Ethiopian On Northbourne - Restaurant and Bar

Ethiopian On Northbourne brings the vibrant, communal spirit of Ethiopian dining to the heart of Canberra's CBD. Located at 65 Northbourne Avenue, this restaurant and bar has quickly become a favorite for locals and visitors seeking an authentic culinary experience. Since its establishment in 2024, the team has built on years of heritage—tracing its roots back to Global Cafe and Bar in 2008 and Flavours of Ethiopia in 2020—to deliver a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. The space offers longer opening hours, a fully licensed bar, and comfortable seating designed for casual fine dining, making it an ideal spot for everything from a quick lunch to a leisurely evening meal.

Diners are treated to a menu that celebrates the rich, aromatic flavors of Ethiopian cuisine, prepared with care and served in the traditional style. The experience is built around injera, the spongy sourdough flatbread that acts as both plate and utensil, paired with a colorful array of wot (stews) and sautéed dishes. Whether you are a longtime enthusiast or trying these tastes for the first time, the staff guides you through the options with warmth and expertise. The restaurant also caters to modern preferences, offering dine-in, takeaway, and contactless delivery, ensuring that the bold spices and slow-cooked goodness are always within reach.

Services & Facilities

The restaurant provides a comprehensive set of services designed to fit any occasion. Guests can enjoy a relaxed meal in the stylish dining room, place an order for convenient pickup, or have their favorites delivered straight to their door. The integrated bar program adds another layer, featuring local Canberra wines and imported Ethiopian beers that perfectly complement the food. For those planning ahead, online reservations are available, making it easy to secure a table during busy periods.

• Dine-In Experience: A spacious, lively setting ideal for date nights, family gatherings, and group celebrations.
• Takeaway & Delivery: Enjoy the full menu at home with efficient pickup and contactless delivery options.
• Licensed Bar: A curated selection of beverages, including Ethiopian beer and regional Australian wines.
• Online Reservations: Book your table seamlessly through the website.

Our Menu Highlights

The kitchen focuses on authentic Ethiopian recipes that highlight a balance of earthy spices, tender proteins, and vibrant vegetarian combinations. Each dish is designed to be shared, encouraging a convivial dining style. The menu often features customer favorites that keep regulars coming back.

Signature Dishes

Deeply flavored wot stews are the stars of the menu. The basa wot, mentioned frequently by patrons, delivers tender, spiced goodness. For seafood lovers, the asa wot offers a delicate fish stew. The vegetable-based options, including lentil and split pea dishes, provide a colorful and satisfying experience for plant-based diners. Every plate is beautifully arranged on a large bed of injera, ready for tearing and scooping.

Drinks & Snacks

Alongside the main courses, the bar crafts a selection of beverages and quick bites. Ethiopian coffee, known worldwide for its bold and aromatic profile, is served fresh and often accompanied by savory samosa-style pastries. The drinks menu also includes signature cocktails and non-alcoholic refreshers.

Why Customers Choose Us

Patrons often highlight the fantastic service and the sheer quality of the food. The team is described as welcoming and attentive, even during fully booked services. The commitment to authentic flavors—rich, well-seasoned, and beautifully presented—sets this restaurant apart from other dining options in the city. The combination of a full bar and longer opening hours into the late evening provides a flexibility that suits Canberra's busy professionals and weekend explorers alike.

• Authentic Recipes: Prepared with traditional techniques and imported spices for genuine flavor.
• Outstanding Hospitality: A team that prioritizes a warm, informative, and efficient dining experience.
• Ambiance: A modern yet culturally rich environment that suits casual meals and special occasions.
• Convenience: Easy online booking and multiple service modes from lunch through dinner.

Hours, Location & Directions

Ethiopian On Northbourne is conveniently positioned on Northbourne Avenue, a major thoroughfare running through Canberra's city center. The address, 65 Northbourne Ave, places it within easy walking distance of public transport, offices, and entertainment venues like cinemas. The restaurant operates extended hours throughout the week to accommodate lunch crowds, after-work drinks, and evening dining.

• Lunch Service: Opening from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM on several days, offering a perfect midday escape.
• Dinner & Late Night: Evening service runs until 10:00 PM, with the bar keeping the atmosphere lively throughout.
• Parking: Street parking and nearby public car parks are available in the CBD area.

Serving Canberra & Australian Capital Territory

As a proud member of Canberra's diverse food scene, this restaurant contributes to the capital's growing reputation for world-class dining. It draws a mix of local Canberrans, interstate visitors, and diplomatic staff curious about authentic international fare. The restaurant’s story—from its early days as a global café to this flagship location in the heart of the ACT—reflects a deep connection to the community and a constant desire to share Ethiopian culture through food.

Questions Visitors Ask

We know that first-time guests often have questions about the menu and dining style. Here are some of the most common inquiries we receive.

Is the food spicy?

The cuisine is known for its aromatic spices rather than extreme heat. Most wot dishes feature a mellow, well-rounded warmth from Berbere spice blends, but there are plenty of mild and flavorful options for those who prefer less spiciness.

Do you cater to vegetarians and vegans?

Absolutely. Ethiopian food is exceptionally vegetarian and vegan-friendly. A significant portion of the menu is dedicated to plant-based stews made from lentils, chickpeas, and greens, all clearly marked for your convenience.

What is the traditional way to eat the food?

Ethiopian meals are traditionally eaten with your hands. You tear off a piece of injera, the spongy bread, and use it to scoop up the stews and salads. Cutlery is available upon request, but we encourage you to try the authentic, fun, shared method.

Can I book a table for a large group?

Yes, the restaurant is well-suited for groups and celebrations. We recommend making an online reservation through our website or calling ahead so we can arrange the best seating for your party.