Family‑Owned Kitchen Rooted in Community
A brief look at our journey from local farms to your table, where each dish honors Ethiopian tradition and togetherness.
From Addis Kitchen to Chicago Tables
I started in my parents’ restaurant in Addis Ababa, mixing spices on low wooden tables. My hands learned to fold injera and stir stews while I laughed in their busy kitchen. When Solomon and I moved here, we dreamed of sharing those memories in Chicago. In 2017, we turned our little market into a restaurant. Every platter now carries the warmth I felt as a child in Addis, and I choose ingredients from local farms every day to keep our meals honest and fresh.
Cooking Dreams Across Borders
Solomon began stirring pots as a child in Addis Ababa, curious about meat recipes and spices. In 1985, he fled to Sudan and found his first kitchen at the US Embassy, learning from American chefs. Later in the US, he drove a taxi by day and cooked at home by night. In 2009, we opened Selam Market in Uptown, selling tibs and injera. In 2017, we welcomed guests to our restaurant, sharing his journey with every meal. He learned that meals build community, so he picks local ingredients for platters.
Crafting Togetherness in Every Platter
Launched in 2017 by Solomon and me, our goal has always been to bring folks together over real Ethiopian meals. We are familyowned and use organic spices and produce from local farms each day. Our communal platters invite conversation as guests pass injera and stews around the table. We make sure every dish feels honest and warm, so friends, families, and visitors leave with full hearts and happy memories. I believe simple ingredients can share our culture and love guiding every recipe we serve.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Meal
Our kitchen sits just off the Wilson Red Line stop at 4543 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640. We welcome neighbors and curious visitors alike. Step inside to share a table with tilapia, lamb, beef, and vegan stews served on fresh injera. Each morning, I pick produce from local farms, then craft dishes that connect you to Ethiopian traditions. Warm lighting and specialty drinks help you feel at home. Visit us or order online for a true taste of our home.