Kitab Cafe — Restaurant in Detroit

In the former Avalon Bakery space on Willis Street, where Detroiters once lined up for artisanal bread, a different kind of gathering place has emerged. Kitab Cafe, opened by Yemeni-American entrepreneurs Ahmed Alwhysee and Asma Almulaiki in February 2024, represents a new model of immigrant entrepreneurship in America's comeback cities. The couple, both in their twenties, quit their corporate jobs—he as an engineering project manager, she as a nonprofit case worker—to build what they call "the community we want to have." Their rapid expansion from a single Hamtramck location to three Detroit-area spots in less than two years signals both market demand and a deeper cultural shift.

Inside the sun-drenched Midtown location, the aesthetic strikes a careful balance. Industrial elements—charcoal brick, exposed black ceilings, navy hexagonal tile—meet warm wood displays showcasing everything from self-help titles to blue-spined Quran volumes. A handwritten sign offers "Free Quran - English and Spanish," complete with a community phone line. The menu reflects this cultural bridging, with La Colombe espresso drinks priced from $3 to $6.50 sitting alongside Adeni chai, a spiced Yemeni tea that Almulaiki curated from her childhood memories. The fully halal offerings include Zingerman's pastries and made-to-order sandwiches, while house-made syrups feature a signature five-spice blend.

"We wanted to open up a space that serves as a community space for like-minded individuals focused on personal growth, spiritually, emotionally, mentally," explains Almulaiki, whose vision extends beyond caffeine service. This activist stance manifests in Gaza solidarity messaging throughout the space, while the cafe has hosted documentary screenings and "uncommitted" voter discussions. During Ramadan, the original location stayed open past midnight to serve the fasting community—a business decision that doubled as cultural accommodation.

The business operates within Hamtramck's unique demographic transformation—reportedly America's first Muslim-majority city since 2013. As Yemeni immigrants have reshaped this former Polish enclave, second-generation entrepreneurs like Alwhysee and Almulaiki are scaling beyond ethnic enclaves into Detroit proper. Their expansion strategy reveals sophisticated market analysis, with the Willis Street location deliberately preserving elements from the building's pre-Avalon incarnation as Willis Gallery, while their newest venture, Rosette Market + Cafe in Corktown, addresses Detroit's food access challenges with extended hours and grocery services.

"I underestimated the need for a cafe in Hamtramck," Almulaiki admits. "Ever since we opened, we've been trying to catch up with our growth." With beverages priced competitively against major chains and food notably cheaper than many independents, Kitab has created approximately 15 jobs across locations. Their partnership with established suppliers—La Colombe for coffee, Zingerman's for pastries—ensures quality while supporting regional businesses. The rapid scaling suggests strong unit economics, though the owners declined to share specific financials.

Kitab Cafe exemplifies how immigrant entrepreneurs are reshaping American cities through cultural bridge-building rather than assimilation. By maintaining Islamic values and Yemeni traditions while serving Detroit's broader population, they've created a model for inclusive growth. As cities nationwide grapple with post-industrial reinvention, Kitab suggests that authentic community-building—rather than generic urban development—may offer more sustainable paths forward. In a city where demographic change often sparks tension, these young entrepreneurs are brewing something different: a space where differences become assets rather than divisions. For Detroit's revival narrative, that may prove more valuable than any...

Stepping into "Kitab Cafè," a charming Black-owned establishment tucked away on a cozy corner here in Detroit, feels like a warm embrace. From the moment you walk through the door, you're greeted by the inviting atmosphere and the friendly smiles of the staff. The space is vibrant yet welcoming, with local artwork adorning the walls and the soulful sounds of Black artists filling the air, creating a truly uplifting and culturally rich ambiance. But "Kitab Cafè" offers so much more than just a great vibe. Their menu boasts a delightful selection of expertly crafted coffee blends, alongside a diverse range of other beverages, they also feature a tempting array of teas, refreshing juices, and perhaps even some unique specialty drinks that I'm eager to try on my next visit. And let's not forget the delicious food! Kitab Cafè offers a tempting array of pastries and light bites, many with a flavorful Southern influence. I couldn't resist the sweet potato muffin, and it was moist, flavorful, and clearly made with care. I also noticed some enticing lunch options on the menu, making it a perfect spot for a midday treat as well. What truly sets "Kitab Cafè" apart is the genuine sense of community it fosters, underscored by the beautiful soundtrack of Black musical artistry. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, always ready with a recommendation or a friendly chat. You can tell that this isn't just a business; it's a labor of love and a vital gathering place for our Detroit neighborhood, where the rhythm of our culture is celebrated. Supporting "Kitab Cafè" means supporting a local dream and investing in a space that nourishes both the body and the soul right here in our city. Whether you're looking for a fantastic cup of coffee, a refreshing alternative, a tasty bite to eat, or simply a welcoming place to relax and connect to the heart and soul of Black music, Kitab Cafè is a must-visit...

Sandwich was good and my Matcha was good but I didn't like that I waited over half an hour for my sandwich. The girl that took my order and made my drink sat down and started eating her own food along with the other person working. I heard the oven go off in the back so I thought it was just taking a second for them to make it and I continued to do my work. After I started seeing other people who came after me who ordered food also while I still had not received mine was when I just decided to leave. The guy at the front was nice when I asked for a refund on my sandwich, and the girl who took my order went to the back to still make it even though I just wanted to leave. I have anxiety and worked in coffee shops before so I'm not the one to complain but the same girl took my order, made my drink but forgot I ordered a sandwich that fast. Nice place to study or get some work done, and my food and drink were really good as well but I won't...