2 Days Addis Ababa Culinary Tour

Day 1: Immersion in Tradition

Begin your journey in Addis Ababa with a quintessential Ethiopian breakfast at a local restaurant, where you’ll savor injera—the country’s iconic sourdough flatbread—served with flavorful dishes like doro wat (spicy chicken stew) or kitfo (minced raw meat seasoned with spices). After breakfast, head to Mercato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. As you stroll through the vibrant stalls, sample fresh fruits, aromatic spices, and authentic street snacks, immersing yourself in the rich and bustling food culture of the city.

For lunch, settle into a traditional Ethiopian restaurant and enjoy a gursha platter, a communal spread of injera accompanied by a variety of wats (stews), lentils, and fresh salads. Be sure to try tibs, a savory sautéed meat or vegetable dish, full of robust flavor. In the afternoon, take a cultural break with a visit to the National Museum of Ethiopia, home to some of the country’s most treasured historical artifacts, including the famous fossil “Lucy.” This visit offers a meaningful context to Ethiopia’s deep heritage beyond its cuisine.

As evening falls, take part in the Ethiopian coffee ceremony, a timeless ritual where beans are roasted, ground, brewed, and served in small, handleless cups. This deeply social tradition often includes snacks like popcorn or roasted barley. Cap off your day with dinner at one of Addis Ababa’s cultural restaurants, where you’ll enjoy not only a hearty traditional meal but also live music and dance performances that capture the soul of Ethiopian hospitality.

Day 2: A Flavorful Farewell

Start your second day with a strong cup of Ethiopian coffee and a light breakfast at a cozy local café. Afterwards, visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, one of Addis Ababa’s most iconic religious sites. Admire its beautiful stained glass windows and tranquil surroundings—a perfect contrast to the energy of the city’s culinary scene.

For lunch, dive into Ethiopian street food culture. Try injera topped with ful (a hearty fava bean stew), or explore other favorites like shawarma or samosas, easily found at roadside vendors and bustling street corners. In the afternoon, deepen your appreciation for Ethiopian cuisine by joining a guided culinary tour or an Ethiopian cooking class. Discover the secrets of essential spices, traditional cooking methods, and preparation techniques—and enjoy the hands-on experience of creating some classic dishes yourself.

To conclude your culinary adventure, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Addis Ababa’s top-tier Ethiopian restaurants. Here, traditional flavors are elevated with modern touches, offering a gourmet twist on classic dishes. End the evening with a visit to a Tej bet, a cozy honey wine bar, where you can sip Tej—Ethiopia’s beloved sweet honey wine—in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect toast to end your rich and flavorful journey through Ethiopia’s culinary heritage.