Ajora Ethiopian Kitchen, a beloved Ethiopian restaurant for 7 years in downtown Nashville’s Arcade has re-opened after the pandemic in the South Nashville/Antioch area. They’re serving their dishes that downtown customers enjoyed with the same husband and wife duo running the restaurant, offering their friendly customer service in an inviting atmosphere. With the new opening, they are welcoming people in for a celebratory event on Saturday, September 13 to celebrate the Ethiopian New Year.
Dinner will be served in the traditional Ethiopian way—from the mesob. A mesob is a handwoven, colorful serving table traditionally used in Ethiopia and Eritrea. Guests sit around it while a large platter of injera with stews is placed in the center for everyone to share. Injera (እንጀራ) is a soft, spongy flatbread made from teff, an ancient Ethiopian grain rich in iron and gluten-free by nature. With its slightly tangy taste and airy texture, injera is both plate and utensil — used to scoop up richly spiced stews and vegetables. The large platter at the center symbolizes unity and shared hospitality. Feel free to tear pieces of injera and scoop the stews with your hands—it’s all part of the cultural experience.
If you’re coming with someone you’re close to (or meet someone comfortable with the gesture), feel free to participate in Gursha — the act of feeding another by hand that is a sign of affection. Just make sure you have their permission, of course!
A community favorite dish:
The spicy red lentils are a crowd favorite. They almost have a ground beef texture and taste like chili but of course with different spices.
View their special menu and celebratory event on September 13 for the Ethiopian New Year. All are welcomed!
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