19/02/2025
GOODBYE H. 💔
Never in my life did I think I’d be writing this…
It was Saturday morning, 10:45, I was setting up the restaurant as usual when someone walked in and came straight to me. He asked, “Do you know Haroon?” I said, “The GP? Of course, why?” And then came the words I still can’t believe… “He passed away yesterday.”
I didn’t understand. How? He was just here the day before, and the day before that. He was always here.
It was the saddest day. Saturday. A busy day ahead, yet all I could do was think about him. I called his wife to see if she was okay, and through her tears, the first thing she said was, “He loved you so much, guys! He loved you so much!!”
We will never forget that moment.
Haroon used to come at least 3–4 times a week, having his usual single espresso with a glass of water—he didn’t even have to ask; it just came with my coffee. We’d sit, chat, laugh… sometimes I’d forget I was even working.
He was passionate about cars, especially vintage cars. Some days, we’d just sit at the bar table, watching outside on Ashley Road, talking about cars and engines. He could go on for hours, completely in his element, sharing stories and knowledge.
He use to come for food with his friend Bob, Darren, or with his wife and the two daughters. He was proud of us, always telling everyone about our restaurant. What a lovely person.
You were a great father too, always looking after your daughters, always proud of them. You spoke about them with so much love, always mentioning their university and their achievements. Your family meant everything to you.
And now he’s gone. Just like that.
The next day, we were at his funeral. Still in shock. Still heartbroken. He wasn’t just a customer, not even just a regular—he was our Friend. And he left too soon. We had so many things still to do, so many more coffees to share.
This was you… your last meal, last week, Wednesday evening. Tagliatelle Duck Ragu—your last meal with us.
Rest easy, Haroon. You’ll be missed more than words can say. 💔☕
Allah Yerhamak 💔
Amro, Adam & Farid.
