Story & Traditions
The roots of Makda, where ancient heritage meets today.
“At the heart of Makda, every plate carries an ancient heritage: the wisdom of the Queen of Sheba, the tangy aroma of teff injera, the warmth of a shared ceremonial coffee.”
The Spirit of Sharing
In Ethiopia and Eritrea, eating is a communal act. The meal is served in a mesob (woven basket) on one large shared platter. You eat with your right hand, using injera – a fermented sourdough flatbread – to scoop up the spiced stews (wats).
Another tradition, gursha, means feeding a friend or relative with your own hand as a sign of affection and respect. At Makda, we keep this cherished conviviality alive.
The Coffee Ceremony (Buna)
Coffee comes from Ethiopia (the Kaffa region). The coffee ceremony is a central ritual of social life. The green beans are washed, roasted over hot coals in front of the guests – filling the room with a captivating aroma – then ground with a mortar.
The coffee is then brewed in a jebena (clay pot) and served in small handleless cups. It is a moment when time stands still, made for conversation and connection, and we are proud to share it with you.
Come and share the tradition
Share a platter on injera and finish with a coffee ceremony. Book online or by phone; everything is also available to take away.
Takeaway: order by phone and collect your food.