Tana, located at 5929 Baum Blvd. in East Liberty, is satisfying Pittsburgh’s craving for Ethiopian cuisine.
Owner Seifu Haileyesus first hatched a restaurant plan during the 1990s, when he regularly traveled to Washington, D.C. and Columbus to seek out authentic Ethiopian fare. After a friend launched the successful
Abay nearby, Haileyesus revived his idea. “The demand was growing so I started looking for locations. I needed a space to accommodate the size I was looking for, parking and other amenities that go with the restaurant.”
The Baum Blvd. property, which housed China Tea Garden for 40 years, turned out to be ideal. "The community supports us and it’s very convenient. We’re glad to be part of an up-and-coming business community,” adds Haileyesus who purchased and renovated the 2,000-square-foot property with the help of
URA and bank loans. “For the décor we used earth tones that reflect the environment of Ethiopia, and costumes, artifacts and posters to reflect the art. We like to promote the customs and culture of our ancient country, and prepare every meal so people feel like they’ve traveled to Ethiopia.”
Tana serves Ethiopia's trademark Injera bread with its dishes, and presents a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony on Saturdays at 12;30 p.m.
Haileyesus, who came to Pittsburgh 20 years ago to study business at
Robert Morris University, plans to host live Ethiopian music to echo the voice of his African nation in Pittsburgh.
Tana’s appeal transcends cuisine. “It’s become an attraction and more community centered, for us to share our holidays and food. We feel like a magnet,” adds Haileyesus, who says that Pittsburgh’s scattered Ethiopian community has a new gathering spot.
Writer:
Jennifer BaronSource: Seifu Haileyesus, Tana
Photograph copyright Brian Cohen