Luxor Cafe: A Vibrant Egyptian-Inspired Community Hub in Harvard Square
Luxor Cafe in Harvard Square offers late-night hours during Ramadan, evoking the ambiance of Egyptian cafes. Owner Abdelrahman Hassan has revitalized the former Darwin’s Ltd. location into a community space with a halal menu blending sandwiches and Egyptian dishes. The cafe hosts varied events and encourages employee input, creating a unique atmosphere that supports neighborhood connections despite facing political challenges. Hassan’s gratitude underscores the vital community support that has propelled Luxor’s success.
Luxor Cafe in Harvard Square, reminiscent of Egyptian cafes, is set to accommodate patrons until 2 a.m. throughout Ramadan, commencing on Friday and concluding on March 29. The cafe, located at 148 Mount Auburn St., previously housed Darwin’s Ltd. for over three decades, but has transformed its aesthetic from Darwin’s bright colors to sandy tones, complete with hieroglyphics and comfortable prayer spaces. The menu features halal food, blending Darwin’s iconic sandwiches with Egyptian specialties introduced by owner Abdelrahman Hassan, such as kibda and hawawshi, with several items named after family members.
Luxor Cafe serves as a community hub, hosting events like soccer watch parties, poetry slams, and trivia nights, aimed at creating a social space free from alcohol. Hassan emphasizes the importance of fostering a community environment akin to those he cherishes from Egypt. During Ramadan, Muslims typically refrain from consuming food and drink from dawn until sunset, making the 2 a.m. closing time a vital consideration, although some might wish for extended hours.
With dreams of entrepreneurship in a cafe, Hassan shifted from a dental career to real estate, ultimately deciding to open Luxor based on recommendations from business mentors. After extensive searching and considerable renovations, he created an inviting atmosphere, moving away from a sterile interior to one reflective of its culture. Hassan dedicated countless hours to establishing the cafe and emphasizes his daily commitment to its success.
Following approval from the License Commission for extended hours, Luxor Cafe faced initial community challenges regarding noise levels due to late hours previously set at 10 p.m. The support received from city officials, including from former mayor Sumbul Siddiqui, played a significant role in gaining the authorization to operate until 2 a.m. during Ramadan.
Hassan continuously seeks to enhance Luxor’s brand alongside family and customer involvement, with contributions from friends and family fostering a strong sense of belonging within the cafe. Employees value the inclusive atmosphere that encourages input on various operational aspects, differentiating Luxor from larger, more corporate establishments. College organizations such as Students for Justice in Palestine frequently utilize the space, reflecting the cafe’s commitment to catering to diverse community needs, even in the face of criticism related to its political stances.
Hassan recognizes the vital role of the community in Luxor’s establishment and success, expressing gratitude for the support that has sustained the cafe’s journey over the past year. He encapsulates the essence of the cafe’s growth by stating, “It takes a village to raise a child? It takes a village for a cafe – more than a village.”
In summary, Luxor Cafe in Harvard Square emerges as a vibrant community hub, beautifully blending Egyptian cultural influences with modern cafe elements. The establishment’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment, particularly during Ramadan with extended hours, highlights its commitment to serving the community. Owner Abdelrahman Hassan’s emphasis on family involvement and inclusive practices further reinforces the cafe’s role as a cherished gathering space, celebrating the diverse social dynamics in Cambridge.
Original Source: www.cambridgeday.com
