Kaldi's Coffee

Kaldi's Coffee is Ethiopia's leading specialty coffee chain, named after the legendary goatherd who first discovered the energising properties of the coffee plant in the Kaffa region. With dozens of branches across Addis Ababa, Kaldi's has become the city's most recognisable third-wave coffee brand — bringing barista culture, single-origin sourcing, and café-as-workspace to the Ethiopian mainstream.

The Coffee

Kaldi's works directly with smallholder farmers across Ethiopia's major growing regions — Yirgacheffe, Sidama, Guji, Harrar, and Limu — and operates its own roasting facility. The menu spans espresso classics, pour-overs, and cold brew, with tasting notes presented on a chalkboard behind the bar. Seasonal single-origin filters change regularly.

What to Order

• Yirgacheffe filter — floral and citrus-forward, the benchmark of Ethiopian light roast
• Cortado — a balanced 1:1 ratio of espresso and warm milk; well-suited to Kaldi's bold house blend
• Cold brew — served over ice with optional oat milk; popular during the dry season

The Space

Kaldi's cafés are well-designed work-friendly spaces with fast Wi-Fi, ample power outlets, and a full food menu running from pastries and sandwiches to hot breakfast. The Bole Road flagship is the largest and busiest, with a dedicated roastery viewing window.

Visitor Tips

• The Bole Road branch is the go-to spot for remote workers and laptop culture.
• Kaldi's sells its roasted beans and branded merchandise — a solid souvenir option.
• Branches close to the airport are useful for a quality final coffee before departure.