Kitfo Ethiopian Restaurant – Authentic Taste of Ethiopia in Abu Dhabi

Kitfo Ethiopian Restaurant brings the authentic taste of Ethiopia to the heart of Abu Dhabi. Located in the vibrant Al Khalidiyah district, this celebrated eatery offers a unique culinary journey through the rich, ancient flavors of the East African highlands. Whether you are a long-time lover of Ethiopian cuisine or a curious first-timer, the restaurant provides an immersive experience centered around tradition, community, and exceptional food.

Ranked highly by local diners and international visitors alike, Kitfo Ethiopian Restaurant has quickly become a go-to destination for those seeking genuine, flavorful dishes in a warm and welcoming setting. The menu is built on time-honored recipes, using hand-sourced ingredients like premium Teff for their injera, house-prepared Niter Kibbeh spiced butter, and a signature Berbere spice blend. This commitment to authenticity is what sets the restaurant apart in Abu Dhabi's diverse food scene.

Signature Dishes & Traditional Flavors

The heart of the menu is the namesake Kitfo, a traditional Ethiopian steak tartare that is hand-minced from extra lean beef and seasoned with the fiery Mitmita chili powder and aromatic spiced butter. This signature dish is served with Ethiopian cottage cheese, delivering a balance of heat, richness, and freshness. The kitchen's dedication to the craft is evident in every bite, using only the finest cuts to ensure a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Beyond the classic Kitfo, the restaurant showcases a wide array of stews, vegan platters, and sizzling grilled meats. The Beyaynetu platter epitomizes the communal dining ethos, offering a vibrant assortment of curries, vegetables, and salads atop a blanket of injera. For those who prefer plant-based options, the vegan selection is extensive, featuring spiced lentils, split peas, collard greens, and earthy chickpea stews, all slow-cooked to perfection with layers of complex flavor.

Specialty Kitfo Preparations

• Special Kitfo: The iconic dish, freshly minced extra lean beef with Mitmita and Ethiopian cottage cheese.
• Gomen Kitfo: Minced beef mixed with finely chopped collard greens, spiced butter, and aromatic spices.
• Kitfo Be Gored Gored: Very lean beef warmed in special butter and served rare to medium with the house Awaze sauce.
• Kitfo Fir Fir: A hearty combination of Kitfo and shredded pieces of injera, generously coated in seasoned butter.

A Culinary Journey Through Ethiopia

The restaurant's philosophy is rooted in the preservation of tradition. Every aspect of the kitchen, from the slow-simmering of the stews to the preparation of the injera, is performed with a deep respect for Ethiopian culinary heritage. The team views Kitfo not just as a dining spot, but as a cultural vessel that transports the vibrant soul of Addis Ababa directly to Abu Dhabi.

Diners are encouraged to embrace the communal style of eating, using pieces of the spongy, slightly sour injera to scoop up rich wats and fresh salads. This interactive, hands-on approach is central to the Ethiopian dining experience and creates a memorable, shareable meal that brings people together. The staff are always happy to explain the dishes and guide guests through the menu for a truly authentic experience.

What We Offer

Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or settling in for a long, leisurely dinner, the offerings are designed to suit every occasion. The menu is thoughtfully divided into categories, featuring signature Kitfo plates, slow-cooked stews, a dedicated vegan section, and breakfast dishes served throughout the day.

For larger groups and families, the restaurant offers the traditional Agelgile family pack, which can be pre-ordered one day in advance. This special offering is available in small and large sizes, providing a generous spread of flavors perfect for sharing and celebrating. It’s an ideal way to introduce a group to the depth and variety of Ethiopian cuisine.

More Than Just a Meal

• Breakfast: Unique morning dishes that provide an authentic start to the day.
• Stews: Deeply flavorful, slow-simmered meat and vegetable wats.
• Vegan Platters: A generous selection of plant-based curries and salads.
• Online Ordering: Seamless pickup and delivery via major platforms and the official website.

Serving Al Khalidiyah & Abu Dhabi

Conveniently situated on شارع النَّر, behind the Shining Tower in Al Khalidiyah, the restaurant is a hidden gem that is easy to find and always ready to welcome guests. The location offers a cozy escape from the city's hustle, with warm lighting, the rich aroma of roasting coffee, and the sound of laughter filling the dining room. It’s an ideal setting for family gatherings, intimate dinners, and casual meals with friends.

The restaurant is dedicated to serving the broader Abu Dhabi community with passion. Being a proud part of the capital's dynamic food landscape, the team strives to make authentic Ethiopian flavors accessible to everyone. From residents of the Khalidiyah area to visitors exploring the emirate, all are invited to step inside and discover a true taste of Ethiopia.

Hours, Ordering & Contact

The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, making it a perfect choice for both lunch and dinner. For those who prefer to enjoy the flavors at home, a full online ordering system is in place. You can order pickup directly through the restaurant's website, or choose delivery via popular partners like Deliveroo, Noon, and Keeta. Every order is carefully packed to preserve the freshness and integrity of the food.

Placing an order is designed to be simple and fast. Whether you're craving a full vegan platter for a family dinner or a quick Kitfo fix after work, the process is streamlined for mobile and desktop. For special requirements, dietary questions, or large group reservations, the contact lines are always open.

Get in Touch

• Call Us: Reach the restaurant directly at 02 67 80018 for reservations and inquiries.
• WhatsApp: Message on 054 7882124 or 054 7988057 for a quick and easy chat.
• Email: Send detailed questions or feedback to kitforestaurant@gmail.com.

Why Customers Choose Kitfo

The glowing reviews and loyal patronage are a testament to the restaurant's consistent excellence. Patrons have highlighted the superb service, with staff taking the time to explain the menu and offer recommendations that never fail to impress. The combination of authentic, boldly spiced food and genuine hospitality creates a dining experience that feels both special and like coming home.

The commitment to quality stretches from the kitchen to the front of house. Every ingredient is selected with care, with a focus on hand-sourcing and traditional preparation methods. This dedication to doing things the right way, without shortcuts, results in food that is not only deeply flavorful but also tells a story of heritage and craft. For discerning diners in Abu Dhabi, Kitfo represents a true find—a place where the ancient flavors of Ethiopia are honored and celebrated every single day.