Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Chicago

Demera Ethiopian Restaurant in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood is renowned for its authentic Ethiopian cuisine, offering a variety of traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant has received high praise for its flavorful food, attentive service, and vibrant ambiance. Many patrons appreciate the vegetarian and vegan options available, as well as the gluten-free injera. The live music on weekends adds to the cultural experience, and the house-made honey wine is a standout feature. Overall, Demera is celebrated for providing an immersive Ethiopian dining experience that resonates with both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.

Discover Demera Ethiopian Restaurant in Chicago's Uptown Neighborhood 

Nestled at 4801 North Broadway, Demera Ethiopian Restaurant invites you to experience the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Ethiopia right in the heart of Chicago's Uptown neighborhood. This welcoming eatery is beloved for its authentic cuisine, warm atmosphere, and lively weekend music that brings a touch of Ethiopian tradition to every guest.

Demera offers a delightful menu of traditional Ethiopian dishes served on shared plates that encourage a communal dining experience. The injera, a teff-based flatbread with a soft, crepe-like texture, serves as the perfect companion to flavorful stews and vegetable medleys. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or meat lover, the diverse menu caters to all tastes, including gluten-free injera options for those with dietary restrictions.

 their house-made honey wine called "tej", a sweet and aromatic Ethiopian beverage that pairs beautifully with the menu’s rich flavors.

Step inside Demera and feel the warmth of Ethiopian hospitality. The inviting décor and friendly staff create a cozy ambiance that makes every visit memorable. On weekends, traditional Ethiopian music fills the air, enhancing the cultural immersion and making it a perfect spot for both casual meals and special occasions. Outdoor seating is also available for those who enjoy dining alfresco on pleasant days.

Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options available to fit your schedule.

Accepts credit, debit, and NFC payments for smooth transactions.

Free and paid street parking options nearby.

Family-friendly environment with seating suitable for groups and children.

 No, Demera is not BYOB. They offer a selection of alcoholic beverages, including house-made honey wine, African and American beers, and cocktails.

 Yes, Demera provides gluten-free injera and other gluten-free dishes to accommodate dietary needs.

 Yes, traditional Ethiopian music is performed on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

 Yes, reservations are accepted. It's recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends.

 Yes, Demera offers outdoor seating for guests who prefer dining al fresco.

 reflects Demera's reputation as a must-visit spot for authentic Ethiopian food in Chicago. Diners praise the flavorful dishes, especially the vegetarian options, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere complemented by attentive service. The traditional music on weekends and the house-made honey wine offer a unique cultural touch that keeps guests coming back for a genuine Ethiopian dining adventure.

For travelers, food enthusiasts, and locals alike, Demera Ethiopian Restaurant provides an immersive culinary journey with dishes that celebrate tradition and innovation. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a lively dinner with friends, this Uptown gem offers a memorable taste of Ethiopia’s rich heritage.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood of Chicago, Demera Restaurant offers a delightful journey into Ethiopian cuisine. With its warm, inviting atmosphere, this eatery is a haven for food lovers eager to explore the rich flavors of Ethiopia. The moment you step inside, the aroma of spices fills the air, promising a culinary experience that is both unique and memorable.

At Demera, every dish tells a story. The menu features a variety of traditional Ethiopian dishes, with standout options like the **Demera Messob**, a vibrant platter filled with an assortment of stews and vegetables served atop injera, a spongy flatbread that serves as both a plate and utensil. Diners can savor the rich flavors of spicy lentils, tender lamb, and sautéed greens, all beautifully arranged for a communal dining experience.

For those looking to indulge in something sweet, the **tej**, a traditional Ethiopian honey wine, is a must-try. Its sweet, floral notes perfectly complement the savory dishes, making it a favorite among guests. The ambiance is enhanced by the soft sounds of traditional Ethiopian music, creating a perfect backdrop for a delightful meal.

Located at 4801 N Broadway, Demera is conveniently situated near several attractions, making it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists. Just a short walk away, you can explore the beautiful Montrose Beach or take a stroll through the vibrant streets of Uptown, known for its rich cultural history and diverse community.

Demera is celebrated for its authentic Ethiopian cuisine, particularly its communal platters like the Demera Messob, which showcase a variety of stews and vegetables.

Visiting Demera offers a unique opportunity to experience Ethiopian culture through its food, music, and warm hospitality.

Demera is open for lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for any meal of the day.

Whether you're a seasoned Ethiopian cuisine lover or trying it for the first time, Demera Restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience. Gather your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the flavors and culture of Ethiopia. We look forward to welcoming you!

Casual Ethiopian eatery with shared plates, house-roasted coffee & traditional music on weekends.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfdGMzWXNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJn3YvvizSD4gRpcXR5695BoU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfdGMzWXNnRRAB

The atmosphere was really nice! Their “tej” (Ethiopian honey wine) is really good if you like sweet drinks. My friends loved it so much they bought the whole bottle to go each!

