Demera Restaurant Chicago: A Taste of Ethiopia in Uptown

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Chicago’s diverse Uptown neighborhood, Demera Restaurant stands as a culinary beacon, inviting guests on an unforgettable journey to Ethiopia. From the moment you step inside, the captivating aromas of berbere, cardamom, and roasted coffee envelop you, promising an authentic experience unlike any other. Demera is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural immersion, a place where warm hospitality meets exquisitely prepared traditional dishes, all served in a setting that beautifully blends rustic charm with modern elegance.

Located at 4801 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640, Demera offers convenient access for both locals and visitors eager to explore the rich tapestry of Ethiopian cuisine. The ambiance is thoughtfully crafted to transport you: soft, ambient lighting, walls adorned with vibrant Ethiopian art, intricate patterns, and the subtle hum of traditional music create an inviting, intimate atmosphere perfect for shared meals and heartfelt conversations. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two, a lively gathering with friends, or a memorable family outing, Demera provides the perfect backdrop.

The restaurant welcomes its patrons with generous hours, ensuring there’s always an opportunity to savor their delectable offerings:

Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about their catering options, Demera’s friendly team is readily available. You can reach them directly at (773) 334-8888 or via email at info@demerarestaurant.com. Embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with cherished memories, right here in Chicago.

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Menu Highlights: A Culinary Journey at Demera Restaurant

Demera Restaurant’s menu is a vibrant celebration of Ethiopian culinary traditions, offering an extensive selection of dishes designed to be shared and savored. Each item is meticulously prepared using authentic spices and fresh ingredients, ensuring a truly immersive dining experience. From savory stews (wots) to sizzling sautéed meats (tibs) and an impressive array of vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something to delight every palate. All dishes are traditionally served with injera, the spongy, slightly sour Ethiopian flatbread, perfect for scooping up every delicious bite.

Starters & Appetizers

Sambusa (Beef/Lentil): Crispy pastry filled with seasoned ground beef or spiced green lentils.
Azifa: Chilled green lentil salad, zesty lemon vinaigrette, fresh herbs.
Timatim Fitfit: Shredded injera mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, spices.
Ethiopian Salad: Fresh mixed greens, tomatoes, onions, house vinaigrette dressing.
Yeshimbra Asa Wot: Ground chickpea patties in a savory, mild, lightly spiced stew.
Kategna: Toasted injera pieces, buttered with spiced clarified butter, berbere seasoning.
Fata: Fresh avocado, diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, tossed in dressing.

Tibs (Sautéed Dishes)

Tibs are known for their vibrant flavors and tender textures, expertly sautéed to perfection.

Derek Tibs (Beef): Succulent beef cubes, sautéed with onions, peppers, fragrant spices.
Derek Tibs (Lamb): Tender lamb cubes, pan-fried with onions, jalapeños, traditional spices.
Awaze Tibs (Beef): Spicy version, beef infused with fiery Awaze paste, vibrant flavor.
Awaze Tibs (Lamb): Lamb strips, rich and spicy, slow-cooked in potent Awaze sauce.
Ye’beg Tibs: Delicate lamb strips, pan-fried with fragrant rosemary, garlic, ginger.
Fosolia Tibs (Vegetarian): Green beans and carrots, lightly spiced and sautéed.
Shiro Tibs (Vegetarian): Creamy chickpea stew, slow-cooked with aromatic spices, rich.
Special Kitfo (Raw/Cooked): Finely minced lean beef, seasoned with mitmita, clarified butter.

Wots (Flavorful Stews)

Wots are the heart of Ethiopian cuisine, slow-simmered to develop deep, complex flavors.

Doro Wot: Iconic chicken stew, hard-boiled egg, rich berbere spice, deeply satisfying.
Key Wot (Beef): Spiced beef stew, slow-simmered in a rich, dark berbere sauce.
Alicha Wot (Beef): Mild, savory beef stew, turmeric-infused, tender, comforting.
Alicha Wot (Lamb): Gentle lamb stew, turmeric, garlic, ginger, subtly spiced.
Gomen Besega: Collard greens and tender beef, seasoned with garlic, ginger, jalapeños.
Ye’zegelgelle Key Wot: Special occasion spicy beef stew, deeply flavorful, aromatic spices.

