franchise in the city last April, is part of this expansion, with co-owner Hamza Shaikh saying he and his wife were the first to bring a Yemeni coffee shop to Philadelphia, showcasing beans from Yemen - the first nation on record to roast and brew coffee. The shops serve as a cultural reflection of the owners' Middle Eastern roots and provide an alternative to nightlife centered around clubs and bars.

Why it matters

The rise of Yemeni coffee houses in Philadelphia reflects a growing demand for alcohol-free social spaces, particularly among younger generations. These establishments offer a welcoming environment for people to gather, connect, and experience a unique cultural tradition, filling a void in the city's nightlife landscape.

The details

Haraz Coffee House locations in University City and Fishtown stay open until 10 p.m. and midnight, respectively, and Shaikh said lines often stretch out the door. Customers are looking for a place where they can feel comfortable and belong, with Shaikh noting that "people want to belong, people want to just feel comfortable with who they are. So, having a third space, a true third space coffee shop where you could come in, enjoy yourself, and not have anyone really question who you are is what was needed."

  • Haraz Coffee House opened a franchise in Philadelphia in April 2025.
  • Philadelphia saw several Yemeni coffee shops open in 2025, with more expected in 2026 as the trend continues to grow.

The players

Hamza Shaikh

The co-owner of Haraz Coffee House, who says he and his wife were the first to bring a Yemeni coffee shop to Philadelphia.

Haraz Coffee House

A Yemeni coffee shop that opened a franchise in Philadelphia in April 2025, part of a growing wave of such establishments in the city.

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What they’re saying

“There's definitely a moment right now, because many businesses, men and women are seeing this void and the need to fill it. But I think this is also a movement to show that, you know, all of us want something more than what is being offered in the community.”

— Hamza Shaikh, Co-owner, Haraz Coffee House (6abc.com)

“People want to belong, people want to just feel comfortable with who they are. So, having a third space, a true third space coffee shop where you could come in, enjoy yourself, and not have anyone really question who you are is what was needed.”

— Hamza Shaikh, Co-owner, Haraz Coffee House (6abc.com)

What’s next

The growth of Yemeni coffee houses in Philadelphia is expected to continue, with more new establishments anticipated to open in 2026 as the demand for alcohol-free social spaces persists.

The takeaway

The rise of Yemeni coffee houses in Philadelphia reflects a broader cultural shift, as younger generations seek out spaces that align with their values and provide a sense of community. These establishments not only introduce a unique coffee tradition but also offer an alternative to nightlife centered around alcohol, meeting a growing need for inclusive, welcoming social spaces.