Phoenix's beloved Authentic EthioAfrican is quickly gaining ground in the local food scene, recently swinging open its doors to a second location in central Scottsdale. This new outpost has taken up residence on the southeast corner of Hayden and Indian Bend, where it continues to serve its distinctive blend of Ethiopian dishes that have garnered a loyal following since its inception in 2012.
Anduale Hassan and Elsabet Tiruneh, the driving forces behind Authentic EthioAfrican, aimed to share their culture in areas lacking Ethiopian cuisine, specifically targeting Scottsdale, known for its tourist appeal. Their latest venue mirrors the interior charm of the original Phoenix location, adorned with African jazz, imported Ethiopian decor, and an inviting ceremonial coffee display. According to a Phoenix New Times interview, Hassan expressed their intent to deeply reflect traditional art that honors their cultural heritage within the restaurant's ambiance.
The Scottsdale menu offers a collection of flavors from spicy stews, known as wots, which are served atop injera, the spongy Ethiopian flatbread that doubles as a utensil. Diners are encouraged to tear off pieces of injera to scoop up their selected dishes. Staples like Duro Wot Key, a traditional chicken stew, and Tibs, sautéed marinated meat, capture the essence of Ethiopian home cooking. The restaurant also prides itself on a vast array of vegetarian selections, as Hassan mentioned to Phoenix New Times their plant-based offerings, which comprise "almost 80% of our menu."
While the Scottsdale location serves up individual and communal meals ranging from $9 to $17, the Authentic EthioAfrican is also looking to further expand their culinary presence in Phoenix. A new bakery is to soon feature desserts like teff carrot cake and injera sales, while the addition of a breakfast menu will bring traditional delights such as Chechebsa and Fetira to morning diners. Hassan shared with Phoenix New Times a personal connection to the cuisine, recalling his childhood in Addis Ababa with fond memories tied to the dishes he now serves up to a diverse clientele, including the surprisingly adventurous palates of young patrons.
Patrons looking to experience Authentic EthioAfrican's fare can visit the Scottsdale location Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For those closer to the Phoenix area or interested in the upcoming bakery and community center, the original location on McDowell Road stands ready to welcome visitors to a space that's rapidly evolving as a buzzing cultural hub, just as Hassan and Tiruneh envisioned. Details about their vision and the growth of their establishment can be found through the write-ups from both Phoenix New Times and Mouth by Southwest.
