It all started with one shelf of spices and Middle Eastern goods. The need for Middle Eastern products in Albuquerque is what inspired the Aggad family to open Cafe Istanbul. Originally from Palestine, the Aggad’s moved to Columbus, Ohio before making their way to Albuquerque. Since the market’s opening, Cafe Istanbul has been an important part of the community. Customers have shown tremendous support to the Aggad family by bringing them flowers, thank you cards and hugs. “It’s really a blessing,” cafe owner Itadel Aggad said. “We are really blessed to know that people come and they care. We share stories, we share laughs, we share hugs in hard times like Trump’s (election). People would come and say ‘Can I have a hug?’ It means the world. Anytime you communicate with people, it’s the best feeling...and it makes you feel good that they are happy.”
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