Addis

Stepping into Addis on Telegraph Avenue feels like entering a warm, inviting corner of East Africa right in the heart of Berkeley. The restaurant’s modest, cozy setting hums with a calm energy that encourages lingering over shared plates and conversation. It’s a place where the pace slows just enough to appreciate the subtle, fragrant spices and the gentle clinking of coffee cups, all underscored on certain nights by the soft melodies of live jazz that weave seamlessly into the dining experience.

The atmosphere is effortlessly welcoming—familiar yet distinct—making it a favored refuge for both longtime fans of Ethiopian cuisine and curious newcomers. Whether you arrive eager to explore a colorful vegetarian platter piled high with tender, spiced vegetables and velvety injera, or come seeking the richness of a meat combination that reflects thoughtful tradition, the kitchen’s attentiveness to authentic flavors shines through in every dish. The ritual of sharing food here draws people together, and even solo diners find a comforting rhythm in the communal style of eating.

Service at Addis tends to carry a genuine warmth, though it strikes a balance between attentive and relaxed, allowing the food and the quiet joy of discovery to do most of the talking. Weekend evenings bring a unique vibe as the space fills with live music, adding layers of human connection and celebration that heighten the senses beyond the plate. This combination of rich, honest cuisine and an atmosphere that feels lived-in rather than staged makes Addis a place worth returning to again and again.