What Are the Best Restaurants to Try in Addis Ababa for Expats in 2025?
If you're planning a trip to Addis Ababa 2025 whether you're an expat settling in, a member of the Ethiopian diaspora returning home, or just a curious traveler—get ready for an unforgettable food journey. The city's culinary scene is rich, vibrant, and full of stories. From injera feasts to perfectly brewed macchiatos, there's something for everyone.
Top 5 Best Restaurants
· Kategna Restaurant
· Mimshack Burgers
· The Kitchen
· Marcus Addis Restaurant & Sky Bar
· Hotto
As the Living Ethio team, we've helped hundreds of newcomers navigate life in Addis—from finding the perfect home to discovering the best places to eat. Here are five must-try restaurants, complete with real experiences, local favorites, and trusted recommendations from TripAdvisor.
1 Kategna Restaurant — "Tradition with a Modern Twist"
Type: Ethiopian Traditional Cuisine
Location: Multiple branches including Bole and Old Airport
Kategna offers a refined take on classic Ethiopian dishes. The ambiance is clean and modern, but the flavors stay true to their roots. When Naomi, a diaspora student from London, visited with her parents, she said, “The shiro made my mom cry—in a good way. It tasted just like my grandma’s.”
Must-Try: Tibs, shiro, doro wat, and fresh injera
Why Go: Authentic local dishes, consistent quality, and a welcoming space great for family dining.
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
2. Mimshack Burgers — "Burgers, But Make It Gourmet"
Type: Burgers / Casual Dining
Location: Bole
Mimshack is a crowd-pleaser, known for juicy, flavorful burgers made with top-quality ingredients. It's a modern, vibrant space that's ideal for quick bites or casual hangouts. The menu features everything from spicy chicken burgers to sweet potato fries with homemade sauces.
Must-Try: Signature burger, spicy chicken burger, sweet potato fries
Why Go: Comfort food with a creative twist and consistently high reviews.
TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0/5
3. The Kitchen — "Global Flavors, Local Ingredients"
Type: International / Fusion
Location: Bole
The Kitchen brings international favorites to Addis, with a menu that includes pastas, grilled meats, salads, and Ethiopian fusion options. With a cozy yet modern atmosphere, it's perfect for brunch with friends or date night. Known for its friendly staff and diverse offerings, it's a solid go-to for locals and visitors alike.
Must-Try: BBQ ribs, fusion pasta, fresh salads
Why Go: A wide-ranging menu that doesn’t compromise on flavor or presentation.
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
4. Marcus Addis Restaurant & Sky Bar — "Dinner with a View"
Type: Mediterranean / Contemporary
Location: Top Floor, Bole
This rooftop restaurant offers one of the best views in Addis, making it a favorite for special occasions. The menu features a mix of Mediterranean and continental dishes, with standout items like lamb chops and seafood pasta. Dawit, a diaspora entrepreneur from the U.S., celebrated his birthday here and called it "the perfect spot to impress your guests."
Must-Try: Lamb chops, seafood pasta, cocktails
Why Go: Chic decor, sweeping views, and a great mix of global flavors.
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
5. Hotto — "Asian Fusion Done Right"
Type: Asian Fusion / Fine Dining
Location: Bole Rwanda
Hotto delivers bold Asian flavors with a touch of elegance. The sleek, contemporary interior matches a menu full of fresh sushi, flavorful noodle dishes, and expertly crafted starters. Whether you're craving pad thai or Korean BBQ wings, it's a great place to explore something new.
Must-Try: Pad Thai, sushi platters, Korean BBQ wings
Why Go: Upscale Asian experience with an attentive team and a relaxing atmosphere.
TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0/5
Food is just the beginning. At Living Ethio, we help newcomers feel at home in Addis Ababa. Looking for property options? If you're searching for a place to stay, there are apartments for rent as well as condominiums for rent, offering modern
living spaces. For those looking to invest or own, you can find apartments for sale along with condominiums for sale. For family homes,
explore houses for rent, or consider houses for sale. Investors can
also find land for sale for future
development. , we’re here to guide you through neighborhoods, real estate options, and yes—amazing food stops like these.
Source Trip Advisor