Stepping into Buna Ethiopian Restaurant & Market unveils a display of Ethiopian handicrafts, including drums, masks, and jewelry on one wall, while the opposite showcases biscotti, spices, incense items, lentils, and tea and coffee varieties. Buna, meaning coffee in Ethiopian, sets the tone. Moving towards the kitchen, the parlor/restaurant opens up with colorful artwork, much of it from local artists. The vibrant ambiance resonates with Ethiopian music or occasional soccer games, accompanied by the aroma of home-cooked dishes seasoned with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and aromatic coffee. Buna Ethiopian Restaurant & Market is celebrated for its artisanal cooking and freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee, enveloped in the rich tradition of African culture and managed by owners Eyob and Helena, with oversight from Helena’s mother, Manteghosh.

Eyob and Helena’s journey started when they met at a family-owned restaurant managed by Eyob’s uncle. Eyob’s extensive restaurant management experience combined with Helena’s culinary skills inspired the dream of establishing their own place, leading to the opening of Buna Ethiopian Restaurant & Market in 2011. Its unique design encourages exploration of cultural gifts before indulging in authentic Ethiopian cuisine prepared openly in the back kitchen. Recognized for its award-winning cooking and warm hospitality, Eyob and Helena’s establishment has become a gathering place.

Our menu extends to oven-baked or broiled fish served with the vegetarian platter, which includes vegan options like lentils, collard greens, cabbage, shiro (chickpea flour), and tomato salad. The visually appealing and aromatic vegetarian platter complements the fermented injera, offering a distinctive dining experience. Save room for Helena’s specialty – coffee-infused tiramisu – concluding a satisfying meal, as noted by author D.J. Mesfin: “Ethiopian food, like the Ethiopians themselves, is spicy, subtle, piquant, and unforgettable.”