Mintish Coffee House brings Palestinian heritage and community connection to Capitol Hill

Mintish, a new Levantine-inspired coffee shop, has opened at 515 Harvard Ave E in Capitol Hill, Seattle, marking a significant cultural initiative by Palestinian-American owners Mahmoud and Nano Farajallah and Abdullah Alabed. The trio transformed the former Bauhaus space, relying on community support for renovations, which included custom builds and artwork. The cafe's menu features popular items like grilled cheese with za’atar and traditional Middle Eastern teas, echoing their heritage and family traditions. Mahmoud Farajallah noted the importance of their cultural representation, especially during challenging times in Palestine. The brothers chose Capitol Hill for its reputation as a supportive community, receiving warm encouragement from neighbors during their preparations.

One memorable moment included a cashier from a supply store who promised to visit and became one of their first customers. Mintish aims to foster understanding and connection through its offerings, as it fills a gap for Levantine coffee shops in Washington. The cafe's design incorporates elements reflective of their culture, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.