The food is alright, not entirely the Ethiopian taste I know and love from back home but it’s good enough. Their injera (the teff flat bread) could also be better

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfOEl6RnV3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJn3YvvizSD4gRpcXR5695BoU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfOEl6RnV3RRAB

It was our first time trying Ethiopian food, and we were delighted we decided to try it! For appetizers, we ordered Sambussas and Kay deer salata, and they were both excellent. For the main dishes, we ordered Demera Messob for two and selected many different flavors. They were all delicious, and they reminded us of South Indian food with varying styles of bread.
The service was great but just a bit slow, and we hoped the options were explained
a little more since we were first timers, but overall we enjoyed the experience a lot.
We made a reservation at the last minute, and we were glad we did. The restaurant became full very quickly, and some customers were waiting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNudHJhcURnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJn3YvvizSD4gRpcXR5695BoU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNudHJhcURnEAE

My friends and I like to try different cuisines and I had never tried Ethiopian food before. We ordered the sample for the four of us and the servers brought it out pretty quickly.

The bread that came with it was soft and had a crepe-like texture. it was also sour like sourdough is, but it was delicious. The dishes in the sampler were great. I loved all the selections of greens and the lamb and chicken were delicious. The bread made the dishes easily scoopable. Demera made eating Ethiopian food for the first time a great experience!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3X3JqQl93RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJn3YvvizSD4gRpcXR5695BoU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3X3JqQl93RRAB

I’ve been wanting to try Ethiopian food for a while and finally made it today with a friend. We ordered the sampler, which included three meat dishes and veggies served on a round tray with a unique, spongy wrap that had a slight vinegar taste—great for scooping up the food. The staff was friendly, and our order was taken and served quickly. We were the only ones there for Sunday lunch, and the food presentation was appealing.

However, while we were eager to dive in, the quality was underwhelming. The meat dishes were overcooked, making the chicken tough, and the lamb had small bone fragments mixed in. The flavors of the sauces didn’t seem to penetrate the meat, which was disappointing. Given the portion size and the fact that we only ordered the sampler, the final bill of est $58 (plus tip $68) felt a bit steep for what we received.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQX2ZpTENnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJn3YvvizSD4gRpcXR5695BoU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQX2ZpTENnEAE

This restaurant was really great for dinner. The waitress, food, and atmosphere were all top notch in my opinion. The six dishes option is plenty for two people and I would definitely go there again! The vegetarian options are really delicious.

Ethiopian Cuisine at Demera Restaurant, Uptown Chicago

Demera Ethiopian Restaurant, established in 2007, has become a staple in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood, offering authentic Ethiopian cuisine in a vibrant setting. The restaurant has been recognized by the MICHELIN Guide and has received numerous accolades for its culinary excellence.

Demera Ethiopian Restaurant History and Legacy in Chicago Uptown District.

Founded in 2007, Demera Ethiopian Restaurant has proudly established itself as a vibrant culinary landmark in Chicago's historic Uptown neighborhood. For over a decade, this beloved eatery has brought authentic Ethiopian flavors to the city's diverse food scene, creating a welcoming space where tradition meets community.

Demera opened its doors in 2007, quickly becoming a cornerstone for Ethiopian cuisine enthusiasts in Chicago. Situated on North Broadway, the restaurant introduced locals and visitors alike to the rich, layered tastes of Ethiopia, served in a lively and inviting atmosphere that captures the spirit of its cultural roots.

In 2022, Demera's commitment to culinary excellence was formally acknowledged when it received the prestigious MICHELIN Plate recognition. This accolade celebrates restaurants delivering quality food, underscoring Demera's role as a vital ambassador of Ethiopian culinary traditions in Chicago's competitive dining landscape.

 serves as more than just a restaurant—it is a community hub that brings the flavors and traditions of Ethiopia to Chicago. From the signature injera flatbread to the rich stews and vegetarian dishes, every meal is an immersive journey into Ethiopian culture, making it a must-visit for food lovers and cultural explorers alike.

 Demera Ethiopian Restaurant opened in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood.

 Demera received the MICHELIN Plate recognition for its outstanding food quality.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Good for Children

Demera Restaurant is a casual Ethiopian eatery located in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood of Chicago, offering shared plates, house-roasted coffee, and traditional music on weekends. It invites diners to experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Demera Restaurant

Authentic Ethiopian cuisine featuring a variety of traditional dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options, served in a cozy atmosphere.

