The Trend of Cafés for Post-Tarawih Meals
In the past, mamak restaurants or eateries operating late into the night were the go-to spots for "moreh", a post-tarawih meal during which Muslims unwind after prayers. However, today, moreh locations have diversified, with many trendy cafés – which typically close early – extending their hours until 2am, creating a new trend among young people.
A Shift in preferences
A Bernama survey around the capital found that modern cafés, offering desserts like cakes, pasta, and coffee in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere, are experiencing an unusual surge in customers from 10pm onwards. Moreover, social media observations reveal that this trend has spread to major cities like Johor Bahru, Sungai Petani, and Port Dickson, where users across various platforms are sharing lively scenes of packed cafés, even in the late hours.
Cafés as a New Haven for Post-Tarawih Meals
Amirul Haziq Roslan, co-owner of Dojo Treats in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, said his café has had to add more tables and chairs to accommodate the influx of customers, especially on public holidays and weekends. The 26-year-old shared that his eatery, which operates from 9pm until early morning, attracts customers of all age groups. "Before Ramadan, most of our customers were university students, but now, more members of the public have discovered our café and come for moreh with family and friends," he told Bernama. "Usually, each customer spends about one to two hours hanging out here, and we even extend our operating hours until 3am if there’s demand."
Patrons’ Preferences
Some patrons prefer cafés as they offer a smoke-free environment and aesthetic appeal that makes dining more enjoyable. Wan Nur Aqilah Shahirah Wan Lokman, a radio presenter, enjoys going out for moreh after tarawih prayers and considers it a special annual tradition that is unique to Ramadan. "For me, moreh is a time to relax after prayers while enjoying light meals and bonding with family or friends. I also love trying out different moreh spots to explore new dishes," she said.
Nik Nur Najla Nik Zaid, also 26, moreh at cafés not only allows her to socialise with friends after work but also serves as a relaxing treat after tarawih prayers. "I love going for sweet drinks and snacks at cafés after tarawih because they offer more variety, a comfortable setting, and are open until early morning, which means we can moreh for longer," she said.
Conclusion
The trend of young Muslims choosing to spend time in trendy cafés after tarawih prayers is a reflection of the evolving preferences of this demographic. With the demand for moreh on the rise, cafés are adapting to meet this demand by extending their operating hours and offering a range of options to suit different tastes and preferences.
FAQs
Q: What is moreh?
A: Moreh is a post-tarawih meal during which Muslims unwind after prayers.
Q: What is the typical duration of a moreh?
A: It usually lasts one to two hours.
Q: Why do some people prefer cafés over mamak stalls?
A: Cafés offer a smoke-free environment and aesthetic appeal that makes dining more enjoyable.
Q: Can one expect to find a variety of options at cafés?
A: Yes, cafés often offer a range of desserts, pasta, coffee, and other options.