In Addis Ababa, coffee is not just a morning pick-me-up; it is the lifeblood of the nation. As the birthplace of Arabica coffee, Ethiopia treats the “black gold” with a reverence you won’t find anywhere else. From ancient, hour-long ceremonies to chic modern espresso bars, the city is a paradise for caffeine lovers.
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Here is your guide to navigating the best coffee experiences in Addis Ababa in 2026.
1. The Traditional Coffee Ceremony (Buna Tetu)
If you haven’t sat through a traditional coffee ceremony, you haven’t truly visited Ethiopia. This ritual—called Buna Tetu—is a symbol of hospitality and community.
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The Ritual: It begins with the roasting of green beans over hot coals. The aroma is joined by the scent of burning frankincense. Once roasted and ground by hand, the coffee is brewed in a clay pot called a Jebena.
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The Three Rounds: Traditionally, three rounds are served: Abol (the first and strongest), Tona (the second), and Bereka (the third, which is considered a blessing).
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Where to find it: While you’ll see ceremonies on almost every street corner (look for fresh grass on the floor), for a high-quality sit-down experience, visit:
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Kategna: Offers a refined ceremony alongside great food.
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2000 Habesha: A cultural restaurant where the ceremony is part of a larger evening of music and dance.
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A Local Home: Many guided city tours now include a coffee ceremony in a private home, which is the most authentic way to experience it.
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2. Tomoca Coffee: The Living Legend
Founded in 1953, Tomoca (Torrefazione Moderna Café) is the oldest roasting company in Addis Ababa and the gold standard for many locals.
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The Experience: The original branch in Piassa (Wawel St) is a must-visit. It’s a standing-only bar where the walls are lined with vintage coffee tins and the air is thick with history.
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What to Order: Ask for a Macchiato. Ethiopians claim the only good thing the Italians left behind was the espresso machine, and Tomoca’s macchiato—rich, creamy, and bold—is proof.
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Souvenirs: This is the best place to buy freshly roasted beans (Harar or Yirgacheffe varieties) to take home.
3. Modern Specialty Cafes (2026 Update)
While Tomoca represents history, a new wave of modern cafes is taking Ethiopian coffee to the next level with specialty roasts and chic interiors.
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Akkoo Coffee: Known for its cozy atmosphere and “meet-up” vibe, Akkoo is popular with the city’s young professionals and digital nomads.
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Moyee Coffee: A pioneer of the “FairChain” movement, ensuring more profit stays with the farmers. Their Tsom Macchiato (made with non-dairy creamer for fasting days) is a local favorite.
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Galani Coffee: Located near the Jacksros area, this warehouse-style cafe is a dream for specialty coffee nerds. They offer high-end cupping experiences and a modern, industrial aesthetic.
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Kaldi’s Coffee: The “Starbucks of Ethiopia.” With its green branding and consistent quality, it’s a reliable spot found in almost every neighborhood for a quick latte.
4. Coffee Cupping and Plantation Tours
For the true enthusiast, a 20-minute cup isn’t enough. In 2026, Coffee Cupping Tours have become a top-rated activity.
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Cupping Sessions: Several boutique agencies now offer 4-hour “Cupping Tours” where you learn to identify tasting notes—like citrus, chocolate, or jasmine—under the guidance of a professional barista.
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Behind the Scenes: Some tours take you to coffee processing warehouses in the city, where you can see how beans are sorted and graded for export.
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Beyond the City: If you have more time, use Addis as a base for a multi-day trip to the Jimma or Sidama regions to see where the coffee actually grows on the trees.
Quick Tips for Coffee Lovers
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No Milk? In a traditional ceremony, coffee is usually served black with plenty of sugar. In the countryside, it’s sometimes served with a pinch of salt or a dollop of butter!
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Snacks: Coffee is always served with something to nibble on—usually popcorn, roasted barley (kolo), or peanuts.
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Don’t Rush: A traditional ceremony can take over an hour. It’s meant for conversation, not a quick caffeine fix.
Whether you prefer the standing-room-only buzz of Piassa or a three-hour ritual in a quiet garden, Addis Ababa will redefine what you think you know about coffee.