Moreh: Hipster cafés stealing spotlight from Mamak eateries
The 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.
IN the past, mamak restaurants or eateries operating late into the night were the go-to spots for ‘moreh’-a post-Tarawih meal where Muslims unwind after prayers.
Now, moreh destinations have diversified, with many hipster cafés, which typically close early, extending their hours until 2am, creating a new trend among young people.
A Bernama survey around the capital found that hipster cafés, offering desserts like cakes, pasta, and coffee in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere, are experiencing an unusual surge in customers from 10 pm 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.
Amirul Haziq Roslan, co-owner of Dojo Treats in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, said their café-run with his business partner Azim Omar-has had to add more tables and chairs to accommodate the influx of customers, especially on public holidays and weekends.
The 26-year old entrepreneur said that his café, which operates from 9pm until early morning, attracts customers of all age groups..
"Before Ramadan, most of our customers were Universiti Malaya students, but now, more members of the public have discovered our café and come for moreh with family and friends.
"Usually, each customer spends about one to two hours hanging out here, and we even extend our operating hours until 3 am if there’s still demand,” he told Bernama.
He added that aside from their bestselling drinks like Signature Chocolate, Strawberry Matcha, and Passion Fruit, cheesy wedges are also a hot favourite among customers looking for quick and tasty snacks.
Wan Nur Aqilah Shahirah Wan Lokman, 26, who enjoys going out for moreh after Tarawih prayers, 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,” said Qila, a radio presenter.
She prefers hipster cafés over mamak stalls, as they offer a smoke-free environment and aesthetic appeal that makes dining more enjoyable.
"Cafés usually have certain dos and don'ts, and as a woman, I naturally prefer beautiful and cosy places," she added.
For Nik Nur Najla Nik Zaid, 26, the hipster café moreh trend not only allows her to socialise with friends after work but also serves as a reward after performing Tarawih prayers.
"After Tarawih, I love going for sweet drinks and snacks at cafés because they offer more variety, a comfortable setting, and are open until early morning-which means we can moreh for longer,” she said. - BERNAMA
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