Luxor Cafe: A Ramadan Oasis in Harvard Square

Luxor Cafe in Harvard Square opens until 2 a.m. during Ramadan, offering halal Egyptian dishes alongside local favorites. Owner Abdelrahman Hassan aims to create a communal space similar to cafes in Egypt. Despite initial challenges, he has fostered a welcoming atmosphere that supports community engagement and inclusivity, with various events hosted at the cafe.

Luxor Cafe in Harvard Square will remain open until 2 a.m. during Ramadan, starting Friday and ending March 29. Owner Abdelrahman Hassan finalized the cafe’s establishment during last year’s Ramadan, aiming to create an atmosphere reminiscent of Egyptian cafes. The location, at 148 Mount Auburn St., previously housed Darwin’s Ltd. for over 30 years but has since been revamped with sand-colored walls, deep brown floors, and hieroglyphics adorning the largest wall.

The cafe’s menu is halal, featuring a blend of Darwin’s familiar sandwiches and Egyptian dishes such as kibda and hawawshi, with many items named after family members, like the Baba sandwich. Luxor hosts a variety of community events including sports watch parties, poetry slams, and trivia nights. Hassan emphasizes creating a space that fosters community interactions, saying, “I wanted something to bring people together.”

During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset, making late-night hours important for enjoying meals after Iftar. Hassan acknowledges that 2 a.m. might still feel early for some, but recognizes the need for rest as well. His aim is to reinforce community ties through a welcoming atmosphere that deviates from the typical liquor-centric venues.

Initially, Hassan envisioned a future in dentistry, setting aside $80,000 for dental school. However, guided by mentor Ibrahim Ibrahim, he shifted to opening a cafe, utilizing his savings to establish a welcoming eatery. After searching extensively for a suitable location, he chose the Mount Auburn site, transforming it into a vibrant community hub through long hours spent on renovations and menu planning.

Despite concerns from neighbors regarding noise, Hassan’s request for extended hours during Ramadan was approved unanimously by the city council, thanks in part to positive relationships established with local officials. He expressed gratitude for receiving community support, stating, “I mean, looking a year back, it’s crazy, like, Alhamdulillah, and so blessed to make it this far.”

Hassan continues to develop Luxor’s brand, involving family members and friends in the process, showcasing collaborative creativity in menu and branding decisions. Staff report a pleasant work atmosphere where their input is valued, reflected in the cafe’s unique offerings. College groups often meet at Luxor, highlighting its role as a space for community engagement beyond traditional settings, despite facing some negative backlash for their public support of Palestinian liberation.

Luxor Cafe has transformed Harvard Square into a vibrant community space, particularly during Ramadan, by extending its hours to accommodate Iftar. Owner Abdelrahman Hassan’s vision centers around fostering togetherness without alcohol, with a menu that combines local and Egyptian flavors. The cafe’s approval for late-night hours reflects community support, and its innovative environment encourages collaboration and inclusivity among its patrons and staff.

Original Source: www.cambridgeday.com