Beef Sambussa

Chicken Sambussa

Tuna Sambussa

Lentil Sambussa

Spinach Sambussa

Sambussa Sampler

Ambasha

Appetizer Messob

Timatim Selata

Demera Selata

Kay Seer Selata

Azifah Selata

Ye-timatim Fitfit

Demera Tibs Selata

Vegetarian Messob

Meat Messob

Vegetarian & Meat Messob

Demera Messob

Ye-Misir Wot

Ye-Shimbra Assa

Kik Alicha

Shiro

Gomen

Quosta

Tikle Gomen

Ye-Dinich ena Carrot Alicha

Kayseer Ena Carrot Tibs

Ye-beg Wot

Ye-beg Alicha

Lega Tibs

Derek Tibs

Goden Tibs

Doro Wot

Doro Alicha

Ye-doro Tibs

Ye-Siga Wot

Ye-Siga Alicha

Michetabish

Kitfo

Special Kitfo

Togamino Kitfo

Demera Kitfo

Ye-Siga Tibs

Ye-Awazé Tibs

Gored Gored

Zilzil Tibs

Ye-Kwanta Firfir

Ye-Asa Wot

Ye-Asa Tibs

Ye-Shrimp Tibs

Ye-Shrimp Wot

Ye-Asa Lebleb

Missionary's Delight

Basil Lime Sorbet

Sambussa Turnovers

Baklava

Ethiopian Style Tiramisu

Hibist Volcano

Demera Ethiopian Restaurant Menu

Delightful starters to awaken your palate

Begin your culinary journey at Demera with a vibrant selection of sambussas, each bursting with unique flavors. Try the minced prime beef, tender chicken breast, fresh tuna, or nutrient-rich lentil and spinach fillings, all wrapped in Demera’s signature spiced mix. For a taste sampler, the Sambussa Sampler offers a delightful combination of these options. Complement these with Ambasha, a mildly sweet skillet-baked bread served alongside spiced butter and collard greens, or the Appetizer Messob, an inviting platter featuring both sambussa sampler and ambasha. Fresh salads like Timatim Selata, with zesty tomatoes and jalapenos, and the protein-rich Demera Selata topped with pan-seared chicken or tilapia, add a refreshing balance.

Hearty mains showcasing authentic Ethiopian flavors

The mains at Demera offer a rich tapestry of traditional Ethiopian dishes designed to satisfy every appetite. Dive into the Messob platters, where you can choose from Vegetarian Messob with four flavorful vegetarian dishes, Meat Messob featuring four savory meat options, or a mix of both for a balanced experience. Experience classic stews like Ye-Misir Wot, a spiced split red lentil dish, or Ye-Shimbra Assa made with ground chickpeas in berbere sauce. Vegetable lovers will appreciate Kik Alicha’s turmeric-seasoned yellow split peas and the fresh, ginger-infused Gomen collard greens.

For meat aficionados, offerings include tender lamb specialties such as Ye-beg Wot simmered with Demera’s signature spicy sauce, Lega Tibs grilled with rosemary and awazé spices, and succulent lamb ribs in Goden Tibs. Chicken dishes range from the spicy Doro Wot with hardboiled egg and ayib cheese to the milder Doro Alicha seasoned with rosemary and jalapeños. Beef and seafood options are equally impressive, featuring dishes like Ye-Siga Wot in berbere sauce, the sizzling Ye-Kwanta Firfir with beef jerky and injera, and Ye-Shrimp Tibs glazed with honey wine and fragrant rosemary.

Complete your meal with an array of delightful desserts. The Missionary's Delight blends vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce and mango juice for a tropical twist, while the Basil Lime Sorbet refreshes with bright herbal notes. Indulge in Sambussa Turnovers filled with almonds, walnuts, cardamom, and rose water, or savor the flaky layers of Baklava drizzled with honey and studded with pistachios. For a unique fusion, the Ethiopian Style Tiramisu combines organic coffee, brandy, and mascarpone cheese, and the Hibist Volcano offers an exotic mix of vanilla ice cream infused with hibiscus and warm spices.

Specials that elevate your dining experience

Demera’s menu also features standout specials like the Kitfo, an Ethiopian-style steak tartar served with herbed butter sauce and ayib cheese, available in several variations including the Special Kitfo mixed with gomen and the Togamino Kitfo served sizzling with jalapenos. The Demera Kitfo offers a spicy combination of kitfo with onion and jalapenos, all embraced by traditional flavors. These dishes are perfect for those seeking an authentic and vibrant taste of Ethiopian cuisine.

Savor authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Demera Restaurant in Uptown, Chicago. Indulge in vibrant flavors and spices. Visit us for an unforgettable meal!

Demera Restaurant: Authentic Ethiopian in Chicago Uptown

Cook County

Authentic Ethiopian dishes served in a communal dining style.

Traditional Ethiopian Cuisine

A wide variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes available.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Gluten-free injera and other gluten-free dishes offered.

Gluten-Free Options

Traditional Ethiopian music performed on weekends.

Live Music

Traditional Ethiopian honey wine made in-house.

House-Made Honey Wine

Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood at Demera Restaurant, a vibrant spot offering a true taste of Ethiopia with a modern twist.

Ethiopian Cuisine at Demera Restaurant, Uptown Chicago

Dining & Culinary Delights

Location & Nearby Attractions

FAQs

Visit Us Today