A new coffeehouse is brewing in Pearland, but this one’s got a little more heart behind the beans. Qurbah, a globally inspired coffee shop from longtime Houston-area restaurateur Neal Amleh, is preparing to open its doors this fall at 2000 Reflection Bay Dr. With a focus on connection, culture, and comfort, the new space is more than just a spot to grab a latte, but a place built on the idea of bringing people together.
The inspiration for Qurbah sparked back in 2022. Amleh recalled a moment when he saw two men from different walks of life sitting side by side, engrossed in a soccer match, cheering together without hesitation. “We all are a part of one race—the human race,” he said. That moment stuck with him, and it planted the seed for what he now calls a passion project meant to celebrate common ground. “Coffee is the most consumed beverage after water,” Amleh added, emphasizing its natural role as a unifier.
The name Qurbah, which translates to “closeness,” reflects Amleh’s goal of creating a peaceful, welcoming space where guests can feel at ease being themselves. While the shop will serve high-quality coffee sourced from all over the world, it won’t stop there. Guests can also expect crepes, waffles, exotic desserts, and small bites. Amleh is working with culinary specialists to ensure that the quality matches the vision, blending approachable luxury with everyday warmth.
Amleh, who once ran a convenience store and is now behind several Golden Corral locations across Houston, sees Qurbah as a meaningful next step in a journey that hasn’t always been easy. He credits a five-year plan, resilience, and a deep desire to build something lasting. He’s also involving his family in the business, with two of his three sons taking the lead on daily operations while a third pursues a career in medicine.
With no major site changes needed, renovations on the 2,000-square-foot space are already underway. The interior will focus on a cozy, open ambiance that reflects the values behind the name. Estimated at $200,000, the buildout is expected to wrap up in time for a November 2025 opening.
