About Us

The Story of Kaffa Cafe

A Taste of Ethiopia, A Home in South Seattle

Kaffa Cafe isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a bridge between tradition and community, a place where Ethiopian culture thrives through food, coffee, and shared moments.

Founded by Milen and Bisrat Gebreselassie, Kaffa Cafe draws inspiration from the Kaffa region of Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee. This deep connection to heritage shapes everything we do, from sourcing ethically grown coffee beans to creating a welcoming environment that reflects Ethiopian hospitality.

For over a decade, Kaffa Cafe has been a gathering place for those seeking an authentic experience—flavorful Ethiopian dishes, expertly roasted coffee, and a warm, community-driven atmosphere.

A bag of wash Sidamo Ethiopia coffee flavored with notes of floral, citrus and berry.

Honoring Tradition, Embracing Community

At Kaffa Cafe, food is more than nourishment—it is a way to share stories, celebrate culture, and foster human connection. Every dish carries the essence of Ethiopia, crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. We slow-cook our stews, hand-roast our coffee, and serve every meal with intention and care.

More than just a dining experience, Kaffa Cafe is a space where guests come together, whether for a peaceful morning coffee, a lively brunch, or the time-honored Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Every visit is an opportunity to connect, learn, and share in a rich cultural tradition.

What Drives Us

Heritage & Culture

Rooted in Ethiopian tradition, we celebrate and share our coffee and cuisine with authenticity.

Sustainability

Our coffee is roasted with minimal environmental impact, and we prioritize direct trade with Ethiopian farmers.

Community & Connection

Kaffa Cafe serves as a welcoming space for conversations, gatherings, and shared experiences.

Meet Milen & The Kaffa Foods Family

Image of Milen

Milen and Bisrat Gebreselassie – Founders & Owners Milen and Bisrat’s vision for Kaffa Cafe extends beyond food. They are passionate about creating a space where people can experience Ethiopian culture in its most authentic form. From curating recipes to fostering a community-centered atmosphere, they have made Kaffa Cafe a home away from home.

Cozy Ethiopian coffee shop with a stylish counter, espresso menu, and traditional coffee offerings.

More Than a Restaurant, A Community Hub

Kaffa Cafe is deeply committed to the South Seattle community. Through collaborations with local businesses, cultural organizations, and nonprofits, we support meaningful initiatives that celebrate diversity and bring people together.
 
As part of our commitment, we proudly serve on the advisory board for the Rainier Beach Action Coalition (RBAC), actively participate in Partners of Opportunity Network (PON), and other community-driven events. We believe in using our space to foster connections, which is why we offer it free of charge for various community meetings.
 
Beyond creating a welcoming gathering space, we also give back by donating culturally relevant meals to those in need. Our contributions extend to the RB Food Bank, SEED and the Ethiopian Community Center, ensuring that our support reaches those who need it most.
 
From hosting traditional coffee ceremonies to engaging in neighborhood initiatives, Kaffa Cafe takes pride in being more than a restaurant.

Come Visit Us

If you are looking for an authentic Ethiopian dining experience, handcrafted coffee, or a welcoming space to connect, Kaffa Cafe is here for you. We look forward to welcoming you back in early March.