‘Hurts more than a break-up’: Popular Haji Lane cafe Rumi The Poet’s Cup to close from March 30

SINGAPORE – Rumi The Poet’s Cup, a cafe that has become a popular fixture in Haji Lane in Kampong Gelam, will be closing from March 30.

Named after 13th-century Sufi poet Jalal al-Din Muhammad Rumi, it opened in December 2021.

“As we prepare to close our doors on the 30th of March, we want to thank every soul who has sipped, laughed and shared a piece of their journey with us,” said Rumi The Poet’s Cup’s Instagram post on March 10.

The cafe is the brand’s only physical outlet, although it has made appearances at pop-up events like Twilight and Celebfest.

According to the post, the cafe will be closing permanently. It did not share reasons for the move.

The Straits Times has reached out to Rumi The Poet’s Cup for more details.

The announcement that the cafe would be shuttered was met with shock by its loyal patrons.

One customer, who wanted to be known only as Mr Azharuddin, told ST that he will miss the community created through the cafe.

The 28-year-old barista frequents the cafe every week. While he is normally alone, he has befriended the staff and other customers there.

“A lot of lonely hearts have found (the cafe to be) a safe space for them... I’ve made so many friends at Rumi and it’s one of my go-to places if I feel down,” said Mr Azharuddin.

Besides serving food and drinks, Rumi The Poet’s Cup hosts poetry nights, chess nights, live music sessions and board game events, allowing customers a chance to mingle.

“Some people are shy at first, but as they get comfortable, the communication flows... A simple board game can unlock a friendship,” said Mr Azharuddin.

Lamenting the loss of a treasured place, he added: “Rumi will always be in our hearts.”

Netizens urged the cafe to relocate and to make more appearances at pop-up events.

“This hurts more than a break-up,” said one netizen.

“I look forward to experiencing another hello from you someday,” added another.