Welcome to Ashu Portland 

Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine, Full Bar, and Catering

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.


About Ashu Portland 

Where Culture, Craft, and Community Meet at the Table

Ashu Portland 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, Ashu Portland 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.

A Taste of Ethiopia: Signature Dishes

🥩 Kitfo – A Symphony of Flavor and Tradition
One of Ethiopia’s most cherished delicacies, Kitfo is finely minced raw beef seasoned with niter kibbeh (a spiced clarified butter), mitmita (a bold red pepper blend), and a medley of house spices. Often served with house-made ayib (Ethiopian cheese) and cooked greens, it’s both delicate and deeply satisfying. Each bite offers a perfect balance of richness, warmth, and cultural pride.

🥩 Tire Siga – The Art of Simplicity, Perfected
Known as Ethiopia’s traditional raw beef dish, Tire Siga is a tribute to quality and purity. Only the finest cuts of beef are served, sliced and seasoned to highlight their natural flavor. Often enjoyed during holidays and special gatherings, Tire Siga reflects the deep-rooted appreciation in Ethiopian culture for freshness, texture, and simplicity. Served with spicy mustard, injera, and a bold attitude, it’s not just food — it’s a rite of passage.

🍗 Doro Wot – The Heartbeat of Ethiopian Cuisine
Doro Wot is often called the national dish of Ethiopia — and for good reason. This deeply flavorful chicken stew is slow-simmered with caramelized onions, garlic, ginger, and Ethiopia’s iconic berbere spice blend. Finished with hard-boiled eggs and a rich depth of spice, it’s served on a bed of fresh injera, the traditional sour flatbread that anchors every meal. Doro Wot is comfort food at its most profound — a dish that nourishes both body and soul.

Beyond the Plate

At Portland Ashu, every detail is intentional — from the authentic décor to the curated music, handcrafted cocktails, and warm service. Our full bar features classic spirits alongside custom cocktails inspired by Ethiopian flavors. Whether you're sipping a honey wine spritz or toasting with friends over mezze-style appetizers, the experience is immersive, flavorful, and always memorable.

We also offer catering services for weddings, private events, and community gatherings — bringing the rich culinary traditions of Ethiopia to your table, wherever you celebrate.

Come Hungry, Leave Inspired

Whether you're discovering Ethiopian cuisine for the first time or reconnecting with the tastes of home, Portland Ashu welcomes you. It’s a place to explore, to gather, to celebrate — and to taste the bold, beautiful flavors of Ethiopia, served with heart and heritage by Chef Ashenafi Deressa.