Where to Find the Best Coffee in Addis Ababa: A Guide for Expats
Ethiopia is often called the birthplace of coffee, and Addis Ababa, the capital, is home to some of the best coffee spots that attract expats, tourists, and locals alike. For those who have chosen to rent or buy property in this dynamic city, finding a comfortable and stylish coffee shop can make you feel more at home. Here’s a roundup of some of the best coffee places for expats in Addis Ababa, designed to provide not only excellent coffee but also a welcoming environment for working, meeting new people, or simply unwinding.
1. Tomoca Coffee House
Tomoca, one of the most famous and historic coffee shops in Addis Ababa, is a must-see. Established in 1953, Tomoca is popular with both locals and foreigners because to its excellent coffee and traditional atmosphere. Tomoca offers a diverse range of beans, such as the well-known Harrar and Sidamo, giving visitors a deep understanding of Ethiopia's coffee heritage. For people who have decided to reside in apartments for rent in Bole Addis Ababa, Tomoca's branches are conveniently located around the city. With one of the greatest beers in town, Tomoca is perhaps the ideal place for you to get a taste of the local way of life.
2. Kaldi’s Coffee
Due to its chic and contemporary ambiance, Kaldi's Coffee is especially well-liked by foreigners and has frequently been compared to Starbucks. Kaldi's offers a great location for both informal work sessions and social events, with several locations across the city. Kaldi's is a popular spot for foreigners living in CMC Addis Ababa houses for rent because of its reliable service and excellent coffee. Kaldi's is the place to go if you want to fit in with the locals while still having a familiar atmosphere.
3. Garden of Coffee
Bethlehem Tilahun, an Ethiopian businessman, developed Garden of Coffee, which provides a distinctive experience with freshly roasted beans and a dedication to sustainable techniques. In addition to offering excellent coffee, this Bole location also hosts coffee tastings and cupping events. Garden of Coffee is a great neighborhood addition for foreigners looking for apartments for sale in Bole, Addis Ababa. In addition to offering a tranquil haven from the busy streets of the city, its warm and welcoming atmosphere will help you feel more connected to Ethiopia's coffee legacy.
4. Alem Bunna Coffee
Alem Bunna Coffee, renowned for its artisanal approach, offers a genuine flavor of local coffee by concentrating on traditional Ethiopian brewing methods. Foreigners who value Ethiopia's rich coffee traditions frequently stop by Alem Bunna's locations in well-known neighborhoods like Kazanchis and Megenagna. Because it offers a place to drink great coffee in a contemporary, welcoming setting, the brand is especially appealing to people who live in apartments for rent in Kazanchis Addis Ababa.
5. Mokarar Coffee
Mokarar, next to Piassa, is a favorite spot for both residents and foreigners and has historical significance for Addis Ababa's coffee culture. Mokarar specializes in serving coffee from the best coffee-growing regions of Ethiopia, including Yirgacheffe and Sidamo. If you've made the decision to look at apartments for rent in Piassa Addis Ababa, Mokarar is a nice place to go if you want to take a break from the bustling Piassa district.
6. Qala Café & Coffee House
With its contemporary decor and excellent coffee selection, Qala Café is a hidden gem in the Megenagna neighborhood. Qala Café is well-known for its Ethiopian and international fusion and is a favorite among expats looking for a more relaxed setting in which to meet friends or complete business. For those who have selected Apartments for Sale in Megenagna Addis Ababa, Qala is a convenient destination for excellent coffee and a laid-back vibe.
Why Addis Ababa is a Coffee Lover's Paradise
Addis Ababa's coffee culture goes far beyond these popular spots, offering an authentic connection to Ethiopia’s ancient coffee heritage. Whether you're here for a short visit or you’ve chosen to settle in one of the many Condominiums for Sale or Apartments for Rent in Addis Ababa Ethiopia, these coffee shops offer a gateway to experiencing Ethiopia’s coffee traditions firsthand. They provide spaces where expats and locals alike can connect, exchange stories, and build community over a cup of the world’s finest coffee.
For a deeper dive into what makes Addis Ababa a unique place to live, check out our blog on Navigating Addis Ababa: A Handbook to the City’s Finest Residential Districts. And if you’re looking into making a real estate investment in Ethiopia, don't miss our analysis on Foreign Investment in Ethiopian Real Estate: Opportunities and Challenges. These resources will help you understand the culture and opportunities in Ethiopia, both for living and investment.