CoBuQa: A Taste of Mexico in the Heart of Addis Ababa

In the lively Kasanchiz area of Addis Ababa, one restaurant is redefining the culinary scene by introducing authentic Mexican cuisine to Ethiopia: CoBuQa. This vibrant eatery, founded by Daniel Berhanu, seamlessly blends tradition and innovation to deliver a dining experience like no other. CoBuQa’s story is not just about food; it’s about culture, perseverance, and a dream that connects two worlds.

Daniel Berhanu’s journey began when he moved to Germany at the tender age of six. Over the course of forty years, he built a life there, but his Ethiopian roots always stayed with him. While living in Germany, he was introduced to the rich and flavorful world of Mexican cuisine through his Mexican girlfriend. The bold, spicy dishes resonated deeply with him, igniting a passion that would shape his future.

Despite his love for Mexican food, Daniel never lost sight of his Ethiopian heritage. Regular visits to Ethiopia every two years kept him connected to his homeland. During the global pandemic, when the world slowed down, Daniel seized the moment to fulfill his dream of moving back to Ethiopia and bringing a slice of Mexico with him.

The name CoBuQa is a nod to Daniel’s multicultural experiences. Derived from the word for coffee in three languages—Co from Coffee (English), Bu from Buna (Amharic), and Qa from Qawa (Arabic)—the name reflects both Ethiopia’s legacy as the birthplace of coffee and Daniel’s global journey.

Before opening CoBuQa, Daniel knew that introducing authentic Mexican cuisine to Addis Ababa would require more than just recipes. It would demand a well-trained team that understood the nuances of Mexican cooking. For three months, Daniel worked intensively with his team, teaching them not just the techniques but the philosophy behind the food.

This training included everything from sourcing and handling fresh ingredients to mastering the preparation of iconic dishes like burrito bowls, enchiladas, and tacos. Daniel also emphasized creativity and improvisation, given the challenges of sourcing traditional Mexican ingredients in Ethiopia. Through experimentation and hands-on learning, his team learned to adapt without sacrificing authenticity, ensuring that every dish met CoBuQa’s high standards of freshness, healthiness, and flavor.

CoBuQa’s menu is a celebration of both traditional and modern Mexican cuisine. The offerings are divided into two main categories:

Daniel points out a fascinating similarity between Mexican and Ethiopian cuisines: their shared love for bold, spicy flavors. This cultural overlap has made it easier for Ethiopian diners to embrace the dishes at CoBuQa. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with rave reviews not just from locals but also from the Mexican community in Addis Ababa, including the Mexican Ambassador.

Running a Mexican restaurant in Addis Ababa has come with its share of challenges. Infrastructure limitations and supply chain issues have made it difficult to source certain ingredients. However, these obstacles have only fueled Daniel’s creativity. He has worked tirelessly with his team to find substitutes and develop innovative methods to replicate the authentic flavors of Mexico.

This resourcefulness has not gone unnoticed. The dishes at CoBuQa are so true to their origins that they’ve won the hearts of Mexican expats and locals alike, proving that authenticity can thrive even in the face of adversity.

For Daniel, CoBuQa is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural bridge that connects Ethiopia and Mexico through food. It’s a space where people can experience the vibrancy of Mexican cuisine while appreciating the shared values of the two cultures.

Daniel’s commitment to quality is unwavering. “We don’t compromise on our standards—fresh, healthy, and delicious food is what we stand for,” he says. This philosophy is evident in every dish served at CoBuQa, from the perfectly spiced tacos to the hearty enchiladas.

Since its opening, CoBuQa has become a beloved spot for food enthusiasts in Addis Ababa. It’s a testament to Daniel’s vision, hard work, and the dedication of his team. As the restaurant continues to grow, Daniel hopes to expand the menu further, incorporating more modern interpretations of Mexican cuisine while staying true to its roots.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Mexican food or a curious newcomer, CoBuQa promises a dining experience like no other. Step into this vibrant restaurant in Kasanchiz, and let Daniel and his team take you on a flavorful journey that celebrates the best of Mexico and Ethiopia.