Vegetarian & Vegan Delights

Demera boasts an outstanding selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, many of which are naturally gluten-free.

Misir Wot: Hearty red lentil stew, slow-cooked in berbere sauce, deeply flavorful.
Kik Alicha: Split yellow pea stew, mild turmeric, garlic, ginger, subtly spiced.
Gomen: Steamed collard greens, seasoned with garlic and ginger, perfectly tender.
Atkilt Wot: Cabbage, carrots, potatoes, turmeric-infused, gently spiced, wholesome.
Shiro Wot: Creamy ground chickpea stew, deeply comforting, aromatic, satisfying.
Dinich Wot: Savory potato stew, mildly spiced, perfect with injera, comforting flavors.
Fosolia: Green beans and carrots, cooked to tender perfection with mild spices.
Quanta Firfir: Dried beef jerky rehydrated and mixed with spiced injera pieces.
Shiro Firfir: Injera pieces mixed with delicious, creamy shiro wot, unique texture.

Combination Platters

Perfect for sampling a variety of dishes and sharing the communal dining experience.

Demera Combination (Meat & Veg): A grand feast, sample all the best dishes.
Vegetarian Combination: Abundant selection of 5-7 delicious vegan stews, a true spread.
Chef’s Special Combination: Daily rotating selection of exquisite, chef-chosen dishes.

Sides & Traditional Breads

Injera: Spongy, slightly sour flatbread, essential for scooping every delicious morsel.
Ayib: Homemade cottage cheese, refreshing counterpoint to spicy dishes, creamy.
Karia: Fresh green chilies, for those who crave an extra kick.

Desserts

Baklava: Flaky pastry, sweet honey syrup, chopped nuts, delightful sweetness.
Ambasha: Sweet Ethiopian bread, often enjoyed with coffee, subtly spiced.
Tiramisu: Classic Italian dessert, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, rich.

Beverages

Ethiopian Coffee (Buna): Freshly roasted, ceremonially brewed, rich aroma, deep flavor.
Tej (Honey Wine): Traditional fermented honey wine, sweet and unique, culturally significant.
Spris: Layered mango, avocado, and papaya juice, refreshing, vibrant, fruity.
Soft Drinks & Juices: Wide selection of popular beverages to complement your meal.

Demera Restaurant’s interior exudes a warm, inviting charm with its rich cultural decor and thoughtful lighting, creating a truly authentic Ethiopian atmosphere. Service is consistently friendly, attentive, and highly knowledgeable, with staff always eager to guide diners through the menu and explain the traditional eating style. The pricing is mid-range, offering excellent value for the generous portions and the high quality of the authentic, flavorful dishes. The overall vibe is lively and communal, making it perfect for shared dining experiences with family, friends, or a memorable date night. Guests often appreciate the subtle traditional music and the beautiful Ethiopian artwork that adorns the walls, enhancing the immersive experience.

Experience the Heart of Ethiopia at Demera

Demera Restaurant in Chicago is truly a jewel, offering an authentic and unforgettable Ethiopian dining experience. While every dish is a culinary delight, the Doro Wot stands out as a must-try for its rich, complex flavors, and the Demera Combination Platter is perfect for those who want to savor a little bit of everything. Vegetarians and vegans will be equally thrilled with the extensive and flavorful options, particularly the hearty Misir Wot and the diverse Vegetarian Combination. This restaurant is ideal for adventurous foodies, families looking for a unique meal, couples on a date seeking a cozy yet vibrant setting, and anyone eager to explore a culture through its cuisine. With its warm hospitality, exquisite flavors, and inviting atmosphere, Demera doesn’t just serve food; it serves an experience. It’s a place where every meal feels like a celebration, leaving you with a full stomach and a happy heart.

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