Our Story
Mella Cafe was born from a passion to share the rich coffee culture and culinary traditions of Ethiopia and Eritrea with our community.
A Journey of Tradition
Founded in 2020 by Almaz and Tekle, two immigrants from Ethiopia and Eritrea, Mella Cafe represents more than just a restaurant—it's a bridge between cultures and a celebration of heritage.
Growing up in the highlands of Ethiopia, Almaz learned the art of coffee preparation from her grandmother, who taught her that coffee is not just a beverage, but a ceremony that brings people together. Tekle, from Eritrea, brings his expertise in traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations.
Together, they created Mella Cafe as a place where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality, where every cup of coffee tells a story, and where the community can experience the true essence of Ethiopian and Eritrean culture.
Our Mission & Values
Authenticity
We preserve traditional recipes and preparation methods, ensuring every dish reflects the true flavors of our homeland.
Community
We believe in bringing people together, creating a space where cultures meet and friendships are formed over shared meals.
Quality
From sourcing the finest Ethiopian coffee beans to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, we never compromise on quality.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in every aspect of our service, from the food we serve to the experience we create.
The Coffee Ceremony Tradition
In Ethiopian and Eritrean culture, the coffee ceremony is a sacred ritual that represents hospitality, community, and spiritual connection. It's a time-honored tradition that brings families and friends together.
The ceremony begins with washing green coffee beans, then roasting them over an open flame. The aromatic smoke is wafted toward guests as a blessing. The beans are then ground by hand and brewed in a traditional clay pot called a jebena.
At Mella Cafe, we honor this tradition by performing coffee ceremonies for our guests, allowing them to experience the full cultural significance of Ethiopian coffee culture.
Meet Our Founders
Almaz Tadesse
Co-founder & Head of Coffee
Born in Addis Ababa, Almaz brings decades of experience in traditional Ethiopian coffee preparation and a deep understanding of coffee culture.
Tekle Ghebremedhin
Co-founder & Executive Chef
From Asmara, Eritrea, Tekle is a master of traditional cooking techniques and specializes in authentic Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine.