One of Bahrain’s most prominent entrepreneurs and the owner of one of the most popular cafes in the heart of Manama died yesterday morning, his family announced.
Haji Khalil, founder of the historic Haji Cafe in the Manama Suq, will be laid to rest this afternoon at 3.30pm at the Manama Cemetery in Hoora.
The family posted the sad news on their social media accounts yesterday. Condolences will be received for men and women at the Ma’atam Adliya starting tomorrow until Wednesday, 9am to 11.30am, and 3pm to 5.30pm.
He leaves behind six children, including sons Zuhair, Ahmed and Adel and three daughters.
Opened in the 1950s by Mr Khalil and wedged between two buildings, Haji Café has become a hit with tourists and is frequently visited by celebrities, including star chef Wolfgang Puck, Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima and unbeaten UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Over seven decades he transformed what was a modest shop into a significant heritage experience for citizens, residents and visitors alike.
With no fixed menu, the daily offerings varied, ranging from traditional breakfasts to hearty grills and a signature machboos.
“In recent years, it has become a space for different segments of society to reminisce daily life in old Manama, bringing images of simplicity, spontaneity and good memories,” said one loyal customer. “It has become a symbol of what is known today as the Zaman Al Taybeen (the time of good people).”
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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