In the heart of Akron, Ohio, a new culinary and cultural landmark has emerged. The city now welcomes Cafe Bereka, the first permanent location of the beloved Bereka Coffee truck. This establishment, owned by Ethiopian-born Nardos Street, offers an extensive menu of authentic Ethiopian coffees, teas, specialty beverages, and cuisine. Since its quiet opening in November, the cafe has become a cherished space where locals can gather, enjoy delicious food, and experience Ethiopian culture through historical artifacts displayed throughout the venue. With a commitment to fresh, organic, and ethically sourced ingredients, as well as a variety of dietary options, Cafe Bereka stands out as a unique gem in the community.

A Cultural Experience Awaits at Cafe Bereka

In the charming autumn season, Akronites have been greeted with a delightful surprise—the grand opening of Cafe Bereka. Located at 3308 S. Main St., this cozy eatery is the brainchild of entrepreneur Nardos Street, who hails from Ethiopia. For years, Street has shared her passion for Ethiopian flavors through her mobile coffee trailer, but now she has expanded her offerings into a full-fledged cafe that invites patrons to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of her homeland.

The interior of Cafe Bereka is adorned with historical items from Ethiopia, creating an atmosphere that transports visitors to another world. The menu features a wide array of coffee drinks, including black organic brews and cappuccinos made with non-dairy creams infused with Ethiopian herbs over three days. Among the standout offerings is the caviar coffee, a smooth and bold pure organic Ethiopian blend that delights traditionalists. Seasonal favorites like the snowball latte and doe-nut regreat add a whimsical touch to the beverage selection.

Beyond coffee, Cafe Bereka serves a variety of Ethiopian dishes suitable for vegans and meat-eaters alike. From vegan options such as aterkik, a mild split-pea stew, and misir wot, red lentils simmered with spices, to alicha, a steak dish seasoned with local ingredients, every meal comes with a kale salad, turmeric rice, and injera bread. For those on the go, the cafe offers samosas filled with crimson lentils and bell peppers, paired perfectly with Ethiopian chai tea.

Cafe Bereka provides seating for 40-50 guests and operates from Tuesdays to Saturdays, offering morning and afternoon refreshments. Despite this new venture, Street remains dedicated to her mobile coffee business, which she continues to run alongside the cafe with the help of her family and staff.

From a reader's perspective, Cafe Bereka represents more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee. It symbolizes the fusion of cultures and the power of small businesses to enrich communities. By providing a space where people can connect over delicious food and meaningful experiences, Street has created a true haven in Akron. Her dedication to quality and authenticity sets a high standard for other establishments, reminding us all of the importance of preserving and sharing cultural heritage.