By Crystal Warner

Life, for Mohammad Hussain, owner of Star Cafe, began as a paradox, in a land where oppression is prevalent and where equal opportunity is non-existent. Through unity of family and the ever present encouragement of his father; Mohammad found the courage to persevere, the ambition to develop his talents and the drive to make his dreams come true. He has instilled a deep sense of gratitude for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness in his four children.

Mohammad, Moe, was born in Palestine and grew up in Jordan. His father was a soldier in the Jordanian army. As a teenager, Moe worked as a tour guide in Jordan. He enjoyed sharing the spectacular landscape and popular attractions with visitors; and, he learned the importance of communication and customer service.
Like his father, Moe served in the Jordanian Army for several years before opening a small restaurant in Jordan. It was this experience which enabled Moe to perfect his signature style of Middle Eastern cooking. In 1992, he sold the business and used the money to come to America. Surrounded by his relatives, living in Ann Arbor, Moe found himself at home.

Shortly after his arrival, Moe purchased a restaurant in Ypsilanti. Four years ago, he decided to simplify his business plan. He sold the restaurant and launched his idea for a Middle Eastern Oasis in Ann Arbor. Moe relies on two assistants. He enjoys doing the majority of the prep work and the cooking.“We make the food from scratch each day. Either it’s done right, or I don’t touch it,” Moe says. His insistence on cooking with only the highest quality ingredients has generated much of his repeat business. “We serve the freshest and most delicious Middle Eastern food in Ann Arbor,” he says.

Moe specializes in Middle Eastern Cuisine. The menu includes appetizers such as vegetarian grape leaves, baba ghannoui and hummus. “I get lots of good comments on my hummus.” Moe smiles, “I guarantee there is no one who makes hummus and falafel like me.”

He offers a variety of authentic Middle Eastern sandwiches, as well as vegetarian sandwiches, which are rolled in pita bread. Moe’s Falafel Deluxe, a favorite at Star’s Cafe, is made with falafel, hummus and tabbouli. There’s a daily lunch special of any sandwich with a side of hummus and tabouli salad.

In addition, Moe offers a diverse selection of dinner entrees, with a salad or soup, choice of rice or French fries and pita bread. Everything on the menu is available for carryout and Star’s Cafe offers catering.

Each day, except for Sunday, Moe arrives at Star’s Cafe by 8 a.m. Although not open for breakfast, customers come by in the morning to say hello to Moe and to grab a cappuccino, espresso, freshly-brewed Turkish coffee, or a fruit-smoothie. Moe’s homemade muffins and cinnamon rolls make a great mid-morning snack.

Moe’s daily time and attention are in high demand and he wouldn’t have it any other way. He thoroughly enjoys the challenges, the responsibilities and the rewards of business ownership. “My oldest son will be coming to work with me this summer,” Moe says, “he says he’s going to save up the money to use for college. My wife and I think that is so great!”

Star Cafe’s hours are Mon – Fri, 8 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; closed Sun. Call the phone number below to place an order for pick-up.

Star’s Cafe
Mohammad Hussain
2575 Jackson Avenue
Ann Arbor, MI
Phone: 734-996-0299