Addey Ababa

- 736 W 181st St, New York, NY 10033

Introduction / Overview

New Yorkers seeking an authentic and deeply flavorful culinary journey need look no further than Addey Ababa, a celebrated Ethiopian restaurant nestled in the vibrant Washington Heights neighborhood. Since its opening, Addey Ababa has quickly established itself as a local gem, offering a truly heartwarming and high-quality dining experience. The restaurant is not just a place to eat; it is a celebration of Ethiopian culture and cuisine, known for its perfectly spiced, rich-in-flavor dishes and an atmosphere of genuine, warm hospitality. Many patrons—including those familiar with Ethiopian food—have lauded it as one of the most authentic and memorable dining experiences in New York, with the food tasting like it was prepared for a personal invitation. The staff are frequently highlighted for their attentiveness and kindness, often described as “superb” and even “mind-reading” in their service. The restaurant is family-owned and operated, a detail that clearly shines through in the care put into every dish and the welcoming ambiance. Whether you are a first-timer to Ethiopian cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, Addey Ababa offers a cozy, casual, and inviting setting to explore a range of traditional dishes, from robust meat stews to extensive, flavorful vegan and vegetarian options.

Addey Ababa focuses on providing an authentic taste of Ethiopia, featuring a menu cooked by talented sisters—one specializing in the vegetarian dishes and the other in the meat preparations—ensuring every offering is meticulously crafted and beautifully spiced. The commitment to quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and superb service makes this establishment a standout fixture in the uptown dining landscape, perfect for both a quick lunch or an enjoyable dinner.

Location and Accessibility

Addey Ababa is conveniently located in the heart of Washington Heights, a dynamic and culturally rich area of Upper Manhattan. You can find this delightful eatery at 736 W 181st St, New York, NY 10033, USA, just off the corner of Fort Washington Avenue. This location makes it highly accessible for New York residents.

For those traveling by public transit, the restaurant is situated just one block from a major subway hub. It is easily accessible via the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) subway system. The nearest stops are the 181st Street stations, served by both the 1 train (IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line) and the A train (IND Eighth Avenue Line), making for a straightforward journey from various parts of the city. Bus services also run nearby, contributing to its convenience.

For local diners or those driving, the Washington Heights location offers a variety of parking options, which is a significant plus in Manhattan. Diners have access to free street parking (availability may vary), as well as both paid street parking and a paid parking garage nearby. Additionally, the establishment features wheelchair-accessible seating, demonstrating a commitment to welcoming all members of the community to enjoy their authentic cuisine. The atmosphere inside is described as casual, cozy, and vibrant, making it a comfortable destination for any occasion.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full, cozy, and casual dining experience with superb table service.
• Takeout: Conveniently order and pick up your meal to enjoy the authentic flavors at home.
• Delivery: Have your favorite Ethiopian dishes brought directly to your New York location.
• Lunch Service: A popular option for a midday meal, noted for its efficiency and quality.
• Dinner Service: Full evening table service for a more relaxed and complete dining experience.
• Dessert Options: Offering classic desserts like Tiramisu to complete your meal.
• Table Service: Attentive and highly-praised staff ensuring a superb dining experience.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenience.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine: Known for preparing traditional dishes with a rich, authentic flavor profile, reflecting the true essence of Ethiopian cooking.
• Superb, Attentive Service: Consistently receiving 10/10 ratings from customers for exceptionally kind, welcoming, and intuitive service that elevates the dining experience.
• Diverse Offerings: The menu successfully caters to all dietary preferences, with an excellent range of Vegan options, Vegetarian options (such as the tasty Shiro Wot and a generous Vegetarian Combo), and robust Meat offerings (like the bold Awaze Tibs and Meat Combo).
• Fast Service: Highlighted as a key feature, making it perfect for both quick lunches and efficient dinners.
• Variety of Beverages: Serving an appealing selection including Alcohol, Beer, Hard liquor, Wine, Coffee (including delicious Ethiopian coffee), and the bold Ethiopian Spiced Tea.
• Appealing Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as casual, cozy, and vibrant, often complemented by beautiful Ethiopian music.
• Family-Friendly: Considered 'Good for kids' and providing a comfortable, welcoming environment for families.
• Specialty Menu Items: Notable dishes include the spicy Siga Wot, the mild Kik Alicha, and the option for Gluten Free Injera for an extra charge.

Contact Information

Address: 736 W 181st St, New York, NY 10033, USA

Phone: (212) 256-0701

What is Worth Choosing

For any New Yorker in search of a memorable and authentic dining experience, Addey Ababa is definitively worth choosing. The value proposition here extends far beyond just the food; it’s a harmonious blend of high-quality cuisine and exceptional hospitality. The staff are repeatedly called out in reviews for their attentiveness and warmth, genuinely making patrons feel like family guests rather than just customers. This 'homecoming' feeling, combined with a vibrant and cozy ambiance, creates a truly unique and appealing atmosphere that sets it apart from many other establishments in the city.

From a menu perspective, the restaurant is a champion of Ethiopian culinary tradition while being incredibly accommodating to modern dining needs. It is one of the best places uptown for comfort food that is also healthy, and the extensive range of vegan and vegetarian options is not an afterthought—it’s a specialty, with the Shiro Wot and the Vegetarian Combo being particular standouts. Meat-eaters will equally rave about the bold, spiced flavors of the Meat Combo and the Doro Wot. Dishes are served traditionally with injera, the sour fermented flatbread that is essential to the Ethiopian dining experience, with a sought-after gluten-free option also available. For those looking to enjoy a full experience, be sure to try the Ethiopian Spiced Tea—often compared to a great chai—or their noted Ethiopian coffee, which many enjoy without any additions, a testament to its quality. Addey Ababa is a perfect choice for solo dining, a relaxed lunch, or an intimate dinner, promising top-notch food, delightful small plates, and service that is consistently rated better than most fancy restaurants. If you’re in New York, visiting Washington Heights, and seeking a truly satisfying cultural and gastronomic experience, Addey Ababa is the local choice you should make.

Addey Ababa

736 W 181st St, New York, NY 10033, USA