Luxor Cafe: An Egyptian Oasis in Harvard Square for Ramadan

Luxor Cafe in Harvard Square embraces an Egyptian theme, serving late-night hours during Ramadan until 2 a.m. The venue offers a halal menu combining traditional Egyptian dishes with a community-centric environment. Found by Abdelrahman Hassan, Luxor aims to create an inclusive space, supporting various initiatives despite occasional backlash, emphasizing the importance of community support in its growth and operations.

Luxor Cafe, located at 148 Mount Auburn Street in Harvard Square, has transformed the ambiance to embrace an Egyptian theme and is poised to welcome patrons until 2 a.m. during Ramadan, which begins this Friday and concludes on March 29. Last year, Abdelrahman Hassan secured the lease during Ramadan, aiming to create an inviting space reminiscent of cafes in Egypt.

The former place of Darwin’s Ltd. has undergone a significant makeover, with walls now painted in soft sand tones and a striking design featuring hieroglyphics and a scarab beetle. The downstairs area serves a dual function as a prayer space, adorned with ornate lanterns and cushions that Hassan’s parents brought from Cairo, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Luxor’s menu is curated to comply with halal guidelines and includes a blend of iconic Darwin’s sandwiches along with Egyptian delicacies introduced by Hassan, such as kibda and hawawshi. Dish names often reflect Hassan’s personal connections, like the Baba sandwich and Sahra. The cafe also offers various community events, including soccer viewings and trivia nights, with Hassan emphasizing the importance of creating a space that unites people.

Recognizing the customs of Ramadan, patrons will gather at Luxor after sunset for Iftar following prayers. With late-night hours catering to these traditions, Hassan noted, “That prayer starts around like eightish and ends at 9:30, 10, maybe later,” acknowledging the cultural significance of social gatherings during this time.

Initially pursuing a career in dentistry, Hassan redirected his ambitions towards opening a cafe influenced by a mentor’s advice. After exploring numerous potential locations, he settled on the Mount Auburn site, eschewing his initial sterile design concept for a more vibrant, cafe-like ambiance upon his mentor’s guidance.

Throughout the renovations, Hassan dedicated himself tirelessly, working late into the night and returning early each day to oversee progress. Reflecting on this period, he said it was incredibly challenging, yet fulfilling, as he committed himself fully to establishing Luxor Cafe.

Despite concerns from local residents about noise surrounding requested extended hours, the License Commission ultimately approved Hassan’s petition for late-night operations. He expressed gratitude for the supportive relationships he has cultivated with city officials and community members, highlighting the importance of local support in achieving such initiatives.

Hassan’s family and community play an integral role in Luxor’s ongoing development. His relatives frequently offer feedback, and he values input from his employees, fostering a collaborative spirit within the cafe. Barista Sahra Ahmed noted her appreciation for the inclusive atmosphere at Luxor, where new ideas can flourish amid a vibrant community spirit.

While Luxor Cafe supports various causes, it has faced backlash for its stance on Palestinian liberation. Despite challenges, Hassan remains undeterred, attributing the cafe’s success to the overwhelming support from the community. He remarked on the communal bond shared at Luxor: “It takes a village for a cafe – more than a village.”

In summary, Luxor Cafe presents a unique blend of Egyptian culture and community spirit in Harvard Square, catering specifically to the needs of its patrons during Ramadan with extended hours. The establishment, founded by Abdelrahman Hassan, emphasizes inclusivity and camaraderie, striving to serve halal cuisine while fostering a warm environment for social gatherings. Despite facing challenges, Hassan’s commitment to community connection and cultural authenticity continues to drive Luxor’s success.

Original Source: www.cambridgeday.com