Ashu Portland
Ashu Portland
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Ashu Portland Now Open. Full Menu, Full Bar
Chef Ashenafi Deressa
Founder & Executive Chef of Ashu Portland
Chef Ashenafi Deressa is the visionary behind Ashu Portland — a chef, storyteller, and proud Ethiopian-American whose cooking invites guests into a deeper experience of culture, flavor, and connection.
Born and raised in Ethiopia, Ashenafi discovered his love of food in his family’s kitchen, where the aromas of berbere spice and slow-cooked stews filled the air. His earliest lessons came from his mother and grandmother, who taught him that food wasn’t just nourishment — it was tradition, memory, and love served on a plate.
After relocating to Portland, Ashenafi set out to share the flavors of his homeland with his new community. With years of culinary experience and a commitment to authenticity, he opened Ashu Portland, a space where Ethiopian cuisine takes center stage — bold, soulful, and unapologetically traditional.
At Ashu Portland, Chef Ashenafi serves everything from classic doro wot to vibrant vegan platters and signature raw beef dishes like tire siga and kitfo — all prepared with precision, care, and heart. Known for his warm hospitality and cultural pride, Ashenafi brings more than food to the table — he brings people together.
“Ethiopian food is not just about spice. It’s about sharing. It’s about family,” he says.
“At Ashu Portland, we feed the soul.”
At Ashu Portland , we bring the heart and soul of Ethiopia to every plate. Whether you’re dining in with us, enjoying a handcrafted cocktail at our full bar, or booking a catered event, we specialize in bold, flavorful dishes rich in culture and tradition. Our food is made with care, love, and the finest ingredients — just like it’s done back home.
From the sizzling spice of Doro Wot to the delicate richness of Kitfo and the pure tradition of Tire Siga, every bite is a celebration of Ethiopian heritage.
Where Culture, Craft, and Community Meet at the Table
Portland Ashu is more than just a restaurant — it’s a journey into the heart of Ethiopia, right here in the vibrant food scene of Portland, Oregon. Founded by Chef Ashenafi Deressa, Portland Ashu is a labor of love, created to honor the traditions of Ethiopian cooking while sharing its powerful flavors, stories, and sense of togetherness with the local community.
From the moment you step inside, you’re met with the warm aroma of berbere spices, the sound of laughter, and the inviting clink of glasses from our full-service bar. Whether you're here for a cozy meal, celebrating with family, or enjoying cocktails and shared plates with friends, Ashu offers a space where everyone feels like family.
Chef Ashenafi’s vision is simple: cook from the soul, use the finest ingredients, and never compromise the authenticity of Ethiopia’s timeless recipes. Each dish is prepared with care and precision, using traditional methods passed down through generations — slow-cooked, spice-layered, and served with a sense of occasion. It’s food that tells a story — of heritage, hospitality, and home.
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