In the world of specialty coffee, stories of passion and perseverance often brew the richest flavors. Mohamed A. Al Zaharna, a Palestinian entrepreneur now based in Turkey, transformed his personal love for coffee into Mariam Coffee, an emerging brand born out of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Named after his stepdaughter and symbolizing a blend of cultures, Mariam Coffee reflects Mohamed’s dedication to quality, community, and resilience—a vision that’s now expanding from Istanbul to the U.S. and beyond, including right here in Orlando, Florida.
Mariam Coffee recently opened in downtown Orlando, offering a blend of Turkish and Western-style drinks, from authentic Turkish sand coffee and low-acidity blends to more mainstream options like lattes, iced mochas, and chai teas.
From Palestine to the World: How Mohamed A. Al Zaharna Built Mariam Coffee—A Blend of Cultures
For 37-year old Mohamed A. Al Zaharna, coffee has always been more than just a drink—it’s been a lifelong passion, a source of comfort, and ultimately, the heart of a business that’s now reaching across continents. Originally from Palestine, Mohamed now lives in Turkey, having studied Business Administration in Egypt and Palestine.
The story of Mariam Coffee began in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns made access to high-quality coffee difficult, but rather than settle for less, Mohamed took matters into his own hands.
“I have always been a coffee addict, drinking five to six cups a day,” he recalls. “But during the lockdown, access to good coffee became a challenge. That’s when I decided to create my own blend.”
Drawing from his experience working at a coffee company back home in Palestine, Mohamed spent five to six months testing and perfecting his recipe. “I wanted something high-quality with low caffeine and low acidity—something people could drink multiple times a day without irritation.”
The Story Behind the Name
When it came time to name the brand, Mohamed faced another challenge. Names like Babel and Papillon Café were considered but didn’t feel authentic. Inspiration finally came from within his own home.
“One night, I saw a big picture of my stepdaughter Mariam on the wall and I said to my wife, ‘I’m going to name it Mariam Coffee,’” he shares. “She was surprised and said, ‘That doesn’t make sense!’ And I told her, ‘Well, neither did Starbucks when it started!’”
That moment gave birth not just to a name, but to a promise. “I told my wife that one day Mariam’s picture would be known worldwide.”
In March 2021, that vision became reality when the first batch of Mariam Coffee was produced, starting with Turkish coffee blends and whole beans.
What Makes Mariam Coffee Unique?
Mariam Coffee isn’t just about the beans—it’s about the story, the people, and the passion behind every cup.
“Mariam Coffee is a true blend of cultures,” Mohamed explains. “Our beans come from Colombia and India, roasting and packaging happens in Istanbul, and our team includes people from Syria, Turkey, and Palestine. I’m Palestinian myself, and all of this diversity is reflected in our slogan: ‘Mariam Coffee – A Blend of Cultures.’”
The brand is committed to quality and customer experience. “Our coffee is smooth and well-balanced with low acidity, so even people who drink multiple cups a day won’t feel discomfort. And if a customer is ever dissatisfied, we make it right—even if that means giving them coffee for free.”
A Global Vision: What’s Next for Mariam Coffee?
Mariam Coffee isn’t stopping at Turkey. Mohamed has ambitious plans for expansion across the Middle East and the United States.
“We’re opening soon in Qatar, Oman, Detroit, and Michigan,” he says. “We’re also looking to grow further in America with new franchise opportunities.”
And while the core coffee experience remains consistent worldwide, Mariam Coffee embraces local tastes. “About 60-70% of our menu is the same everywhere, but we customize the remaining 30-40% based on what people in each city like,” Mohamed explains. “For example, Orlando customers may prefer different flavors than those in Indianapolis.”
Coffee as a Bridge Between Cultures
For Mohamed, Mariam Coffee represents more than just a business—it’s a symbol of perseverance, family, and cultural unity.
“Coffee brings people together,” he says. “And with Mariam Coffee, we’re sharing not just a great cup, but a story—a blend of cultures, experiences, and love.”
From humble beginnings in a home kitchen to a growing global brand, Mohamed A. Al Zaharna’s journey with Mariam Coffee is proof that with vision, heart, and dedication, even the most challenging times can give rise to something beautiful.res in each market while maintaining our core high-quality coffee experience.
Mariam Coffee – Downtown Orlando
Address: 361 N Rosalind Ave, Suite?5, Orlando, FL?32801
Phone: (407)?270?4613
