6 Must-Visit Shops for Coffee Lovers in Addis Ababa

It’s no secret that coffee culture runs deep in Ethiopia. In fact, this African country is known as the birthplace of coffee. Addis Ababa, which is the capital, is a coffee lovers paradise as it is home to some of the best coffee shops in Ethiopia. Not only will you drink as many cups as possible, but you’ll also get the opportunity to purchase coffee beans to rake back home.

So, whether you are a caffeine lover looking for a unique coffee experience or just exploring the local coffee traditions, here are some of the best coffee shops to visit in Addis Ababa:

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1. Tomoca Coffee

Tomoca Coffee is a must-visit for any coffee lover who finds himself in Ethiopia. Apart from the fact it is one of the best coffee shops in Addis Ababa, it is also among the oldest coffee shops in the East African country. Tomoca has been serving quality coffee since 1953, which explains why it is written up in virtually every guidebook and piece of Addis Ababa writing. It’s signature blend is made with Arabica beans sourced from the Sidamo region.

At Tomoca Coffee shop, there’s no sitting. It is a very small place where you order a cup of coffee and either stand somewhere or place your cup in one of the few stand-up coffee tables available.

Tomoca Coffee Shop. Photo/ Trip.com.

2. Mokarar Coffee

Located in the heart of Addis Ababa, Mokarar Coffee offers a range of coffee drinks to its customers. The friendly coffee shop and bean roster also offers a selection of light bites and pastries, which make it a great spot to enjoy a quick breakfast or snack.

It’s good to note that in English the sign reads Mokarar, but in Amharic, it’s known as Harar Coffee Shop. So, if you decide to take a taxi, remember to tell your driver you’re going to Harar Coffee Shop. That’s the name most locals are familiar with.

3. Bespoken Coffee Roasters

Bespoken Coffee Roasters is, without a doubt, among the best coffee shops in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. They are known for their high-quality coffee sourced from local farmers and roasted in-house. Here, you’ll get a string of light bites and pastries to enjoy your coffee with, hence making it a perfect spot for breakfast. It is situated in the trendy Bole neighbourhood.

4. Garden of Coffee

This notable outlet specializes in a wide range of single-origin coffee nationwide. It is quite different from other top coffee shops in Addis Ababa because it uses several brewing methods such as Chemex, French Press and V60. It also sells coffee bags that you can take home to your family.

Inside Garden of Coffee. Photo/ Garden of Coffee.

Garden of Coffee is owned by Ethiopian Coffee expert Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, who has dedicated her life to promoting Ethiopian coffee.

5. Kaldi’s Coffee

Kaldi’s Coffee is another coffee shop that many people will recommend to you in Addis Ababa. The shop, which has several branches throughout the city, offers a wide variety of coffee drinks, from classic espresso to specialty drinks such as macchiato and cappuccino. It has a cozy ambiance, which makes it a good place to catch up with your friends.

Kaldi’s Coffee Shop. Photo/ ReviewEthio.

6. Cascara Coffee & Cocktails

Situated inside the Hyatt Regency, Cascara Coffee & Cocktails is one of the best coffee shops in Addis Ababa. This amazing shop offers a range of options which you can relish while sitting on the outdoor terrace. At Cascara Coffee & Cocktails, you can enjoy cappuccino, cafe late, macchiato or even get a coffee-infused cocktail.

What Is The Most Popular Coffee in Ethiopia?

If you’ve heard of any specific Ethiopian coffee, it’s probably the one from the district of Yirgacheffe. Yirgacheffe coffee beans are considered to be some of the best in the world by coffee connoisseurs.

Which Area of Ethiopia Has The Best Coffee?

Coffee plants grow mainly in the south-western part of the country, and the most famous regions are: Yirgacheffe, Sidamo, Kaffa, Harrar, Djimmah or Limu.