Sayfani Coffee House: Authentic Yemeni Coffee and Culture in North Texas

At Sayfani Coffee House, coffee is more than just a beverage. It’s a universal language that connects people, tells stories, and celebrates heritage. Founded in 2023 by entrepreneurs Omar Ahmed and Abdallah Abdullah, Sayfani has quickly become a beloved community hub in North Texas, bringing authentic Yemeni coffee to the Dallas metro area. 

In this article, we share the Texas Coffee School graduates’ success story as they’re on their way to opening a third North Texas location–from Allen to Coppell to Sachse. 

The Story Behind Sayfani Coffee House

Omar’s love affair with coffee is deeply rooted in his Yemeni heritage. “Coffee is just like water to us,” he shared with our team on a recent visit. But Omar’s path to opening Sayfani wasn’t a straight line. Before diving into the coffee world, he ran a restaurant. That all changed after a visit to a friend’s coffee shop, where Omar felt an instant spark. “I enjoyed it more than my own restaurant,” he recalled. The idea to open his own coffee shop took hold.

Even Experienced Restaurant Owners Need Coffee Education

When Omar signed up for Texas Coffee School, Sayfani was still under construction, and he quickly realized that the knowledge he’d gained at his restaurant, while a solid foundation, was just the beginning. 

“Everything I thought I knew, I didn’t know,” he admitted. But thanks to the hands-on training and expert guidance, Omar says his investment in Texas Coffee School’s 3-Day Coffee Business Master Class® was worth every penny. 

“The information you get, you’ll pay two or three times to get that information,” he says. “It’s best for entrepreneurs, people who want to work for themselves eventually, or people that just love coffee.”

What Makes Sayfani Coffee House Unique?

Sayfani offers a distinct Yemeni coffee experience that includes traditional blends infused with cardamom and rich, aromatic spices. The Dallas Observer praises Sayfani’s menu for its vibrant, authentic offerings. Their menu features specialty drinks like:

• Sayfani latte: With honey, cardamom, and cinnamon
• Erda chai latte: with caramel and cream
• Turkish coffee: with cardamom
• Royal qahwa: Light roast, cardamom, saffron
• Middle Eastern teas: Including Yemeni and Adani varieties

Sayfani also offers an assortment of authentic Middle Eastern pastries, such as:

• Honeycomb bread drizzled with honey and sesame seeds
• Pistachio and saffron cakes soaked in rich condensed milk
• Coconut-rose-water cake and date cake with cardamom

How Sayfani Coffee House Became a Community Hub

Sayfani isn’t just a coffee shop; it’s a space that fosters connection and belonging. As highlighted in Texas Monthly, Yemeni coffeehouses in Texas have become vital “third spaces” for Muslim communities and beyond, providing an alcohol-free environment that’s often open late. 

Omar shared with Texas Monthly, “As Muslim youth, we never had a place to get together, so now the coffee spots are our place.” Sayfani embraces this mission by welcoming families and individuals to enjoy great coffee, traditional snacks, and warm hospitality.

Customer Praise: What People Are Saying About Sayfani

Customers frequently praise Sayfani’s inviting atmosphere and delicious offerings. One reviewer raved, “The pistachio latte was amazing. The decor is really beautiful and the customer service was phenomenal. They were very patient and welcoming.”

Sayfani also excels outside the café with a professional coffee cart service for events. Another satisfied client said, “They did an AMAZING job at my clinic open house. Very professional and organized… Their coffee was excellent, and the cart was such a cool aesthetic touch. HIGHLY recommend!”

Why Sayfani’s Yemeni Coffee Concept is Thriving in Texas

Originally from Buffalo, New York, and Dearborn, Michigan, where the Yemeni coffee shop culture flourished, Omar chose Texas to plant new roots. It was the right move, as Yemeni coffee shops are currently thriving in North Texas. 

We’ve written profiles on former students at Arwa Yemeni Coffee and De Ra as well. Though each of these coffee shops offers Yemeni flavors, they are unique in the way they deliver this concept to customers. With different takes on the atmosphere, aesthetic, and menu, what these shops each have in common, according to their regulars, is over-the-top customer service, attention to detail, and creating an incredible ambiance that pulls in customers of all backgrounds. 

Those elements are combined with out-of-this world flavors that feel like home to the middle eastern communities while feeling novel to those who have never experienced Yemeni coffee. 

With locations in Allen and Coppell, and plans for expansion to Sachse, Sayfani Coffee House continues to grow as a beloved spot for authentic Yemeni coffee and community connection in North Texas.

How to Start a Coffee House like Sayfani at Texas Coffee School

It all starts in our 3-Day Coffee Business Master Class®. Whether you’re a seasoned restaurant professional like Omar or brand new to the industry, start your coffee shop with our turn-key education. Sign up for the next available class. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Sayfani Coffee House

What type of coffee does Sayfani Coffee House serve?

Sayfani Coffee House specializes in traditional Yemeni coffee blends, including cardamom-spiced Arabic Qahwa and thick Turkish coffee. They also offer Middle Eastern teas and modern lattes.

Where is Sayfani Coffee House located?

Sayfani has locations in Allen and Coppell, Texas, with a new location coming soon to Sachse.

What desserts are available at Sayfani Coffee House?

Sayfani serves a wide variety of Middle Eastern pastries, including pistachio cake, saffron cake, coconut-rose-water cake, date cake, and authentic honeycomb bread filled with cheese and drizzled with honey.

Does Sayfani offer catering or a mobile coffee cart?

Yes! Sayfani offers a professional mobile coffee cart service for events, complete with custom drink menus and beautiful presentation.

How did Texas Coffee School help Omar Ahmed start Sayfani Coffee House?

Omar says Texas Coffee School helped him go from an idea to a successful business. The program taught him essential coffee and business skills, saving him time, money, and costly mistakes.