Taxi drivers mark Ramadan with Iftar-on-the-go meals

CHICAGO-Each evening at about 6:30, Idrees Muhammad sets out a modest Iftar feast in a part-restaurant, part-convenience-store on Chicago’s north side. Sweetened milk, a container of dates, and a tray of fruit tossed with cumin and cinnamon await hungry cab drivers who come each day to this seemingly unlikely gathering spot during the holy month […]

CHICAGO-Each evening at about 6:30, Idrees Muhammad sets out a modest Iftar feast in a part-restaurant, part-convenience-store on Chicago’s north side. Sweetened milk, a container of dates, and a tray of fruit tossed with cumin and cinnamon await hungry cab drivers who come each day to this seemingly unlikely gathering spot during the holy month of Ramadan. At sunset, Muslims break a 12-hour fast with an Iftar meal. In many Muslim countries, Iftar is a time to see extended family or to celebrate with close friends. But for some drivers who work shifts late into the night, the meal is more functional, a short break from the day’s work. Call it Iftar-on-the-go, but definitely don’t call it fast food.

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